- The Crisafulli Government is backing a major tourism upgrade at Great Keppel Island.
- The $80 million Tourism Icon Investment Fund supports the delivery of world-class tourism experiences across Queensland
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future, which is in stark contrast to the former Labor Government's plan to gut tourism funding.
The Crisafulli Government has delivered $1.8 million for a major Great Keppel Island tourism upgrade, strengthening the island's appeal for visitors and supporting the region's tourism economy.
The Great Keppel Hideaway renewal will deliver a major bistro upgrade which will significantly improve facilities for visitors to the island.
The project is supported by the $80 million Tourism Icons Investment Fund as part of Destination 2045, reflecting the Crisafulli Government's drive to grow a sustainable tourism industry and position Queensland as the home of the holiday.
The funding builds on the more than $7.6 million committed earlier this year to 30 regional tourism experiences, supporting tourism growth in communities across the state.
This vision marks a clear shift from the former Labor Government who had a secret plant to gut tourism funding at a time when the sector needed new products and the confidence to invest.
Round 1 of the Tourism Icon Investment Fund has also committed $1 million to deliver The Outback Tourism EcoLink Project at the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame in Longreach.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said this $1.8 million investment would deliver better experiences for visitors to Great Keppel Island.
"The Crisafulli Government is backing better experiences for visitors while protecting what makes the islands so special," Minister Powell said.
"We're restoring confidence in tourism and giving operators the backing and confidence they need to invest and grow after a decade of decline under Labor.
"Through Destination 2045 we are investing now to build a stronger, more sustainable tourism industry that supports jobs, communities and Queensland's future."
Member for Keppel Nigel Hutton said the new funding would deliver a fantastic new offering at Great Keppel Island.
"Great Keppel Island is one of the region's most recognisable destinations, and this funding from the Crisafulli Government will help ensure its tourism offering continues to grow in a way that supports the local economy and respects the island's natural environment," Mr Hutton said.
Great Keppel Island Hideaway Managing Director Peter Lowe said the funding was a game-changer for Great Keppel Island, allowing the island's primary hospitality hub to be revitalised, creating a welcoming space for day visitors and overnight guests.
"The Bistro Renewal Project will enhance Great Keppel Island's reputation as a vibrant destination, boosting tourism, creating jobs and supporting local businesses," Mr Lowe said.
"We thank the Queensland Government for recognising the potential of Great Keppel Island and supporting its growth as a key tourism icon."
CEO of Capricorn Enterprise Mary Carroll said the funding was a welcome boost for the region.
"Great Keppel Island is the hero tourism experience for our destination, driving around 25 per cent of the Capricorn Coast economy, and it's fantastic to see the Crisafulli Government recognise its iconic value with this investment," Ms Carroll said.
"With strong local, domestic and growing international appeal, this funding will support critical island infrastructure and reflects the confidence this Government has in Great Keppel Island as a clean, green and safe tourism destination."
Further Tourism Icons Investment Fund Round 1 projects will be announced this financial year, while applications for the next round of the Tourism Icons Investment Fund will open later in 2026.
