Energy project Set to Power Future of Whitsundays Tourism

Replacing the overhead power conductors destroyed in the wake of Cyclone Debbie, underground feeders now connect to submarine cables which supply power to Hayman, Hamilton, Daydream and South Molle Islands.

The temporary repairs conducted following Cyclone Debbie were a concern due to their ad hoc nature and the risk of bushfires.

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham says, “This will significantly reduce Ergon Energy’s maintenance costs and also cut the need for costly diesel generation for island resorts.”

The $4.85 million project has been delivered within just seven months, despite the challenging construction conditions which demanded work along steep, narrow and rocky land.

Announcing the completed works, the Energy Minister thanked tourism operators for their economic contribution to the region, emphasising the importance of getting them back to full operation.

“Tourism operators at the end of the line will benefit from a more resilient network the next time some of Queensland’s wild summer weather blows through,” he promised.

While Daydream Island, Hayman Island and South Molle remain closed for redevelopment following the devastation caused by Cyclone Debbie in 2017, visitors to the Whitsundays can still enjoy the extraordinary beauty of the reef from Hamilton Island, where resort life has bounced back with tenacity and passion.

Hamilton Island can also expect a new auditorium, designed to attract significant expo and conference events at the islands Bougainvillea Marquee. This exciting new project will be undertaken thanks to a $2 million funding package granted by the State and Federal government late last month.

Announced by Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones, she remarked that “Grants were awarded to projects that will drive tourism demand and increase visitation and expenditure in the Whitsundays and surrounding region”.

(12th April 2018)