Unique business opportunity surfaces at arrivals complex on Fisherman’s Beach

A new place to enjoy food, drink and a beachfront view is one of the possibilities for an arrivals complex set to be constructed on Great Keppel Island’s main beach.

An artist impression of the new GKI Arrivals Plaza on Fisherman's Beach.

A new place to enjoy food, drink and a beachfront view is one of the possibilities for an arrivals complex set to be constructed Great Keppel Island’s main beach.

Supplying snacks and beverages for tourists is one of the possible outcomes Livingstone Shire Council, through Knight Frank Rockhampton and Region, is looking for as it offers a “unique tenancy” opportunity for the proposed Great Keppel Island Arrivals Plaza on Fisherman’s Beach.

Knight Frank’s Adam Kelly said detailed design proposal for the building will be awarded in March with constructed expected to begin in late 2025 with completion by the end of 2026.

An overhead look at the location of the new GKI Arrivals Plaza.

He said the proposed tenancy area was about 160 sqm situated in the Arrivals Plaza which will be one of the first venues all island guests will see when disembarking the main ferry services.

Mr Kelly said council was hoping for someone who could turn the plaza into a “vibrant and distinctive place to visit” and they would “value-add to the visitor experience”.

“Council is looking at any proposal but ideally what they want is someone who can sell drinks, refreshments, soft drink, coffee,” he said.

“You might be a cafe operator, for example, who can offer some light food in a small dine-in restaurant for example, but they’re really open to it (all ideas).

The layout design for the Arrivals Plaza with the possible cafe/dining/bar location at number 5.

“It might be a cafe by day and potentially a bar by night. They are the things that council will consider.

“It’s (expressions of interest) open to the public and we’re excited to see what sought of interest we get.”

Livingstone Mayor Adam Belot said it was an ideal opportunity for businesses who were keen to enhance the visitor experience on the island.

“With growing visitor numbers and a prime location, the Arrivals Plaza will provide a high-visibility, high-foot-traffic space that offers significant commercial potential.”

Development and Environment Committee Co-Chair Councillor Pat Eastwood said the Arrivals Plaza was a key element of the broader vision for Great Keppel Island’s tourism future.

“With beautifully landscaped open spaces, a central promenade, and a welcoming circle highlighting the island’s rich cultural heritage, this project is designed to provide an outstanding first impression for visitors,” he said.

“As part of the commitment to sustainability, the Arrivals Plaza will be powered primarily by solar energy with a battery storage system, ensuring a low-impact and eco-friendly operation. “

The layout design for the proposed GKI Arrivals Plaza.

Further information, including detailed plans of the conceptual GKI Arrivals Plaza, infrastructure and other key criteria can be provided upon request.

Expressions of Interest must be registered by 2pm Tuesday April 1, 2025.

Originally published as Unique business opportunity surfaces at arrivals complex on Fisherman’s Beach