Lindeman Island Restoration Project
One of the Whitsundays’ 74 stunning islands, Lindeman Island, is in the midst of an exciting restoration project that will soon return the tropical paradise to its former glory. The beautiful island has been quiet ever since it was hit by Cyclone Yasi in 2011 and its breathtaking resort was damaged. But as of 2024, work to restore the island is officially underway.
What is happening with Lindeman Island?
Lindeman Island was once home to Australia's first Club Med resort, but it has remained vacant for over a decade following the devastation caused by Cyclone Yasi. Its desolate period came to an end last year when Singaporean company Well Smart Group bought Lindeman and proposed plans to restore the area and build a new eco-resort. The proposed five-star resort will consist of a swimming pool, a nine-hole golf course, restaurants and bars, a spa and gym, a solar farm, an event venue, staff accommodation, and over 200 rooms, and a new jetty.
Has restoration begun yet on Lindeman Island?
Yes, the restoration of Lindeman Island officially began in early 2024, marking the start of a large-scale effort to renew the once popular holiday destination. The project, which is estimated to cost anywhere between $40 million and $50 million, involves not only the rebuilding of the island's abandoned resort facilities, but also upgrades to its infrastructure, and enhancing and protecting the natural environment. The project is scheduled to reach its first stage of completion by 2025, so that the refurbished resort can open its doors shortly after, bringing new life to the dreamy island.
Is Lindeman Island still open?
While the restoration project is underway, Lindeman Island is not currently accessible to tourists. Those with private boats can sail by the most southerly Whitsunday Island, but until its restoration is complete, there are plenty of other gorgeous islands to explore. Those hoping to stay among the Whitsunday Islands can book luxury accommodation on Daydream Island, Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, or Long Island, all of which boast thriving tropical resorts.
Check out our favourite tours from Hamilton and Daydream Island
Lindeman Island restoration impact
The planned rejuvenation of Lindeman Island has already made a significant impact, creating hundreds of jobs and stirring up excitement among Whitsunday visitors. But if all goes ahead as planned, there’ll be plenty more where that came from.
Impact on Local Tourism and Jobs
Not only will the restoration of Lindeman Island’s eco-resort create between 300 and 800 jobs, but once it’s complete, an estimated 500 jobs will be created across the resort and its facilities to accommodate the waves of domestic and international guests, providing long-term employment opportunities for the region.
Environmental Impact
The restoration project is also prioritising environmental protection and sustainability. As well as a native vegetation replanting and recovering areas that were damaged by the cyclone, there will be work done to reduce the island’s ecological footprint by improving the island’s stormwater management and building renewable energy resources. Additionally, a new National Park and Great Barrier Reef Educational Centre will be built on the island.
