We just wanted to write and tell you a bit about the Village and what you can expect.
At Keppel Village Retreat we are a smoke-free, low alcohol environment. There is no smoking or vaping anywhere on the premises. We promote quiet restful holidays to our guests, and we expect our staff to respect this. We therefore have quiet time after 9:00pm. We keep our Village music-free, but obviously you can use your headset outside of your working hours.
Work is seven days a week for three hours a day typically between 9am and 12pm in return for accommodation. We also take turns to do an evening clean. This typically takes an hour depending on guest numbers. The rest of the day is yours to explore the island.
The work consists mainly of housekeeping, cleaning of bathrooms, toilets, showers and kitchen. You may be asked to do some gardening. There are also odd jobs around the village, so if you have some special practical skills, please let us know. You should have covered shoes for gardening, a hat and sunscreen. A shirt must be worn in working hours. We ask that you do not have headphones on or use your phone during these three hours so you can interact with us, and our guests.
We do not supply food. There are no supermarkets on the island, so it is best to shop for your first week before you come to the island. Deliveries of food from supermarkets in Yeppoon can be organised by communicating with Keppel Ferry Co. This can be arranged by yourself or as a group with other staff, there is a freight cost – but this is cheaper than a return trip to mainland to collect yourself.
How to get here.
Fly, Bus, or Drive to Rockhampton.
Rockhampton to Rosslyn Bay Marina – Bus, Taxi or drive.
Rosslyn Bay Marina to Great Keppel Island with Keppel Ferry Co.
Making Your Way to the Island
Finding your way to Great Keppel Island will always take you through Rockhampton, the capital of Central Queensland which is located 40 kilometres or approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Yeppoon on the Capricorn Coast. Transport to Rockhampton, Queensland by private car, Qantas or Virgin Australia, Greyhound or Premier Buses and Queensland Rail. Transport from Rockhampton to Yeppoon then Rosslyn Bay Harbour:
If you have a car, you can leave it at the Ferry Carpark, free of charge.
We provide you with accommodation, which may be twin share, but always same sex. All bedding provided [not towels], and snorkelling equipment, so there’s no need to hire it.
You have probably found us as you are looking for a wonderful experience on a sub-tropical island, so we also try to provide a framework for this, but it is of course up to you to join in activities or suggest them yourself.
If your situation changes and you need to cancel or alter your stay, please let us know as soon as possible so others can enjoy a placement here.
We look forward to sharing the island with you.
Geoff Mercer
Owner