Great Keppel Island declared iconic

The Queensland Government has named parts of the picturesque Capricorn Coastal region as iconic.

The Iconic Queensland Places Act(2008) monitors large or controversial development in iconic places.   Declaring sections of the central Capricorn Coast as iconic means they will have any future development monitored more closely.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Paul Lucas said "These are unique areas that help define Queensland's character and the local communities want to make sure they’re protected.

"The iconic places laws recognise that the natural and built character of these areas was being well cared for under the planning schemes of the former shire councils. This won't affect putting up your garden shed, these laws only deal with large or controversial developments," Mr Lucas said.

Twenty-one sites - including Great Keppel Island - have been named on the central Capricorn Coast between Keppel Sands and Farnborough.

Local assessment panels have been set-up to help monitor future development applications.