Absolutely. This is a genuine position with Tourism Queensland. There'll be a thorough recruitment process - this isn't a competition based on luck.
It sounds too good to be true. What's the catch?
There is no catch. This is a rare opportunity to help Tourism Queensland promote the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef. So, we're looking for someone to experience Queensland's unique islands and report back to us (and the world) about the adventures they are having.
What are the duties of the Island Caretaker?
The Island Caretaker will need to post a weekly blog, photo diaries and create video updates to let the world know about the unique experiences available on the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef. There will also be some interviews with members of the media. The contract involves spending six months on Hamilton Island, one of the islands of the Great Barrier Reef. The Island Caretaker will also travel to other islands and enjoy activities such as sailing, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, picnics, bushwalking and more.
What is included with the job?
One return airfare from your nearest capital city in your home country, accommodation and transport on Hamilton Island, travel insurance for the six-month contract period, access to a computer, Internet, digital video and stills cameras, plus travel to a number of the islands of the Great Barrier Reef.
What are the start and finish dates for the job?
The position commences 1st July 2009 and the contract finishes on the 1st of January 2010.
If I am the successful applicant, can I bring my partner and/or family as well>
The Island Caretaker will be able to bring a friend or relative (maximum numbers apply). Tourism Queensland will provide one return airfare for the successful applicant from the nearest capital city in your home country. Any additional costs associated with having other people participate in the experience won't be covered by Tourism Queensland and will be the responsibility of the people travelling.
About the job package
Where will I be living if I am successful?
The Island Caretaker will live in a 3 bedroom home on Hamilton Island.
What are the facilities and transport like where the successful applicant will stay?
The home is equipped with all modern facilities, including kitchen and laundry facilities, air conditioning, a computer and internet access (so you can complete your weekly blog entries and upload photos and videos). You'll also have transport to get around the island and ferries are available between Hamilton Island and the mainland.
How often will the successful employee be paid?
The salary will be paid monthly throughout the contract period. If the contract is terminated prior to the 1st January 2010, the salary will be paid prorata.
Who will be my employer and who will I report to?
Tourism Queensland will be employing the successful candidate, reporting to the Senior International Marketing Coordinator, Brand and Marketing Services Department.
If any unforeseen circumstances arise, will there be an opportunity to travel back home?
The successful candidate must be available for the six months of the contract, but in the case of an emergency, you'll be able to travel home (at your own cost).
About the application process
How do you apply?
Create and upload a short video explaining why you're the best person for the job and demonstrating your knowledge of the islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Videos should be under 60 seconds long with a file size under 1G. There's also a brief application form to fill out.
How old do you have to be to apply?
All applicants must be eighteen years of age (or over) as of the 1st January 2009.
Will all applications be displayed online?
Video applications will be moderated to ensure they're suitable to be posted, but every application that's accepted can be viewed on the website.
How do I record my entry?
Every application requires a video element. If you don't own a video camera or have a video feature on your phone or computer, use your network of friends and family to access a video recording device.
What should my application/video include?
Briefly explain why you're the best person for the job and demonstrating your knowledge of the islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Most importantly, create an entertaining video.
How will I know if my video has been accepted?
You will receive a confirmation email once your application has passed through moderation with a link to your video online to send to your friends and family.
What kinds of checks will be carried out?
The selection process will include a medical examination and psychological testing, as well as a police background test (for visa applications).
What are the selection criteria?
We're looking for applicants with an adventurous attitude, passion for the outdoors and good communication skills. See the full position description and criteria here.
How will I know if I'm selected for an interview?
Candidates selected for interviews will be announced on the website and contacted by Tourism Queensland.
What happens if I'm selected for an interview but can't make the dates?
Applicants must be available for a 4-day interview (plus travel time) from 3rd to 7th May 2009 and the six-month contract period of 1st July 2009 to 1st January 2010.
Where will the interview be held?
The job interviews will be on Hamilton Island - one of the islands on the Great Barrier Reef.
Do I have to pay to attend the interview?
Travel costs and accommodation for candidates selected for an interview will be covered by Tourism Queensland. However, personal and incidental expenses will be the responsibility of the candidate.
What will the interview be like?
There will be a panel-style interview as well as group activities with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the life above the Great Barrier Reef.
Will the final interview event be a survivor type competition?
The final interview selection process will be exactly that - an interview process. Eleven candidates will be invited to the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef for the interview selection process at the beginning of May. The eleven candidates will undertake a series of exercises and activities which are designed to test their ability to gather knowledge and report back on experiences and also showcase their individual attributes and personalities.
Do I need a passport?
If you're travelling from a country other than Australia, you'll need to have a valid passport to visit the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef.
What about visas?
Applicants from countries other than Australia will need to qualify for an Australian visa. Tourism Queensland will provide successful candidates with the paperwork they need to complete.
Key dates
What are the key dates?
Applications close 22 February 2009
Voting on 50 short-listed candidates from 2 March to 24 March 2009
11 short-listed candidates announced 2 April 2009
Interviews take place in Queensland from 3 May 2009
