This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
QUEENSLAND property and tourism legend Keith Williams, has passed away at the age of 82.
Williams suffered a series of strokes over the weekend and died yesterday morning.
Williams is credited with putting the Gold Coast on the world tourism map, by building the Sea World theme park in the 1970s.
He went on to develop Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays in 1982 as well as Daydream Island.
However not everyone was onboard with him. Throughout his four decades plus career, Williams went head to head with environmentalists who opposed to his tourism projects, such as the Port Hinchinbrook Resort and Marina in North QLD — halfway between Townsville and Cairns, which he financed despite fierce opposition.
Gold Coast Tourism’s current chief executive Martin Winter said Williams would be remembered for his accomplishments, influence and strength of character.
Williams who backed then-National Party Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen in the 1970s and 1980s was yesterday praised by the Liberal National Party.
LNP Shadow Minister for Tourism, Manufacturing and Small Business Jann said QLD’s tourism industry had lost a visionary leader and entrepreneur.
“Our thoughts are with his family and many friends. Mr Williams was at the forefront of the Queensland tourism industry for so many years.
“He never took a backward step and would see opportunity, development and jobs where others would just see hurdles and enormous risk. Keith Williams encapsulated the spirit that put Queensland tourism on the map internationally – his drive and vision were legendary,” she said.
Australian Property Journal
