Posted on January 12, 2009 by Fiona Hilliard

Tired of grey skies?  Sick of worrying about the recession?   Wish you could trade in the daily grind for one long holiday?  Well, we might just have the solution for you.  There’s one draw-back though – you’ll have to quit your job and set up home on a paradise island off the coast of Australia.  Still up for it? Read on:

Queensland’s latest tourism drive is giving job hunters the opportunity to get paid $150,000 to live six months rent free on the Great Barrier Reef. 

Tourism Queensland is seeking applicants who are willing to walk white sandy beaches, bask under palm trees and swim with turtles as they soak up some rays.

The successful applicant will be expected to keep a blog and photo diary in exchange for living six months rent-free on Hamilton Island as part of a $150,000 package that includes return airfares and free travel insurance. 

Prospective candidates must be willing to swim, snorkel, make friends with locals and generally enjoy the tropical Queensland climate and lifestyle. 

The “island caretaker” position was created as part of a three-year $1.7 million marketing strategy by Tourism Queensland.

The successful candidate will be selected from a shortlist of 11 and must be a good swimmer, excellent communicator, be able to speak and write English, have an adveturous attitude, enjoy watersports such as snorkelling and diving and be game for trying new things.

The job includes free accommodation in a three-bedroom home on Hamilaton Island complete with plunge pool, views of Whitsunday Islands ans a golf buggy. 

According to the job spec, the caretaker will promote the Great Barrier Reef Islands, give media interviews and take care of a few minor tasks throughout the tenure which begins on July 1st.