It's a tough job, but somebody has to do it
Economic meltdown getting you down? Sick of the cold weather? Well stop your whingeing. There are far worse jobs out there ... take this one for example.
Tourism Queensland wants someone to take up residence in a three-bedroom house with its own swimming pool on Hamilton Island, on Australia's Great Barrier Reef, for six months and tell the world all about it.
The successful applicant to the position of 'island caretaker' will have to spend six months exploring the holiday isle and embarking on the occasional spot of diving, as well as plenty of lazing by the pool.
They will have to record a video and photo blog of their adventures.
For this six-month hardship posting, the successful applicant will be paid A$150,000 (HK$822,000).
Applications open today. Candidates must record a 60-second video demonstrating an adventurous attitude, a passion for the outdoors, and good communication skills, and upload it to the bureau's website by February 22.
Despite the onerous conditions and the strong chance of a suntan, Tourism Queensland executive director Wendy Levy expects to be flooded with applications from around the world.
'We've had a lot of interest already,' she said.
'Basically, we will put together a programme - sailing, hiking, diving, picnics, you name it - you will really be able to experience moving up and down the islands of the Great Barrier Reef.
'We want someone to spend an extended amount of time to really get to know the islands, the people, and soaking up the lifestyle aspect of what Queensland has to offer.
'Oh, and the views from the swimming pool are stunning.'
Ms Levy said the idea came about because travellers are placing more importance on reports from others.
'It's really a genuine position with Tourism Queensland; it's not a process based on luck. There is no catch and especially in this economic environment, it's a rare opportunity,' she said.
From May 3 to 7, Tourism Queensland will hold a final round of interviews and screening for 11 short-listed candidates from around the world - which sounds like the recipe for a reality television show.
'It's definitely not a Survivor process, it really is a proper selection process we will undertake,' she said, referring to the popular television show. 'But as a fan, I think it will be just as exciting.'
Tourism Queensland will hold a recruitment day on January 17 at the New World Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui to help applicants with ideas and instructions about creating a curriculum vitae on video and uploading it to the internet.
