EXPERIENCES

The Best Job in the World

After a worldwide search, Ben Southall was chosen as Tourism Queensland's Islands Caretaker, or what we like to call the 'Best Job in the World'. The role was a newly created position designed to help promote the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef to the world.

Ben was selected from more than 34,000 people from around the globe who applied for the Best Job in the World. Working for six months exploring the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Ben reported on his travels through regular blog posts at www.islandreefjob.com.

All of the candidates were very special but Ben's adventurous spirit, energy and passion for the outdoors proved an irresistible combination. The 34-year-old charity fundraiser from Hampshire, UK donned a new work uniform - a wetsuit and flippers - and kept himself busy exploring one of the great natural wonders of the world.

During the 'Best Job in the World' Ben  immersed himself in life above and below the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef... and of course had a ball!

What's Ben up to now?

Although Ben’s 6 months as the Islands Caretaker is now over, his relationship with Queensland certainly isn’t!

While Tourism Queensland officially farewelled Ben from his role as Island Caretaker on Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays on the 31st December 2009, we welcomed him as the Best Job in the World Queensland Tourism Ambassador from January, 2010.

Ben's ongoing Queensland tourism ambassador duties see him working closely with Tourism Queensland's 14 international offices to speak at a range of high profile events in countries such as the US, Korea, Japan, New Zealand, the UK, Europe and China. And, in 2010 National Geographic aired a six-part documentary that took viewers on a journey exploring the islands through his eyes. All in all: Ben’s certainly keeping busy!

You can follow Ben’s adventures through his regular blog.

Best Job Videos

You can also view the applications from our final 16 applicants, enjoy some of our favourites and funnies and more on our IslandReefJob YouTube channel. Media enquiries can be made at www.tq.com.au.