Best Job In the World Contest Finalists In Australia

Koala With LeavesMuch to the dismay of thousands of also-rans worldwide, 16 finalists have been selected for the “best job in the world,” and are currently in Australia for the final phase of the competition to see who will end up with the coveted position.

Back in January Tourism Queensland launched a campaign to find a caretaker for Hamilton Island in the Great Barrier Reef, a job whose duties include snorkeling, exploring neighboring  islands, and reporting on their experiences via daily video and print blogs intended to promote the region.

The attractive accommodation and remuneration package – $100,000 for six months of work while living for free in luxury digs on the island – prompted over 34,000 people from around the world to submit applications for the job.

Australian coast - Twelve apostlesFifteen finalists plus one “wildcard” candidate were chosen by the public and TQ staff, based on one-minute video entries which illustrated their knowledge of the Great Barrier Reef, their creative abilities, and their effectiveness at conveying information.

The final 16 candidates come from 16 different countries and include students, journalists, TV presenters, photographers, a receptionist, a radio DJ, a teacher, a charity worker, and an actress.

The group arrived on Hamilton Island on May 3 and are being subjected to intense media scrutiny, a packed itinerary, and various tests involving blogging, sailing and knowledge of local environmental issues.

The winner will be selected on May 6 and will start the job on July 1. The real winner, however, is Queensland, Australia, which has gotten an estimated $100 million in free publicity as a result of the competition.

By Karen Elowitt for PeterGreenberg.com.

Related links: Agence France-Presse, CNN

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