7 May 2009

Hamilton Island caretaker selected

6:26 am on 7 May 2009

Tourism officials in Queensland have chosen a Englishman to take on what they describe as the "best job in the world".

Ben Southall, a charity fundraiser, was selected from more than 34,000 applicants for a six-month contract as the caretaker of Hamilton Island on the Great Barrier Reef.

His duties will include swimming, exploring and writing a blog to promote the area. His accomodation is provided rent-free.

The selection process involved snorkelling, barbecues and time at a spa.