CQ University, Yeppoon campus (formerly CQ Tafe) Environment Environmental protests and concerns 1994 Shoalwater Bay: Shoalwater Bay was the site for a conservation battle over sand mining in near-pristine wilderness, which was won by environmentalists, including Peter Garrett. The federal government followed an inquiry's finding against the proposal and blocked the development in September 1994. 2009 Shoalwater Bay: In June and July 2009, organised protests began throughout Queensland against the Talisman Saber exercises to be conducted at Shoalwater Bay. 2011 Shoalwater Bay: In 2011, three protesters were charged for trespassing in the Shoalwater Bay Military Training Area, while another man attacked a Tiger helicopter at Rockhampton Airport with an axe. 2011 Balaclava Island: The proposed coal terminal on Balaclava Island and subsequent dredging near the mouth of the Fitzroy River is causing new concerns for conservation groups for fear of its effects on marine life and the health of the Great Barrier Reef. Tourism and activities After a ten-year downturn in tourism the Capricorn Coast has seen a number of its large resorts close. Although, there are still many other accommodation options to choose from. A recent foreshore redevelopment maybe the saving grace of what's been a serious struggle to attract tourists to the coast. The recently constructed Yeppoon Lagoon is a 2500 square-metres of Bali style pool, includes a shallow children's play area, an informal lap swimming area and a swim-up infinity edge with panoramic views. Free for public use, it features day facilities including BBQ's. A short walk north along the main beach foreshore sits the Keppel Kracken. Keppel Kraken is a free to access water play feature on the Yeppoon foreshore. With sea creature sculptures adorning the zero depth wet area and set against the spectacular backdrop of Keppel Bay. Featuring a host of interactive elements including water cannons, jets and an umbrella bucket, the Keppel Kraken is heaps of fun for families with young kids. In the heart of Yeppoon is Bayview Towers. At the southern end of the Capricorn Coast is Zilzie Bay Great Barrier Reef Resort, a sprawling complex located south of Emu Park (closed as at 2016). Boasting a waterless golf course, provided no accommodation in its first stage. Recent new report have suggested that a Chinese investor has purchased the building, golf course and surrounding land. Central to the Capricorn Coast and the 27 islands offshore is Keppel Bay Marina at Rosslyn