He's closer to 'best job in the world'

India’s Anjaan is another step closer to securing “the best job in the world” in Australia.

The 28-year-old programme manager / radio DJ from Bangalore has again made the cut to remain in the running for the “Island Caretaker” job for Hamilton Island in sunny Queensland, Australia.

From an initial shortlist of 50 (out of 34,000), Anjaan is now one of 16 people from around the world shortlisted for final interviews on Hamilton Island early May.

The job requires the successful applicant to look after the island (explore and write a daily blog, clean the pool, feed the fish) for a period of six months – all for a staggering $188,000 (A$150,000).

The high publicity campaign is part of Tourism Queensland’s bid to promote the region. Anjaan RJ likes to swim – a lot, which is a useful skill to have as a shortlisted finalist for the Best Job in the World.

Anjaan 28, describes himself as an entertainer, storyteller and beach bum who is also skilled in Bollywood dancing. His love for connecting to people led him to radio more than a decade ago and in his current role, Anjaan sells creative ideas and concepts every day.

“I paint pictures with my words daily on radio, and have transported people to different worlds with my blogs, photographs and articles,” says Anjaan.

If selected as Island Caretaker, Anjaan plans to bring along his motivation and soul-mate – wife Amrita.

“We were impressed with Anjaan’s exuberant and quirky nature which came across in his many media interviews and well established (and well read) blog,” Tourisn Queensland said.

Kim Jagtiani, from Maharashtra, who was also among the shortlisted 50, did not make the top 16 list.

Other candidates are from New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, China, Britain, United States, Ireland, Japan, Netherlands, and Taiwan.

The final 16 will be brought to Hamilton Island May 3-6 for more interviews in the final selection process. The successful candidate will be announced on May 6, and the Island Caretaker starts his/her job on July 1.

Stretching the Queensland coastline, the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef offer visitors a unique chance to live among the single largest living thing in the world. The surface of the Coral Sea divides the Great Barrier Reef into two completely different universes – explore the reefs below the water and experience the life above on the stunning islands.

You, the public, can view the final 16 at www.islandreefjob.com