The Andrews Labor Government is backing Phillip Island to attract even more tourists, with $5.2 million in funding towards the development of a hot springs centre and lodge.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula today announced the Labor Government is supporting the Newhaven attraction through the Regional Tourism Investment Fund and the Enabling Tourism Fund.
“Phillip Island is one of Victoria’s iconic tourism destinations and that’s why we’re backing businesses to make the experience for visitors even better”, he said. “We know tourism is a major employer in the community and that’s why we’re working so hard to grow the industry locally.”
A $4.7 million boost from the Regional Tourism Investment Fund will help expand the original Phillip Island Hot Springs development, with seven new pools added to the main bathing area, nestled amongst the natural landscape.
An additional three thermal pools boasting sweeping views over Bass Strait will be constructed next to the Cape Kitchen waterfront restaurant, which will be transformed into a dining lounge seating up to 100 guests.
The expansion is expected to create 35 jobs during construction and 68 full-time and indirect jobs when it’s completed in 2023.
A $500,000 investment from the Enabling Tourism Fund will further support the project, with funding going towards the crucial planning stage of the development of the Cape Woolamai Lodge and hot springs.
The feasibility of constructing a new state-of-the-art 120 room Lodge and the development of the Saltwater Hot Springs Spa and Wellness Centre, will be assessed.
Tourism is big business in Phillip Island. In 2019, Phillip Island welcomed 2.7 million visitors who stayed 3.1 million nights and contributed $579 million into the local economy.
The hot springs expansion will provide a significant boost to the region, attracting an estimated 73,000 new visitors to the Island in the first year. They are expected to contribute more than $4.7 million to the Island’s economy.
The Regional Tourism Investment Fund and Enabling Tourism Fund are a key part of the Visitor Recovery and Reform Plan, helping the tourism sector to grow well into the future.
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
The Andrews Labor Govt is backing Phillip Island to attract even more #tourists, with $5.2 million in funding towards the development of a hot springs centre & lodge. #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/eLYQJ7EsT2
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) June 20, 2022
Donate To The Indian Sun
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun is an independent organisation committed to community journalism. We have, through the years, been able to reach a wide audience especially with the growth of social media, where we also have a strong presence. With platforms such as YouTube videos, we have been able to engage in different forms of storytelling. However, the past few years, like many media organisations around the world, it has not been an easy path. We have a greater challenge. We believe community journalism is very important for a multicultural country like Australia. We’re not able to do everything, but we aim for some of the most interesting stories and journalism of quality. We call upon readers like you to support us and make any contribution. Do make a DONATION NOW so we can continue with the volume and quality journalism that we are able to practice.
Thank you for your support.
Best wishes,
Team The Indian Sun
