PLANS to turn Koondrook into the tourism hub of the region are progressing, with a State Government minister receiving an update on progress.
Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren joined Murray Regional Tourism’s chair, Wendy Greiner and chief executive officer, Mark Francis in touring three key project sites on Tuesday.
Gannawarra Shire mayor, Cr Brian Gibson joined council chief executive officer, Eric Braslis and economic development manager, Roger Griffiths in showing the trio around the Koondrook Wharf and proposed railway goods shed restaurant and nature-based tourism hub.
The visit formed part of a two-day tour of the region, focusing on projects at Mildura, Swan Hill and Echuca.
The 30-minute tour at Koondrook focused on the impact the wharf precinct – officially opened last November – is having on the town, as well as projects that will complete the precinct based on the banks of the Murray River.
The tour party explored the former rail goods shed, with plans being developed to turn it into a restaurant, before visiting the site of the $1.2 million nature-based hub,.
The State Government announced in May it would commit $800,000 towards the project – which will feature moorings for canoes/kayaks and small vessels, a communal campfire and “glamping” accommodation – with council contributing $400,000.
Council is also seeking assistance from the Federal Government to proceed with the development of the precinct.
“Glamping is not just for people from Melbourne. It will also appeal to those from interstate and international travellers,” Mr Eren said.
“It is good to come out and see what tourism and economic opportunities are on offer.”
The visit came as a surprise to council, with the tour arranged in the space of less than one week.
“Certainly ministers can be impressed by numbers and figures, but for John to come and visit the site is just as important as putting together a full case advertisement for the project,” Cr Gibson said.
“We now have an opportunity to capitalise on and remind the Federal Government that funding this project is just as important as the contribution both the State Government and council have made.”
