COHUNA’S new eco-tourism venture, Cohuna Nature Cruises quietly celebrated its maiden voyage on Good Friday.
Increasing and enhancing tourism in the “Kakadu of Victoria” was the motivation for a group of locals to “crowd fund” the community-owned and commercially licenced vessel, the Egret, which cruises along a section of the Gunbower Creek.
One of Australia’s most exotic birds, the Egret is a long-legged, S-nekced white bird, and, for most of the year, when not breeding, the bill and facial skin are yellow.
It dominates the population of waterbirds in the Gunbower Creek.
The vessel and business will have a total 20 investors, with the opportunity for four more shareholders to jump on board.
“It really is a unique opportunity for a very diverse group of investors to strengthen the local economy and community, all with a common thread of wanting to invest in an activity that will contribute to the prosperity of the community,” investor, Brett Kelly said.
During the Easter long weekend more than 100 passengers took the opportunity to secure a special $10 per adult ticket.
The double-storey boat, which can carry a maximum 12 people and measures 12 metres by four metres, will operate up to four times per week, depending on the demand, except during the irrigation shut-down period from May to August.
Cohuna Nature Cruises will work with the North Central Catchment Management Authority and other environmental organisations, such as bird watchers and environmental study groups.
The boat is currently being docked on the creek’s bank opposite Island Rise Estate, traveling downstream to the caravan park before cruising upstream near the start/end of the of the ski run.
To find out more, contact Cohuna Car Sales on 0439 114 573 or e-mail cohunanaturecruises@gmail.com
