A rare opportunity to acquire a premium site earmarked for eco-tourism resort development 6km east of the Twelve Apostles has received strong local, interstate and overseas interest.
Listed by Montarosa, the 120-acre (48.56ha) site at 79 Old Coach Road, Princetown, in Victoria, has DA approval for an eco-based tourism development designed by award-winning architects GHD Woodhead. The development includes a 58 key eco-lodges, an eco-activity centre and three food and beverage outlets, seating over 300 patrons.
The project is inspired by the Shipwreck Coast Masterplan 2015. This masterplan aims to balance the desire to improve economic outcomes with the need to protect and enhance the natural environment.
During construction, these works will create 125 jobs and contribute $103 million to the local economy. Once opened, it will create 100 direct full-time equivalent jobs and provide an annual economic uplift of $43 million.
CBRE’s Scott Callow manages the sale via an Expressions of Interest campaign.
“The Great Ocean Road and the Twelve Apostles are Victoria’s most popular destinations for both domestic and international visitors alike. This development would be the first of its kind in the area, offering world-class tourist accommodation so visitors can extend their stay in the area,” he said.
“This eco-tourism development has been designed to minimise environmental impact and appeal to the eco-conscious traveller. The site is well-sheltered from the prevailing ocean winds allowing visitors to enjoy a range of activities including the Gellibrand River, wetlands, walking tracks and natural flora and fauna in any weather conditions. It’s also easy walking distance to the nearby beach and the Twelve Apostles via the Great Ocean Walk.”
Eco-tourism development can provide significant economic benefits by attracting tourists and creating jobs in the area. It also promotes environmental conservation by encouraging sustainable practices and raising awareness about the importance of protecting natural habitats. Additionally, eco-tourism fosters cultural exchange and understanding between visitors and local communities.
Princetown public infrastructure enabling works, including infrastructure upgrades at Old Coach Road, are delivered as part of the $500 million Geelong City Deal. This is a collaborative plan to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road by the Australian and Victorian Governments, and local councils through the Private Sector Business Enablement Fund. This project is further supported by other private and public funding.
Callow said as well as support from the state and federal governments and Visit Victoria, the development would also benefit from the significant public and private investment expected as part of the $126 million Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment Plan.
The Expression of Interest campaign closes on 4 December 2024, at 3pm (AEDT).