The Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions (DJPR) has announced funding to support Mount Buffalo’s transformation into a year-round tourism destination.
The Department said $1.5 million had been allocated to support new “eco-pod” accommodation as part of the State Government’s Build Works package.
“The eco pod investment comes as Parks Victoria prepares to instigate an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to seek private investment for a cafe within the iconic Mount Buffalo Chalet,” the Department said.
“The EOI proposal is for a year-round cafe in the front part of the chalet, which would offer regional produce along with self-guided tours of the Chalet ballroom,” it said.
“Mount Buffalo is a winter wonderland attracting more than 230,000 visitors a year and the addition of a new accommodation option and potential new cafe will attract more visitors in summer to hike, camp and kayak.”
DJPR said the potential for a cafe and environmentally-friendly accommodation was raised after the Alpine Shire Council undertook a business case assessment to make Mount Buffalo National Park’s a year-round tourism destination.
It said visitation at the National Park had increased by five per cent annually, with the majority of visitors attending over summer.
The Department said the Government had previously allocated $1.5 million to upgrade the Gorge Visitor Centre Area within the Mount Buffalo National Park.
