The Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment has reached a major milestone, with the head contractor for the new Visitor Experience Centre announced today.
The redevelopment is backed by a $126 million investment from the Albanese and Allan Labor Governments, through the Geelong City Deal.
Victorian Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney today announced that Kane Constructions has been awarded the contract - making way for the world-class centre to move into the construction phase in the new year.
Seen as the jewel in the crown of the Great Ocean Road, feedback from locals was an integral part of the consultation to shape the project and focus on complementing the unique natural environment around it.
Following the engagement with the community, the project will also upgrade the parking spaces and pedestrian access, create a Welcome Garden that celebrates the rich bio-cultural heritage of the Eastern Maar community, as well as a garden rooftop lookout with breathtaking views over the ocean.
The surrounding road infrastructure will also be upgraded, making it easier and safer for cars and buses to access the tourist hub.
With visitor numbers to the Great Ocean Road and Shipwreck Coast continuing to rise, better visitor facilities will encourage more local spending and longer stays in the region - boosting local businesses and benefitting communities long into the future.
The construction is expected to create 90 full-time jobs during the redevelopment, and up to 70 jobs in the planning, project management and design phases of the project. The new visitor experience centre will also create up to 50 ongoing jobs once it opens.
The Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre is part of the Geelong City Deal - a partnership between all three levels of government that is revitalising the city and regional economy while encouraging people to spend more time in the region.
For more information on the Geelong City Deal and precinct visit: infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/cities
As stated by Federal Minister for Regional Development, Kristy McBain MP:
"The Australian Government, through the Geelong City Deal, continues to deliver projects which will activate the visitor economy and create new jobs for locals."
"It's an exciting time for the Shipwreck Coast as we work together with the Victorian Government and local councils to continue making the region an amazing place to live, work and visit."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Gayle Tierney MP:
"We are transforming this iconic tourism destination, so it remains a much-loved and world-renown Victorian landmark to be enjoyed for years to come."
"With the head contractor now appointed, I'm looking forward to seeing this exciting project take shape in the coming months."
As stated by Federal Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker MP:
"This Visitor Experience Centre will encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more of our amazing coastline, delivering significant economic benefits and injecting hundreds of millions of dollars into the local economy every year."
"The project is a game-changer for local businesses and communities along the Great Ocean Road, creating jobs during construction and ongoing opportunities once the centre is operational."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Development Victoria, Colin Brooks MP:
"Despite opposition from the Liberal Party, we're getting on with the next stage of the Visitor Centre Redevelopment that the community has told us they want - boosting tourism and the local economy, while protecting the natural environment."
As stated by Corangamite Shire Council CEO, David Rae:
"This redevelopment, a core element of the Shipwreck Coast Masterplan, will bring world class visitor infrastructure to our beautiful part of the coast"
"Council and our community is eager to see the project move from the planning stage to on-ground delivery. We very much welcome this announcement."
As stated by Kane Constructions:
"The new Visitor Experience Centre and supporting infrastructure will be enjoyed by millions of people in the coming years and is such an important piece of the Victorian tourism infrastructure, we feel privileged to be involved in this landmark project."
As stated by Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation CEO Marcus Clarke:
"The appointment of a construction contractor brings us a step closer to seeing all the design work come to reality - one that harmonises with the natural landscape while strongly portraying Kirrae Whurrong Culture and our shared history."
"The Visitor Experience Centre will enhance the visitor experience for all, embracing accessible tourism to ensure everyone, regardless of ability, can fully enjoy this special place. As visitor numbers grow, it will create jobs during construction and offer ongoing opportunities for our region once completed."
