26 April 2022
The Western Downs is continuing to attract new and unique visitor experiences with Western Downs Regional Council approving an application for a new tourist park, function facility, and sculpture walk in Chinchilla.
The proposal will see a multi-stage development titled 'The Dusty Chook' established at 283 Auburn Road, Chinchilla, offering a new accommodation option for visitors, as well as some unique cultural opportunities for resident and tourists.
Council Spokesperson for Planning and Environment Councillor Andrew Smith said the proposal added to the region's rich and unique visitor offerings, promoting the Western Downs as a fantastic place to live, work and visit.
"We are continuing to see applications put forward for developments focused on driving local business and boosting visitor experiences, which is a sign of confidence in our diverse economy," Cr Smith said.
"The Dusty Chook will be completed over three stages, with the first involving the establishment of a 375m2 function building, a small area for outdoor art workshops, toilet block, and installation of a 'sculpture walk'.
"Stage two will involve the construction of six accommodation cabins and five caravan sites with ensuite bathrooms, and stage three will involve the establishment of a bush camping area with covered barbeque camp kitchen."
The proposal also includes provision for future stages such as a potential permanent gallery and ancillary gallery shop as well as a café.
Council Spokesperson for Tourism, Events, and Regional Promotion Councillor Kylie Bourne said it was fantastic to see another business establishing itself in the region, with a focus on celebrating the people that make it.
"A new tourist facility with an artistic twist is a really exciting proposal for our region, with opportunities to both showcase art through the sculpture walk, as well as create art through the provision of on-site workshops and functions," Cr Bourne said.
"Our region has so much to offer and we look forward to seeing the development progress and deliver another opportunity to increase local jobs and bring more people to the Western Downs."
Applicant and local artist Dion Cross said the development has always been a dream, and he was excited to make it a reality and create something quirky and out of the ordinary for the Western Downs.
"We want to offer a creative experience for visitors through weekend art workshops where visitors will get to stay at the on-site accommodation and experience some hands-on sculpture and art making, then kick back and relax of an evening around the campfire and relax and reflect," Mr Cross said.
"We look forward to driving tourism in the region and bringing something different and unique to the Western Downs for everyone to enjoy."
