Colac Otway Welcomes Great Ocean Road Investment
Published on 17 November 2020
Colac Otway Shire Council Chief Executive Peter Brown says the State Government’s funding commitment for tourism infrastructure on the Great Ocean Road will provide a much-needed boost to the industry and coastal communities.
“Colac Otway Shire has been advocating for investment in toilets and other infrastructure to enhance the visitor experience along the Great Ocean Road for several years and we expect that today’s announcement will make a significant difference for communities, visitors and tourism operators,” Mr Brown said.
“$18.3 million in funding for the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority to upgrade visitor facilities and infrastructure along the road including car parking, beach access, toilets and viewing platforms is fantastic news.
“Colac Otway Shire looks forward to supporting the authority and having input into those improvements in consultation with the community and industry stakeholders who have such a valuable knowledge of the Great Ocean Road region and where improvements are needed.
“The State Government’s major Budget commitment of almost $24 million to expand the coastal walking trail from Lorne to Grey River will also add further appeal to what is already a great eco-tourism attraction and encourage longer stays in Colac Otway and our neighbouring Surf Coast Shire.
“The installation of equipment to provide free public Wi-Fi along the road will be a welcome convenience, and importantly improve communication in an emergency, and Council looks forward to seeing more detail regarding other technology and initiatives funded under today’s announcement.
“Our hospitality and tourism industries on the coast have been significantly impacted by the COVID19 pandemic and ongoing restrictions,” he said.
“This funding will give our coastal communities confidence as our region recovers, with investment to attract more visitors, as well as investment in essential upgrades to facilities and infrastructure to sustain a strong tourism industry in the future.”