Bushfire recovery at Cape Conran Coastal Park is progressing with the engagement of a Gippsland-based construction company to rebuild accommodation in the park.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio announced the $3.5 million works at the park − part of the Victorian Government’s $18.5 million Gippsland Tourism Recovery Package.

The package aims to improve tourism infrastructure across Victoria’s east and support local jobs after the devastating 2019-20 bushfires.

Parks Victoria has engaged Bairnsdale company CadBuild to construct 10 brand new cabins at the Banksia Bluff to replace and add to the cabins and wilderness retreats destroyed by the 2019-20 bushfires.

The distinctive accommodation will be energy efficient and built from sustainable, fire-resistant materials, sourced from Gippsland suppliers wherever possible. Improvements will also be made to restore other park facilities, including carparks, paths and signage.

Accommodation will be pre-fabricated offsite to minimise environmental impacts and brought to the park for assembly. Community consultation over summer 2020-21 helped to shape the new accommodation, which ranges from one-bedroom to three-bedroom options with room for four to ten people.

The aim is to create new accommodation options for visitors of diverse backgrounds and abilities, while minimising impact on the surrounding environment.

The existing accommodation catered largely to visitors in the warmer months, whereas the new accommodation will offer a more comfortable all season experience, delivering a year-round economic boost for the region.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“Diverse, nature-based accommodation options like those being built at Cape Conran Coastal Park will encourage more people to enjoy everything this beautiful region has to offer.”

“We know Marlo, Orbost and other towns surrounding the Cape Conran Coastal Park rely on visitors to the park. That’s why we’re investing in improved accommodation to attract more visitors than ever to experience this iconic part of Victoria.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula

“Support payments to businesses most affected by the pandemic have helped provide for immediate needs over the past 18 months, but it’s vital that we continue to have an eye to the longer term.”

“New infrastructure and facilities at places like Cape Conran will help attract visitors to Victoria and ensure that people are inspired to return again to our unique attractions.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Jane Garrett

“Construction of this new accommodation will bring economic benefits to the Gippsland economy – both during construction and once the accommodation is open for bookings – offering a fantastic boost to the region after a really tough couple of years.”