The Andrews Labor Government is backing the redevelopment of the Goughs Bay Sport and Recreation Club, supporting local jobs and businesses while providing holiday makers even more reasons visit Lake Eildon.
Part of a $1.5 million investment from the Labor Government's Regional Tourism Investment Fund, the expansion will see the Goughs Bay Sport and Recreation Club increase its bistro and entertainment space to accommodate an additional 20 per cent patronage and allow the venue to operate year-round.
Further enhancing the lakeside town's popular attraction, the project will deliver carpark upgrades and improve access to the boat ramp and the clubhouse from the shoreline.
Importantly, the upgrades will better protect the lake by building supporting infrastructure to reduce erosion from boat users walking on the beach and shoreline.
Providing ongoing benefits for the local Goughs Bay community, up to 30 construction jobs and a further 13 ongoing employment positions are expected to be created through the project. Works are expected to be finished in mid-2024.
The project is aligned with the broader Lake Eildon Masterplan, which aims to increase the region's visitor economy by $470 million over the next 10 years and create an additional 2,500 local jobs.
Lake Eildon is already one of Victoria's most recognisable and popular recreational lakes. In the year ending December 2019, 5.3 million holidaymakers visited the High Country, staying a total of 6.8 million nights and contributing $1.4 billion to the local economy.
The Regional Tourism Investment Fund is helping entice more visitors to Victoria's regions, driving private investment and accelerating the recovery of the tourism sector.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"The upgrades to Goughs Bay Sport and Recreation Club will provide even more reasons for tourists to holiday in this magnificent region - and that's a win for local businesses and jobs."
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing
"Lake Eildon and its natural surrounds hold a special place for many Victorians. This support will help protect the lakeside environment and allow more people to discover this beautiful part of the high country."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"This is a fantastic outcome for Goughs Bay. This project will encourage people to stay longer and enjoy all the region has to offer."
As stated by Goughs Bay Sport and Recreation Club President Craig Johnson
"This redevelopment will help us operate year-round and we can't wait to share our facilities with visitors and the local community. We'd like to thank the Victorian Government for its support."
