One of the Geelong region's most famous wineries has added another string to its bow with the opening of new accommodation facilities at Mt Duneed Estate, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today formally opened the eight boutique pods at the vineyard, which were backed by a $259,000 investment from the Labor Government.
The one-bedroom pods enjoy spectacular views overlooking the vineyard and the undulating green hills of the estate and surrounding farmland.
Each luxurious pod has its own balcony and sleeps two adults in a king size bed, and includes a kitchenette, television, mini-lounge area, and sleek modern bathroom.
They provide guests at the estate the opportunity to soak up the tranquil surrounds, relax after a meal or event, and explore Geelong, the Bellarine and the Great Ocean Road.
The Government is continuing to back regional tourism through the $170 million package to attract new events, attractions and deliver infrastructure projects to help the industry.
The $150 million Regional Tourism and Events Fund will ensure the best events and attractions are delivered right across the state. There's also $20 million for regional tourism marketing - to ensure our outstanding regional offering is marketed across the state, the country and the world.
Mt Duneed is already an extremely popular winery and event centre in the region and has been hosting up to 20,000 fans at A Day On The Green concerts for more than 10 years.
The opening of the accommodation pods provides even more incentive for people to come to the region, stay longer, and spend more.
And at a local level, it boosts the supply of luxury accommodation in the area, helping attract more high-spending visitors.
The expansion closely aligns with the recently released Experience Victoria 2033 strategic plan - a vision to grow Victoria's tourism industry and create jobs over the next 10 years.
The Plan aims to strengthen Victoria's enviable tourism offering by leveraging the state's competitive advantages. It focuses on five key growth pillars, including First Peoples-led experiences, Food and Drink, Wellness, Nature, and Arts and Culture.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"Mt Duneed Estate's boutique accommodation will allow people to stay longer and explore all that this magnificent region has to offer - and that's a win for local businesses."
"Our $170 million regional tourism package will help to deliver more projects like this right across the state, building even further on our renowned tourism sector."
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing
"Mt Duneed Estate is legendary in the region for hosting weddings, celebrations and major events like A Day On The Green - and this investment will make it possible for even more visitors to stay and explore everything the region has to offer."
As stated by Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
"South Barwon is such a beautiful spot for a getaway and we want to showcase our region to the rest of the state and country as a must-visit destination for food, wine and nature."
