Corangamite Shire Council has welcomed the public opening of the Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre at the Twelve Apostles, describing it as a transformational investment in the region's future and a catalyst for further tourism and economic growth along the Shipwreck Coast.
The new centre will officially open to visitors on Friday 16 October.
Previously known as the Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre, the facility has been named in recognition of the Traditional Owners and their language, with Keerray Woorroong culture prominently featured throughout the centre.
Corangamite Shire Mayor Cr Kate Makin said the opening marked the culmination of years of planning, advocacy and investment.
"This is a proud day for Corangamite Shire. A $126 million investment of this scale does not come along very often, and the benefits will be felt for years to come.
"The Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre is the hallmark project of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan and a significant vote of confidence in the future of our region.
"It will enhance the experience of the millions of people who visit the Twelve Apostles while creating new opportunities for local businesses, jobs and regional growth."
The centre features a 230-seat café, kiosk, gallery and exhibition spaces, visitor information facilities and a rooftop lookout and employs 100 local workers.
"This investment is about much more than a building," Cr Makin said.
"It provides a platform for future accommodation, tourism and hospitality investment and strengthens the Shipwreck Coast's position as one of Australia's premier visitor destinations.
"Council is particularly pleased to see local businesses represented within the centre.
"We're excited to see Timboon Fine Ice Cream and Timboon Distillery included as part of the food and beverage offering.
"Local businesses should share in the opportunities created by visitation to the Twelve Apostles. Showcasing iconic local brands gives visitors another reason to explore our region."
Council acknowledged the Australian Government's significant contribution through the Geelong City Deal and subsequent funding commitments, alongside support from the Victorian Government.
"We are grateful to all levels of government that recognised the importance of this project and backed the vision for the Shipwreck Coast.
"Member for Wannon Dan Tehan was a strong advocate for this project and played an important role in securing Australian Government investment through the Geelong City Deal.
"That support helped turn a long-held vision into a reality for our region and we thank him for his advocacy over many years."
Cr Makin also recognised the organisations that had championed the project and helped bring it to fruition.
"This project reflects years of collaboration and a shared commitment to the future of the Shipwreck Coast.
"We acknowledge the work of Development Victoria in delivering the project, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation for ensuring Culture and Country are at the heart of the visitor experience, and the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority for its stewardship of this iconic destination.
"We also recognise the support of Regional Development Victoria and Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism, which have long championed investment in the region and the opportunities this project creates for communities and businesses."
Corangamite Shire Councillors and senior staff attended the official opening ceremony alongside Victorian Minister for Regional Development Michaela Settle, Senator Raff Ciccone, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation CEO Marcus Clarke and Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority Chair Libby Mears.
Cr Makin encouraged local residents and those from neighbouring municipalities to experience the centre for themselves.
"We encourage everyone to get out and have a look.
"Whether you're visiting for the first time in years or simply want to see what has been created, the Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre is something every local should experience."
Visitors are reminded that parking at the centre must be pre-booked before arriving. For bookings and visitor information visit twelveapostles.org.au/plan-your-visit.
