New tourism development at Lake Argyle will cater to all

28/10/04
A world-class tourism development at Lake Argyle was given the go-ahead by the State Government today.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the redevelopment of the Lake Argyle Tourism Village, which sits on the edge of the gorges overlooking Lake Argyle, would give the region an opportunity to significantly enhance its tourism product.
"The State Government has been working to attract a quality operator to take over the old construction campsite on the Lake," Ms MacTiernan said.
The Minister said after a lengthy process, local company Lake Argyle Pty Ltd had been granted preferred proponent status for the redevelopment of the site.
"The development will cater for all levels of tourism, from the backpacker and caravaners, to those visiting the site as part of organised tours," she said.
"It will include the construction of modern deluxe accommodation chalets and units to replace the current run-down buildings that were used by workers during the damming of the Ord River in 1972.
"It will also include the immediate upgrade of the existing caravan park and an extensive landscape proposal.
"A program to integrate indigenous culture and ecotourism opportunities into the project will also be developed."
The plan also outlines the development of a range of new activities at the tourist village over a number of years including:

• new resort standard pools;
• new restaurant with dining deck overlooking the lake;
• an animal sanctuary;
• tennis, basketball and netball courts; and
• a marina and boat launching facility.

Kimberley MLA Carol Martin said the new development would create jobs for local people and bring more money into the region.
"Lake Argyle is Australia's largest inland waterway and boasts stunning gorges, waterfalls and wildlife," Ms Martin said.
"An estimated 50,000 people already visit the lake each year and we expect the redevelopment of the tourist village will attract many more visitors to the area.
"The new facilities will complement existing activities at the lake including cruises, bushwalks and nature/bird watching.
"By enhancing the facilities available to visitors and making it a more appealing destination year round, the lake is sure to become one of the State's tourism drawcards."

Earlier this year the State Government called for expressions of interest from tourism operators throughout Australia for the redevelopment of the 10ha site.
"Lake Argyle Pty Ltd is a company with more that 30 years experience in the tourism industry in the East Kimberley," Ms MacTiernan said.
"As operators in the area for many years, the company has presented a plan that not only demonstrates its knowledge of the local industry, but recognises the need for any development to blend in with the environment of the lake."
The Minister said the company would be offered an initial five-year lease for the site.
"The Department for Planning and Infrastructure is currently negotiating with the company to develop a timeframe for redevelopment and once significant milestones have been reached a final 50-year lease will be offered," she said.
Minister's office: 9213 6400