King Island’s Ocean Dunes golf course is on the cusp of a significant transformation, courtesy of a $10 million loan from the Tasmanian Government. This financial boost is part of a broader $35.5 million project aimed at expanding the course’s visitor facilities, an endeavour expected to draw more tourists to this already popular golfing destination.
Ocean Dunes Holdings Ltd, the company behind the expansion, has put forward a comprehensive plan to enhance its offerings with the addition of 64 new hotel rooms, as well as new reception, restaurant, and bar facilities. The motivation for this expansion stems from an increasing demand among golfers eager to experience King Island’s renowned courses, a demand that has outpaced the current accommodation options on the island.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who also serves as the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, expressed strong support for the project, highlighting its potential to further cement Tasmania’s reputation in the global golfing community. The Premier noted that the expansion is poised to meet the rising demand from both local and international golf enthusiasts while also delivering broader benefits to the island’s tourism industry.
The backing from the Tasmanian Government is a clear indication of the project’s anticipated success. With all necessary development approvals already secured, the project is ready to commence construction, much to the delight of those keen to see the island flourish as a golfing hotspot.
Scheduled for completion in 2025, the expanded facilities are set to make a substantial impact on King Island’s economy. The additional accommodation is expected to alleviate the current shortfall, offering more options for visitors and supporting not just the golf courses but the island’s tourism sector as a whole. This development is projected to create 78 permanent full-time equivalent jobs, providing a significant boost to the local job market and helping to diversify the economy during challenging global economic conditions.
King Island’s golfing credentials are already well established, with two of Australia’s top-ranked courses located there. Cape Wickham currently holds the top spot according to Australian Golf Digest, while Ocean Dunes is ranked number 13. The planned expansion is likely to enhance these rankings further by offering a more comprehensive visitor experience, ensuring that the island remains a must-visit destination for golfers worldwide.
This project is also aligned with Tasmania’s broader tourism strategy, as outlined in the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. The plan aims to promote sustainable growth within the tourism and hospitality sectors, with a particular focus on supporting regional communities. The expansion of Ocean Dunes is a prime example of how targeted investments can stimulate regional economies, fostering long-term growth and resilience.
As construction gets underway, the excitement surrounding this development is palpable. The new facilities are expected to draw an even larger number of visitors to King Island, many of whom may have been previously deterred by the limited accommodation options. The expansion is not just about adding rooms; it’s about enhancing the overall experience for visitors, making their stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
The restaurant and bar facilities, in particular, are likely to be a significant draw, offering golfers and tourists alike a place to relax and unwind after a day on the course. These additions will help create a more complete and satisfying visitor experience, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits.
While the primary focus is on catering to the needs of golfers, the broader implications for King Island’s tourism sector cannot be overlooked. The expansion of Ocean Dunes is expected to have a ripple effect, benefiting other local businesses and attractions by drawing more visitors to the island. This influx of tourists will likely result in increased revenue for the island’s hospitality sector, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.
The project is a testament to the growing recognition of King Island as a premier golfing destination. The island’s unique landscape, combined with its world-class courses, offers a golfing experience that is hard to match. The addition of new facilities will only enhance this experience, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.
The support from the Tasmanian Government underscores the importance of strategic investments in regional areas. By providing the necessary funding for this expansion, the government is helping to ensure that King Island continues to thrive as a destination of choice for golfers and tourists alike.
The completion of this project in 2025 will mark a significant milestone for King Island and its residents. The new jobs created by the expansion will offer much-needed employment opportunities, helping to stabilise the local economy in the face of broader economic challenges. At the same time, the enhanced visitor facilities will position King Island as a leading destination in the global golfing community, attracting visitors from around the world and driving further growth in the years to come.
As Ocean Dunes prepares to break ground on this exciting new chapter, there is a strong sense of optimism about the future. The expansion represents not just an investment in infrastructure but an investment in the island’s future prosperity. With the support of the Tasmanian Government and the dedication of Ocean Dunes Holdings Ltd, King Island is well on its way to becoming a jewel in the crown of Australian golf tourism.
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