Campers may lose 21 sites

Anger at plan to increase cabin numbers

LONG- TIME Queenscliff holiday-makers could lose 21 sites at council-run caravan parks if the borough follows the recommendations of its draft caravan parks masterplan.

The plan, which has been released for community consultation, aims to increase year-round occupancy options with additional cabins at several caravan parks to boost overall revenue, but at the cost of the 21 current sites.

This includes the infamous Destination Queenscliff ecocabins, which were originally to be built at Shortland’s Bluff but moved to Golightly Park after community backlash.

Golightly Caravan Park Residents Association president Grant Wiltshire said the group was bitterly disappointed in the contents of the masterplan, which would see Golightly Park become a “fully operated cabin park”.

“Since the masterplan was announced we’ve been constantly seeking engagement with the borough as a key stakeholder and we haven’t been part of the process,” he said.

“It shows a total lack of respect for those people who have patronised these caravan parks for many years.”

Mr Wiltshire said the group was looking forward to working closely with the council over the community consultation process.

Cr Tony Francis said it was an exciting project for the borough because it would modernise council-owned facilities.

“The eco-cabins being relocated to the recreation reserve precinct away from the lighthouse reserve obviously put some challenges back into this project which council had to work through,” he said.

Planners hope that improved amenities and increased numbers of cabin accommodation options will see an increase in the number of people using caravan park facilities within the borough, despite less space.

The council-run caravan parks at Queenscliff Recreation Reserve, Victoria Park, Golightly Park and Royal Park contribute about $1.67 million to the borough each year.

However, a council report said that figure represented a “low yield” and highlighted the need for tourists to stay longer and visit outside regular periods to support local business in the off-peak season.

Revenue has been projected to jump to $3.87 million when works are complete.

The redevelopment is not set to begin until next year at the earliest.

Recent works for the Queenscliff Sports Precinct also saw the loss of 46 camping sites at the recreation reserve.

Cr Ross Ebbels said the project would offer more accommodation appropriate for long-term stays and help the borough extend its camping season.