Winery pod tourism boost plan

TOURISTS will have a new accommodation option to choose from when Mt Duneed Estate opens eight new luxury “pods” at its winery.

The state government will contribute $260,000 to the project, which is aimed at drawing more visitors to the region.

The pods will be “boutique” one-bedroom spaces and nestled among the estate’s vineyard, featuring balconies, boasting scenic views.

The winery is known for hosting a range of events, including the popular A Day on the Green program, weddings and other concerts.

Funding towards the pods will be allocated through the government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund.

Estate director Mark Whelan said construction on the project would start later this year and be completed by June 2023.

“It is a natural fit with the events and the weddings that we have,” he said. “Brides and grooms often ask if we have any accommodation and (currently) they have to go back to Torquay or Geelong.”

Mr Whelan said the accommodation would fill that gap and he expected it would draw tourists from Melbourne and overseas.

Work on the accommodation is expected to support five jobs during construction and a further two once complete.