The State Government will help a Collie accommodation provider expand into the town’s first resort to meet strong demand as tourist numbers increase.
Premier Mark McGowan and Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray announced today a $648,175 investment from the Collie Futures Industry Development Fund to support Collie Ridge Motel’s expansion into a resort.
Tourism has been growing rapidly in the South-West town, with the Collie Ridge Motel forced to turn away patrons as it hasn’t had the capacity to meet demand.
The motel has already self-funded $1.5 million for Stage 1 of an expansion to build an extra 27 rooms, and create new visitor facilities.
The State Government funding will support the motel to undertake Stage 2 of the development into the Collie Ridge Resort.
This includes a fully equipped relaxation centre featuring gymnasium, swimming pool, spa, remedial massage and beauty rooms, upgraded restaurant, a children’s playground, and business meeting rooms and support facilities.
The project is expected to generate about 65 jobs during construction over both stages.
The estimated flow-on economic benefit to the region is $3 million through employment and purchase of materials, as well as increased local spending at local businesses by workers.
Once complete, the resort project will create 10 new full-time jobs.
The longer term flow-on effect to the local economy is expected to be significant, with increases in tourists and business visitors driving local spending and employment.
