Have a dip: A conception of the proposed mineral springs spa.
JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A MINERAL springs spa and a convention centre could create a new precinct on Geelong’s waterfront, according to a councillor.
Cr Rod Macdonald, who holds council’s planning portfolio, said the dual attraction would be a drawcard.
“The mineral spa would be another driver to create a precinct in the area, with a link to a convention centre,” he said.
“We certainly see the conference centre as being compatible with and complementary to a mineral springs development.”
Cr McDonald’s comments came as Tourism and Major Events Minister Louise Asher last week launched an investment opportunities guide for the geothermal and mineral water tourism sector.
The guide said State Government was committed to supporting public and private investment in the proposed Geelong Waterfront Bathhouse.
Mayor John Mitchell said the Government commitment presented a “great opportunity for us”.
“An announcement like that alert us to the prospects and gives us greater opportunity to tap into funds,” he said.
“A lot of these investments have to look for partners and there’s nothing to stop us looking at public and private partnerships.”
Ms Asher said the plan aimed to “position and strengthen” Victoria as the leading spa and well-being tourism destination in Australia.
“The plan has a clear goal to help the state’s spa and well-being industry grow, employ, innovate and invest,” she said.
The guide said Victoria’s untapped geothermal water resources offered “strong potential for the industry to grow further”.
The Independent reported in May that a waterfront mineral springs spa and bathhouse could net Geelong $6 million in annual tourism spending.
The guide said eight known natural mineral springs were in the region, including three on the shores of Corio Bay.
The Geelong Mineral Spring Bathhouse could attract between 200,000 and 250,000 visitors a year, the guide said.
