A multi-million dollar eco-resort mooted for West Australian coal mining town Collie has progressed a step as part of the state government's latest efforts to create jobs before the coal industry shuts down in 2030.
The government will provide a $100,000 grant to developer WB Management to come up with concept plans for a resort at Minninup pool built with a potential investment of $10 million.
It is the latest in a string of government-promoted projects to develop Collie's economy, including the expansion of a beef jerky plant and a local art prize.
'I was so impressed'
Developer WB Management is part of Perth-based Desen Group, which is also developing a residential village in north-west town Exmouth.
Manager director Richard Wang said, after living in China and Germany, he saw opportunity in Collie's natural features.
"I landed in Collie and I was so impressed with the nature and the national park and also the hills," he said.
Mr Wang said the company had been in discussions with the shire for about four years for the best site near Minninup pool, a popular swimming and canoeing site.
He estimated the investment could be up to $10 million.
Discussions were underway with the Department of Lands about a sub-lease, he said.
'Not a hotel plonked on the river'
Regional Development Minister Don Punch said the project was at the conceptual stage.
"The critical issue with eco-tourism is how it interprets the ecological values of the area ... and how it can blend in," he said.
"It won't be a large hotel plonked next to the river."
The government is spending about $80 million on a transition package to help Collie's economy when local coal-fired power stations close by 2030.
It is part of a $600 million investment to create jobs in the town.
Smaller businesses have been eligible for up to $100,000 each – including a local beef jerky company which recently received $40,000.
"Collie could be the beef jerky capital of the south west," Mr Punch said.
More scrutiny needed, says opposition
The Opposition’s finance spokesman Steve Thomas called for more scrutiny and strategy about the effectiveness of the money being spent in Collie.
"The government is incredibly optimistic about the number of jobs it is going to be able to provide," he said
"The government’s focused on tourism but that’s not necessarily going to provide jobs for those exiting the mining industry."
Mr Punch said there was a robust assessment process.
"There may well be some that do not come off – that’s the risk," he said.
"But if we are looking at the opportunity to diversify regional economies, then that would be the objective of any regional development practitioner anywhere."
