Multi-million hot springs expansion

The State Government has backed a $5.2 million hot springs expansion at Phillip Island.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Martin Pakula last week announced the government was supporting the Newhaven attraction.
He said a $4.7 million boost from the Regional Tourism Investment Fund would help expand the original Phillip Island Hot Springs development, with seven new pools added to the main bathing area, nestled amongst the natural landscape.
An additional three thermal pools boasting sweeping views over Bass Strait will be constructed next to the Cape Kitchen waterfront restaurant, which will be transformed into a dining lounge seating up to 100 guests.
The expansion is expected to create 35 jobs during construction and 68 full-time and indirect jobs when it is completed next year.
A $500,000 investment from the Enabling Tourism Fund will further support the project, with funding going towards the planning stage of the development of the Cape Woolamai Lodge and hot springs.
The feasibility of constructing a new state-of-the-art 120 room Lodge and the development of the Saltwater Hot Springs Spa and Wellness Centre, will be assessed.
Mr Pakula said the hot springs expansion would provide a significant boost to the region, attracting an estimated 73,000 new visitors to the Island in the first year, contributing more than $4.7 million to the island's economy.
"Phillip Island is one of Victoria's iconic tourism destinations and that's why we're backing businesses to make the experience for visitors even better."
"We know tourism is a major employer in the community and that's why we're working so hard to grow the industry locally," the minister said.