NRMA Parks and Resorts has commenced works on the development of the new eco accommodation experience at Mon Repos’ Turtle Sands Nature Retreat, with a view to opening to guests in July next year.
Works include the careful removal of the existing buildings, construction of new guest facilities and landscaping to complement the natural environment. NRMA is carefully managing works on the site and in accordance with the Turtle management plan so as the resident turtles will not be impacted. Measures in place include the total protection of the dunes where the turtles nest and works taking place during daylight hours only when turtles are often at sea. As a result, this season Turtle Sands will be a completely dark site for the first time in 20 years.
NRMA’s vision for the soon to be relaunched Turtle Sands is to offer guests a unique, first-of-its-kind eco accommodation experience with exclusive access to one of nature’s most amazing moments: turtles nesting in their natural environment. The $28million project includes new glamping tents, eco-cabins and camping sites as well as a central guest area and guided nature tours for an unforgettable, educational encounter with the nesting turtles.
NRMA is pleased to partner with several key stakeholders in this significant tourism project including the Queensland Government, Bundaberg Reginal Council as well as the PCCCT, Gidarjil Development Corporation and several regional First Nations groups in best managing the development phase and in planning a program of cultural experiences and nature encounters. NRMA has also donated the outgoing cabin stock to Gidarjil for its use.
The new NRMA ecotourism destination at Mon Repos is set to attract more than 90,000 visitors and generate $13.2 million in overnight visitor expenditure each year. The project will also provide 40 construction jobs and over 30 operational jobs. It will be a boon for local businesses including restaurants and cafes, food and beverage suppliers, camping and adventure gear retailers and tour operators.
The initial phases of the development including new accommodation and eco-experience at Mon Repos will be completed by June 30 and open to guests in July 2024.
NRMA Parks and Resorts CEO Paul Davies said the member organisation was excited to be commencing works on the groundbreaking eco-tourism project which would redefine the benchmarks of nature-based tourism in Australia.
“The new Turtle Sands will offer a wonderful accommodation tourism experience celebrating and supporting the conservation of marine turtles in their natural environment,” Mr Davies said.
“We can’t wait to welcome guests to experience Mon Repos for an unforgettable encounter with its resident turtles in 2024 alongside the development of new experiences that will attract guests year-round,” he said.
