Discovery Parks - Clare: Waterpark Q&A
South Australia’s world-famous wine region, the Clare Valley, will soon have a new summer attraction – a $2.6 million waterpark and resort pool at Discovery Parks – Clare.
It will be a great reason for visitors to stay longer in the region and experience its wonderful tourist attractions ranging from the Riesling Bike Trail to the majestic Martindale Hall in Mintaro.
What’s the plan for the park?
The plan is to build a resort-style swimming pool and splash park with multiple waterslides and nature-based theming, including rocks, streams and nature play – providing fun and educational benefits for children.
What is the benefit to the Mid-North community?
The new waterpark will not only attract new visitors from around Australia and interstate, it will also provide recreation experiences for locals.
We’ve found that developing a similar waterpark and pool at our Barossa property has increased the park’s appeal, especially for families. Every dollar spent on regional accommodation results in $2 for regional economies, so we ensure that we develop our properties to boost regional prosperity.
The development will be accompanied by a $150,000 uptick in marketing spend to attract visitors and is expected to have flow through benefits of $2.4 million.
The development aligns with the council’s “Nature like Nowhere Else” strategy, enabling “cutting edge sensory experiences that leave a lasting impression”.
Will the development provide local jobs?
Yes, we’ll use local trades including electricians, plumbers and excavator / landscapers, based on their availability and we expect the project to lead to additional positions in the park –managers, cleaners and grounds staff, as the number of visitors grows. Our business employs 1500 people around the country, and we’re committed to developing our people and providing career pathways for regional Australians.
What’s the process and how long will it take?
We’ve just received an extension of the lease and already have a development approval for the waterpark. Once Clare and Gilbert Valley Council have completed the community consultation process we’ll be able to commence. Depending on the consultation process we hope the work will be completed in time for summer 2022.
Will the development damage the park’s beautiful environment?
Discovery Parks is experienced in developments in sensitive natural environments with minimal impact and that’s just what we intend to do in Clare. After all, the love of nature is at the heart of our business. We are particularly proud of our ecologically sensitive developments at Discovery -Rottnest Island with glamping accommodation nestled among the sand dunes, and our safari tents and resort pool under the gum trees at Discovery Parks – Barossa. At Discovery Parks – Clare, we’ll have native landscaping and the project will not require any tree or native vegetation removal.
The waterpark will use very little water as it is recycled and it will have storage tanks, solar power, variable speed pumps and ozone water purification.
Discovery Parks - Clare Waterpark Concept Images
