Located on the banks of Gunbower Creek, the $1.2 million bush campground — or ‘glamground’ — is one of many projects aimed at making the Murray River and its environmental areas a must-visit attraction.
Koondrook Retreat opened to guests on December 15 with radio station 3SH's Morning Rush program broadcasting live, and a mayor, two Baraparapa elders and two politicians present for the free barbecue.
The retreat contains glamping tents, a fire pit area, canoe launching facilities and a footbridge connecting it to Gunbower State Forest.
The Victorian Government pitched in $800,000 to get the project over the line.
Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp attended the event and opened the site.
Gannawarra Shire Mayor Charlie Gillingham was in attendance and said the retreat would attract visitors from all over Australia — and the world once borders re-open.
“The development of Koondrook Retreat has captivated the imagination of residents,” Cr Gillingham said.
“Most importantly, Koondrook Retreat will kick-start the nature-based tourism market in the Gannawarra, making the municipality Victoria’s nature-based tourism destination.”
Present for the opening were Baraparapa elders Esther Kirby and Ron Murray, and Member for Northern Victoria Tania Maxwell.
Koondrook Retreat is expected to attract an additional 6000 visitors to the region each year and increase visitor nights by 1800.
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