I welcome the funding announcement of $48.2 million from the Victorian Government for an upgrade to the Phillip Island Nature Park.
The Penguin Parade is one of Victoria’s most loved tourist attractions and provides a significant economic benefit to the Island.
This redevelopment will support tourism in the region but will also boost local jobs both during and after construction.
The Phillip Island Nature Park is not only a fantastic tourist attraction but it also delivers conservation benefits to the region.
I have long been a supporter of the Nature Park and have worked closely with them over the years to retain and enhance conservation measures. The federal government provided a Green Army team that worked in close consultation with the Nature Park to protect the penguin habitat across the Summerland Peninsula.
It is terrific that the Island’s penguin colonies will be restored and rehabilitated through this funding. This is a great outcome for the environment and the community.
For many years now the Penguin Parade has provided a place for local, interstate and international visitors to see one of our treasured native animals.
I am glad this funding will allow the Phillip Island Nature Park to continue the fantastic work it has been doing to educate our visitors about our native wildlife and region.
This funding will allow Phillip Island Nature Park to build on its already exceptional reputation as a world-class destination for tourists.