MEDIA RELEASE
Regional Development Australia Eyre Peninsula (RDAEP) would like to congratulate Thrive Construct on the announcement that the construction of their hotel development will commence in late 2022 on the site of the Whyalla Foreshore Motel.
The hotel will comprise 164 hotel suites and 49 apartments and will be largely of prefabricated modular construction using advanced materials such as laminated timber and green steel which is a nod to the region’s steel-making history.
“Thrive Construct’s vision and confidence in supporting the tourism and business economy of the Whyalla region is to be applauded and the construction method and materials is demonstrating a visionary approach to building” said RDAEP Chair, Bryan Trigg.
“The announcement is especially pleasing for RDAEP given the work it undertook in 2019 running an Expression of Interest process and linking Thrive Construct with the owners of the Foreshore Motel. RDAEP provided expert tourism advice, economic information and facilitated negotiations leading to the exchange of contracts. This reflects the important role RDAEP plays in working collaboratively with industry to facilitate economic development, infrastructure, investment and job creation” said RDAEP Economic Development Manager, Trevor Smith.
The $138 million investment by Thrive Construct will have a significant multiplier impact on the Whyalla economy and local jobs. The operation of the hotel will provide up to 50 permanent and many more indirect jobs in the Whyalla community” said Trevor Smith.
The hotel is much needed to support the growing tourism sector in Whyalla and the region. It will provide a stepping stone for visitors to explore beyond Eyre Peninsula’s gateway, and make the most of the vast rugged landscapes, unique marine life and immersive seafood experiences.
In 2021 the Eyre Peninsula accommodated 482,000 overnight visitors, an increase of 13% on 2018 levels, and generated $488 million in visitor expenditure. Tourism remains an important sector for the regional economy, with an aim of facilitating sustainable development of the visitor economy. This means ensuring the sector continues to have a net positive impact on local business, the community and the environment, and balancing supply and demand to provide a positive experience for visitors.
“The new hotel development aligns with the regional priorities identified in the Eyre Peninsula Destination Management Plan 2025 and is a welcome addition to the industry” said Tourism Development Manager, Annabelle Hender.
Release Date: 29 July 2022
Contact: Trevor Smith, RDAEP – 0408 948 634 / trevor.smith@rdaep.org.au