The Augusta-Margaret River Shire has approved a $40 million resort development near Cape Leeuwin which will include an abalone hatchery.
Proposed for a 5.5 hectare site on the ocean side of Leeuwin Road between the cape's lighthouse and the Augusta township, the resort will have 112 rooms, a restaurant and feature an interpretive centre focused on the location's unique position at the confluence of the Indian and Southern Oceans.
Augusta-Margaret River shire president Steve Harrison described the development as a boost for the town and was one of several new resort proposals which would broaden the region's offering to tourists.
The key proponent of the venture is Augusta Marine Resources Pty Ltd which is run by Ian Ricciardi, of Hamilton Hill-based Ricciardi Seafoods & Coldstores, who dominates the share register according to Australian Securities and Investment Commission records.
Local identity Terry Adams founded the project more than a decade ago..
Another company, Cottesloe-based Two Oceans Pty Ltd has also played a role with the development application, along with Subiaco-based planning consultant Taylor Burrell Barnett.
It is understood development for the site has been sought for about 10 years, initially with a focus on the aquaculture side of the operation.
The current project, with a greater tourism emphasis, emerged about three years ago.
According to shire documents, the aquaculture facility will include a hatchery, nursery and grow-out tanks for the production of abalone. It will also have a 'cellar door' to allow the public to observe the production process as well as sample and purchase seafood and other produce from the region.
A laboratory facility is also proposed for use by various groups to research aquaculture techniques.
The main public facilities, and some lodgings, will be housed in one central building. Most of the accommodation will be in chalets clustered around the site which will be access by footpaths serviced with electric buggys.
