Hilton symbolic of new development direction

A recent spate of new high-quality tourism developments are indicative of the direction that Busselton is headed but perhaps none is more symbolic than the proposed $52 million Hilton development.

To have an internationally recognised name such as the Hilton hotel chain wanting to move into town, backed with a significant marketing machine that has the ability to tap into a global market, demonstrates the esteem in which the region is held.

Notably, the proposed 130-suite resort and spa is not on beachfront land, but several kilometres inland, east of Caves Road, above a 2.8ha, 28-metre-deep lake.

Located on the former Abbey Farm site, owned by Wesfarmers in the late 1970s and early 1980s and intended to grow hops for the Swan Brewery, the resort aims to blend in with the natural environment.

Its height does not exceed two storeys.

According to local developer Mike Bignell, the resort will be marketed as a vineyard-bush experience and will be hidden from view.

“The coast is always appealing but we believe this site is more appealing – it is the best site in the South-West,” Mr Bignell said.

“Hilton did a worldwide feasibility study and ended up choosing this site – that should say something.

“They were attracted to the region’s natural environment, climate and high standard of food and wine.

“This will be an experience that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

“The style will aim to be cohesive with the environment and incorporate a lot of limestone, timber and glass.

“The site can’t be seen from the road and we have made every effort to make sure that the natural surroundings will be retained – the wildflowers will all be put back in to the bush.”

Mr Bignell emphasised that the proposal was still out for public comment but that public response had been very positive so far.

“We have an October, 2006, targeted opening,” he said.

The proposed resort includes 26 three-bedroom, two-bathroom villas, 130 suites, function facilities for 300 people, a restaurant and a ballroom.

An ardent local, Mr Bignell said the development would be fabulous for the region in terms of the tourism and jobs.

“It will really mean that an enormous amount more of money will be spent in the region,” he said.

“Hilton has signed a management contract for 21 years with a 21-year option.”

Less than 5 per cent of the estimated 3.5 million visitors to the region last year were international, indicating the potential for expansion in that market.

The resort will be five-star, however, no prices have been set yet.