More happy campers after EPIC rejuvenation

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A rejuvenation program highlighted in the Exhibition Park (EPIC) Annual Report for 2010-2011, will provide more low-cost accommodation for visitors to Canberra, especially school children.

As part of the rejuvenation program, the ACT Government has provided $4.1 million for major upgrades to the Budawang Pavilion, toilets and shower blocks, signage and the capture of non-potable water for use on site.

The upgrades represent the ACT Labor Government’s commitment to ensure EPIC continues to develop and deliver for the people of Canberra.

Expressions of interest have also been called for the design, construction and operation of a low-cost camping and accommodation facility at EPIC.

With nearly 165,000 students coming to Canberra on excursions during 2010, attracting investment into tourist accommodation, particularly low-cost accommodation, is key to supporting the ACT’s tourism operators and workers.

EPIC is already a popular low-cost tourism accommodation facility and this new development would build on that.

EPIC is also attracting interest from ancillary businesses. The 10 long-term tenants will be joined by a Woolworth’s service station and a McDonald’s outlet in 2012.

In addition to these commercial tenancies, EPIC subsidises community organisations by providing discounted rates for their activities. EPIC has calculated this subsidy at more than $770,000.

Some examples of these activities are:

• Lifeline Bookfair,
• Hands Across Canberra,
• American Car Club of Australia, and
• Fatality Free Friday.

EPIC has a well earned reputation as a premier venue to host events in the Territory. We have a great team in place at EPIC and I am pleased to see EPIC projects supporting ACT tourism businesses and operators.