East Gippsland Shire Council has put the management of the Eagle Point Caravan Park up for lease.
To be advertised by Expression of Interest (EOI) from 29 May to 10 July, the Council says its intent is to be able to hand over operations to a new operator in September.
General Manager Assets and Environment, Stuart McConnell said Council believes that having the park operate under a commercial lease will improve outcomes for visitors, the Eagle Point and surrounding communities and businesses.
“During the EOI, and until a commercial lease is in place, Council will continue to operate the park using its in-house team,” Mr McConnell said.
“The experience of our existing and future visitors remains a priority for us during this process. We will honour current annual (12 month) camping permits and will also be offering an extension of these permit arrangements until the intended lease transition period of September 2024.
“We have contacted our annual permit holders by letter outlining the EOI process and next steps. The continuation of annual permits after September will be a decision for the new park operator.”
Mr McConnell said the commercial leasing of the park had been identified as the most appropriate business model for all ratepayers, visitors, and Council.
“To lease the park, we must offer the opportunity by EOI and details can be found on our website,” he said.
It is intended Council will consider awarding a lease in August, with a handover of the site to a new operator the following month.
Council already leases Crown land caravan parks to commercial operators in Marlo, Orbost, Omeo, Bemm River, Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance.
