Finding a new tenant to operate the Orbost Caravan Park is a priority for East Gippsland Shire Council.
The park’s lease was due to expire in September, but unfortunately Council received formal notification over the weekend from the current leaseholder requesting an early release from their contract, effective this month (June).
General Manager Assets and Environment, Fiona Weigall, said the current tenant has advertised the park will close from 2 June.
“While the lease did stipulate the park must remain open over winter, Council has supported the leaseholder’s request for an early exit. We thank them for their contribution to the visitor economy of Orbost and district,” Ms Weigall said.
“Council acknowledges the short-term closure of the park over the quieter winter months is not ideal. We are working to best support the Orbost community and to ensure the park is re-opened as a priority and are communicating with the Orbost Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
“Council is committed to a commercial caravan park in Orbost, and we look forward to having a new tenant operating the park soon,” Ms Weigall said.
For Council-managed land all commercial operations are required to have an expression of interest undertaken at the end of the term. Preparation work for the tender has commenced, however the ending of the lease about four months early has bought forward this process.
“Council aims to advertise in July and award a new lease by October, in line with our procurement standards,” Ms Weigall said.
“As an interim measure, Council is pursuing service agreement options until a new tenant is in place. This could include an agreement with an existing business or committee of management group.
“The interim closure of the park is not linked to Council’s recent RV Friendly accreditation survey. The park will not be used for RV free camping in the interim while new tenants are sought. Council has committed to revisiting the RV Friendly discussion in the New Year.”
Current lease holders have confirmed bump out is planned this week. Cabins (owned by the leaseholders) have been removed and the residence cabin will remain onsite for a few weeks.
Council will maintain the site during any closure.
Guests wishing to make future bookings, or enquire about existing bookings, for the Orbost Caravan Park can do so by contacting Council in the interim.
The park does not have any permanent residents.
