Sovereign Hill is set to host more students in overnight stays with the completion of a new 32 bed accommodation facility, delivered as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s $8 million investment in the By Day and By Night project.
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford joined Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard to formally open the new facility which will create 10 ongoing jobs.
The new accommodation will help Sovereign Hill increase annual visitor numbers by 25 per cent and boost student overnight stays by 10 per cent.
The Labor Government’s investment in By Day and by Night will help the treasured icon attract more visitors and make the historical site even more attractive to locals and tourists alike.
The project is expected to increase visitor numbers from 730,000 to 750,000 in the first year, which will have flow on benefits for local hospitality, retail and service businesses.
On top of the new accommodation, the project will see a new sound and light show night experience, enhanced play space and indigenous areas, a new costume school and various new attractions to enhance the experience for visitors.
Sovereign Hill will come alive under the night sky with lamplight tours throughout the outdoor museum, illuminated streets throughout the grounds, an “Under the Stars” dining experience and a Christmas in July winter wonder lights show.
It will also improve accessibility across the entire site and the representation of the Wadawarrung people in Victoria’s gold rush story will be improved.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Sovereign Hill is synonymous with Ballarat, and draws visitors from all over the world.”
“The new accommodation is perfect for school children who will no doubt regale their families with stories of their night on the goldfields.”
Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard
“Sovereign Hill is Victoria’s most valuable tourism icon and through our investment we are bringing history to life under the night sky.”
Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight
“We know that regional Victoria has the best of everything – and through our investment we’re making sure visitors can extend their visit in Sovereign Hill and get a hands on, educational
Reviewed 19 August 2020