Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade will soon be able to welcome more visitors through an upgrade that will protect the penguins’ habitat and support local jobs.
Premier Daniel Andrews and Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale today visited the iconic tourist attraction to announce the $5 million upgrade, supported by the Andrews Labor Government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund.
The project will deliver new accessible boardwalks to the penguin viewing stands, alongside additional seating to improve the visitor experience and open the attraction to more people.
Importantly, it will also protect the natural environment home to the island’s penguin colonies by reducing erosion from visitors walking in the area, minimising the impact of visitors on the species and their natural habitat.
A new sky box will be installed, providing visitors with a premium elevated view over the picturesque Summerland Beach and the Penguin Parade.
The project will generate up to 19 full time tourism jobs. Work is expected to be finished in June 2024.
The Penguin Parade is one of Australia’s most popular wildlife attractions, welcoming more than 700,000 visitors each year.
As most visitors come to see the penguins early in the morning and at dusk, this investment is expected to increase overnight stays on Phillip Island.
The Regional Tourism Investment Fund is helping entice more visitors to Victoria’s regions, driving private investment and accelerating the recovery of the tourism sector.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Phillip Island is one of Victoria’s favourite tourist destinations and these new upgrades will keep the region thriving for years to come.”
“This redevelopment will protect the 4,000 penguins living around Summerland Beach and enhance a world-class experience for visitors – that’s a win for tourism and local jobs.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale
“The Penguin Parade attracts visitors from around the world to Phillip Island and we’re investing in these upgrades to support the long-term future of the local tourism industry.”
Quote attributable to Phillip Island Nature Park CEO Catherine Basterfield
“Phillip Island is one of Australia’s must-see tourist destinations. It is terrific to see the government’s commitment in bettering our tourism offering so that it continues to go from strength to strength.”
Reviewed 31 May 2022