Minister opens extension to Ningaloo Reef Retreat

15/6/05
Tourism Minister Mark McGowan officially opened a commercial quality kitchen and communal dining area at the award-winning Ningaloo Reef Retreat today.
Making his first visit to the Coral Coast as Tourism Minister, Mr McGowan said the extension would offer improved services to tourists.
"The dining area is built on a raised observation deck, offering stunning views over the blue lagoon of Ningaloo Reef," he said.
"This extension is a wonderful vote of confidence in the future of the tourism industry along the Ningaloo Coast."
The Minister said the Ningaloo Marine Park was one of the jewels in the Western Australian tourism crown, offering visitors the cr?me de la cr?me of natural marine experiences and attracting scuba divers from around the world.
"The Ningaloo Reef Retreat provides an all-inclusive experience for up to 12 guests in specially designed wilderness tents," he said.
"This is a great example of the type of development that the Government's Ningaloo Coastal Strategy has identified as a model for other developments in the area.
"The Gallop Government is investing heavily in marketing WA to the world and it is wonderful to see individual operators working to establish a quality product.
"Tourism is a major economic driver for WA, creating jobs and opportunities."
The Ningaloo Reef Retreat was established in 1997 as a model ecotourism development, the first of its kind in a National Park in WA.
It has been recognised as a leader in its class, winning the WA Tourism Award for Excellence in 2002 and the WA Tourism Award for Ecotourism in 2004.
Minister's office: 9222 9111