The purpose of the review was to identify a management model to best secure the long-term future of the resorts, through increased private sector investment and year-round visitor activities.
Currently, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is responsible for the day-to-day operational management of the Perisher Range Resorts. This includes lease management of the club and commercial lodges at the Perisher Range Resorts, as well as providing utility services such as the collection and disposal of waste, and infrastructure such as sewerage. NPWS also provides waste disposal services at Charlotte Pass.
Details of the public consultation are available at Have your say: Perisher Range and Charlotte Pass resorts management review.
Management review process
The resorts are an important part of New South Wales's recreational and tourism economy, providing jobs and unique experiences in an alpine environment.
The review sought to:
- ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the resorts
- identify a management model that will deliver year-round visitation and attractions while balancing the needs of the sensitive alpine environment
- enhance the important economic benefits the Resorts provide to the local community and the people of New South Wales
- establish the resorts as world class, best practice year-round recreational alpine destinations.
The review into the management arrangements at the Resorts sought feedback from both stakeholders and the local community, and the market.
Stakeholder engagement
The management review commenced with an engagement process that collected feedback from current leaseholders, lodge and club members, businesses, and the local community to understand their views, ideas and concerns in relation to management of the resorts.
Participants were invited to provide feedback on their long-term vision for the resorts and to identify what needs to happen for them to continue to evolve into world-class resorts and a vibrant, year-round tourism hub.
The information gathered during this phase informed the expression of interest (EOI) process and is a consideration in the final decision about the new model.
Market engagement
The NSW Government engaged with the private sector to identify potential management models through an EOI process.
Outcome
Perisher Range
The expression of interest responses were evaluated for Perisher Range. On the advice of the tender panel, the NSW Government will not be offering a head lease to any proponent for Perisher Range at this time.
A sustainable service delivery model for Perisher Range is important for the future of the resort. The NSW Government is investigating better cost recovery options for providing services at Perisher Range Resorts and will progress this in consultation with stakeholders.
Charlotte Pass
A new head lease for Charlotte Pass Village has been signed by the Minister. The head lessee is Charlotte Pass Village Pty Ltd. The lease is for 40 years and 6 months commencing on 1 May 2018. The current lease has been extended to 30 April 2018 in order to complete a survey of the head lease and sub-lease premises. The head lessee is also able to extend existing sub-leases until 30 April 2018.
The head lease provides for basic sub-lease terms. The sub-lease form is also to be approved by government once finalised. All sub-leases at Charlotte Pass have been extended to 31 April 2018.
Under the head lease Charlotte Pass Village Pty Ltd has committed to a capital investment and summer activation program at Charlotte Pass.