The project, which will cost $743,300 in total, was supported as part of the Tourism Demand-Driver Infrastructure program, a Commonwealth funded initiative administered by the State Government. 

“The money will enable the owners to construct six glamping tents and appoint them with luxury finishes including fixed and non-fixed furniture, plumbing and electricity,” Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said.

“Turon Gates offers a high quality tourism experience in the region – a quiet, unspoilt authentic bush hideaway and with this expansion, it hopes to double the number of visitors to its world-class facilities.”

Turon Gates’ Michael Lunoe said their aim was to tap into the worldwide phenomenon known as “glamping”.

“People are so sick of the built up environment these days and want a different holiday experience where they can get back to nature,” Mr Lunoe said.

“Camping is appealing, but people just don’t have the equipment or location to go to. They also want a luxury experience without having to rough it in the bush.

“The ‘glamping’ phenomenon is going global and ticks all the boxes for those people who want a hotel-like room in the bush - a bit like going on safari.”

Mr Lunoe said they only had one “glamping” tent, but this expansion would help meet demand by increasing that number by another six as well as including a restaurant tent, which would all aim to be eco-friendly.

“We see this as being a major tourism boost for the local area, especially to a worldwide market that has opened up since joining sites like hotels.com, tripadvisor and bookings.com,” he said.

“The possibilities for our future growth with this assistance are just amazing.”