The expansion included six glamping tents and a restaurant tent. 

According to Turon Gates Tourism operations manager Michael Lunoe the possibilities for the future growth with this assistance is just amazing.

“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.”

Mr Lunoe said that previously they only had one glamping tent, but this expansion would help meet demand. 

“We expect over 10,000 people coming through next year and that brings 10,000 people through Lithgow and the local economy and over time this will improve tourism in the region,” he said. 

“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.” 

Chamber of Commerce president Angela O'Connor was excited about the jobs Turon Gates will create in multiple sectors. 

“This is a fantastic asset for region, with the potential of traffic coming through Lithgow which is amazing,” she said. 

“I just want to congratulate the family and can’t wait to stay here myself.” 

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole officially cut the ribbon to open the $743,000 expansion of the Turon Gates Eco Retreat. 

Earlier this year the local tourism operator was successful in securing a grant of $371,650 to support  the project to build six luxury glamping tents and a restaurant tent at its eco-mountain retreat in Capertee. 

Read more:

Mr Toole said the funding was from the 2017/18 round of the Tourism Demand-Driver Infrastructure program, administered by the State Government to support tourism projects that drive demand and increase local tourism expenditure. 

“I’m delighted to be here at Turon Gates today to support this next stage of the Turon Gates development at Capertee,” he said. 

“The money has enabled the owners to construct six glamping tents and appoint them with luxury finishes including fixed and non-fixed furniture, plumbing and electricity.

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

Mr Toole said tourism is one of the state’s most important sectors and support for projects like this at Turon Gates is vital to help local communities and economies grow and prosper. 

“At the heart of the sector’s success are the many hard-working individuals and businesses across NSW who work tirelessly to deliver world-class tourism experiences like this one,” he said.  

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Lithgow Mercury. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here.