ABOUT THIS PROJECT:
Over the past 5 years, Woodhouse has emerged as an iconic tourism attraction in the Adelaide Hills. With this explosion of visitor numbers and renewed interest in the site, catering for visitor needs and safety has been paramount.
Through consistent communication with the Adelaide Hills Council, a solution had to be realised in order for our guests to be safe and allow us to trade throughout our busiest period. 2020 became formative for the site, off the back of the worst fire season experienced in Australia’s history including the devastating fires that ravaged the hills.
Numerous feasibility studies were conducted which included a single purpose refuge (unable to function for any other purpose), many different construct models, and in lieu of building, transport evacuation on site at all times. None of these options ideal, nor did they fit with our low footprint sustainable ethos in design or practice.
The site required a multi-purpose building that would not only serve as a beacon of safety for bushfire attack, but also be able to be a multipurpose venue, serving our guests needs.
Woodhouse appointed MDLR, a South Australian company, deeply rooted in state based tourism products, building bespoke accommodation and conference facilities, in late 2019.
Function centres don’t come cheap, especially bushfire rated ones! Initial quoting for the build came in above budget, however all of our brief notes had been achieved. Bravely, we forged ahead with development approvals, regardless of budget with a view to apply for grant funding.
Through PIRSA’s Regional Growth Fund, Woodhouse applied for dollar for dollar matching. Our grant application focused on the strong argument of safety, backed up by our flourishing visitation numbers and standing within the region. Letters of support were garnered from federal and local MP’s, South Australian Tourism Commission, Regional Development Australia, Adelaide Hills Council and even our competitors in school camps gave their support and in mid-2020, our successful application meant that the shovel ready project could commence.
The build was true to our grant application in regard to the economic impact statement, utilising only South Australian companies throughout, providing around 40 FTE positions through the build process and generating in excess of $2M in economic activity. The final product accommodates over 200 people in a refuge sense and allows independent access to toilet and shower facilities, activating another viable camping area in an adjacent field.
Design of the build allows for 2 separate meeting rooms, where in excess of 50 people can convene in each along with communal kitchen and gathering area.
