SKETCHES have been released of a proposed $30 million development that could transform Falls Creek into a state-of-the-art high-altitude training centre.
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Resort management is seeking government funding for the three- stage project that would include a gym and sports field for the town as well as a boat shed and roof-top cafe on the shore of the Rocky Valley Dam.
Falls Creek Resort Management chief executive David Herman said Falls Creek was already attracting elite athletes including AFL premier Geelong and, last month, members of the Russian track endurance cycling team.
Mr Herman said the new facilities would build on the area’s natural assets to create and an all-year training centre for athletes, including rowers, skiers and footballers.
The first stage of the project would be a football field in Nordic Bowl.
Next would come a gym equipped with a four-lane 25-metre pool, water slide and sports medicine facilities.
At the nation’s highest body of water, the Rocky Valley Dam, a boat shed could house the rowing boats of elite teams.
For those more keen on sightseeing than serious sport, paddleboats would be available for public hire.
Mr Herman said all of the facilities could be used throughout summer and winter.
For example the Rocky Valley boathouse cafe would become a rest stop for cross-country skiers.
Likewise, the gym would be home to skiers and snowboarders in the snow season, and runners, cyclists and footballers in the warmer months.
Mr Herman said the plans had been inspired by the world’s leading all-season alpine resorts, like St Moritz in Switzerland and Whistler Blackcomb in Canada.
He is hopeful funding will be secured for the project from the Victorian and federal government this year.
The resort town is already frequented by a range of athletes in summer and the new proposal is part of a push to further boost Falls Creek during its traditional “off-season”.
