New Granite Island tourism proposal to allow swimming and hand feeding of fish

TOURISTS could hand-feed fish, swim with them and view them from an underwater observatory if the State Government approves a proposed marine tourism venture at Granite Island.

TOURISTS could hand-feed fish, swim with them and view them from an underwater observatory if the State Government approves a proposed marine tourism venture at Granite Island.

Sustainability, Environment and Conservation Minister Ian Hunter said the government would assess the proposal, which would be based at the island’s kiosk.

It would allow visitors the opportunity to swim with a range of different fish species, hand-feed fish from a viewing platform, view them from an underwater observatory and learn more about South Australia’s marine life.

The project has been put forward by Oceanic Victor Pty Ltd directors Tony Santic and Michael Dyer and the company’s adviser Emma Forster, who approached the Office of the State Coordinator-General about it.

Mr Hunter said it was an opportunity to reinvigorate Granite Island, but must pass through all relevant approvals.

“We’re very keen to explore every opportunity to generate tourism ventures that make the most of our clean, green image,” he said.

“This proposal has the potential to promote Granite Island and the Fleurieu region, and develop an exciting visitor experience that works hand-in-hand with the region’s marine parks.”

Mr Hunter said the proposal had already passed through the first stage of the process, involving “a preliminary assessment of whether it delivers good outcomes for the community”.

A business case must now be drawn up and assessed by revelant government agencies.

If the project is given the green light, the government would then begin contract negotiations with Oceanic Victor Pty Ltd.

Mr Hunter said the community would be given the opportunity to have their say on various aspects of the project, with details to be announced in the near future.