Mona founder David Walsh unveils plans for new visitor accommodation at Marchwiel

Enigmatic Mona founder David Walsh has revealed plans to build new visitor accommodation on a historic property he owns in the state’s southeast.

An artist's render of the A-frame accommodation David Walsh wants to build on his property at Bream Creek. Picture: Nonda Katsalidis Architects

Mona founder David Walsh has revealed plans to build new visitor accommodation on his historic Marchwiel property at picturesque Bream Creek.

The enigmatic Mr Walsh has lodged a development application with the Sorell Council, seeking approval for the construction of an A-frame cabin with a footprint of about 160 sq/m.

Designed by Nonda Katsalidis, the architect behind Mona, the proposed two-storey development includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living/kitchen area and an outdoor deck.

It would be able to accommodate four guests at a time and would be accessible via a Crown licence road at Marion Bay and would connect with Mr Walsh’s existing accommodation pods located on a separate title.

The site of the development includes the historic Marchwiel homestead, containing 15 buildings, including the 1850s homestead, blacksmith shop, early slab huts and shearing shed, which are all listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register.

In the application, prepared by Ireneinc Planning & Urban Design, the accommodation is described as “a very small-scale operation concerning both use and development”.

“Bream Creek and Marion Bay are becoming increasingly renowned both interstate and internationally,” the report says.

“With local markets, the annual show, vineyards, festivals, and an internationally recognised food scene, there is an increasing need to accommodate visitors.

“The provision of accommodation will provide an opportunity for frequenters to stay and experience the landscape. By extending their visit, frequenters will be more inclined to spend money locally, providing direct benefit to the local community.”

The building would have steel Colorbond charcoal and Monument Matt finishes, with Ironbark timber decking.

David Walsh at the Sohn Hearts & Minds investment conference in Hobart. Picture – Supplied

Two parking spaces have also been proposed as part of the development.

Located on Paredarerme pungenna country, an archaeology report identified the locations of several Aboriginal relics on the development site and the proposal has since been designed and sited in accordance with advice from an Aboriginal heritage expert.

A Sorell Council spokeswoman confirmed the application had been received and was now being advertised for public exhibition until Tuesday, February 28.

“If multiple representations are received then it will go to council as the planning authority to assess, with the date for this to be confirmed,” she said.

“If no representations are received, it will be assessed by council planning staff under delegation.”

Originally published as Mona founder David Walsh unveils plans for new visitor accommodation at Marchwiel