Oakdene Vineyards plans new restaurant, gallery in new location

A popular Bellarine Peninsula winery has unveiled plans to build a new restaurant and art gallery at a second location, in a bid to bring a Yarra Valley aura to the region.

A popular Bellarine Peninsula winery has unveiled plans to build a new restaurant and art gallery at a second location, in a bid to help transform the area into a “fine food and drink region similar to the Yarra Valley”.

Oakdene Vineyards has lodged plans with the City of greater Geelong to build and operate a restaurant and gallery at the Mannerim site of its 28ha vineyards, adding to it’s already popular Wallington property.

The $1.55m plans would further improve the Banks Rd vineyard location, which already consists of a cellar door, cottage used for holiday accommodation, managers residence, office, licensed restaurant Merne at Lighthouse, shop and numerous sheds.

It is also the site of 21ha of olive groves, 28ha of vineyards and 9ha of timber plantations, with a further 6ha of vineyards planned.

Steven Paul from Oakdene Wines. Picture: Alison Wynd

Planning documents lodged with the City of Greater Geelong argued a new restaurants and art gallery at the site would offer a range of community benefits.

“It will help boost tourism particularly on the Bellarine Peninsula year round and enhance its reputation as a fine food and drink region similar to the Yarra Valley,” the documents noted.

“It will complement the existing winery, making it a premier tourist destination by offering a unique visitor experience unlike any other venue on the Bellarine. It is envisaged many visitors will enjoy the property for an extended stay and spend time at the restaurant, cellar door and gallery.

“It will help support the viability of the farm business by deriving additional income to be reinvested back into agriculture.

“It will help showcase predominantly indigenous artwork and promote local artists.”

The planning document will remain open for public comment until March 16.

Originally published as Oakdene Vineyards plans new restaurant, gallery in new location