Darwin council proposes new RV park at Bundilla Beach, Fannie Bay
The latest idea to develop a Darwin shorefront could have RVs pulling up as soon as this year’s Dry Season. See the proposed plans.
Northern Territory
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Darwin’s first beachside RV park could be built as soon as this Dry Season, the local council has proposed.
The Darwin council is seeking public feedback on trialling a recreational vehicle park near Bundilla Beach in Fannie Bay.
It would run through the peak visitor season this year and accommodate up to 20 RVs.
The site, just north of the Darwin Ski Club, is currently used as a car park.
The council says the RVs would pull up on the bitumen surface and need to be fully self-sufficient with showers, toilets and kitchenettes.
A dump point would be installed along with temporary lighting and fencing, with costs to be borne by a private operator.
Residents would still be able to access the beach, boat ramp and Atkins Drive.
Darwin mayor Kon Vatskalis said he hoped the park would bring more tourists to town.
“We know that tourist spending stimulates the local economy beyond just accommodation and into retail, hospitality, art and creative industries, tours, transport and more,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“Accommodation in Darwin is always in high demand, and options are already booking out for 2023.
“Should the community be supportive of the trial, the next step would be to kick off an expression of interest process to bring a suitable operator on board to run the park.”
Fannie Bay MLA Brent Potter pledged a $3m redevelopment of Bundilla Park in the lead-up to his successful by-election win in August last year.
Early plans included a basketball half-court and four food truck sites, increased lighting and irrigation for grassed areas.
Mr Potter said Bundilla Beach needed activation but did not necessarily flag his support for the RV park.
“Council also marked Bundilla Beach as the site for their dog park,” he said.
“Any proposed caravan camp site needs to be considered in relation to these commitments, but most importantly be considered by local residents.
“I’m sure there will be many outside our local area in favour, but the most important voices are the local ones.”
The NT government’s $3m commitment marked the first major pledge for Bundilla Beach but plenty of ideas have been thrown.
In 2020, the Darwin council included a $40m Bundilla Beach surf facility at the centre of its project prospectus.
Developers were invited to make a proposal that included a surf-cub house, wave pool and outdoor eateries.
Vesteys Beach was renamed Bundilla Beach in early 2021 in recognition and at the request of Larrakia Traditional Owners.
For many years it has been a popular place for itinerants to camp.
Have your say on the proposed RV park in the council survey.
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