Gumbuya’s cash push

Colin Ross, Ron Weinzierl, John Erin, Daniel Mulino and Gerry Ryan run through the proposed plans for the expansion. 184764_01

By Rowan Forster

Gumbuya World’s investors are in hot pursuit of funding to facilitate the theme park’s marquee overhaul – which is set to include a rendition of Jurassic World, an 80 room hotel, microbrewery, chocolate factory and eco-resort.

The State Government has already hurled its support behind the ambitious upgrade, and now Business Director Ron Weinzierl is hoping to get the Federal Government on board.

Mr Weinzierl said Gumbuya World’s allegiance, as an entity, could change; depending on which political party comes to the table.

“The State Government is going to support us and if the Federal Government doesn’t, as an entity, we will sit back and wait for an election promise and switch our support to that side,” he said.

“This is going to give them a huge investment value that the community is going to support.

“Put simply, it would take the number of jobs here from 100 to 500.”

At the helm of Gumbuya World is a syndicate of renowned investors, including the founder of Jayco Caravans, Gerry Ryan, carsales.com.au director Wal Pisciotta and industrial developer Adam Campbell.

Upon the earmarked completion year of 2021, the world-class destination would also boast a wool shed with shearing demonstrations, an Indigenous cultural centre, more rides and an expanded water park.

“Every local community group and council is all over what we’re doing,” Mr Weinzierl added.

Speaking to the Gazette in September, Mr Ryan said the vision for the overhaul was to renew the park’s focus on education and a year-long appeal.

“We want to try and make it a four season park, not just two seasons,” he said.

“The focus is education and entertainment, to try and give the kids from the city an opportunity to get close to nature and have a good time.”

After the expansion plans were first unveiled last year, the community expressed their excitement and anticipation.

“It’s going to be like having Movie World in our backyard,” Joanne Frey said.

“I’ll be first in line to stay at the resort with my kids when it’s all ready to go.”