ALPINE Shire Council has backed the State Government’s announcement of a $1.5 million investment for new ‘eco pod’ accommodation on Mount Buffalo.

Councillor Ron Janas, who is part of a government task force to plan for Mount Buffalo’s activation, said the May 19 announcement heralded a new era in the history of the iconic building.

“This is a fantastic step toward the reactivation of the chalet and the realisation of a whole-of-mountain vision,” he said.

“Our community has always been passionate about seeing the chalet reopened – this commitment for eco pod accommodation strengthens the whole-of-mountain offering and is fantastic news for the regional economy.”

An expression of interest period will open later this year for a “year-round café in the front part of the chalet, which would offer regional produce along with self-guided tours of the chalet ballroom” and while the State Government hasn’t indicated a plan to reopen the building for accommodation it has an interest in operating the café.

“A café in the chalet is the critical next step to reconnect the people to the chalet and build confidence with the community, business operators and investors,” Cr Janas said.

“We believe it is a key part of the solution that will help our community and businesses recover from the economic impact of the January bushfires and current coronavirus impact.”

Mount Hotham Falls Creek News understands the $1.5 million committed is scoped to build five prefabricated buildings on stumps to provide a “unique mountain-top luxury accommodation option in the Alps”.

But local member Tim McCurdy (MLA, Ovens Valley) believes commitment to reopening the ‘Grand Old Lady’ must come before new accommodation.

“I am pleased that Labor has responded to my ongoing advocacy to invest in Mount Buffalo but what is needed first is funding to properly restore the chalet and get it reopened,” he said.

“Reopening the chalet would create a year-round attraction where visitors could experience the building’s history and beauty, which is what is loved about it.

“The chalet has been crying out for proper funding for years in order for the much-loved Grand Old Lady to be returned to her former glory and reach its potential once again.”