Oakdene Vineyards has applied to the City of Greater Geelong to build and operate a restaurant and art gallery at Banks and Anderson Roads, Mannerim.
The project is expected to cost $1.55 million and developers say it will “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 64 hectare site is in addition to Oakdene’s Grubb Road winery, restaurant and guest house.
Planning documents revealed the site would provide “a unique visitor experience unlike any other venue on the Bellarine” and that the art gallery would showcase Indigenous and local artworks.
“The owner’s vision for the site is to create a tourist destination unlike any other winery or tourist venue on the Bellarine Peninsula,” documents said.
“The addition of the restaurant and gallery will offer visitors a totally unique experience where they can enjoy the property for an extended stay.
“It is expected most people would take advantage of all three facilities including the cellar door for wine tastings and complementary cheese platters, the restaurant for a sit down meal or coffee and finally the gallery which will showcase a mix of private collections and works by local artists.”
The restaurant, to be known as Oakdene Vineyard, will have a low scale, rustic appearance with lots of natural timber and extensive glazing.
It will have expansive decks built around established trees, similar to Oakdene’s Ocean Grove site and will operate from 8am to 11pm seven days a week.
The total number of car spaces on site will be increased from 52 to 98.
The planning document is open for public comment until March 16.
