Forrest-backed Ningaloo Lighthouse resort to put Exmouth on ‘world map’, include family-friendly options

An $85 million resort planned for the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo coast will “put Exmouth on the world map”, its proponents say, as its design is revealed to the public for the first time. The proposed Ningaloo Resort, located at the foot of Vlamingh Head, would see the Ningaloo Lighthouse Caravan Park transformed into a sustainable world class resort. The project, driven by the Forrest family-owned Tattarang investment group, would include a suite of accommodation options including powered caravan sites, eco tents, all-ages villas, and hotel rooms, with a capacity of 550 guests. Members of the Tattarang group presented a deputation at last week’s Shire of Exmouth council meeting, revealing to locals their aim of developing a low-impact tourism facility capable of luring international tourists. Fiveight head John Meredith lead the presentation for Tattarang Group, with support from Tattarang’s community consultant Jules Bush and resort architect Patrick Kosky. Mr Meredith said the group had shortlisted two international hotel operators to partner with. Shire of Exmouth president Matt Niikkula said the Shire was pleased to finally have a development application submitted. “The resort is very unique in how it's been designed to enhance the World Heritage values of Ningaloo Reef and the Cape Range, everything has been integrated into the topography of the place,” he said. Mr Niikkula said the lighthouse resort would mark the largest regional investment since Lord Alistair McAlpine invested in Broome’s Cable Beach. “It's very exciting for our area because it could be that one project that unlocks the next level of tourism in the Exmouth and it's very easy to sell the Ningaloo Reef to the world,” he said. ‘This would give that next level of accommodation to our visitors and then hopefully attract a high yield visitor to the region.” Ms Bush said the resort would “gear up” locals for employment at the site.