It’s something that Robert Curphey has been working toward for around 25 years. 

“It’s a project I’ve had going on for a while ... It’s a project I’ve been working toward since I was 18 years old. It’s something a bit special.” 

Mr Curphey was recently elected to Murrumbidgee Council, however Council says the project is a private investment. 

With the right building blocks, he thinks Darlington Point has the potential to grow as a tourist town. 

“We’re working on a boat ramp with a floating jetty. That would be a great tourism attraction. That’s something council is working on. As you know, I’m a councillor.”

He says a motel in Darlington Point has the potential to grow a new industry within the area.

It was the opening of Altina Wildlife Park inspiring Mr Curphey to get the project moving. 

“It’s a fantastic tourist attraction for our community. It’s kind of spurred me on to think that our town needs one to have that growth, to take that next step in evolution,” he said. 

“It could help shape what we’re going to be in the future. What identity to we want to have in the future?” 

The motel would be on the corner of Hay Road and DeMamiel Streets, a short walk from the town’s main street. The proposed motel will be an eight-unit complex, but Mr Curphey is open to expanding if the demand increases. 

“We’re really trying to cater for families. It’s a quality produce for a quality market,” he said.

“It’s away from the highway where it’s nice and quiet, so the location is really appealing.”