Expressions of interest from prospective contractors will be called after the design brief was approved this week following a stormy debate.

A three-all voting deadlock was broken when the mayor used his casting vote.

Councillors Peter Hulin, Brian Kelson and Peter Sycopoulis called for the decision to be delayed until an investigation by Heritage Victoria into alleged missing and damaged items in the village museum collection is completed.

Cr Rob Askew said the motion to adopt the draft project brief was purely to get it ready for tender.

Mayor Michael Neoh said Flagstaff Hill was a vital attraction for the south-west and investigations were under way to incorporate private investment, which would improve the income stream.

Started in 1974, the showcase drawcard has been struggling to stay afloat. 

Losses of more than $400,000 are predicted this financial year, but it is still the biggest man-made tourist attraction along the Great Ocean Road.

The project, which secured $1.95m state funding last year, is predicted to boost visitor numbers by 30 per cent.

A centrepiece of the revamp will be a redesigned sound and light laser show costing about $2m to replace the original system installed 12 years ago. It will allow a multi-show format to help boost patronage.

New technology will also be incorporated into daytime hours costing about $300,000 with four hologram “experiences” in village buildings which will be altered for night visitors.

The night show storyline would be revamped with four different shows designed to trigger more repeat visits.

Improvements would allow hospitality functions to be held in other parts of the village while night shows operated.

More multi-lingual interpretation will be provided and portable communication devices used to explain the significance of artefacts and buildings with links for people to upload to social media.

The wharf area is to be upgraded at a cost of about $275,000 to consolidate the floating ship area after the rotting Rowitta is removed and improve the boat building facilities.

It is likely the Reginald M will be moved into the Rowitta’s vacant position.

The changes open possibilities for new income through repairs to wooden boats.

A historic crane will be repaired, the wharf deck replaced, lighting installed along the walkway for safer night access and  the Steam Packet Inn will have more undercover space to host functions. 

The tearooms function area would be expanded  for more dining options.

The reception area, gift shop and visitor information centre are to be consolidated at a cost of about $250,000, and another $125,000 allocated to improving site access.

At the main entrance the wall would be re-clad with recycled timber and entrances to the visitor centre and maritime village combined, allowing a separate entrance to Pippies restaurant, which could be upgraded by private investment.

A report to Monday night’s council meeting said the orientation theatre was outdated and extra effects were needed to make it more dramatic.

The Gravesend Museum collection needed a refit and improved story-telling, the report said.

Video conferencing was also suggested to allow history lessons to be telecast to groups.