Guide Dogs Victoria (GDV) is seeking expressions of interest to create and operate a dog-friendly experiential café in the heart of its iconic 10-acre campus in Kew, Victoria.
Located on the banks of the Yarra River and adjacent to the residential YarraBend development, GDV is investing $23.5 million in redeveloping the home of Guide Dogs in Australia.
Central to the plan is the development of an experiential retail food and beverage space on site, adjoining a public access Veterinary Centre and Doggy Daycare. The aim is for this café space to be dog-friendly and uniquely experiential, while linking to the work and atmosphere of GDV through its fit-out, atmosphere and staff.
Over the next four years, the GDV development and surrounding areas will become a thriving residential and work precinct, connected by road and the Yarra River bikeway to the heart of Melbourne.
A destination hub for the community, the redeveloped GDV site will include an iconic dog training centre, plus extensive facilities to help people with low vision and blindness achieve independence.
The café will serve this busy, expanding facility along with the nearby riverland bikeway traffic and the adjacent YarraBend and Kew population.
The architect-designed, light-filled café and deck area overlook the Yarra River parklands and are just minutes’ walk from the YarraBend suburb development, with its thousands of new residents.
GDV is seeking expressions of interest from innovative providers, or collaborations of providers, that demonstrate understanding of the opportunity for the café space, embracing its unique location and link to social enterprise. This is a one-time opportunity to create a flagship venue on the banks of the Yarra and become associated with Australia’s most trusted charity brand.
A separate and concurrent EOI is being conducted for the Veterinary Centre. Respondents can consider the café or the Veterinary Centre, or both.
CLICK HERE for full EOI documentation.
All applications must be lodged by 31 August 2018. Queries should be directed to info@guidedogsvictoria.com.au for the attention of Abe Ropitini or visit www.tenders.net. Site tours are available.
