A STATE Government funding contribution has helped a local council start a new project, which will meet the growing demand for new and sustainable ecoadventure experiences in the Riverland.
The Berri Barmera Council will begin the Lake Bonney Recreation, Nature and Cultural Access Project in July 2020, thanks to a council contribution of $525,000, Murray Darling Basin Authority contribution of $500,000 and Planning and Development Fund contribution of $322,250.
Mayor Peter Hunt said the project would upgrade and provide new critical infrastructure in the Lake Bonney Recreational and Aboriginal Heritage Purposes Reserve.
“The infrastructure will increase access to all water and land-based recreational activities and improve the use of the current open space within the Reserve,” he said.
“The project involves upgraded camping and day visitor facilities, upgraded car parking areas, constructing a network of non-vehicle accessible walking and cycling tracks and new lighting, fencing, signage and barriers.”
Mr Hunt said he was “excited” to receive the funding.
“We weren’t sure if we’d receive the funding or not – especially with everything going on in the world right now – but it’s really great news,” he said.
“The funding will go a long way and help upgrade the surroundings of Lake Bonney.
“It will be great to create more walking tracks and open new spaces.”
Berri Barmera Council environmental services and major projects manager Myles Somers described the funding as “a big shot in the arm”.
“The money will essentially provide most importantly local jobs and local goods,” he said.
“Frequently we have to pay a bit extra to get supplies locally and the extra money is allowing us to do so.”
Mr Somers said with national borders shut, people would choose to travel to regional areas for a getaway.
“The money will accommodate a good number of campers – locals and visitors – so it’s good we get to do that at the end of the year,” he said.
“Campers will also spend money in town and help local businesses, which is fantastic.
“We want people to come and enjoy nature and hopefully with extra money in the future, we can take the project further.
Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone said it was important to get projects underway as soon as possible to support local jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.