The much anticipated redevelopment of Gunbower’s Lions Park is on the verge of construction.
Campaspe Shire Council Mayor Cr Chrissy Weller said the project has been an assembly of multiple stages structured across four years, with the initial concept plan endorsed by Council in 2018.
“Lions Park, located on the scenic foreshore of the Gunbower Creek, will be completely modernised.
“The $1 million project has been supported through the Victorian State Government with $320,000 from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Integrated Water Management Funding and $653,298 from the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions low interest Community Infrastructure Loans Scheme.
“Residents will be able to see every cent!”
“One of the standout stars of this project will be the creation of a natural play space. The play space will be a carnival of fun for the kids, featuring a log balance play area with steps and patterns, a ‘jitterbug’ seesaw and rocker, a pendulum basket swing, climbing ropes, a two metre high log slide and sculpture rock spinners.
“Of course, for mum and dad, there will be a brand new barbeque area to enjoy.”
The project will also include the construction of:
- A canoe launching pad with disabled accessibility
- A fishing jetty with seating and fishing rod holders
- A picnic shelter that incorporates a barbeque, bar tables and picnic style furniture
- A low level bridge crossing
- An aquatic wetland area with submerged planting
- Accessible footpaths
- Landscaping and lawn
- Supporting infrastructure such as irrigation, bins and a new flagpole
While the existing commemorative granite rock will remain in its current position, the tractor feature will be relocated due to space confinements. It will be placed behind the carpark area with a new shelter and fence surrounding it. The Gunbower Tobacco Industry interpretive sign will also be reinstalled at a new location.
Accessibility has been considered, with a concrete path and pram crossing to be constructed across Gunbower Island Road.
Construction has been planned to start on Monday, 29 November, with completion scheduled for May 2022.
While the public toilet block will remain accessible, the entire park will become a construction site and public access will not be permitted.
