GAWB to build Boynedale Bush Camp to 4 Mile Scrub section of Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) will inject more than $7 million into outdoor recreation projects over the next five years, with funding for the Lake Awoonga Recreation Strategy recently announced.
The strategy, developed in conjunction with GAWB’s Community Consultation Forum, will see GAWB upgrade and expand its popular Lake Awoonga and Boynedale Bush Camp recreational facilities.
GAWB Chief Executive Officer, Darren Barlow, said the Lake Awoonga Recreation Strategy was “developed with the community for the community” as part of the organisation’s 2020 price monitoring exercise.
“Since 2017 we’ve worked with our Community Consultation Forum to identify opportunities to expand our current recreational facilities, construct new facilities, and create commercial opportunities that encourage economic growth and increased visitation to the Gladstone region,” Mr Barlow said.
“This multi-million investment is all part of our commitment to enhancing the lifestyle and economic development of regional Queensland. We’re proud to invest in the future of the Gladstone.
“The strategy also includes the design and construction of our cornerstone recreational project – the much-anticipated Lake Awoonga section of the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail network.”
GAWB will design and construct a 3.5 kilometre stretch of decommissioned rail corridor that starts at the popular Boynedale Bush Camp, running right through to 4 Mile Scrub. The trail will form part of the much-anticipated Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail network, with construction expected to be complete by 2024.
Mr Barlow said the Lake Awoonga Recreation Strategy would increase liveability and boost economic activity across adjacent communities.
“Rail trails support active, healthy lifestyles, allow for the innovative use of disused state-owned infrastructure, and contribute to both historical and environmental preservation and management of the area,” Mr Barlow said.
Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Limited CEO and GAWB Community Consultation Forum member, Gus Stedman, welcomed the news.
“Lake Awoonga and Boynedale Bush Camp are extremely popular destinations for the region’s drive tourism market, with more than 30,000 people visiting the area every year,” Mr Stedman said.
“Lake Awoonga has always been renown for exceptional fishing, camping and outoor recreation opportunities and this project will only see the Lake’s reputation grow throughout the state.
“GAWB’s commitment to developing recreational facilities in the Lake Awoonga catchment will benefit our entire community and provide yet another reason to visit or call our region home.”
To read the full Lake Awoonga Recreation Strategy, visit the GAWB website:
www.gawb.qld.gov.au/recreation