Stage one of the Cohuna Waterfront Project will improve facilities for residents and visitors to Apex Park, with the construction of a new barbecue area, shelter and jetty to be completed by the end of June.
“The banks of Gunbower Creek are a popular location for both Cohuna residents and visitors alike, and these works will further enhance Apex Park as a place to socialise and relax,” mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.
Stage one of the project will involve the development of land next to the Apex Park toilets, Cohuna Skate Park and Gunbower Creek, with the key feature being the construction of a new jetty on the creek’s edge which will feature sufficient lighting.
Other highlights included the construction of an architectural-designed barbecue shelter, inspired by the Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre, the installation of a camp kitchen and bespoke outdoor picnic furniture.
“This barbecue area will be designed as a place for families to spend afternoons and evenings by Gunbower Creek, with its location to provide clear visibility to play areas and the creek,” Cr Learmonth said.
New footpaths will be created to link the Apex Park car park, toilets, barbecue area and jetty, with the planting of native vegetation to be undertaken in the car park and throughout this new precinct.
“To enable these works to occur, the Apex Park car park will be closed until further notice, with parking available in the Garden Park car park on the town side of the Cohuna Island Road bridge,” Cr Learmonth said.
Stage one of the Cohuna Waterfront Project, supported by the Federal Government’s Regional Growth Fund, was identified as one of the major projects in the Gannawarra Waterfront Masterplan, approved by council in 2019 following extensive community consultation.
“The Waterfront Masterplan aims to identify projects that will lead to strong economic development outcomes for the Gannawarra, maximising tourism, recreation, commercial and residential opportunities,” Cr Learmonth said.