Echuca riverfront gets $3m state funding

By Lachlan Durling

May 26, 2020

EVENTS at the Echuca Wharf could soon be fully self-contained with plans for a train carriage to house a food preparation area.

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The development is part of Campaspe Shire Council’s sweeping vision for the Echuca riverfront, which will soon be under way after council received $3 million from the Victorian Government.

Council will receive the funding to revamp the riverfront from the historic wharf to Aquatic Reserve as part of the government’s $2.7 billion building works package announced last week.

The $4.5 million entertainment precinct project was part of Campaspe Shire’s advocacy priorities 2018-2021 with the aim to attract more events to town and improve infrastructure for easier access to the riverfront, with the $3 million funding stage one.

Campaspe Shire Council chief executive Declan Moore said council was pleased to hear the announcement.

“The project has three components with an overall focus on increasing capability and capacity across the entire precinct to support a variety of functions, events and entertainment,” Mr Moore said.

“It supports the Port Precinct Plan’s vision – a place to take your time, relax and enjoy yourself – and the strategy to provide an arts and culture, events and entertainment hub.”

Each component involves:

● Infrastructure and environmental improvements for the Aquatic Reserve (including universal access paths, lighting, tree safety zones, improved water quality and drainage);

● An approximate 24m extension to the north side of the Cargo Shed, matching the existing wall and roof line, and;

● Converting an existing train carriage into a suitable food preparation area at one end, and compliant unisex toilets at the other, both to support functions and events on the wharf, and associated improvements along Murray Esplanade.

“The project will support social engagement, liveability and stimulate the growth of activities and events across the precinct. It is anticipated that this will attract more visitors, increase economic investment and aid in showcasing the region,” Mr Moore said.

Mr Moore said the project was still in initial planning with final concepts, staging, timing and costs of works not yet completed.

“We anticipate a formal report to council around those matters in July 2020.”