A feed in the fresh air

SMYTHESDALE, Meredith, Inverleigh and Bannockburn are all receiving fresh picnic tables to encourage people to buy from local eateries and enjoy the food outdoors.

The COVID-safe outdoor dining project will see five tables at Bannockburn Heart on synthetic turf, under three shade sails, and four tables on gravel pads on the Smythesdale green, under two shade sails.

There will also be two tables at the new Inverleigh play space under one new shade sail, on synthetic turf, and the pre-existing tables, benches and seating on the corner of Staughton and Wallace streets in Meredith are being re-stained.

Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Helena Kirby said the new recycled plastic tables are permanent, and each location has a setting accessible for all abilities.

“Where other councils opted for temporary facilities, we wanted to ensure our outdoor dining areas will be available to support local businesses well into the future, and these permanent upgrades will do just that,” she said.

“It’s been a tough year for many local businesses, and everyone’s been house-bound. As we approach the April school holidays, and with more areas for outdoor dining, it’s the perfect time to support our local takeaway eateries recovering from COVID-19 restrictions.

“We want to reactivate the communities again, especially for new residents who have moved to the Shire’s rural areas, and these dining spaces are going to be ideal places to meet and greet them.”

The outdoor dining works have been funded by a $250,000 State Government grant from the Local Councils Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package.

The area at the Bannockburn Heart is ready for diners, while the Meredith and Inverleigh sites will see action before Easter, and the Smythesdale location should be finished in April.