Slow and steady wins the race

IT’S taken more than two years, but upgrades at Teesdale’s Turtle Bend Reserve are now complete.

The more than $480,000 project included a new bridge over native Hut Creek that links the space’s two playgrounds, along with a half court for netball and basketball, all abilities public toilets, more playground equipment and outdoor furniture.

Works were also undertaken on the rec reserve’s often used performance and events space including power upgrades, improved fencing, and the installation of a new septic system.

“With events back on the calendar again, Turtle Bend Reserve is now an even better venue to bring the people of Teesdale and surrounding towns together,” said Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Helena Kirby.

Funding for the works came from a range of sources including $222,000 from the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions program, $202,000 via the Berrybank Wind Farm, while the municipality put in just over $56,000.

“Council was grateful to receive funding support from the Australian Government and Global Power Generation, making this upgrade of the popular recreation and events precinct a reality,” said Cr Kirby.

The Turtle Bend Rec Reserve upgrades are just one of several projects being funded by windfarms across the Golden Plains Shire.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has made clear how important it is to have outdoor public spaces that enable people to connect with their community, and we are very pleased to play a part in securing these upgrades,” said Nathan Micallef, Berrybank Wind Farm’s community engagement officer.

“These infrastructure projects are a key part of our commitments to the community in connection with the Berrybank Wind Farm, and we look forward to supporting more initiatives in the future.”

With a change in the Federal electoral boundaries, Teesdale will soon find itself in the Ballarat electorate and current member Catherine King welcomed the completion of the works.

“With community celebrations due to return to the reserve with Live@Turtle Bend on December 4, this is the perfect time for the upgrade to be opening,” she said.

“As the new Federal representative for this area, I can’t wait to get out with the community and celebrate events like Christmas carols, markets and other community festivals.”