Ready for summer

As the summer holidays and an influx of tourists fast approaches, the new public amenities at the Valley Lake/Ketla Malpi area are now open.

City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin welcomed the much needed upgrade of facilities with the new design incorporating timber and limestone look tiles in keeping with the state heritage area and facilities include hot running water, six cubicles, an access toilet, parents room and a urinal room.

“The new building includes much improved facilities for families and individuals who visit the beautiful Valley Lake/Ketla Malpi area,” Mayor Lynette Martin said.

“I am sure the community will put the new facilities to good use, particularly as we head towards the warmer time of the year.”

The project had a price tag of $750,000 and was funded by the Federal Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the program was unique in that it responded to expressed local needs via local government.

“I’m incredibly proud of the support provided to communities through the LRCI Program because it’s projects like this that ensure our vibrant region remains strong, resilient and prosperous in the long term,” Mr Pasin said.

“Valley Lakes precinct is a much-loved recreation area for local residents and visitors. Ensuring facilities are updated and up to modern standards is ensuring the precinct remains attractive for events, tourism and local residents.

“It’s just another example of how the former Coalition Government invested in the future of our region, in partnership with the City of Mount Gambier, ensuring it remains a great place to live work and raise a family.”

City of Mount Gambier project engineer Andrew Thompson oversaw the development and said that the location of the new facilities directly adjacent to the playground, provided safer access for families.

“The old toilets are located across from the roadway and car park, which posed a traffic risk to pedestrians, particularly children,” Mr Thompson said.

“A path now leads from the playground gate to the amenities with wheelchair access to the facilities via a ramp.”

The two old toilet blocks across from the playground car park and Freemans Landing will be demolished next month.

Troppo Architects designed the new look amenities, while Kennett was the building contractor.