New life for Gordon reserve

A NEW vision will be mapped out for a Gordon reserve, under a proposal for a new masterplan.

Friends of Paddock Creek Committee received $25,240 through the first round of the State Government’s Tiny Towns Fund to create a new plan and vegetation survey.

Committee spokesman Stephen Derrick said volunteers had been working hard to upgrade the five-hectare reserve by undertaking weeding, improving community facilities and holding community events like stargazing.

“A lot of new people have moved into Gordon, a lot of new homes are encroaching on the reserve and they want to use it for things like walking their dogs and exercise,” he said.

“Our committee will identify major projects and begin work to secure funding.”

Cleaning up the dam, new signage and a loop walking path were among the ideas put forward by the committee.

“A bird hide would be a good idea, alongside replacing some of the old seating around the water,” he said.

“We want to improve access to the reserve, and let the local residents know this space is right on their doorstep.”

Member for Eureka Michaela Settle said the State Government’s Tiny Towns Fund had been set up to help communities with under 5000 residents.

“The Tiny Towns Fund was set up to be able to support our smallest towns and help them grow into the future, which is exactly why the Paddock Creek survey and plans are being funded,” she said.

“Towns like Gordon are exactly why the fund exists, and I’m excited to see what comes out of this funding.”

More than 200 regional initiatives have been chosen to help get local projects off the ground.