A NEW purpose-built pathway adjacent to the Bega River reserve was officially opened on Wednesday.
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Residents can now enjoy the benefits of the pathway extension between Auckland St and the old Bega racecourse.
The project has been a collaborative effort between Southern Rivers Management Authority-Agricultural Extension (CMA-Ag), Bega Valley Shire Council and the Bega River and Wetlands Landcare (BRAWL) Group.
Southern Rivers CMA-Ag project officer Shannon Brennan said the success of the project has been driven by the community’s enthusiasm and commitment towards improving the environmental, social and recreational values of the Bega River.
“We are seeing increased use by families and tourists alike,” Ms Brennan said.
“The pathway is open to walkers and cyclists.
“It meanders its way along a one kilometre stretch of the Bega River.
“The path connects to the township of Bega via a concreted path which was recently completed by BVSC at the end of Auckland St.
“Users now have improved access to popular swimming spots on the river and can see the positive impact that revegetation and weed control works have had on improving the area’s local amenity and environmental values.
“The longer-term vision is to continue the pathway along the river and connect it with the existing concreted path along Tarraganda Rd.
“The intent is to gradually rehabilitate the site by removing weeds, planting native vegetation and installing interpretative signage to promote local Aboriginal and European cultural heritage,” she said.
The project was jointly funded by a NSW Government Community Building Partnership grant, NSW Environmental Trust Community Bush Regeneration grant, Catchment Action NSW funding and the council’s environmental program.
“The pathway is another great addition to Bega’s open space network and is a terrific example of a project that can deliver recreational and environmental outcomes,” council’s environment services coordinator Derek van Bracht said.
“The existing works will be complemented by extensive landscape plantings along the track in autumn.”
Project partners wish to thank all project participants, in particular BVSC staff, dedicated local contractors, Hayes Haulage for their assistance in sourcing materials and volunteers from BRAWL and Mumbulla School.
For further information on this project, contact Shannon Brennan on 6491 8223.
