Families now have more opportunities than ever before to enjoy south east Queensland’s lakes after telling the State Government how they could be improved.
The Seqwater Recreation Review began in June 2013 and came to a close today with the launch of the Hinze Dam recreation guide by Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle.
“The new guide for Hinze Dam, and those covering 19 other Seqwater lakes, have been the result of community feedback in the most extensive recreation review of our lakes ever,” Mr McArdle said.
“More than 3,700 people had their say in community information sessions, workshops and online surveys.
“We have listened to the community and as a result have opened some lakes and their surrounds to new uses and expanded opportunities at others.
“The Queensland Government is spending $750,000 building and upgrading infrastructure at south east Queensland lakes, such as launch points for boats and picnic areas.
“We’re proud of our beautiful lakes and we want Queensland families to enjoy them as much as possible.”
Improvements now under way at the Hinze Dam following the survey include:
- a new paddle craft launch point at the western boat ramp,
- new rigging areas at the eastern and western boat ramps,
- improvements to the Waterside Park picnic and playground area,
- improved access to the trail network on Advancetown Road, and
- dogs on leads will be allowed at Pocket Park and Picnic Parkland.
Around 2.6 million people visited the region’s lakes in 2013-14, including 217,000 who enjoyed Hinze Dam.
Member for Mudgeeraba Ros Bates welcomed the improvements to Hinze Dam.
“The Queensland Government has a strong plan to grow tourism as one of the four pillars of the economy and recognising leisure opportunities on the Gold Coast delivers on that election promise,” Ms Bates said.
Seqwater chief executive officer Peter Dennis said the organisation balanced the health of the catchments and the quality of drinking water supply with water-based and on-shore recreational activities.
“The recreation management plans and recreation guides we’ve developed with the input of the community will ensure we continue to manage these important water storages for the benefit of all,” Mr Dennis said.
The recreation guide and management plan for Hinze Dam can be seen at www.seqwater.com.au/recreview.
