Local residents in the Laurieton area are celebrating the completion of an upgrade to the Queens Lake Foreshore Trail.
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A new all-weather boardwalk, which extends 150 metres, will bridge the area between the Queens Lake Retirement Village and Henry Kendall Reserve whilst also providing an observation deck complete with seating.
Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie, who opened the boardwalk, heralded the upgrade as a significant win for the local community, particularly residents of the retirement village.
“The Queens Lake Foreshore Trail is used by thousands of locals and visitors every year and with these improvements it’s hoped those numbers will rise significantly,” Dr Gillespie said.
“Most importantly this upgrade was built with the retirement village front of mind and it will now allow residents, particularly those with mobility issues, a wonderful chance to enjoy the beauty of the trail.
“The Creek to Creek community group and its volunteers should be commended for making this project and this opportunity possible.”
The project itself is also notable for its completion under the Federal Coalition Government’s Work for the Dole scheme, with 10 people who receive benefits able to give back to the local community.
“The Creek to Creek project has allowed people to gain valuable skills and experience, along with pride and self-esteem,” Dr Gillespie said.
“It continues to underline our Government’s commitment to get people off welfare and back into work.”
Port Macquarie-Hastings mayor Peta Pinson welcomed the completion of the upgrade and the benefits its set to bring to the Laurieton region.
“Council is delighted to support and offer financial assistance to the Creek to Creek project and working group. By working in close partnership with the Federal Government and enthusiastic group of volunteers, together we have been able to achieve a wonderful outcome for our community,” Cr Pinson said.
The Queens Lake Foreshore Trail took six months to complete.