The Teesdale Turtle Bend Reserve Upgrade project has delivered a suite of new and improved facilities at the popular recreation and events precinct.
Over two years, the $480,400 upgrade has included the installation of a wider pedestrian bridge connecting the reserve’s two playgrounds, a new public toilet block with a disabled toilet and baby change facilities, additional play space elements and seating, and a new multi-sport space with a half court for netball and basketball.
The project also featured a power upgrade for the site, the installation of a new septic system, and improved fencing to better support large community events.
The reserve is a valuable social meeting space for the Teesdale community and surrounding towns, attracting people to the open recreation area and outdoor events. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the site attracted visitors from across the State to community events such as the Teesdale Christmas Carols, Live @ Turtle Bend Music Festival, Teesdale Community Harvest Markets and Teesdale Roots Culture Festival.
The Teesdale Turtle Bend Reserve Upgrade was a partnership project, funded by $222,000 from the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Round 3 program; $202,000 from Global Power Generation, the proponents of the Berrybank Wind Farm; and $56,411 from Council.
Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Helena Kirby says Council was proud to partner with the Australian Government and Global Power Generation to deliver the upgrade of the popular community space.
“With events back on the calendar again, Turtle Bend Reserve is now an even better venue to bring the people of Teesdale and surrounding towns together, with new facilities including a new impressive bridge, toilet block with a disabled toilet and baby change facilities, and play space and recreation elements, as well as a power upgrade for the site.
“Council was grateful to receive funding support from the Australian Government and Global Power Generation, making this upgrade of the popular recreation and events precinct a reality.
“It was exciting to join Senator Henderson and community members back in early 2019 for the formal announcement of the Australian Government’s funding commitment through its Building Better Regions Fund, and to return recently and view the wonderful works that are been completed. On behalf of Council, I would like to acknowledge Senator Henderson’s ongoing support for this exciting project.”
Berrybank Wind Farm’s Community Engagement Officer Nathan Micallef says Global Power Generation is committed to supporting projects that bring the community together and support economic recovery.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has made clear how important it is to have outdoor public spaces that enable people to connect with their community, and we are very pleased to play a part in securing these upgrades at the Turtle Bend Reserve.
“These infrastructure projects are a key part of our commitments to the community in connection with the Berrybank Wind Farm, and we look forward to supporting more initiatives in the future.”
Pictured above: Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Helena Kirby, Senator the Hon Sarah Henderson and Berrybank Wind Farm Community Engagement Officer Nathan Micallef at the upgraded Teesdale Turtle Bend Reserve.
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