Originally Published July 26 2022
NEW play spaces and outdoor dinning areas aim to develop Cohuna as a “serious” destination for lifestyle, recreation and business, according to Gannawarra Council.
Council announced the completion of the waterfront project last week.
Council oversaw $3.4 million worth of works across a two-year period, focusing on Apex Park, Garden Park and King George Street, featuring creative infrastructure that “maintains the strong Gannawarra brand, the works are opening up many new opportunities in Cohuna to grow the population and diversify the local economy”.
“Cohuna residents and visitors already know that Apex Park and Garden Park are ideal locations to socialise and relax beside Gunbower Creek,” council chief executive Tom O’Reilly said.
“The improvements to these areas build on this reputation, with both areas featuring spaces where families can relax by the water and visitors can enjoy the picturesque views of Gunbower Creek whilst enjoying a meal from our local traders.”
Inspired by improvements identified in council’s waterfront masterplan process undertaken during 2018 and 2019, construction of the waterfront development was split into two stages.
Stage one involved improving vehicle access to Apex Park and Cohuna’s sports precinct, with the installation of traffic calming infrastructure at the intersection of Cohuna Island and Tennis roads in mid-2021 providing easier access for vehicles accessing the Cohuna Recreation Reserve, Cohuna Swimming Pool, Cohuna Bowls Club and Cohuna Tennis Club.
Stage two focused on Garden Park and King George Street, with key features including a jetty on the banks of Gunbower Creek at Garden Park, improved outdoor dining areas and the creation of a new seating area at the corner of King George and Sampson streets.
“It has been great to see residents and visitors embrace the new jetty and seating areas, which will be a popular place to catch up with family and friends during the warmer months,” Mr O’Reilly said.
The development also included the construction of the Cohuna all-abilities adventure playground, which celebrates Cohuna’s agricultural sector in a manner which people of all abilities can enjoy.
The playground includes water play elements, a three-storey play area designed as an old farm shack, climbing areas and flying fox, all located along a pathway that replicates the Gunbower Creek.
