The Minns Labor Government has partnered with Federation Council to fund $2 million in upgrades to RT Ball Park in the historic town of Corowa, turning a Crown reserve on the Murray River foreshore into a dynamic, thriving community space.
Crown Lands, part of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, invested $1.8 million towards the project via its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund. Federation Council funded the balance of the project to a total cost of $2.1 million.
The extensive work has turned the reserve into an area catering for a variety of recreational opportunities. Runners, cyclists and pedestrians are benefiting from 2.9 kilometres of new shared pathway that winds through the beautiful reserve and connects to other nearby parks.
The 2.5 metre wide pathway allows everyone to enjoy the reserve, whether they are families with strollers, cyclists, runners or pedestrians out for a leisurely stroll.
Picnic tables built by the local Men's Shed have been installed at convenient spots throughout the reserve. Two pedestrian bridges were also constructed, along with a viewing platform that allows visitors an unparalleled view of the majestic Murray River.
The funding also removed a derelict boat shed, replacing it with a sandy bank that will make it much easier for visitors to swim and enjoy other water-based recreational activities. Excess weeds were removed to establish picnic areas, allowing families to enjoy foreshore views.
The reserve is now accessible for cars as well as pedestrians. A new sealed internal road to the lagoon carpark has been completed, and another carpark to accommodate more visitors to the reserve. A third carpark has been sealed, allowing for more vehicles to park at the site.
Minister for Lands, Property and Tourism Steve Kamper said:
"The NSW Government is focused on building better communities, and this $1.8 million grant together with Federation Council's contribution has transformed RT Ball Park into a premier outdoor recreational space that caters for the whole community and will also support local tourism.
"These upgrades were designed to make the reserve accessible for all to enjoy a day out by the majestic Murray River foreshore. Some of our most beautiful natural sites are on Crown land and RT Park is no exception."
