Little Lake Boort is now a Little More Enjoyable
Published on 25 August 2021
Boort residents and visitors now get to enjoy Little Lake Boort a little bit more, with the completion of the northern section of the Little Lake Boort foreshore walking trail.
Loddon Shire Council Mayor Neil Beattie said the trail is now eligible to host the Boort parkrun, which will bring much-needed visitation to the area and provide a great opportunity for local communities to be more active, more often.
“The Boort parkrun will be a free, all-ages event in line with other parkrun events around Australia,” Mayor Beattie said.
“The complete path will open more opportunities for future installation of amenities as part of the Boort Recreation Precinct Project.”
A $50,000 funding grant to complete the foreshore walking trail was provided by the Victorian Government’s infrastructure-based economic stimulus package to support Victoria’s economic recovery from the coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency.
Department of Land, Water, Environment and Planning (DELWP) Regional Manager, Land and Built Environment, Adam Melis said the project’s aim was to improve public land sites.
He added the project was a great achievement for the people of Boort and surrounding areas and a drawcard to attract more people to the area, as well as provide the community with a way to be more active.
“A footpath and landscaping have been installed along the Little Lake Boort foreshore linking Federation Walk to Lake View Street, south of the Boort Water Treatment Plant to service existing amenities,” Mr Melis said.
“The project, which includes returfing, tree planting and installing a garden bed along the length of the eastern path, helped secure jobs for the local workforce and will further stimulate the economy.
“New facilities include a 725-metre long, 1.5-metre-wide granite sand footpath from Federation Walk to Lake View Street, as well as edging and bollards installed at Lake View Street and the Croquet Club to restrict vehicle access to the foreshore.
“This not only makes the area very attractive but improves public safety, with the garden bed between the footpath and the lake’s edge preventing pedestrian access directly to the lake – and the increase of path length will facilitate access to existing seating, barbecues and shelter, south of the Croquet Club.”
Healthy Heart of Victoria Coordinator, Alicia O’Brien, said the works will increase informal active recreational opportunities such as walking and cycling.
“These upgraded facilities will allow locals and tourists to walk, run or ride around the lake without having to cross main roads, improving accessibility for all, while promoting an active lifestyle and healthier communities,” Ms O’Brien said.
The total cost of the project was $73,924, which included the $50,000 Victorian Government’s Building Works Program grant, $10,000 from Healthy Heart of Victoria and $13,924 contributed by Loddon Shire Council.