Myponga Reservoir a tourist drawcard, paying dividends for local businesses
More than 4600 people have visited Myponga Reservoir since it was opened to the public last month – and it’s paying dividends for local businesses.
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More than 4600 people have visited Myponga Reservoir since it was opened to the public last month – and it’s paying dividends for local businesses.
The reservoir reserve is the first to open as part of a State Government plan to boost recreation space, driving extra regional tourism.
Latest Government figures show that as of May 19, 4620 walkers and cyclists had visited.
Kate Henning, owner of Myponga’s Smiling Samoyed Brewery, said the reservoir’s opening day on April 14 brought her business’s biggest day of sales since it was founded in 2012.
More than 2500 people visited Myponga that day.
“It was an incredibly successful day – the vibe throughout the town was electric and the event provided an immediate surge in economic activity for all traders in the area,” Ms Henning said.
“Our ongoing weekday trade has lifted and we’re confident it’ll continue over the long term as more people are attracted to the reservoir reserve.”
Environment Minister David Speirs said public access to Myponga had also stimulated growth for other local traders.
“With weekly markets, local stores and an artisan brewery all in the nearby area, providing a new tourism drawcard at the reservoir is driving more dollars into Myponga businesses,” Mr Speirs said.
The Liberal party in 2016 flagged a move to open reservoirs across SA to the public, if it won the 2018 election.
South Para Reservoir, near Williamstown, is due to open before the end of the year.
“The Marshall Liberal Government is committed to opening up our state’s reservoirs, including Hope Valley, as this will provide incredible opportunities for our tourism sector as well as environmental recreation opportunities for South Australians for generations to come,” Mr Speirs said.
michelle.etheridge@news.com.au
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