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Wandoan Waterloo Plain Environmental Park project boosts tourism and local jobs

A hidden gem at the northern tip of the Western Downs is being revitalised to boost tourism and encourage locals to explore their backyard.

WANDOAN PROJECT: A hidden gem at the northern tip of the Western Downs is being revitalised to boost tourism and encourage locals to explore regional Queensland. Pic: Supplied
WANDOAN PROJECT: A hidden gem at the northern tip of the Western Downs is being revitalised to boost tourism and encourage locals to explore regional Queensland. Pic: Supplied

Waterloo Plain Environmental Park at Wandoan is being upgraded to boost tourism, opening up more than 20 jobs for construction crews.

WANDOAN PROJECT: A hidden gem at the northern tip of the Western Downs is being revitalised to boost tourism and encourage locals to explore regional Queensland. Pic: Supplied
WANDOAN PROJECT: A hidden gem at the northern tip of the Western Downs is being revitalised to boost tourism and encourage locals to explore regional Queensland. Pic: Supplied

Western Downs Mayor Paul McVeigh said the council was excited to deliver the project in partnership with the Queensland Government’s Covid works program, to create jobs and boost the region’s liveability.

“This is also a huge win for local jobs, with local contractors such as MKH Plant Hire used as part of the package’s works,” he said.

The Mayor said the recreation park would soon boast a new picnic shelter and table, gas barbecue, drinking fountain, new signage, landscaping, footpaths and a new irrigation system for the grassed area.

LOCAL JOBS: Wandoan Contractor Murray Henry from MKH Plant Hire which delivered a large portion of the upgrade works. Pic: Supplied
LOCAL JOBS: Wandoan Contractor Murray Henry from MKH Plant Hire which delivered a large portion of the upgrade works. Pic: Supplied

“We have also delivered a fresh all-weather gravel pavement access road and RV parking areas to boost accessibility at the site,” he said.

Assistant Local Government Minister Nikki Boyd said the state’s program delivered $385,000 to the Western Downs Regional Council to help the economy recover from the effects of the pandemic.

“The (project) will bring an amazing public space to the community, with benefits starting before it opens with the 29 local jobs construction will deliver,” she said.

WANDOAN PROJECT: Councillor Kylie Bourne said The Western Downs is home to many beautiful outdoor landscapes and friendly people, and the council is committed to investing in projects to promote the region as a visitor destination to boost the local economy. Pic: Supplied
WANDOAN PROJECT: Councillor Kylie Bourne said The Western Downs is home to many beautiful outdoor landscapes and friendly people, and the council is committed to investing in projects to promote the region as a visitor destination to boost the local economy. Pic: Supplied

Councillor Kylie Bourne said the council was actively advancing the region as a tourist destination.

“Waterloo Plain Environmental Park is a stunning recreational space that is much-loved in the local community, and these upgrades are about enhancing the facilities and enticing more people to visit Wandoan,” she said.

“It’s the perfect spot to set up camp for a few days, marvel at the native wildlife, connect with family and friends, and be a part of our welcoming community.”

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/chinchilla/community/wandoan-waterloo-plain-environmental-park-project-boosts-tourism-and-local-jobs/news-story/146bd0b849a9aa21f17b10c997a71f61