Lake upgrade set to start

14 November 2019

A $0.88 million upgrade of Lake Inverell will start this week, which is set to improve access to the lake and also increase visitor numbers to the nature reserve.

Inverell Shire Council mayor Paul Harmon says the project, which is funded by the State Government, will improve access to the water’s edge and also allow paddle sports enthusiasts a dedicated facility for launching on to the water.

Originally formed in 1937 as a water supply for Inverell township, the lake and its surrounds were declared a nature reserve in 1983. In recent years, it has become a hotspot for locals to enjoy water sports such as kayaking.

“A couple of years ago, Council did a community survey to plan the future of our parks and sports fields and that revealed Lake Inverell is one of the shire’s most popular destinations for enjoying the great outdoors”.

“Regardless of the time of day, you will find people visiting Lake Inverell to enjoy a bike ride or walk, take their lunch break and it’s also a very popular wedding and birthday party venue”.

While Cr Harmon says the drought’s impact on water levels at the lake is clear to see, he is quick to point out the low water levels will expedite works, which include a boardwalk to provide views of the lake, a kayak launch ramp, viewing platforms and also a vehicle access loop to enable easy drop off and pick up for the likes of kayakers.

“It’s an exciting project and one that will benefit the thousands of people who visit the lake each year. Upgrades will also provide wheelchair friendly access to viewing platforms and picnic areas”.

Cr Harmon says the lake’s walking trails and amenities will continue to be open to the public, residents will see some temporary changes while construction takes place.

“We will be posting updates on social media and also on the Council website. For anyone that has any celebrations planned for Lake Inverell, I’d encourage them to contact our office and complete a booking form for any events”.

The project is expected to be complete in the first half of 2020.

Image: A concept plan of the Lake Inverell improvements.

For further information contact:
Fiona Adams | Inverell Shire Council | PO Box 138, Inverell NSW 2360 | 02 6728 8288 | Fiona.Adams@inverell.nsw.gov.au