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Revamp for our lily ponds - $100,000 govt. grant for project |
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Written by Administrator
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Friday, 28 September 2007 |
Mapleton’s
picturesque but deteriorating lily ponds received a major funding boost
this week when Fairfax MP Alex Somlyay announced $100,000 in federal
funding for a major works program to be undertaken by Maroochy council
this year.
Following a successful approach to federal tourism minister Fran Bailey, funding was made available through Australian Tourism Development Program.
Mr Somlyay said this project would see the enhancement of the Mapleton lily ponds which are central to the identity of the township. The Mapleton lily ponds have long been an attraction for both locals and visitors alike, but in recent years have become totally clogged with salvinia weed.
Maroochy division 1 councillor Greg Rogerson had taken up the fight to eradicate the weed over the past few years, but stopgap measures to remove the salvinia had failed to allow the water lillies to become re-established.
“I congratulate Cr Rogerson for all his work on this project. These funds will ensure that the landscape and refurbishment of the lily ponds to give tourists another reason to come to our region, and every tourist dollar spent in our local region helps to create more jobs,” Mr Somlyay said.
Mr Rogerson said he was keen to see the $700,000 project start as soon as possible to enable it to be completed before the traditional wet season began in February. The overall surface area of the ponds will be reduced, but the ponds that remain will be considerably deepened.” Mr Rogerson said. “There will be considerable planting of native vegetation in surrounding areas plus an expansion of the lawn area to cater for recreation pursuits.
There will be some short term pain for some long term gain.” He also confirmed that the water rights by the adjoining Mapleton Bowls Club would be retained.
Mr Somlyay had given the project his full support. “He even rang me at home one Sunday night about nine o’clock to confirm a couple of points just before debating the issue,” Mr Rogerson said.
Prominent Mapleton resident Valerie Zwart said the announcement was “fantastic news”.
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Last Updated ( Friday, 28 September 2007 )
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Range News 2005 - ON 
