A re-elected Turnbull-Joyce Government will invest $1.8 million to ensure the long awaited upgrade to the Maclean River Board Walk becomes a reality after relentless campaigning by the Member for Page, Kevin Hogan.
Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash made the announcement whilst visiting Maclean with Kevin Hogan on Friday.
Mr Hogan said the $1.8 million funding to revitalise the Maclean Riverside Precinct will allow locals and tourists to enjoy the beauty of the mighty Clarence River.
“This project will unlock the tourist potential of the Clarence River, bringing tourists from far and wide and creating jobs and growth in the local region,” Mr Hogan said.
“This redevelopment will re-invigorate the historic town centre and re-establish its connection to the Clarence River.
“The project will establish the Clarence as one of the nation’s great river experiences and bring tourist dollars from all over the nation.
“We know the beauty of the mighty Clarence River, but there is currently nowhere along the river for tourists and locals to walk and enjoy the river.
Once this project is complete, our local area will have a riverside development that is the envy of regions around the country.
“This investment will generate long-term economic and tourist activity, which means more dollars flowing through more local businesses, and those further afield in Grafton,” said Mr Hogan.
The funding for stage 2 and 3 of the project will see the board walk extension from McLachlan Park to Riverside Square and the completion of works at McLachlan Park.
Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash congratulated Mr Hogan on his fierce lobbying to secure this announcement, and noted the important role of renewing town centres in regional communities.
“As Minister for Regional Development, I aim to help build the kinds of communities our children and grandchildren either want to stay in or come back to,” Minister Nash said.
“World-class tourist attractions and developments are a big part of that, along with the jobs they create. “The renewal of the Maclean Riverside Precinct will generate local jobs, attract more tourists, and beautify the town centre.”
