The much anticipated final stage of the upgrade of the Maclean Riverside Precinct has been completed and will be a drawcard for tourists and provide greater access to the River for the community, Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said.
“This is great news and will create a space for members of the community to meet and relax,” he said.
“It will also unlock the tourist potential of the Clarence River, bringing tourists from far and wide and creating jobs and growth in the local region.
“We know the beauty of the mighty Clarence River, but until now there was nowhere along the river for tourists and locals to walk and enjoy the river.
Stage 1 of the project saw the revitalisation of McLachlan Park.
Stage 2 includes redevelopment of the Court House Riverfront, Foreshore Promenade and Riverside Square as well as the yarning circle, Aboriginal-themed art work stencilled into some of the paths and plants for a landscaped area behind the Maclean Hotel.
In addition, a new boardwalk, pontoon, play equipment and toilet block, will open up the vista of the Clarence River and provides easy access for pedestrians to stop and enjoy the view.
The project created 10 jobs during construction and will support six ongoing local jobs.
The $1.8 million for Stage 2 was funded by the Australian Government.
“By investing in Maclean through both stages of this project, we are helping to drive economic growth within the Northern Rivers region, to help ensure this area remains a fantastic place to visit, work and live,” Mr Hogan said.
Mayor of Clarence Valley Jim Simmons said the project is like slowly unwrapping a Christmas present.
“The present is better access to the Clarence River,” he said.
“It is also more green space for the community and making Maclean a destination place for tourists and visitors, which will benefit our local businesses.
“One of the best parts of the present is that it was delivered on time and on budget.”
Some of the major projects Kevin Hogan has delivered for our community include:
• $15 million for expansion of Norco’s Ice-cream factory
• $17 million in grants for nine job-creating projects
• More than 300 new Aged Care beds
• New Headspace in Grafton
• Co-funding $7 million upgrade of Clarence Way
• $6 million for upgrade of Crozier and Oakes Oval
• New Northern Rivers Regional Art Gallery
• Expanded North Coast Regional Hockey Complex
• Maclean Riverside Precinct
• Casino Amphitheatre
• Southern Cross Lads Safe Driving Course
• Expansion of Summerland House Farm
• Woolgoolga Surf Life Saving Club
• Wollongbar Club House
• Kyogle Aquatic Centre
• Upgrade of Casino Saleyard
• Sealed road to Toonumbar Dam
• Repair of Woodburn to Coraki Road
• Coffs Harbour bypass
• Revitalisation of Kyogle Memorial Institute Hall
• Major upgrade of Culmaran Creek Road
• Upgrade of Harwood Mill and Refinery
• Replacing 20 wooden bridges in Kyogle
• Upgraded Albert Park Baseball Complex
• Upgrade of Casino Hospital Emergency Department
• Six new Trade Training Centres
• Record bulk billing rates
• Record funding for our local schools
• Record health funding
• Woodburn Riverside Precinct
• Casino Drill Hall Precinct
• More In-Home and Residential Aged Care place
