New footpath improves Yelarbon safety and connection

Work will begin on Friday [25 Sept 2020] to construct a new footpath in Yelarbon that will improve pedestrian safety and create a better connection from the town to the popular lagoon.

The concrete walkway will run 250m along Eena Street to complete the ‘missing link’ from the Yelarbon State School on Burrel Street to Lagoon Street, where it will join the walking track along the lagoon.

Goondiwindi Regional Council has allocated $70,000 towards the project from its Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program Grant.

Mayor of the Goondiwindi region the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM said the work would improve the overall amenity of the town, as well as support the growing tourism attraction of Yelarbon.

“The new section of pathway will mean safe pedestrian access along the entirety of Eena Street,” Cr Springborg said.

“This is an especially important link in Yelarbon as it connects the State School to the southern end of town and on to the lagoon. Not only will this improve pedestrian safety and boost town pride, but it’s a vital link for visitors as it connects the walkway from the main street to the lagoon.

“We have some really unique assets in Yelarbon in both the GrainCorp Silos and the lagoon itself – ensuring that those sites are easily accessible and encouraging visitors to pull up, explore the town and support local businesses is so important.”

The footpath project complements current works to install new signage at the silo viewing area that directs visitors to local businesses and places of interest. Visitors can camp at the Yelarbon recreation grounds for a low cost, with powered sites available for caravans and motorhomes. Public toilets and showers are open to visitors in the restored Railway Station building.

The Yelarbon lagoon has a popular walking track along the waterfront which connects back to the skate park, barbecue and picnic tables at the recreation grounds.

“This project ensures that visitors, as well as residents, can easily walk back and forth between the Yelarbon lagoon and the main street. It means that when visitors pull up for a feed or a drink at the pub, they can now safely walk down to explore the lagoon and the facilities at the recreation grounds,” Cr Springborg said.

“This is a terrific opportunity to invest external funds into vital infrastructure for Yelarbon.”

Council will engage a local contractor to carry out the work and will also use a local concrete supplier.