The popular recreation area at the Mother of Ducks Lagoon Nature Reserve day use area in Guyra is ready for an influx of visitors eager to explore the region’s hidden treasures with the completion of a $459,182 upgrade.

Armidale Regional Council responded to requests from the Guyra Chamber of Commerce to upgrade the outdated amenities and day use area securing a grant of $459,182 through the State Government’s Stronger Communities program. Council acknowledges the strong advocacy by our Northern Tablelands MP, Adam Marshall to get this project funded.

Upgrades to the toilet facilities, new BBQs, picnic tables and shelters, refurbishment of the caravan and RV overnight camping sites and new turf have transformed the recreation area for locals and visitors to explore the beauty of the Lagoon and Reserve.

Armidale Regional Council Director of Businesses and Services Scot MacDonald said the recreation area was well utilised by grey nomads, families and  bird watchers as a base to explore the Ramsar Wetland Mother of Ducks Lagoon and the wider Guyra region.

“The Lagoon is an internationally recognised and protected high altitude wetland. The Reserve is a breeding ground for several freshwater wetland bird species and a resting place for numerous migratory birds including the Japanese Snipe that lives in the Lagoon from August to April before returning to Japan.  The Reserve attracts bird watchers and visitors from across Australia and the world. We welcome these visitors and flow on economic stimulus for Guyra,” said Mr MacDonald.

Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall said the project was a good example of the Council partnering with the Guyra community to prioritise the improvement of local infrastructure.

“The Guyra community, in this case the Guyra Chamber of Commerce have worked with the Council to secure State Government funding and we are now seeing the fruits of this collaboration,” said Mr Marshall.

“The impressive upgrades have transformed what was tired and run down outdoor recreation facilities. The new facilities will encourage the community and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the internationally recognised Mother of Ducks Lagoon.”

Published on 31 Jul 2020