Buloke’s Mount Jeffcott Flora Reserve will be promoted as a tourist attraction thanks to a $46,152 Brumby Labor Government grant announced today by the Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad.
Ms Broad said the infrastructure project would protect the reserve’s flora while encouraging visitors to enjoy the reserve, which is located on the Borung Highway between Donald and Charlton in north west Victoria.
“Mount Jeffcott Flora Reserve boasts a vast array of rare trees and plant specimens while the view of the district from the summit is spectacular,” Ms Broad said.
The project, which has been developed in consultation with Parks Victoria, Landcare and Friends of Jeffcott, includes:
- Bollard fencing with cables for traffic control barriers;
- A delineated car and bus park;
- Interpretive signs and shelters describing the Mount’s flora and history;
- An improved track to the top with clearly defined edges;
- A sheltered picnic area, complete with water tank and barbecue;
- Tables and seating at the summit and car park; and
- Large directional signage describing ancient tourist attractions in Buloke.
Ms Broad said the project would increase tourism in Donald and Charlton and across Buloke Shire.
“The project will deliver infrastructure that will provide local employment for plumbers, steel fabricators, earthmovers, concreters, builders and welders in an area hard hit by drought,” Ms Broad said.
“The project, which has involved a number of community organisations working together, will give locals greater opportunity to enjoy the Mount Jeffcott Flora Reserve.
“It will also allow travellers to appreciate the natural beauty available within the Buloke Shire, encouraging longer stays.”
Ms Broad said the Brumby Labor Government funding for the $61,536 project would be provided to Buloke Shire Council through the Small Towns Development Fund. The community is providing the balance in cash and in-kind contributions.
“The project typifies initiatives supported by the Small Towns Development Fund, which are making a big difference to towns in provincial Victoria,” Ms Broad said.
“The Small Towns Development Fund is helping Victoria’s smaller towns create jobs, drive economic growth and improve community infrastructure.
“So far, the fund has provided more than $53.3 million toward 501 announced capital works projects estimated to be worth more than $109.9 million right across provincial Victoria.”