Three ACT campgrounds get federal funding for upgrades

Cotter Campground is one of three recreational facilities in the ACT to receive an upgrade thanks to Federal Government funding. Photo: File.

Recreational fishing and camping facilities at Blue Range Hut Camping Ground, Cotter Campground and Pine Island will be upgraded as part of a Federal Government election commitment in 2019 to provide better facilities.

Blue Range Hut Camping Ground, about 45km west of Canberra, off Brindabella Road, will have $106,000 worth of improvements to its camping area, including a new toilet block to improve amenities and increase capacity as part of a Blue Range Hut Camping Ground Masterplan to be developed.

The Cotter Campground entrance will have $25,000 worth of improvements to remodel and formalise it, and the overflow area will be enhanced to improve vehicle flow, camper spacing and aesthetics.

Cotter Campground and Pine Island will also have $10,000 spent on installing outdoor washdown stations and showers for fishers and watercraft.

ACT Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman said the $141,000 in grants will help make much-needed improvements to the Territory’s recreational facilities.

“We know how much Canberrans value our parks and reserves,” he said. “This renewed infrastructure will help Canberrans and visitors enjoy some of the best camping and fishing spots around the Territory.

“New funding will help us deliver upgrades at Blue Range Hut Camping Ground, Cotter Campground and Pine Island. These parks are more popular than ever with people holidaying at home, and improved facilities will help make them even better.”

The funding is part of the Federal Government’s $20 million Recreational Fishing and Camping Facilities Program from its 2019 election commitment. The money will be spend nationally during the next three years.

Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam said recreational fishing, boating and camping contribute to the health and wellbeing of many Australians, and provides significant benefits to regional areas.

“Recreational fishing is an important leisure activity that contributes economic and social benefits to the Australian community, and is a part of the Australian way of life for all ages and for all socioeconomic backgrounds,” he said.

“Improving facilities and access to recreational fishing, boating and camping areas will provide locals and visitors alike with better opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors by camping and fishing in our rivers and at the coast.”