DECEMBER 2021

'Unprecedented growth in sales'

Council appoints new  caretakers for rebranded Gogeldrie Riverside park

    Have your say

LEETON Shire Council in the Riverina region of New South Wales has appointed new caretakers for its rebranded Gogeldrie Riverside Park.

Jason and Nicole Smith, who will take over the reins of the 17-acre park in the new year, said they were looking forward to maximizing the park's potential.

Mr Smith grew up in the area and the couple moved to Leeton four years ago to raise their daughters.

"We are very excited to be helping the council operate this important visitor attraction and local recreation area," they said.

The council will resume management of the park when the current licensee’s contract ends on December 22.

But to fully transition from the current licensee to the new caretaker, it will be temporarily closed from December 23 and will reopen under its new management on January 10, 2022.

Cr George Weston said he was impressed with the strong calibre of people who had expressed an interest in managing the park.

"I thank everyone who came forward to express their interest – it was good to be spoilt for choice," he said.

"We are extremely pleased that Jason and Nicole have agreed to manage the park for the next two-and-a-half years and look forward to them settling in."

Cr Weston acknowledged that while the boat ramp would remain open throughout, some families could be disappointed that the park will be closed over the Christmas/New Year period and thanked everyone for their patience.

"Unfortunately, the timing of the changeover could not be helped as the previous licence ended right up against Christmas," he said.

"The Weir will be back open for business from mid-January, and we look forward to seeing everyone back."

Reflecting on plans for the new year, Group Manager Shire Activation Andrew Reilly, said the council would seek funding and firm up plans to respond to the Gogeldrie Weir Public Recreation Area Master Plan, which was adopted in September this year.

"The plan gives council a plan of improvements for the park as well as improved ability to apply for grant funding opportunities as they arise," he said.

"We have an exciting list of improvements to work through with our new caretakers, including investigating options for replacement cabins as part of the changeover in management.

"In the short term, there will be campsites and caravan sites for all to enjoy, including powered sites, with bookings being open from January 10."

BACK TO CARAVANNING NEWS MAIN PAGE