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Gateway Island Wetlands Intepretative Trail now open

Gateway Island Wetlands Intepretative Trail now open
President of the Rotary Club of Albury North, Mr. Syd Lukins unveiling the signage

The unveiling of the Gateway Island Wetlands Interpretation Project took place on Wednesday 7th September 2005 by Mr. Syd Lukins, President of the Rotary Club of Albury North as part of the Learning Cities Festival.

The Rotary Club of Albury North has been involved in the wetlands project extending back a number of years.  The initial involvement was in stage one, which saw the relocation and reconstruction of the bird hides, construction of the floating footbridge and walking track and revegetation of the banks.  A small pond dipping site was created adjacent to where the signs are to be located. 

Funding for the Gateway Island Wetlands project has been provided from the Rotary Club of Albury North, Parks Victoria 2002/03 Community Grants program and CSR.  Construction was undertaken by parklands Community Development Employment Program Crew and Regional Skills Inc Work for the Dole participants.  Wodonga Tafe provided accredited training for the participants.

For many years, Gateway Island, lying between Albury and Wodonga was considered an eyesore. A master plan developed by the City of Wodonga has created opportunities for a range of visitor experiences. As part of this parklands initially worked with Community Service Order participants from both Victoria and New South Wales, working in partnership with parklands. This work involved the clearing of willows, blackberries and other weeds from the banks of the Murray River, which were replaced by indigenous plants.

The Gateway Island Parklands form part of the whole Gateway Island precinct, and its location at the centre of the two cities, with access to the Murray River, has seen it become a major recreational asset

Cliff Swatton, Chairman of parklands said “we thank the Rotary Club of Albury North for their on-going support of this project. The installation of the interpretation signage, together with previous works undertaken, has created a unique setting that will allow the users of the park to become more informed of the value of this park, and its wetlands.”