Two of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular dams will be further improved following community feedback as part of the most extensive review of recreation at South East Queensland’s lakes and dams ever undertaken.
Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle today launched the new recreation guides for Baroon Pocket and Ewen Maddock Dams which deliver on the Newman Government election promise to build tourism.
Mr McArdle said the guides set out the range of recreation activities permitted at the lakes, the changes to be made and the facilities available to the public.
“This feedback was an opportunity for Queenslanders to have their say on our natural resources that were clearly under-utilised by the former Labor Government,” Mr McArdle said
“While the community consultation revealed we’ve largely got the recreation mix right at these lakes, paddlers will enjoy some changes at both locations.”
Mr McArdle said Seqwater planned to reopen the scenic upper reaches of Baroon Pocket Dam to paddle craft and fishing, and was investigating ways to enhance the paddle craft access to Ewen Maddock Dam from Maddock Park.
“These changes will enhance the reputation of these two lakes as great paddling destinations, and may even lead to some ‘extra tall’ fishing tales being told in future, as paddlers access areas of Baroon Pocket Dam that have previously been off limits,” he said.
“There is also good news for trail users, walkers, horse riders and mountain bikers, with plans to work with Sunshine Coast Regional Council to improve the Gympie Street North entry point to the Ewen Maddock trail network.
“Improving access to the trail networks will better connect Landsborough locals with the wonderful lake right on their doorstep.”
Seqwater Acting Chief Executive Officer, Peter Dennis said Lake Baroon and Ewen Maddock Dam were in the second cluster of lakes to have recreation guides developed as part of the recreation review.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the community interest in recreation at our lakes,” Mr Dennis said.
“To date, more than 3000 people have had a say through community information sessions and workshops and our online surveys.”
