Muswellbrook Beach Recreational Space Now Open
BY JEM ANSHAW
Only a few months since our last tour of the Hunter Beach precinct, which involved hard hats and enclosed shoes, the work to make the Hunter River more accessible has been completed and is now open to the public.
While there have been a lot of questions around why work has been done to an asset that people already utilise, the reality is now we have a clear accessway and public amenities close by, making it easier than ever before to enjoy a day out at the location.
“Along with the direct access to the Hunter River, this area offers plenty of opportunities for active and passive recreation including nature walks, sports, barbecue facilities and picnic areas and also a learning opportunity for an outdoor classroom,” Muswellbrook mayor Steve Reynolds said at the official opening.
Cr Reynolds reiterated the fact that the amenities have been put on higher ground, at road level, to avoid being in line of rising water levels, there are CCTV cameras throughout the site as well as bollards, fences, and gates to deter vandalism.
“It’s taking ownership and making sure that we keep this facility in a great condition,” he said.
“Come down and enjoy it, make the most of it, it’s a fantastic place to just come back, relax. I can guarantee if you’re looking for some exercise it’d be a great walking track to clock up the kms.”
As well as the structural work involved, chief engineer and project manager Peter Chambers explained there has been some 5000 predominantly endemic and native species of plants put in, including river red gum and casuarina trees across the site.
“Council welcomes the community and encourages them to use it for their recreational walks, dog walking, volleyball, relaxing and enjoying time with family and friends,” Mr Chambers said.
Visitors are reminded to take care when visiting Hunter Beach, supervise children at all times especially around the natural landscape and in the water, keep dogs on leads and clean up after them, and clean up after yourself using the bins provided at the carpark.
The gates at Hunter Beach, behind Pet Medical, will be open daily from 6am to 6pm, and in the near future, a community open day will be held to officially reveal its new name.