Gosling Creek Dam might be open to the public, but one councillor says it’s not enough.
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In November 2015, Orange councillors resolved to investigate opening Suma Park Dam and Spring Creek Dam to passive recreation after a push from mayor John Davis, and councillor Chris Gryllis who said a council report was needed as soon as possible.
Passive recreation is defined as activities with minimal environmental impact, including wildlife observation, walking, cycling and canoeing.
“It’s additional open space for the public – what benefit do we get by keeping the gates locked?” Cr Gryllis said.
Suma Park Dam is currently closed to the public, while Spring Creek is only open to Kinross Wolaroi School’s rowing team.
Cr Gryllis spent about 15 years lobbying to open Gosling Creek after harvesting Christmas trees at the site –and he was finally successful with the help of former mayor John Davies.
With the NSW Triathlon Championships attracting 2000 competitors to Gosling Creek earlier this month and its walkways, playgrounds and dog off-leash area in regular use, he said it’s proven a valuable resource.
There’s always one or two people who try to spoil it for everyone, but we shouldn’t give into the vandals.
- Councillor Chris Gryllis on illegal dumping at Gosling Creek Dam.
“How good is it now?” he said.
“It’s within walking distance of the CBD and the weather in Orange is good enough to have open spaces and enjoy the outdoors.”
Cr Gryllis said illegal dumping was still an occasional problem.
“There’s always one or two people who try to spoil it for everyone, but we shouldn’t give into the vandals,” he said.
The subject is due to be canvassed at a councillors’ briefing session next month, to be followed by a formal report to the council on consent requirements, water quality, access, impacts on neighbours, security, workplace health and safety, the management of variable water levels and the cost of capital works.