3 December 2008

A NEW CULTURAL AWARENESS PARK FOR THREE WAYS

Today the first work will begin at the new Three Ways Cultural Park with development of the area around the Three Ways Bridge. This marks the first stage in the development of the park for the local community to enjoy.

The innovative idea of the Cultural Awareness Park was developed by Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) in consultation with the Thee Ways Management Committee, Griffith Local Aboriginal Council, and Griffith City Council.  It has been developed over a period of two years by the groups combining local community consultation with the specialist skills of a landscape architect.

MI’s Cultural and Heritage Officer, Stephen Johnson has been leading the project and said “the Three Ways Bridge is a well known site in Griffith where the Main Canal diverts irrigation water to Tharbogang and Lake Wyangan districts. It also holds great significance for the local indigenous community. With the recent upgrade to fully automated irrigation structures at the site, both MI and the local community thought it would be a great opportunity to also improve the aesthetics of the surrounds for the benefit of the local community and to recognise the cultural significance of the area.”

Recently an Expressions of Interest was advertised for two positions to assist in the development and implementation of the garden stage of this project. Many responses were received from the local community who wanted to be part of the project. “We’re pleased to welcome Ricky Riley and Roslyn Simpson onto the project team” advised Rob Kelly, MI’s Environment Manager. “Rick and Roslyn are very enthusiastic about the project and are looking forward to rolling up their sleeves and working up a sweat along with the rest of the team, as well as receive some invaluable training in land and conservation management along the way.”

The Cultural Awareness Park will be made up of local native plantings that will add to the biodiversity of the MIA region. The first stage of this project is expected to take two weeks with the next phase expected to be rolled out early 2009.

Ends

For further information regarding this media release, please contact Stephen Johnson, Cultural and Heritage Officer Murrumbidgee Irrigation on 02 6962 0200.