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Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve (TRRCR) transformed from barren paddock to historic gem in Latrobe City

Over the past 30 years the Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve (TRRCR) has been transformed from a barren grazing paddock forgotten by time into an historic gem of Latrobe City.

By news@gippsland - 24th March 2022 - Back to News

The development of the former steam train supply site is the pride of the volunteers behind its restoration. A series of upgrades delivered by Latrobe City Council included constructing a new assembly building - incorporating a meeting room, kitchenette, accessible toilet and storage space - and a new accessible toilet on the main trail.

Our Reserve comprises 29.5 hectares of varied bush and grassland with two wetland areas linked by a canyon with a number of paths and boardwalks offer differing vistas

Beneficial major enhancements

The facilities come as a major enhancement for the stunning wetlands reserve and its steady stream of visitors, numbering more than 2800 each week with a peak of 3200 per week during COVID restrictions.

It also means a new home for the Friends of the TRRCR to maintain 32 hectares of native Australian bush park and deliver education programs to a range of groups from pre-schools through to universities and community groups such as U3A, Probus, Landcare, Lions, Rotary, photography and running clubs and more.

Committee member Gary Deane said the upgrade would hold the group in good stead for decades to come. "The new facility has allowed us to securely store machinery and equipment as well as having a home base to set off for working bees, with tools and safety equipment to fulfil the duties allocated on the day," Mr Deane said.

Upgraded meeting rooms

Mr Deane also said, "The meeting room component is a real boon, allowing our committee to meet regularly as well as supply a base for educational visits from groups such as local schools throughout Gippsland. We assist with talks about the history of the reserve and supply relevant material relating to scientific surveys done on the flora and fauna and aquatic life throughout the reserve."

Local contractors Langden Constructions and Kingbuilt delivered the assembly building and accessible toilet respectively with $435,000 in funding from Latrobe Valley Authority, Latrobe City Council and Friends of the TRRCR, including sponsorship from Loy Yang B.

Working in partnership

Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O'Callaghan said, "The Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve is a true gem of Latrobe City enjoyed by hundreds of local walkers and runners, nature lovers, photographers, school groups and visitors day in, day out."

"Council is proud to partner with the LVA, State Government and Friends of the Reserve to deliver another great outcome for local community groups and users of this beautiful space." Cr O'Callaghan said.

Pictures from Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com