Lake Windamere reopened for recreation
A NSW Government-funded project has restored community access to a popular Crown land reserve in the Central West by repairing severe erosion caused by heavy rain.
The Lake Windamere Under Canvas Camping Reserve at Cudgegong was left inaccessible after large sections of its gravel road were washed away.
The weather damage left the 320-hectare reserve off limits to families, nature lovers and a wide range of community groups that regularly use its facilities.
Crown Lands in the Department of Planning and Environment has helped the not-for-profit reserve restore its operations with a $149,755 grant under the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund to patch the erosion and bitumen seal the 1.3-kilometre access road.
Stormwater control work has been further supported with the assistance of Mid-Western Regional Council which donated 22 concrete pipes.
Lake Windamere, a large water reservoir on the Cudgegong River south-east of Mudgee, serves as both a major water storage and a popular recreational area.
The lakeside reserve, with its scenic surrounds and quality amenities, is used for a wide range of outdoor activities including daytrips, boating, kayaking, camping, fishing, bird watching and bush navigation activities.
The environmentally conscious reserve, which uses solar panels and recycles water to irrigate its native trees, caters for family camps, schools and user groups from across the state.
Group visits support disadvantaged children from broken homes, drought affected families, teenagers coming out of juvenile detention, single mothers returning to school, and environmental work, creative writing and art.
For enquiries and bookings at the reserve contact [email protected].
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“Crown reserves play an important role protecting the environment and providing natural recreational space to keep communities healthy and happy.
“The Lake Windamere Under Canvas Camping Reserve is a Central West gem located in a beautiful natural setting and home to plenty of wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, lots of fish and varied birdlife including wedged-tail eagles and nesting swans.”
Lake Windamere Under Canvas Camping Association President Mike Rowlands said:
“The weather damage effectively stopped us operating so we’re very happy and appreciative to have the road repaired and upgraded. The sealed road will allow safe all-weather access and save on future maintenance costs.”