Recreation opportunities to grow around Scenic Rim lakes

People will be able to enjoy more recreational opportunities in and around the Scenic Rim’s lakes with the state government today releasing plans for upgraded facilities, better access, new opportunities and improved safety.

Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle said the planned improvements at lakes Maroon, Moogerah and Wyaralong would open up even more tourism opportunities in the Scenic Rim.

“We promised at the election to grow tourism as one of the four pillars of the economy and recognising leisure opportunities delivers on that commitment,” Mr McArdle said.

The new recreation guides for the Scenic Rim lakes were developed in collaboration with the local community as part of Seqwater’s recreation review which has been the most extensive ever undertaken in South East Queensland.

“The community has told us visitors are very happy with the mix of recreation activities but additional facilities would mean even more people could enjoy the lakes,” Mr McArdle said.

Member for Beaudesert Jon Krause said picnic facilities at all three lakes will now be upgraded, including the installation of picnic shelters at Lake Wyaralong.

“Feedback from campers at Lake Wyaralong will also see the Lilybrook recreation area upgraded to provide more camping facilities,” Mr Krause said.

“New launch points were being investigated for both Lake Maroon and Lake Moogerah following consultation with boaties and water skiers.

“Visitors were very conscious of boating safety and six-knot speed zones will be introduced in the southern arms of Lake Moogerah to ensure that all visitors can safely enjoy the lake.”

Mr McArdle said there’s also the possibility of making Lake Wyaralong a world class rowing venue and the main rowing centre for south east Queensland.

“The government and Seqwater are working with the local rowing club and Rowing Queensland to establish a buoyed course on the lake for training and events,” he said.

Rowing Queensland chief executive Ross Symonds said RQI was working closely with the newly formed Wyaralong Rowing Club to establish a permanent base at Lake Wyaralong.

Wyaralong Rowing Club president Graham Porter said the dam was a superb location for water sports and it was pleasing that recreational use of the dam gives particular emphasis to rowing.

Seqwater will also work with local horse riding and mountain biking clubs to continue to improve trail facilities at Wyaralong and a new car park will make access to the mountain bike trails easier. 

The recreation guides for lakes Maroon, Moogerah and Wyaralong can be found at www.seqwater.com.au/recreview.

[ENDS] 16 April 2014

Media Contact: Phil Hind 0437 334 183