CONSTRUCTING new steps so they go all the way to the water's edge at the Terramungamine Reserve would greatly increase the use of the area and Macquarie River as a whole, according to Wellington On Macquarie Dubbo on Macquarie Narromine on Macquarie (WOMDOMNOM) committee member Andrew McKay.
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Mr McKay, an avid kayaking and paddler, said the current condition of the steps at the Terramungamine Reserve made it dangerous for people when exiting the water, and hoped to get grants, sponsorship and raise funds himself to fix the issue.
"It is really difficult and unsafe at the moment to get out of the water, and there is the added problem of doing damage to your kayak on the rocks," he said.
"The exit point is the missing link between having this as a great destination and an area people aren't willing to use."
Mr McKay is adamant if the facilities are in place activity in the area will greatly increase, which will have a multitude of benefits.
"The Macquarie River is the best asset we have in the area and it is definitely under utilised," he said.
"This is a beautiful part of the river and it's 13 kilometres from Dubbo which is the ideal distance from town.
"The more we can encourage people into sports like kayaking and paddling, which are sports that can be done by anyone of any age and ability, the better for them and the community."
Mr McKay is currently working on submissions to apply for funding through the Federal Infrastructure Grant and the Tourism Grant, and if any local business was interested and able to support the project that would be most welcome.
"We estimate it will cost around $30,000 so we've got a bit from the WOMDOMNOM group and we will apply for the grants but any business that is able to contribute either funds or their expertise and knowledge would be fantastic," he said.
Mr McKay wanted to thank WOMDOMNOM committee members Bev Winters, Emmalee Holmes, Anne Worthington, Doug Swain, Pat Swain, Heather Willis and Dave Willis for their contributions toward the project.
For more information, visit www.womdomnom.com.au.