Redeveloped Central Springs Reserve open to enjoy

Published on 26 July 2024

Group of people cutting a red ribbon

Federal Member for Ballarat, Catherine King MP, together with Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Brian Hood and Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation Group CEO Rodney Carter officially opened the redeveloped Central Springs Reserve at Lake Daylesford. 

Mayor, Cr Brian Hood, said the project has delivered a wonderful new public open space for locals and visitors to enjoy.

“This beautiful area close to Lake Daylesford will no doubt attract more visitors to an already popular area, thereby benefiting our local economy.  We are thankful for the Federal Government grant under the Investing in Our Communities Program for making this project possible,” he said.

This is the first stage of implementation of the masterplan which was adopted following community consultation in 2021 and sees three new mineral spring pumps (1 accessible), complemented by Dja Dja Wurrung artwork.

“The design was closely coordinated with DJANDAK, a Dja Dja Wurrung enterprise working to revitalise Country for community benefit. This included elements such as the picnic shelter, signage, and mineral spring pump area design.” 

“We would also like to extend a special thank you to our Mineral Springs Reserve Advisory Committee for their support and guidance over the life of this project,” said Cr Hood.

The project includes:

  • A paved picnic area with a BBQ, picnic tables and an indigenous-inspired shelter
  • Rejuvenation of the hydroelectric pump infrastructure and the Hard Hills Spring
  • Directional and interpretative signage
  • Landscaping with plenty of seating opportunities to take in the beautiful surrounds
  • The design of the works takes into account the health and safety of the significant trees within the reserve.

The $1.25 million project was funded by $350,000 from the Australian Government, $35,000 from the State Government Mineral Springs Reserves Grant Program 2022 – 2023, with the remaining funding coming from Council through the Mineral Springs Reserve fund.

Quotes from the Hon. Catherine King MP:

“It’s so exciting to see the transformation of Daylesford’s Central Springs Reserve, and to deliver another election commitment for our community.

“Hepburn Shire Council have done a terrific job of completing this project ahead of schedule, and the collaboration with Djarra ensures that this is very special place for visitors and locals to enjoy.  

“Whether it’s for a BBQ, a nature walk or to sample Daylesford’s famous spring water, this redevelopment and the improved accessibility mean that even more people can enjoy iconic Lake Daylesford.”

Quote from Mary-Anne Thomas, Member for Macedon

“This fantastic project, supported by all levels of government, will play a vital role in securing tourism to the Hepburn Shire.  Whether it’s enjoying a picnic, BBQ or admiring the beautiful surrounds, I encourage visitors and locals alike to enjoy the redeveloped Central Springs Reserve at Lake Daylesford.”

Quote from Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation Group CEO Rodney Carter

“Embedding Dja Dja Wurrung knowledge and culture in the built and natural landscape benefits Djandak (Country) and communities. We look forward to people being on Country enjoying this revitalised parkland.”

More information on the project can be found at https://participate.hepburn.vic.gov.au/central-springs-reserve

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