Adventure Park & Turtle Sanctuary for Gateway Island?

Gateway Village. Photo: TruPics

Plans to develop Gateway Island into a major drawcard, attracting travellers off the Hume Freeway, is part of a draft master plan developed by Wodonga Council and open for feedback.

More than 320 submissions have been received from the community and stakeholders outlining their thoughts on the future of the Island.

Wodonga Mayor Cr Anna Speedie says there are several diverse recommendations for the precinct.

“Some of the items that stand out from the recommendations are a Caravan Park near the Gateway Island village and possible relocation of the farmers’ market to a site nearer the river,” Cr Speedie said.

“Other ideas include making use of the former railway line bridge to improve connection between the Island and Wodonga; developing a riverine native botanic garden and interpretive centre; creation of an endangered turtle sanctuary; further development of the International Community Garden; an adventure park and new camping areas.

“Generally, the community told us there’s a real need for more shared trails that connect each of the precincts; and connect the Island to Albury, via pedestrian access across the river.”

People can review the Draft Master Plan online and in person, including attending a drop-in session or commenting via social media using the hashtag #MyGatewayIsland.

The drop-in sessions will be held at La Maison Café in the Gateway Island Village from 2.30pm to 8pm on Wednesday, July 11 and Tuesday, August 7.

There will also be displays in the Wodonga and Albury Council offices. All the project information can be found at Make Wodonga Yours website.

The community has until August 10 to provide their input.

The project is an action in the Two Cities One Community Action Plan developed by Wodonga Council and AlburyCity.