Revamped Yorke Valley road stop open for visitors

A new educational roadside stop detailing the history of water on the Yorke Peninsula is now open at the Yorke Valley Dam as the result of an exciting community partnership between SA Water and the Maitland and District Progress Association.

Opened at a community event of around 100 visitors, the roadside stop, around six kilometres south of Maitland, provides a sheltered educational display, picnic facilities, interpretive walk around the perimeter of the dam, and historical water pumping equipment.

The project received approximately $9,700 in financial support through SA Water's 2019-20 Community Partnerships Program, which supports community groups to deliver events and projects that foster a better life.

Maitland and District Progress Association Project Coordinator Greg Schulz said the outcome offers another asset to educate locals and passers-by on the area's water history both pre-European settlement and into the future.

“As a community group, we strive to protect the interests of the residents in our town while encouraging a community spirit, and we want our region to be one that people love to live in and visitors love to visit," Greg said.

"While the Yorke Peninsula is known mainly for beautiful beaches, many may not know the rich history of fresh water to the area and its importance in growing the local industry and economic development we see today.

"This facility provides an enjoyable experience for visitors to gain insight into water resource management on Yorke Peninsula, and we're grateful for the support of SA Water in helping to complete this project."

SA Water's General Manager Customers, Strategy and Innovation Anna Jackson said the roadside stop is a deserving recipient for looking to provide a fun education experience.

"This display and interpretive trail is a great way to educate travellers on the history of water for the region's early settlers, the establishment of mains water in the area and other future industry initiatives like desalination and renewable energy," Anna said.

"Our partnership with the Maitland and District Progress Association has provided a terrific outcome for the Yorke Peninsula community, and we're thrilled to be delivering more positive outcomes to the region as part of our 2020-21 Community Partnerships Program."

To see the full list of successful recipients of the 2020-21 Community Partnerships Program, visit sawater.com.au.

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