THERE are hopes Kaniva can become a stopover of choice for travellers on the Western Highway between Melbourne and Adelaide.
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West Wimmera Shire mayor Jodie Pretlove joined Member for Lowan Emma Kealy and other attendees to officially open a new cultural and tourism precinct near the railway overpass on Tuesday.
Cr Pretlove said the new park, situated off the west-bound side of the highway, included a redeveloped natural environment, boardwalks, a flying fox, exercise equipment and a wildlife sanctuary.
"There are a few emus and possums and bird life. Essentially it's a space to attract people to pull in and take a break when driving through Kaniva," she said.
"It's quite visible from the overpass coming in from Adelaide and we're especially hoping to attract families with kids who need to stretch their legs.
"I believe it's given the town quite a lift. There were pre-school kids at the opening and you could feel the excitement."
Cr Pretlove said the council gave $380,000 to the project. The state and federal governments, VicRoads and Kaniva community groups also funded the project.
"The Lions Club, Purple Starfish and Kaniva Landcare Group and the progress association all contributed funds, and individuals from those groups also put in over 600 hours of voluntary time working in the space to get it to what it is today," she said.
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