QUARTERLY UPDATE - JULY 2021

COMMUNITY PARK . Our focus this year has been the development of the new Echunga Community Park. A large amount of this 2-hectare area has been cleared by a small group of volunteers, rustic log seats have been constructed from the fallen logs, and with a Federal Grant through the District Council of Mt Barker, 250 metres of pathways have been established. . On 16th May, we held a successful tree-planting day, with 100 local volunteers, including local community groups and South Ward Councillors. 450 tree and shrub seedlings were planted with open space areas retained and wide access pathways. The Association provided a free sausage sizzle for the volunteers. A big thank you to everyone involved. . The Association have also applied for and received a grant of $2600 through the District Council’s Community grants to install a hardwood picnic table being built by Macclesfield Men’s shed, and large sandstone seating wallers. Battunga Lions Club are donating another picnic table, to celebrate their 50 years of community service in the district. . A Fairy garden is also being established, by a talented local, Hannah Noack. . Discussions and submissions have been made with the District Council to acquire further funding for a shelter and BBQ area, more pathways, a doggy-bag dispenser, and on-going maintenance.

WOODGATE PLAYGROUND .
The toddler playground has now been completed, with new play equipment, and adult table and chairs. Also a toddler table and chair set, has been very kindly donated by David and Jenny Marshman. Special thanks also to all the community who came out to help with initial clearing of plants, establishing a pathway, putting down soft fall and installing the table and chairs.

MAIN STREET FURNITURE .
The Association has applied for and received a Grant from the Council for the Ageing, for a new seat and bench. These will be placed out the front of the Echunga Memorial Institute and near the General Store.

FUNDRAISING .
We ran a successful sausage sizzle at Bunnings last March and we are planning another hot dog stall at Farmgate in August, during the SALA festival.

NEW GRANT APPLICATIONS .
We have applied to Landscape SA for $1000 for protective gear for our volunteers, when using power equipment in the park and for additional plants. . We are applying for a $25,000 grant through SA Connect for fencing along the western side of the community park, opposite the school and recreation grounds.

COMMUNITY EVENT .
We are hoping to organise a “Picnic in the Park” in November, (weather and Covid permitting). This will be a big family day with a bouncy castle and a sausage sizzle.

AGM .
Please come to our AGM which is being held on Tuesday August 24th at 7pm. Venue to be advised. Everyone welcome to join us, to have your say and meet some new friends. Membership forms and information are available on our website www.echunga.org.au.
Contact [email protected]