A NEW full size rugby league field with lighting and automatic irrigation is the key feature of the new Hughenden Showgrounds Concept Master Plan.
The Plan, which was prepared by CPR Group after community consultation in August, was presented to Flinders Shire Council to receive councillor feedback on October 9.
Almost 20 people attended the Hughenden Showgrounds Master Plan Public Meeting at the Diggers Entertainment Centre in August, with all community groups who use the facility represented.
Council representatives who were at the meeting described it as one of the best public meetings yet, with a lot of new fresh ideas and a willing group to tackle the issues of conflict.
The Master Plan will guide projects and improvements that happen at the Showgrounds during the next 10 years, with a similar plan also prepared for the Hughenden Memorial Swimming Pool.
As well as a new 25m, 1.7m deep new heated undercover pool, the Swimming Pool Master Plan includes a new administration building with gym, canteen and coffee shop, a new shaded playground area and an upgraded recreational area, including umbrella, shade trees, covered BBQ and picnic tables, seating, landscaping and new turfed areas.
CPR Group Consultant Michael Connelly said he had wanted to retain the character of both precincts, while making changes to accommodate the community needs and wants into the future.
“The level of information that user groups were able to bring back (at the initial community consultations) was fantastic,” Mr Connelly said.
“Hopefully (both master plans) are a good reflection of what people have told us,” he said.
Public meetings were held at the Hughenden Memorial Swimming Pool on Monday October 14 and at the Diggers Entertainment Centre on Tuesday October 15 to discuss the draft master plans.
Both consultation meetings were well attended with the community making a fantastic contribution to both plans.
There were no major issues with the plans and all suggestions made have led to further refinement and improvements.
The showgrounds users progressed towards prioritising some of the projects within the plan and making sure that projects can occur in the correct order to get the best and most cost effective outcome.
The next stage is for the plans to be adopted by Council in late November. Once they are adopted then the community groups and Council will combine forces to source funding for the project.