Regional Placemaking Report - Imagine Murray Bridge 2020

Transcription

Regional
Placemaking
Report
Prepared by Village Well for: Rural City of Murray Bridge
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Authors: Gilbert Rochecouste, Cindy Plowman,
Johanna Skladzien, Ainsley Bardin and Phillipa Abbot.
Executive summary //
Village Well has been engaged by the Rural City of Murray Bridge, Burke Urban
and Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland to engage key
stakeholders in the Rural City of Murray Bridge to create a strategy for Placemaking
within the broader region.
This is the third report in the series, the reports can be read separately, however
to gain a deeper understanding of the region, its people, its history and its future
should be read in it entirety.
The report details the Vision, Principles and initiatives for The Rural CIty of Murray
Bridge and the following communities:
• Murray Bridge
• Gifford Hill
• Monarto
• Mypolonga
• Riverglen
• Woods Point
• Jervois
• Wellington.
The Vision, Principles and Initiatives were identified for each town using the
consultation feedback from each individual community. Further detail of each town,
along with a description of the methodology used and Village Well terminology
is provided in the body of the report. This report does not include a Vision or
Principles for Woodlane, Monteith or Callington. These may be developed as part of
a targeted consultation at a later date.
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RURAL CITY OF MURRAY BRIDGE VISION
The Rural City of Murray Bridge is an enterprising and innovative community.
It looks to the future with confidence, secure in the knowledge that decisions
made today have helped to create a place of opportunities.
RURAL CITY OF MURRAY BRIDGE PRINCIPLES
Enterprising and innovative –
actively seeking out new ways
of doing business
Caring and welcoming –
embracing the knowledge
and wisdom of people from
all walks of life
Healthy and active –
caring for our people and the
environment
Connected –
connection that’s more than
just physical
A resilient place –
will stand the test of time
MURRAY BRIDGE
VISION
GIFFORD HILL
VISION
MONARTO
VISION
MYPOLONGA
VISION
RIVERGLEN/
WHITESANDS
VISION
WOODS POINT
VISION
JERVOIS
VISION
WELLINGTON
VISION
A river town and
city heart. A vibrant
regional centre.
Connects to its past
and holding the
vision for the future
A place
to experience
innovation in
industry and
development.
A place to
experience peaceful
rural living.
Riverglen is a
community
connected by the
river.
Woods Point is a
place we call home.
Jervois is a regional
heart, providing for
many of the smaller
towns nearby
Wellington is a living
gateway.
Principles
Principles
Principles
Principles
Principles
Principles
Principles
Principles
Heart
Celebration
Inclusive and
connected
Voice
Balance
Nourish
Gathering
Rejuvenation
Industrious
Empowered
Legacy
Connection
Celebrating the
community spirit
Sustainable
Sustainable
Destination
Environment
Unique
Transformative
Destination
Peaceful, rural
living
Activation
Connection
Character
Connection
Resilience
Living
Vital
Welcoming
Renewal
Thriving
Active
Self sufficient
Peaceful
Strengths & Assets
Strengths & Assets
Strengths & Assets
Strengths & Assets
Strengths & Assets
Strengths & Assets
Strengths & Assets
Strengths & Assets
Proximity & rural
lifestyle
The Racecourse and
equine facility as a
destination
Monarto Zoo, &
its internationally
recognised
programs
Enthusiastic &
motivated school &
sporting community
Access to the
waterfront
Rural lifestyle
and working farm
culture
Strong sporting
identify and culture
Historical significance
of the river crossing
The community &
their involvement in
Monarto’s future
Food production in
the town
Jervois Primary
School and its
commitment to
sustainability
Location and proximity
to the natural
resources
The streets &
architecture have a
good human scale
Connection with
Gifford Hill
The community
particularly the young
people & the art &
cultural community.
The Village Centre
and Tavern
Cultural & physical
connections to Murray
Bridge
A new opportunity, a
fresh start to realise
the community’s
vision
Opportunities for
tourism
Innovative &
entrepreneurial
minded community
Diversity of
recreational
facilities available to
the community
Close proximity
of the residential
community
Emergent industries
Inspired local traders
like the Riverflat Café
The Dairy industry,
current and disused
dairy farms.
Physical asset of the
river crossing
Local traders and
beautiful buildings like
the Courthouse and
Café site
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Village Well // Level 6, 43 Hardware Lane
Melbourne // Victoria // 3000
03 9650 0080 // [email protected]
www.villagewell.org
The Imagine Your Rural City Project Team gratefully acknowledges the community for
their time, effort and input into the development of the Regional Placemaking Report.
Village Well would like to thank its project partners for their contribution and support
throughout the engagement process:
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The Rural City of Murray Bridge Council
•
Burke Urban
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Regional Development Australia Murrylands and Riverland
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Taylor Burrell Burnet.
Contents //
Introduction Rural City of Murray Bridge Regional Road Map Murray Bridge Road Map Gifford Hill Road Map Monarto Road Map Mypolonga Road Map The String of Pearls
Riverglen Road Map Woods Point Road Map Jervois Road Map Wellington Road Map 6
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Introduction //
The Rural City of Murray Bridge is expected to grow from approximately 18,000
people in 2011 to 30,000 people by 2026. This anticipated growth represents
excellent prospects for investment in housing, retail, industry, agriculture and
community.
To ensure Murray Bridge and the surrounding rural communities are connected
and a part of a thriving place, it was recognised that a broader vision and Structure
Plan was required to guide the Rural City. The proposed Structure Plan and Rural
Communities Study gives consideration to the Murray Bridge Town Centre, the
new development at Gifford Hill, and the broader region. The Strucutre Plan is also
informed by the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide.
With this understanding the Rural City of Murray Bridge, Regional Development
Australia Murraylands and Riverlandand Burke Urban are supporting a Placemaking
process to inform the Structure Plan for Murray Bridge. This approach works with
the community to bring new possibilities and ideas to the discussion, it also enables
the community to be involved with implementation.
About this Report
Village Well were engaged to work with key stakeholders to develop Placemaking
visions, principles and initiatives.
This is the third report in the series, the reports can be read separately, however all
should be read to gain a deeper understanding of the region, its people, its history
and its future.
• Report 1 – Lay of the Land
• Report 2 – Community Values
• Report 3 – Regional Placemaking
• Small Wins Handbook.
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This report details the over-arching Vision, Principles for The Rural City of Murray
Bridge and the following rural communities:
• Murray Bridge
• Gifford Hill
• Monarto
• Mypolonga
• Riverglen/White Sands
• Woods Point
• Jervois
• Wellington.
Council is concurrently undertaking a Structure Plan for Murray Bridge, a Rural
Communities Study (RCS), a Murray Bridge Town Centre Master Plan and an
Integrated Traffic and Transport Management Plan. These studies will guide the
future of the Rural City of Murray Bridge.
The high-level recommendations in this report, help to inform these studies for both
the region and the Murray Bridge town centre. These recommendations provide
a Placemaking framework that activates the VIsion and Principles of each rural
community and the broader region.
Placemaking Process
Village Well’s Placemaking process is conducted through the following report stages:
Lay of the Land
Provides an analysis of the Place including the physical and social background and
the values and context for the Regional Placemaking Report.
Community Values
Captures the ‘wisdom of the community’ and translate this wisdom into a practical
guide for Council and stakeholders to better understanding the needs and the
aspirations of the community.
Regional Placemaking Report
Findings from the Lay of the Land and the Community Values Reports are analysed.
Vision and Principles are drawn from this research which are the foundation for a set
of strategies and actions to deliver this vision.
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Community Values Report
Lay of the Land Report
Community Strengths
and Assetts
Methodology
The Regional Placemaking Report is the last step in Village Well’s Placemaking
Process. In a project as significant as the revitalisation of the Rural City of Murray
Bridge, it is important to recognise the unique characteristics of each rural
community to create an overarching vision and direction for the region. This vision
and direction for each rural community is captured in a Road Map.
Place Vision
Each Road Map should be owned by the local community, and be delivered in
partnership with the community, Council, and private investment, and State and
Federal Government support where appropriate. The Road Map directly responds
to the opportunities and challenges expressed. The diagram (adjacent) shows the
stages within the road map.
In summary, it describes the following:
• Community strengths and assets: identifies community strengths and assets
that will help to make this project successful;
• Place and Principles: the Vision is the community’s belief and understanding
of their place, while the Principles underpin how future work in Rural City of
Murray Bridge should be delivered;
• Strategic initiatives:
• One Big Idea: are Big Wins, Small Wins or a combination of both
that seeks to support the community’s strength and assets, through
collaboration between council, local businesses and the community.
• Big Wins: identifies key supporting projects for each town to further
activate the Vision and Principles and are generally a council led iniative;
• Small Wins: identifies community-led, achievable projects that are low
cost.
Principles
Initiatives
Big
Wins
One Big Idea
Figure 1 - Road Map Diagram
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Small
Wins
One BIG Idea - ‘work with the community assets and strengths’
Small Wins - ‘Community led Action’
These assets can be physical places such as the local school or market, or they can
describe the intangible aspects of place such as local traditions or unique characters.
The small wins are collections of ideas that have come from the community. They
are simple, require little funding and address the immediate needs of the community
‘on the ground’. The emphasis is on providing realistic and achievable ideas to inspire
the community to take action and ownership in the activation of their community.
These assets provide an insight into what is valued and working within a town,
and a sturdy platform to work from, when establishing strategies for further
improvements.
For each community in the Rural City of Murray Bridge, we have identifed key
community assets or strengths to work into ‘one big idea’ have been identified. This
‘one big idea’ will be the catalyst project that will seek to energise the community
and help to deliver other projects and ‘small wins’.
For each community in the Rural City of Murray Bridge, we have described a
selection of ‘small wins’. Rural City of Murray Bridge Council has allocated funds
for the implementation of these small wins. The small wins can be found in the
accompanying Small Wins Handbook designed for the community and the Imagine
Ambassadors to own and deliver with the support of the Rural City of Murray Bridge.
Big Wins
The supporting strategic recommendations and actions for each rural community
are from ideas generated by the community through our engagement process and
have been developed into either projects or strategies that support the ‘one big
idea’ Big Wins are generally Council led initiatives.
For each town in the Rural City of Murray Bridge, we have identified supporting
projects that will either help to:
• Enhance the number of great places within each town
• Increase the things to do
• Improve the liveability of the community
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Rural City of Murray Bridge
Road Map
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Caring
The community actively seeks out
new ways of doing business. They
are working closely with one another
and with the land. Small business and
growth is encouraged and supported.
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The wisdom and knowledge of the
community is embraced, people
from all walks of life have a place in
the region and they are respected
and warmly welcomed into the
community.
Healthy
Connected
Sport and activity is part of life for the
Rural City of Murray Bridge not only
is it encouraged, it is also the bond
that glues the rural communities
together.
The rural communities are connected
by their passion for and respect
of the Murray River and the
environment. They are connected
by their deep understanding and
passion for the regions history.
Murray Bridge regional marketing and tourism initiative
Murray Bridge regional logo and branding initiative
Murray Bridge events initiative
Rural City of Murray Bridge wayfinding initiative
Rural City of Murray Bridge accessibility initiative
Establish strong and inclusive governance model
Big
Wins
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Resiliant
Resilience is at the region’s core.
The community has faced much
hardship together from floods to
drought, good cropping seasons
to dismal seasons. Through these
shared experiences the community
has bonded.
Keeping people informed of program
Accommodation
Economic development initiative
Community Groups and Volunteer Resource Program
Natural environment protection program
Place Primciples
Enterprising
Vision
The Rural City of Murray Bridge is an enterprising and innovative community.
It looks to the future with confidence, secure in the knowledge that decisions made today
will help to create a place of opportunities.
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
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Big Wins for the Rural City of Murray Bridge//
1. Murray Bridge regional marketing and
tourism initiative
Village Well recommends the creation of the of the Murray
Bridge Regional Marketing Initiative in collaboration with
Council, stakeholders and the community.
Tourism, marketing and communications are the glue.
They have the potential to bring Murray Bridge and rural
community together by creating a rural story that connects the
communities.
Respect and enhance existing events and work with the energy
that is naturally occurring in the community. Co-program with
community partners’ events and activities, both in the Murray
Bridge and the region so that an integrated story is promoted
throughout the region.
2. Murray Bridge regional logo and
branding initiative
Allow individual community’s to express their identities. This
expression could be in the form of a logo, an event, a local
character or historian.
Develop a Murray Bridge regional logo and branding initiative
that encompasses the unique Place Essence of each rural
community.
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3. Murray Bridge events initiative
A rural events calendar which co-ordinates all the events
from across the region, will help to further connect each rural
community and showcase their individual identities. Events
could leverage off complementary events, like a fresh produce
story across the region, that begins at one town and ends in
another. As a starting point, work with events that already exist
or are in development.
4. Rural City of Murray Bridge wayfinding
initiative
Making it easier for people to navigate and explore the region
will have positive implications for local economic activity.
Tourists, including those arriving on the paddle steamers and
bus trips, and other visitors from nearby regions are likely
to stay longer and spend more money in a good pedestrian
environment.
High quality wayfinding signage and maps will enable people
to develop an accurate picture of the centre of Murray Bridge
and the surrounding rural communities that shows them the
coherent story and connections between them.
Whilst a regional wayfinding strategy is likely to be a major
investment, it is a logical step in connecting the rural
communities and Murray Bridge into a legible whole.
5. Rural City of Murray Bridge
accessibility initiative
Consult with the community and develop a walking and cycling
initiative for the whole Rural City. Many communities expressed
a desire to be able to cycle and walk safely between locations,
particularly between Gifford Hill and the Murray Bridge
town centre. A steering committee comprising Council and
community members with interests in walking and cycling for
transport and recreation could guide the development of the
strategy.
Work currently being undertaken by Rural City of Murray Bridge
through the Integrated Traffic and Transport Management Plan
could feed into this initiaitvestrategy. Elements for the initiative
may include, but are not limited to:
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Delivery of infrastructure to provide a complete network
for walking and cycling activity
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Advocating to other agencies (such as DTI) for works and
maintenance to improve infrastructure
Facilitating the development of programs that engage
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community in walking and cycling activity; and
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Prioritising walking and cycling in the planning of new
urban infrastructure and design.
From the community engagement it was also apparent that
there is a lack of transport options. A long-term goal might be to
work with the State Government to review bus services in the
area. In the interim, the use of community run buses may help
with access.
6. Establish strong and inclusive
governance model
Strong leadership and communication is one of the most
important elements in the implementation of the Murray Bridge
Regional Placemaking Strategy. Village Well recommends the
Rural City of Murray Bridge appoints a Regional Place Manager.
The reporting structure could assist the Council in managing its
communications with the community, ambassadors and traders.
The Place Manager could assist with the delivery and
implementation of small wins and supporting projects across
the region; they could also work the community associations
and volunteers.
7. Keeping people informed of program
Change takes time and can be challenging. It is important to let
the community know where the process is at and be honest
about achievements and possible challenges. Keep the process
transparent and develop a strategy to keep the community
informed about progress and milestones. Recognise the positive
contributions of the community and promote this widely.
Develop an ongoing review process for the community to review
the projects, process and progress and provide opportunities
for ongoing feedback and review within the community.
Consider a number of different modes of communication to suit
the different demographics within the community. i.e. street
notice board, letter drop, community meetings, events, blogs,
Facebook and/or Twitter. Continue with the Imagine Your Rural
City website and small wins program.
8. Accommodation
There is a shortage of accommodation in the region both
in terms availability and variety. The accommodation
currently available is suited to self-contained caravans and/
or houseboats. The availability of accommodation should be
further investigated, as should appropriate locations within the
Rural City of Murray Bridge suited to boutique and/or affordable
accommodation. Examples include social housing overlooking
the river (top right image) and Riverglen Marina cottages
(bottom right image).
In the interim, the amount of low cost or free caravanning and
camp may be increased. From the community engagement it
was evident that the community were interested in opening
up the use of some ovals and/or reserves. Monarto was an
example of a community that sees tourists as a way of activating
the sports complex.
9. Economic development initiative
Work with Regional Development Australia Murraylands
and Riverland to appoint a designed Economic Development
Office to assist the region to deliver upon a range of economic
initiaitves.
10. Community Groups and Volunteer
Resource Program
From the community engagement and research it was evident
that a range of volunteer organisations are already operating
in the community, some are stronger than others and each has
their unique interest. We suggest creating a Volunteer Resource
Program, which may provide the following:
Community Database: Murray Bridge LGA have a breadth of
community groups and organisations. Investigate the opportunity
to map these assets with an online database.
Community Group Resource Website: Investigate the possibility
of setting up a website with resources on fund raising and grant
opportunities, volunteering, legal issues, and a database of other
community groups. Link in with the Imagine Your Rural City
website.
Community Groups and Volunteer Networking Event: Organise
an event where groups can come together, exchange stories and
investigate opportunities for working together. It may also provide
an opportunity for community groups to promote their services
and encourage volunteerism.
Build on what’s working: The school shop and kitchen garden are
both highly successful programs run by the Mypolonga Primary
School. Investigate setting up a similar program in other rural
communities, using the skills of the local community to assist with
its establishment.
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Big Wins for the Rural City of Murray Bridge//
11. Natural environment protection
program
Conservation of native flora and fauna was a region wide issue.
The community are keen to protect existing flora and fauna
whilst providing the conditions for more to occur in the area.
Suggestions included:
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Using native plant species in all public planting efforts
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Reducing the speed limit or installing signage on roads to
protect the fauna;
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Creating ‘vegetation corridors’ to separate the wildlife
from heavy vehicle movement;
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Creating a planting guide to assist residents and
businesses to better understand suitable vegetation for
the region;
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Working with the local schools to gradually revegetate the
Murray River;
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Discussion about the river murray ensuring appropriate
development occurs in close proximity to the river which
protects the natural beauty of the riparian zone.
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Murray Bridge Road Map
Murray Bridge is a vibrant regional centre with both an urban and rural heart. It features a diverse and
welcoming community, with opportunities for tourism based its location, environment, heritage and culture.
The natural beauty of the river and the country landscape make Murray Bridge a great place to live, work,
relax and do business.
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Investment in Gifford Hill
The Youth
The Arts and Culture Community
Heart
An active and vibrant hub, the pulse
of the region. Murray Bridge provides
opportunities for employment and
education.
Celebration
It’s a place of celebration. Its a place
to experience the arts, culture,
events and entertainment.
The community, the river and the
town centre are all celebrated.
Big
Wins
One Big Idea
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Sixth Street Revitalisation Strategy
Vision
Murray Bridge is a river town and regional heart. A vibrant destinational regional centre,
supporting both the local and broader community needs. A beautiful and
prosperous main street and activated river.
Destination
Empowered
Environment
Murray Bridge is a loved destination
for locals, and regional, interstate and
international tourists alike.
For some Murray Bridge is the
first impression to other rural
communities.
The size and heart of the community
is a positive partner in the renewal
of Murray Bridge. All it needs is
empowering.
A healthy natural environment, river
and ecosystem, protected for both
today’s community and tomorrow’s
enjoyment.
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Retail initiative
Create a community support business model for youth
Public music program and youth music hub
Murray Bridge youth online
The Round House Revitalisation
Information Hub for tourists and locals
Diversify Accommodation Offer
RSL as Conference Centre
Town Centre Wayfinding
River activation
Small
Wins
The small wins can be found in the
accompanying Small Wins Handbook
designed for the community and the
Imagine Ambassadors to own and deliver
with the support of the Rural City of
Murray Bridge.
Place Primciples
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Location – The best of both worlds. It acts as a
hub to the wider region, all within 40-minute
drive of Adelaide.
‘Great Bones’ – The streets and architecture have
a good sense of human scale and uniqueness.
Community
Strengths
and Assests
•
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
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One BIG Idea - Sixth Street Revitalisation Strategy
From the extensive community engagement it was evident
that there were four key areas to improve the Murray Bridge
Town Centre:
• Strengthening the retail mix
• Building on the existing arts and cultural facilities;
• Connecting the town centre to the river
• Revitalising the Town Centre.
In response to these opportunities, Village Well recommends
that Sixth Street be revitalised as a catalyst for the wider
revitalisation of the Murray Bridge Town Centre, through
supporting new forms of retail and the creation of arts
and cultural facilities, whilst also engaging with youth and
developing new forms of business.
Sixth Street will become a showcase, an example to the
community that visions and aspirations can, and will be
delivered ‘on the ground’.
There are various factors that make this site particularly
receptive to revitalisation as outlined below:
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By clustering projects in one small area, it can magnify
the impact and encourage opportunities for projects to
support each other.
Sixth Street has ‘great bones’, it is an attractive street
with distinct architectural detailing and good human
scale.
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Sixth Street revitalisation provides an opportunity to
work with key existing established anchors like the
Murray Bridge Hotel, Murray Bridge Regional Gallery and
Balcony.
Sixth Street can provide a platform for new business and
an example for others to follow.
The activation of Sixth Street will encourage stronger
connections to Bridge St, the river, parklands and the
Market Place Shopping Centre.
The revitalisation will compliment the opening of the
Market Place Shopping Centre by drawing people up the
street to the new retail development.
Sixth Street revitalisation will strengthen communication
to support and nourish pride in the town and the existing
community initiatives, arts and culture.
Village Well recommends the following three key initiatives,
detailed in the adjacent diagram:
1. Place merchandising and training
2. Testing the vacant shopfronts with the community
3. Using the shopfronts within Sixth Street to promote what
is happening around town.
Initiatives for the Sixth Street
Revitalisation
1. Place merchandising and Training for a one-stop coffee shop
Revamp a disused shopfront to become a coffee shop/
community information point. The coffee shop should become
a place where locals can meet to network and understand the
revitalisation process while enjoying the ritual of good food and
good coffee.
The shopfront and customer service experience will be
developed with the assistance of place merchandising
professionals to offer an experience loved by locals, tourists and
visitors on their way through.
2. Test It – create an avenue for community driven projects to
use vacant spaces
Create three pilot projects along Sixth Street, encouraging the
community to use the disused buildings and spaces within the
town centre. These projects can then be used as a discussion
tool for other vacant spaces across the region.
3. What’s on – Vacant Shopfront Program
Use the surrounding vacant shopfronts as free community
platforms for local business and community.
All the community to promote its festival and activities
across Murray Bridge in the vacant shopfronts. This creates a
dialogue within the community and strengthens connections
between people, organisations, businesses and institutions. All
contributing to the growth and development of the community.
Other uses for vacant retail spaces throughout the town centre
include:
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Ad hoc promotion of groups, events, community activities
and council developments.
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Temporary exhibition spaces, creative ways of
communicating projects.
Local artwork.
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Case Study: Northern Exposure - Northcote Victoria
The annual event presented by the Northcote Business
Association, supports community and local business and
nurtures local artists.
This year’s festival features thirty window installations in shop
fronts along the main street.
Each installation is collaboration between artist and traders.
The exhibition runs 24 hours a day for three weeks, drawing
local crowds and visitors both day and night. Other ideas
include:
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Lighting of the Town Hall
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Art Gallery promotion
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Market gardens.
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Murray Bridge Big Wins
1. Retail initiative
Develop a strategy to define retail precincts within Murray Bridge and create a plan
for how these precincts will grow into the future. This will create a long-term action
plan and act as a framework for the growth of various retail and community projects.
Such as:
• Sixth Street revitalisation
• Music and events program
• Youth business ideas (including the music hub and website).
Aspects to consider are:
• Ongoing capacity for use of the vacant shopfronts throughout the centre.
• A leasing initiative that subsidies rent to support growth.
• Using the intersections at Bridge and Sixth Street to encourage foot traffic from
the Market Place Shopping Centre.
• Wayfinding and creating retail anchors and pathways.
• Consider a pedestrian and vehicular movement study to look at entry into the
town both from a local and regional perspective.
• Ensuring the amenity for cyclists is maintained.
• Working withing existing planning conditions, including council’s commitment to
the Market Place development.
• Council and community leasing agreement: Develop and design with the
community the precincting of the street to understand how they see the street
unfolding.
• Identifying trader “book ends”.
• Expand arts precinct around the town hall, courts and police station.
We suggests the initiative includes an in depth analysis of the access, policy and
commercial interest of the retail areas and providers. This will identify strategies that
can facilitate growth and local retail profitability toward the vision of Murray Bridge.
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The community recognised the following gaps in the retail offering:
• Nightlife
• Quality eating places
• Good accommodation
• Entertainment
• Destinational stores and retail anchors.
Working with current traders and existing community networks to reinvigorate the
main street, and to nourish and celebrate the local flavours while understanding the
community’s aspirations. Central to this is developing the relationship and connection
between retail and service provision, the waterfront and surrounding suburbs.
Other aspects that were suggested by the community (some of which have been
incorporated through the various recommended projects) should be considered
within the ongoing retail strategy:
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Integrated street art
Improved public seating
A meeting place with a heart
Shops to display public art as a way of beautifying the main street
A retail outlet for local art
Shelter the streets so alfresco dining works better
Encourage locals to eat out for dinner.
2. Create a community support business model for youth
The suggested model is a rent subsidy plan to help new businesses enter into the area
and encourage the younger generation of Murray Bridge to develop their ideas for the
town.
Using the vacant shop fronts to develop a platform for new business, particularly
youth. One suggestion is to work with landlords to subsidise rental agreements and
leasing terms to encourage activation of shopfronts, The leasing agreement could be
a partially subsidised lease that is down scaled over time. This will be complimented
with a business support program in the form of training and review of business
strategies and plans.
A suggested 24-month subsidy program (to be evolved):
• Stage 1: 6 month fully subsidised leases (+2 month training, moving in and fit out
prior)
• Stage 2: 6 - 9 month partially subsidised lease (80%) – review of business strategy
and sign off for the following year
• Stage 3: 9 - 12 month partially subsidised lease (60%) – review of business
strategy
• Stage 4: 12 - 24 month partially subsidised lease (40%) – review of business
strategy and sign off on continued 3- 5-year lease.
•
•
•
•
Involve young people in a co-design process to develop the centre and the
management of it;
A workshop series for developing a business. Topics to include:
• Interior designing on the sly – recycling and cheap fit outs
• Setting up a business - money and the tax man
• Zero cost marketing opportunities and online – how to make Facebook
your moneymaker.
A brief and workshop process to do cheap fit outs;
An online platform:
• The best tools of business innovation and information about the
business hub and ideas space and community businesses.
• A communication platform and forum for creating business and
knowledge sharing.
• An online mentor matching program – developing a regional program
with successful entrepreneurs to provide advice and experience in
creating a business.
• This could be part of the wider youth blog.
This supports individuals testing an idea out for a certain period, and if it works
having the opportunity to continue developing this business. For council, it provides a
method to engage with youth, deal with unemployment, activate the town centre and
fill vacant leases.
This would involve creating spaces and management of:
• Creating an additional space to The Station that can be used as a business centre
(this can be an adapted shopfront). A creative space that allows young people to
be creative, network, have ideas and talk about them. The centre should have a
real street presence in the heart of the Town Centre.
//
21
22
//
3. Public music program and youth music hub
4. Murray Bridge youth online
Creating an music and learning program to support local and emerging
artists whilst adding to the social character of Murray Bridge. The two
initiatives work to support each other and create both a community
space for music creation and performance
in the public realm.
Create a website for young people to use and to communicate their
interests, network and explore their own identity and connection to their
town.
Music hub and community access for youth
As a pilot project provide a work space for music, dedicated to the youth
of Murray Bridge. Get everyone involved in strategies around the design,
management and ongoing use of the space.
Aspects of this facility include:
• Supporting local artists
• Recording studio
• Buying online
• Listening space
• Training (sound production etc.)
• Hang out (as an alternative to headspace)
• Equitable and accessible.
Suggested features of this website include:
• Direct image upload: so you can take photos from your phone then
text straight to the blog.
• Ability to connect into other popular social media networks:
Facebook, twitter, and wordpress. This can help to encourage
connectivity and capacity.
• Integrating a crowd funding capacity: an online method of
community funding supported by council, projects get put online
and anyone can view and financially support Money only comes out
if the project is 100% funded;
• Forums and regular topic updates: for example redevelopment of the
train carriages could be put up onto the forum for public debate and
discussion of how best to utilise;
• Articles page: editorial content relevant to the community; and
• Shared calendar of events and schedule for projects and
opportunities to participate in community projects.
Community music program
Create a music program at various scales from beginner through to
advanced performers at a variety of places around Murray Bridge. This
may require the support of council in regards to street performances. A
clear process for street performing or busking should be establish with
council, as should a venue schedule.
Suggested performance avenues include:
•
Buskers along Sixth street and the business district
More formalized street performances
•
•
Encouraging restaurants to offer alfresco live music.
//
23
5. The Round House Revitalisation
The Round House has the potential to be a true destination in Murray Bridge.
It’s unique appearance, riverside location and historical significance to the town,
already make this place a draw card. However, the building and its surroundings
could be better activated and more accessible to the broader public.
Unique and high quality dining experiences have the potential to be strong
attractors for visitors. As an example, Mildura’s most famous chef Stefano de
Pieri and his Italian restaurant Stefano’s have significantly improved Mildura’s
appeal to tourists both regionally and nationally.
As a strategy to activate, consider transforming the Roundhouse into a
destinational restaurant/cafe to attract visitors form Adelaide, interstate and
internationally. Partner with a nationally recognised chef to operate who is
passionate about local produce and revitalising Murray Bridge.
Before investing in significant funds to drive this adaptation, consider trialling the
product over a summer period with a satellite kitchen located at the rear of the
Round House. Consider the experience of a slow food festival, such as a summer
program of dining on the lawns of the Round House. Invite regional and South
Australian chefs to participate, creating a rotating menu inspired by seasonal
produce and Murray Bridge.
Partner with TAFE, as a way of providing pathways for youth in hospitality.
Actively collaborate with the Historical Society who currently manages the Round
House to ensure mutual aspirations are met.
Upgrade pedestrian access to and from the Round House and from the Round
House to the River.
24
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6. Information Hub for tourists and locals
7. Diversify Accommodation Offer
Create an information centre as the go to place for not only tourists but
for locals. The hub will be the place to find out everything about the
Rural City of Murray Bridge, from where to get a great lunch, to the place
to pick up tickets for Monarto Zoo and find a cheap and cheerful B&B
reservation for one of picturesque cottages down by the river.
Throughout many of our workshops with the community, the need for
diverse and quality accommodation was often raised.
The information centre will have strong links to Gifford Hill as it will be
the place in Murray Bridge to buy tickets to the races and a key pick up
point for the local shuttle bus to take patrons to and from the races.
While Murray Bridge does provide some options for accommodation,
there is a current gap in higher price range, boutique accommodation
experience and accommodation for larger groups. Currently there are no
options to enjoy accommodation close to the River
Some ideas that address these gaps include:
Village Well recommend considering two key locations for the
Information Hub, adjacent to the Round House or along Sixth Street.
Both locations have strong merits, as they work with existing attractors.
It is likely that the Round House location will attract more tourists due to
the riverfront location, while the Sixth Street location will attract a mix of
both tourists and locals, because of it’s proximity to local services.
•
Develop an IPhone application which provides tourists and locals with
details of upcoming events and activities with the rural city and rural
communities.
•
•
•
•
•
Activate the heritage cottages adjacent the Roundhouse as unique B
& B accommodation;
Investigate other cottages within walking distance of the Town
Center as potential B & B accommodation;
Provide unique accommodation at the Train Station;
Enable Caravanning visitors to park over night by the river at Sturt
Reserve;
Transform the old train carriages by the river as quirky
accommodation; and
Activate more upper levels on Sixth Street as ‘top shop’
accommodation.
Select a catalyst project and seek potential operators. Use assistance
from council and State Government to provide seed funding to attract
potential operators and activate a catalyst project.
Explore as many ways as possible to attract ‘over-nighters’. Think outside
the box. For example visitors to Lorne, can easily borrow DVD’s from the
local video store without being a member.
//
25
8. RSL as Conference Centre
9. Town Centre Wayfinding
Providing a new riverfront conference centre was seen as an important
opportunity throughout many of our workshops with the community.
While many community members showed interest in new river front
development such as the conference centre, others were against such
development, as protecting the riverfront in its current form was of more
importance.
Throughout many of our workshops with the community providing stronger
wayfinding throughout the town centre was a reoccurring theme.
In response to these needs, we propose testing the use of the Murray
Bridge RSL Club as venue for future conferences. The RSL Club positioned
on the Princess Highway, is an ideal conference venue as it is newly
constructed, has waterfront views and overlooks the town centre.
•
As it is located across the river, activating this building for conference
functions will encourage more visitors to venture across the river.
•
It is expected that marketing Murray Bridge town centre as a national
conference destination will evolve and strengthen overtime. It would be
feasible to use the RSL as an interim venue for smaller conferences to test
needs immediate needs at a relatively low impact or cost.
26
//
Some ideas that will strengthen wayfinding include:
•
•
•
•
•
Incorporate wayfinding to direct people to the River from the Main
Street;
Incorporate wayfinding to define entrances, i.e. Gateways such as
Adelaide Road, Mannum Road;
Make use of existing landmarks as part of the Wayfinding experience.
I.e. Up-light the Bridge, Silos, Railway Building and Round House as
important visual anchors by night;
Incorporate way finding that will get people walking and riding along
the river;
Incorporate wayfinding that will help define the retail precincts;
Use street art as wayfinding; and
Create a Main Street/ town centre brand.
10. River activation
•
Conduct a design audit of the recently constructed out-door stage on Sturt
reserve, to better understand why it is not being used and how it can be better
utilised. Including possible outdoor café space for a pop-up operator and/or
regular music program by the river;
•
Conduct a feasibility study to explore options to activate the old train carriages
by the river;
Throughout many of our workshops with the community, re-connecting with the
River’s edge was a reoccurring theme.
Some ideas that will strengthen connections and re-activate the River include:
•
Activate the Roundhouse and neighboring cottages making these assets more
accessible to the wider public;
•
Conduct a feasibility study to explore ways to activate old rail yard;
•
Enable caravanning visitors to park over night by the river at Sturt Reserve;
•
•
Encourage the newly relocated library to utilise the adjacent reserve as an
extension of the library. The library should provide a program of summer reading
and lending on the reserve. Bryant Park in NY uses a similar model through their
“Out-door Reading Room”. The Reading Room enables members of the public
to read newspapers, magazines, periodicals and an eclectic collection of books
free of charge and without having library cards or identification. The Reading
programs run at lunchtime, after-work and for kids. Movable furniture is used
to define the Reading Room with kid sized carts and kids sized furniture to use.
Perhaps compliment this, with a regular music program by the river;
Re-fresh the Skate Park and surrounding seating as a co-design process with
interested local youth. Develop a co design strategy to work with youth
in renovating the skate park and creating a community art piece. This will
reinvigorate this place for youth and allow the youth of Murray Bridge to create a
distinct personality and identity of place from their viewpoint;
•
Activate the river with community events, like raft building races, canoeing and
canoe hire; and
•
Audit and improve amenities to Sturt Reserve to ensure it can easily be used as
an out-door programmed event space,lighting and power supply.
•
Extend the Lavender Federation Walking Trail passed Sturt Reserve to the Round
House. Generally introduce and expand bike paths and walking paths along the
river. Install bike racks where appropriate;
•
Program Sturt Reserve, both day and night and seasonally;
•
Consider a monthly Country Market during the warmer months. Consider food
stalls and out-door dining on the river. Food stalls representing the diverse
community. E.g. Sudanese, Yugoslavian, Croatian and Chinese;
•
Consider an annual Battle of the Bands music festival on Sturt Reserve;
//
27
Gifford Hill Road Map
The development of Gifford Hill is a key catalyst in the renewal process for the Rural City of Murray Bridge. It
will have a significant positive influence on industry, employment, the living environment and the community
of the region.
It represents an opportunity to build Murray Bridge as a destination, creating a prosperous future and
renewed identity. It will help to strengthen Murray Bridge’s connections to Adelaide, not only as destination
to experience, but also as an opportunity for people living interstate and intrastate to relocate to the region.
28
//
•
•
•
A new opportunity, a fresh start to realise the
community vision
Diversity of housing stock
The equine facility attracting people from across
the region.
Inclusive
Unique
Legacy
Its connection to Murray Bridge
is evident through its physical
connections and an integrated
community. Gifford Hill is a vital link
between the ‘old’ and the ‘new’.
Gifford Hill presents an opportunity
to strengthen this region as a
destination and redefine its identity
to create a prosperous uture.
A state of the art equine facility in
the heart of Murray Bridge, grounded
by its vibrant and friendly town
centre and local community.
Both the Racing Club and Murray
Bridge story are embedded in Gifford
Hill. Gifford Hill people know their
past, present and future. Gifford Hill
is a leaving a legacy for the region,
creating a great place for all.
Big
Wins
One Big Idea
•
Creating a Collection of
Experiences
•
•
Confidence
Vision
Gifford Hill will be a world-class facility and leading edge destination in the equine industry. It is grounded
by its vibrant and friendly town centre and local community. It is a place that connects the past,
and holds the vision for the Murray Bridge community into the future.
Enjoyment
Gifford Hill represents a catalyst for
“ A hub of activity” workshop
change in Murray Bridge, carrying the participant. Gifford Hill is a blend of
hopes and visions for the community. experiences for all of the community
to enjoy including arts, music and
culture. Gifford Hill is about getting
outdoors, living sustainably and
feeling connected to your community
socially.
Supporting the creation of an evening economy
Men’s Shed - delivering small projects for the new
Gifford Hill
Small
Wins
Murray Bridge.
Place Primciples
The Racecourse as a destination
The Tavern
The Village Centre
Cultural and physical connections to Murray
Bridge
Community
Strengths
and Assests
•
•
•
•
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
//
29
One BIG Idea - Creating a Collection of Experiences
Ideas for delivery
2
Key to the success of any new development like Gifford
Hill, will be the delivery of experiences in the lead up to
the opening and well after the launch has passed. These
experiences should embody the essence of Gifford Hill,
setting the standard for new experiences to come as the
project evolves over time. The ideas are grouped into the
Lead Up, Day 1 and Post Launch.
Lead Up
1
30
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Race Day events in Murray Bridge
In the lead up to the opening of the Murray
Bridge Race Club facility, consider a range of
horse race inspired events in Murrary Bridge,
suggestions include:
• Horse inspired parade down the main
street;
• Exhibition at the Murray Bridge Regional Art
Gallery documenting the history of the Race
Club in Murray Bridge; and
• 1920s theme at the races, a dinner and
dance at the Town Hall.
3
4
Connecting the new and the old
Gifford Hill represents the merging of old and
new communities. There is an opportunity to
respectfully embed the ‘old’ Murray Bridge Race
Club story and Murray Bridge story into Gifford
Hill, while providing a platform for new stories to
emerge. The strategies aim to celebrate existing
traditions and history while allowing room for
new traditions and stories to emerge
Sharing of Stories
Provide an opportunity for the historians
of Murray Bridge to share their stories and
history. The information collected can later
be embedded throughout Gifford Hill. History
could be collected through a workshop with the
design project team and interested community
members. After the history is collected it could
be presented as an exhibition in the Murray
Bridge Art Gallery or Council.
Equine Photo Competition
The equine facility could host an annual photo
competition to the public. Encouraging the public
to submit great horse related photos, the prize
could be tickets to the Gold Cup and associated
member’s club dinner. The photos could be
displayed publicly as an exhibition in the Village
Centre of Gifford Hill or in the mainstreet.
Day 1 Experiences
5
Free Community Open Day of the Equine Facility
The equine facility could host an annual ‘back of
house’ open day for the public. Giving members
of the public a first glimpse behind-the-scenes to
view the new state-of-the art facility.
The Community Open Day could become an
annual event for the Murray Bridge Race Club,
drawing in crowds not only from Murray Bridge,
but also from Adelaide. Similar to the Open
House experience held in Melbourne annually,
visit the website for more information:
www.melbourneopenhouse.org
6
Links to Murray Bridge – ‘Day 1’ Bike Ride
Integrate beautiful, comfortable and accessible
bike/walking paths throughout Gifford Hill that
easily connect the development to Murray
Bridge. Ensure that these paths are accessible on
‘Day 1’.
Consider free shuttle buses between Murray
Bridge and Gifford Hill are available on ‘Day 1’.
Consider Rickshaw transport from the Village
Centre to Racecourse on
Race days.
7
An activated village square/heart
Ensure that square in the Village Centre is activated
on ‘Day 1’.
• Deliver the best quality coffee on ‘Day 1’ in the
square;
• Ensure the square acts as a programmed space
on ‘Day 1’. Consider a Place Manager responsible
for the management and curation of this space;
and
• Have live entertainment and performances.
Post Launch
8
9
Equine learning programs in schools
Equine specialists, trainers and jockey’s could create
partnerships with local schools both secondary and
primary by:
• Conducting educational talks in schools
• Sponsoring local equine scholarships
• Supporting the transition from secondary school
to a career in the equine industry through
education or a traineeship.
Community Events
Ensure community events like the open day, the arts
and photo competition continue both at Gifford Hill
and at Murray Bridge.
//
31
Gifford Hill Big Wins
1. Supporting the creation of an evening
economy
Ensure new traders in the Village Centre are open beyond
‘standard’ hours to promote an evening economy.
Provide good mix of programmed events that encourage an
evening economy. Some ideas suggested by the community
include:
• Open air farmers market in the square
• An outdoor cinema
• Live music; and
• Buskers and performers.
32
//
Gifford Hill Big Wins
2. Men’s Shed - delivering small projects for the
new Gifford Hill
Extend the Murray Bridge Men’s Shed to include a Gifford
Hill chapter, that is responsible for the delivery of small scale
projects in Gifford Hill. These projects could collaborate with
landscape architects and the community. Projects could
include, park benches or communal dining tables for the new
Tavern.
Paynesville Mens Shed
Paynesville Mens Shed
//
33
Monarto Road Map
Monarto is an important place both for the Rural City of Murray Bridge and South Australia. Its location,
availability of space and ease of access to major transport routes make it a favourable place to attract
industry and investment into the region.
Likewise the location, natural beauty and Monarto Zoo are favourable to attracting visitors and residents to
the region.
34
//
•
•
employment hub
The community’s willingness to be involved in its
future
The community’s participation in environmental
management and protection
The availability of sporting facilities
Vision
•
•
Monarto is a place to experience innovation in industry and development. Its community is connected
and actively involved in their future. Monarto is recognised for its environmental
and economic performance.
Communication
The community communicates
openly and honestly with one
another. Their voices are listened too
and they are actively involved in their
future.
Environmentally
Sustainable
Sustainable industries that do not
compromise the health of the
environment or community, now
or in to the future. The community
and Council balance both the needs
for development and the need to
conserve the natural area.
Big
Wins
One Big Idea
•
The Monarto Community
Association
•
•
•
Destination
Connection
Monarto’s range of tourist attractions
including the Monarto Zoo, coupled
with its high quality visitor services
and amenity, bring many tourists into
the region.
A community that cares for one
another and meets and socialises
regularly. There is a variety of places
for all of the community to meet
and connect. Monarto is also well
connected to Adelaide and to the
region.
Working Party for Planning and Economic
Development
Working Party for the Protection of Native Flora and
Fauna
Working Party for Sport and Recreation
Small
Wins
Murray Bridge.
Place Primciples
•
•
Monarto Zoo and its international recognition as
being a leader in its breeding and environmental
management programs
Opportunities for tourism
Industrial/commercially zoned land ready for
investment
Opportunity for the development of a regional
Community
Strengths
and Assests
•
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
//
35
One BIG Idea - The Monarto Community Association
“My dream for our community is, regardless of development
and commerce, is to live in a community that cares about
each other. A community that holds regular gatherings
and has fun things to do.” Imagine your Rural City in 2020,
Workshop Participant (Vision 2020)
From the research and workshop findings it was evident that
the community’s motivation and involvement was a key asset
to Monarto. They are passionate about the environment
and the future growth and development of their town. We
believe the community, if empowered and supported by
Council, has the ability to unlock the true potential of their
town.
Currently the community feels they have lost some of their
facilities as a result of tourism and development. When
compared with the nearby town of Callington, Monarto do
not have a hotel, café or general store. The following list
summarises the ideas to increase the number opportunities
available to the community of Monarto:
•
•
•
•
We suggest formalising the work and development the
community is already doing, combing this with the efforts of
Council and connecting the various community groups with
one another. We believe this could be achieved with the
development of a community association.
Why this is important
As it is not possible for either Council or community to
deliver projects on their own, it makes sense to capitalise on
the energy and enthusiasm of all involved.
The establishment of a community association is aligned with
the principles of the region and the principles of Monarto. It
provides the community with an outlet for its ‘Voice’ to be
heard and both Rural City of Murray Bridge and Monarto and
opportunity to ‘Connect’.
36
//
Better use of the sporting oval for community events,
BBQ’s and fetes
Reinstate the Monarto sporting community (netball,
football and tennis)
Activities for young people and children (adventure play
area, skate park)
Working with the private sector to improve the
employment and recreation opportunities for young
people (partnership with Council and the Zoo).
Activities for the Monarto
Community Association
Funding and Support
For the association to be successful it must be financial and
either receive funding for projects and community interventions
directly, or be able to apply for funding set aside especially for
the association. Associations often require a part-time paid
employee to handle the administrative duties.
Contact interested parties
Using the contact details collected from the workshop, the
ambassadors and the current community leaders, hold a
meeting to announce the formation of the association and the
intention behind the associations formation.
Establishing a variety of working parties
Work with the association to establish working parties based
on the interests of the community. The number and speciality
of the party will be determined by the community, however we
believe it is important to consider the following:
•
•
•
Planning and Economic Development;
Protection of Native Flora and Fauna; and
Sport and Recreation.
Formalising the association
Work with the association to support its incorporation. Discuss
the Terms of Reference, the reporting structure and financial
reporting obligation.
Partnerships
Partnerships are important for the association in delivering
projects aligned with community needs and strategic directions.
Help the association to establish partnerships with the Council,
community, education institutions and private investors. This
will help to empower the association to enact change in its
community.
Real Projects
The association needs to work on real projects, ones that are
raised by the community and agreed upon by Council. As a
first attempt, we have sorted the projects identified by the
community and placed them under the relevant working party.
We have also attempted to explain the responsibility of each
party. This can be seen under supporting projects.
//
37
Monarto Big Wins
1. Working Party for Planning and Economic
Development
2. Working Party for the Protection of Native
Flora and Fauna
Focus on the long-term growth and development of Monarto.
Protect the current flora and fauna whilst working towards the
ongoing revegetation of Monarto.
Suggested projects include:
• Improve Industry: improve the current performance of
industry in Monarto. Work with operators to create a
vegetation buffer to absorb any potential smells, and
improve the visual amenity
• Monarto Community Plan: Working with the Council
to consider some of the suggestions raised in the 2000
Monarto Community Plan.
• Community run General Store: liaise with the landowners,
and work with the community to redevelop the General
Store at Monarto South. The General Store could function
as a community centre, with a community run café,
store and information centre. Similar to the Mypolonga
School Shop, the profits could go back into the shop and
eventually pay wages.
• Jobs and training for young people: work with the Council,
local industry and education institutions to provide on-thejob training that incorporates a certificate or diploma.
• Development of a Tourism Strategy: the Monarto Zoo
attracts local, national and international visitors to the area,
most leave as there are no facilities for them. Suggestion
from the community include:
• Marketing and promotion of the other attractions in
the area not just of the zoo
• Improve the range and availability of accommodation
• Events calendar with regular events in the area.
38
//
Monarto Big Wins
• Revegetation of the entry into Monarto and along the
roadside: hold community planting days with the local and
broader community.
• Improve wildlife signage and information: the community
would like better signage for vehicles to slow down and also
who to contact if the injur wildlife.
• Planting Guide: create a planting guide recommending the
types of plant to plant in Monarto and the broader region.
• Supporting CFS in Monarto: the CFS is important for
the safety of the community as well as the safety of
the environment. Support the CFS by promoting the
volunteering opportunities available, and provide
opportunities for the CFS to leverage off. For example a
percentage of sales from a community BBQ.
Gifford Hill Supporting Projects
Monarto Big Wins
3. Working Party for Sport and Recreation
Responsible for developing and supporting opportunities
for Monarto residents to participate in sport and recreation
activities.
• Audit Community Facilities: it is our understanding that the
current community is not using the sport and recreation
facilities in Monarto well. We suggest the working party
conducts an audit of the existing facilities and works
with the community to understand why these spaces are
not being used. From the workshops it appears that the
facilities are not being used as there is no Monarto football,
netball or tennis teams.
• Monarto Reserve: the community would like to install a
playground, BBQ area and public art in the reserve.
//
39
Mypolonga Road Map
The Mypolonga community is recognised across the region for its peaceful rural living and community spirit.
The Mypolonga Primary School is a major attractor of primary school aged children to the region. The ‘School
Shop’ located at the Mypolonga Primary School is a great example of this community spirit and motivation.
40
//
•
•
Food production in the town
Peaceful
Communiity
Resilience
Healthy living, healthy families. A
safe, beautiful and welcoming place
where people are happy to raise a
family. Mypolonga is a place loved
by its local residents for the peaceful
rural living. It is a community that
welcomes visitors and the prospect
of growth and the new residents this
may bring.
The community spirit in Mypolonga is
its biggest asset. Sharing the lessons
learned and knowledge with the
whole of Murray Bridge will not only
celebrate the success, but also boost
the other regional towns.
A strong and resilient future.
Harnessing and unleashing the
creative capacity of the community,
whilst looking positively to the future.
Big
Wins
One Big Idea
Vision
A can-do, caring and connected community
A place to experience peaceful rural living
•
Sharing Knowledge
•
•
Improved Connections
New Ways of Doing Business
Nourish
The community cares for one
another, the future of their town
and the natural environment. Local
industry and business is supported
with new ways of farming actively
encouraged.
Small
Wins
Murray Bridge.
Place Primciples
•
Enthusiastic and motivated school and sporting
community
No fuss and hands-on approach to getting things
done
Innovative and entrepreneurial minded
Community
Strengths
and Assests
•
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
//
41
One BIG Idea - Sharing Knowledge
Throughout the Imagine Your Rural City project when we
have mentioned the success of Mypolonga to the community
we often hear the response “well, that’s just Mypolonga”.
This led us to ask what is it about the Mypolonga community
that gets things done and how do we spread this knowledge
across the region. For example:
•
•
The School Shop is an award-winning program run by
the Mypolonga Primary School community. The primary
school draws in students from the region.
The Mypolonga Combined Sports Club also runs
successful fundraising and community building programs
such as Trivia Nights and a dinner programs, holding at
least one event a fortnight.
Activities for the
Sharing Knowledge
To share the processes and learning’s from their programs we
suggest working with, and supporting the Primary School and
Combined Sports Club, through:
1
2
3
42
//
Open days and education evenings: Work with the
Primary School and Football club to host open days
and/or education evenings. The events could be
targeted towards both school leaders and principals, as
well as community leaders and the wider community.
Information booklet: People love to see the success of
other programs but often wonder “how did they do
it?” or “how can we make this happen in our town?”.
Work with the primary school and football club to
produce information booklets on the how, what, who,
when and where of their programs. Recognise and
reward community leaders and volunteers for the
positive contribution they make to the Mypolonga and
Woodlane community.
Marketing: build community exposure of Mypolonga
through the creation of a community website and
newsletter. There is the potential for this to be a
Council-wide initiative and run off the back of the
Imagine Your Rural City website that is currently
running.
4
Build on what’s working: The school shop and kitchen
garden are both highly successful programs run by
the Mypolonga Primary School. Investigate setting
up a youth kitchen where young people in and
around Mypolonga learn hospitality skills. There is an
opportunity to work with the Football Club and use
their club kitchen.
4
3
1
//
43
Mypolonga Big Wins
1. Improved Connections
As with most of the region, public transport is limited. This is an
area the Council is trying to improve currently. In the interim,
the community thought the school bus could be used out of
school hours to ferry people into Murray Bridge and Woodlane.
Potential or bike and pedestrian network trails through the
rural communities, enhancing accessibility.
Gifford Hill Supporting Projects
44
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Mypolonga Big Wins
2. New Ways of Doing Business
The community is interested in looking at new ways of doing
business. They are particularly interested in:
• New farming practices and ways of diversifying their
produce;
• Opening up access to the river for tourism and leisure
activities; and
• Creating a Mypolonga brand that captures the identity of
the town that can be used to label fruit and produce from
the area.
Ways to make this a success
Work with the local business community to further explore new
ways of doing business. This could be through a community
forum.
Work with landowners and building managers to create an
opportunity for local businesses to create a coffee shop by the
river. This could be seasonal with ice creams in summer and
soups and coffee in the winter.
Support local entrepreneurs with the training opportunities
they require to set up new businesses in Mypolonga and
Woodlane. Investigate networking and incubator opportunities
for home/small businesses.
Work with training providers, education institutions and local
businesses to increase access to training programs that lead to
employment in the local area for young people.
//
45
The string of pearls Riverglen, Woods Point, Jervois
and Wellington
The vision on the adjacent page captures some of the key outcomes from our
workshop with the communities of Riverglen, Woods Point, Jervois and Wellington.
While each town wished to retain their individual identity, the region as a whole felt
fragmented. There was a desire for greater linkages in terms of an overall vision and
infrastructure to link the region together.
Strengthening and promoting the connections between each of these places as a
unique tourist trail, will then in turn help address the individual needs of each town.
Some shared aspirations from the workshop included:
•
“Recognition of our uniqueness”
•
“To have pride in the community we live in”
•
“A realistic approach”
•
“Equality through the whole region”
Together these towns were described by workshop participants as being “the string
of pearls”, “corridor of Life” or the “path towards the lakes”.
As an introduction to the individual Road Maps for each town, we have further
developed some of the overarching strategies discussed as part of the workshop,
which will strengthen the connection and promotion between the towns.
46
//
‘Driving out of Murray Bridge towards Wellington. we head
south and call into Riverglen and White Sands for a picnic
break on the grass, where we take the children out on the
river in canoes for some exploring.
Then onto Woods Point, stopping at Willow Point Cellar Door
along the way to sample and buy some local wines. Driving
on the tourist road to Woods Point, we take a moment to
discover the historical signage and photos which describe
what Woods Point was once like, before arriving into the
now bustling village, filled with shops and cafés selling local
produce.
Onto Jervois, a quick visit to the library within the school.
We call in at the charming art gallery and craft shop now
occupying a disused dairy farm. Shopping bags in hand we
then head to Wellington for afternoon tea at the historic
Courthouse, and just as we are about to leave the band
starts. We decide to stay for dinner and enjoy our meal on the
lawn by the light of a lantern, listening to the sounds of the
band. ‘
Imagine your Rural City in 2020, Workshop Participant (Vision
2020)
Taming the land
History/era
HISTORY/TOURIST
PARK
FARM STAYS
ESES
GOURMET CHE
Wlton
“THE GOLD CITY!!”
FOLLOW THE RIVER
FLAT ROAD!!
“ART OF THE FLATS?”
RESERVE
PICNIC SPOT
FLORA
A TRAILS
FARM SHOPS
EG. GOURMET
PORK PRODUCTS
%?? RIVER PORK!!
JERVOIS
SPORTS
HISTORY
MILK BAR !!
W/POINT
HISTORY OF
ETC.
CELLR DOORS
WILLOW POINT
RIVERGLEN
MARINA
PATH TO THE
LAkes
Hand drawn impression of a 2020 vision exercise by a workshop participant
//
47
One BIG Idea - Connecting the “string of pearls”
Connecting the towns
newsletter to communicate news and events to its residents.
Opening up access by boat, bike, foot and road are important to
connect each of these towns. Suggestions include:
•
A Community run bus service;
•
Bike and walking trails either along the river or road; and
A jetty or boat landing at each town with access into town.
•
Renewal: find alternative uses for disused farms and buildings
to protect and enliven the heritage of the area.
Community facilities: invest in and activate the community
facilities. Community events could be held within the local
memorial park or community hall.
Promoting the experience
Development/Industry
Signage and wayfinding: Incorporate unique signage, which links
each town, while expressing the unique ‘flavour’ of each town.
Amenities: negotiate with local operators or provide adequate
toilet facilities to encourage visitation between the towns,
ensure facilities are well signposted.
Annual Bike Ride: the Jervois Road is relatively flat and
interesting, making it the perfect combination for riders to
experience the area. A variety of accommodation facilities are
needed to complete this experience including camping along
the river, staying in B&B’s or staying on a working farm.
Identity
The heritage of the area is at the core of its identity. Its peaceful
rural lifestyle and sense of community were seen as major
opportunities in attracting investment and residents.
Community Associations: establish a community association
with representation from each of the towns. The association
could run events in the local region, which alternate between
the towns, and host a range of events like BBQs and an outdoor
cinema experience. The association could also produce a
48
//
Broadly speaking participants were keen for growth to occur
however were clear they wanted it to be underpinned by
sustainable principles. New industries optimising the river and
flood plain were seen as desirable.
Tourism: work with SA Tourism Commission, the local
community and private investors to capitalise on the tourism
product offered within the region. Work with local operators to
create unique experiences like a farm stay in Jervois or a B&B
within the Marina Precinct.
Food and wine trail: a food, wine and arts trail that links
the region and captures the unique offering of each of the
towns. This could include wines, market vegetables, gourmet
cheeses, artisan crafts or artwork. Promoting more economic
opportunities for new industries to establish.
//
49
Riverglen Road Map
Riverglen is a key entry and exit point for visitors both along the Jervois Road and the river. The Riverglen
Marina plays an important role in this link. Tourists generally hire a house boat from the marina and travel
towards Murray Bridge, then onto Mypolonga. In this sense Riverglen is a key anchor in developing tourism in
the region.
Riverglen’s geographic location to Murray Bridge and existing residential development, make Riverglen an
ideal town for more residential development. Riverglen can provide residents with the opportunity to live
close to the activity of Murray Bridge whilst living in a peaceful river location.
50
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Access to the water front
Diversity of recreational facilities available to the community
Close proximity of the residential community.
Gathering
Activation
Connecting
A gathering place. A picnic on the
As Riverglen grows it is important
bank of the river is a traditional ritual to recognise the needs of this
of Riverglen and White Sands.
new community with facilities and
activities.
Big
Wins
One Big Idea
•
The Riverglen Marina
•
•
Sustainable
Create a river corridor between
Murray Bridge, Riverglen and White
Sands with a common flora and fauna
presence to connect the townships.
Tourist Accommodation
Strengthen the pedestrian and
bike connection to Swanport
The community of Riverglen is
environmentally conscious. New
development within the area is
respectful of the river, the current
community and the natural
environment.
Small
Wins
Murray Bridge.
Place Primciples
The river provides places for the community to gather and connect, it provides businesses with
the opportunity to prosper and in return development within Riverglen is respectful of the environment.
Vision
Community
Strengths
and Assests
•
•
•
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
//
51
One BIG Idea - The Riverglen Marina
The Riverglen Marina is not only a destination for visitors to
the area, it is also considered a public space by many of the
nearby residents. It is a place where the locals go to buy the
newspaper and milk.
The Riverglen Marina has the potential to become a buzz
of activity all through the year, not just in the peak tourist
seasons. Creating a place that is loved and used by the locals
will help to increase visitation and use from outside of the
area.
3
4
Initiatives for the Riverglen Marina
The strategies below are listed in order of priority to the
community. It is expected that they will be delivered in
conjunction with the Council, community and private
investment. The community may adopt individual strategies
separately as part of a small wins program.
52
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1
Playground: install a public playground for nearby
residents to bring children.
2
Community Notice Board: the Marina already has
an informal noticeboard on the window. Open up
access after hours with an external notice board that
is monitored by the Marina, however accessible by the
community.
5
BBQ Experience: install public BBQ facilities for local
residents and visitors to use. The Marina can then sell
BBQ packs and hampers to cater for an impromptu
visit. Have your food options available for sale at a
‘local resident’ rate including your Jervois Pastries and
BBQ hampers.
Seating: at the time of the visit the only public seating
available was at the top of the site close to the retail
outlet. Purchase seating that can be easily moved
and set up by the community and make this available
on the site. For example set up deck chairs by the
waterfront.
Visual Merchandising: the entry to, and interior of
the retail outlet could be enhanced, to reflect the
high quality amenity and experience for visitors and
residents.
As the business is a true mixed business and caters for
both the local and tourist visitor, the current offer is
confused. A quick enhancement would help to clarify
the offer to make it easier for shoppers.
6
Promote: first promote the changes and visitor
experiences to the residential community. This can be
done through an open day or a family picnic, have all of
the experiences available on offer and free, including:
•
Free use of the canoeing/kayaking equipment
•
Free rides on a house boat
•
Balloon artist and face painters in the playground.
7
Welcome signage: improve the welcome signage to
the marina, to reflect the high quality amenity and
experience for visitors and residents. Perhaps list the
activities available.
8
The best of the region cafe: work in partnership with
the Riverflat Café (Jervois) to build on the regional
experience. Start off with the basics that do well, then
diversify. Stock local products made within the area.
Pastries and cakes from Jervois and marmalades from
Mypolonga.
9
Waterfront kiosk: work within the limitation of the
flood regulations to set up a mobile kiosk area by the
waters’ edge. One that can be set up at the start of
each day and packed down at the end.
7
2
1
9
//
53
Riverglen Big Wins
1. Tourist Accommodation
Riverglen has good access to the river and access to a variety of sporting
activities. As such, they are visited by a loyal wakeboarding community
that currently stay in tents.
Access to the river could be better capitalised on by increasing the
availability and the variety of tourism accommodation available.
In the first instance, we recommend working with existing operators to
increase the availability and amount of accommodation.
White Sands Riverfront Caravan Park currently has powered and
unpowered sites suitable for camping in tents or for caravanning in your
own vehicle. It does not accommodate for an impromptu weekend visit
or less prepared travellers.
Riverglen Marina provides visitors with the opportunity to hire house
boats for a weekend, week or an extended period. The site does not
currently provide an onsite options however has the space and the
capabilities.
We suggest speaking with both operators about the challenges and
opportunities they see within their sites and finding ways to capitalise on
the opportunities.
For this investment to work, the greater experience and availability
needs to be promoted across the region and across the broader South
Australian Region.
54
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Riverglen Big Wins
2. Strengthen the pedestrian and bike
connection to Swanport
Given its location to Murray Bridge and Riverglen, the community see
Swanport as an important connection point. The community would like
Swanport to contribute to the regional trail or ‘pearls’ concept.
Strengthening the connection between Murray Bridge and Riverglen can
be seen as a way of encouraging day trippers both on foot, bike or by car
to travel towards Riverglen. This can be achieved by improving access and
by providing an attraction. Ideas include:
•
Attraction: a café would be well positioned adjacent to the reserve
near the Swanport Village Road, selling locally made food and
produce from the region.
•
Connection: the reserve provides a pleasant link to Riverglen,
improving the access by foot and by bike from Murray Bridge could
help to encourage visitation.
//
55
Woods Point Road Map
The community of Woods Point see their town as offering an alternative lifestyle experience to Riverglen and
White Sands, with larger allotments to experience rural living.
The community would like their town to be a place for sustainable development and classify sustainable
development as being non-intensive farming or animal production, and adaptively re-using old farm buildings
for new functions.
56
//
Rejuvenation
Character
Connection
The river provides the community
The community reflects on days gone
with an opportunity to relax and
by, when the Paddle Steamers visited
rejuvenate with canoeing and fishing. Woods Point filled with characters
brimming with laughter and fun.
Big
Wins
One Big Idea
•
Vineyards
•
•
•
There are many meeting places and
opportunities for residents who live
in and outside of the main town to
connect and meet regularly.
Bridge the gap to improve
community connection
Encouraging cottage industries
and artisan crafts
Revegetation and removal of the
Willows
Sustainable
Positive commerce and industries
that support the health of the
environment and community like
wine and cheese making, market
garden vegetables and artisan crafts.
Small
Wins
Murray Bridge.
Place Primciples
A quaint town with cottage style properties set on working farms, a rural identity worth retaining
with sustainable development. Woods Point, is a place we call home .
Vision
Community
Strengths
and Assests
Rural lifestyle and working farm culture
Emergent industries
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
•
•
//
57
One BIG Idea - Vineyards
Willow Point Cellar Door
Inspiring vineyards and cellar doors
Strategies for the Willow Point
Cellar Door
The Willow Point Cellar Door is the only winery within the
Rural City of Murray Bridge located between Riverglen and
Woods Point. It may not be currently seen as an asset by the
community, however it is a tourist asset that has the potential
to attract more visitors into the region. It also has the potential
to become a local meeting place for a drink or a bite to eat
on the weekend. The idea is to create a multi-purpose venue
that provides a variety of experiences. A good example of this
is the Annapurna Winery in Mt Beauty, Victoria. It features a
café and cellar door experience, then doubles as a function and
restaurant space at night. Refer to www.annapurnaestate.com.
au, for inspiration.
The strategies are listed in order of priority to the community
and it is expected that they may be delivered in conjunction
with the Council, and the Cellar Door.
Without much promotion it currently attracts an average of 20
visitors daily to the Cellar Door and sells its grapes to other wine
makers. It is a true local experience.
Willow Point’s location is promoted on street signage through
the region from Wellington and from Murray Bridge. The Cellar
Door is also promoted on various websites across the region.
Willow Point should be seen as a catalyst in attracting other
wineries and cellar doors to the region to create a cluster and
distinct tourism product. The Point Vineyard is also within the
area. Work is needed to enhance the visitor experience and
activate the Willow Point Cellar Door.
58
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1
2
6
Entry point: if you start with cars, you get cars. If you
start with design you get design, and if you start with
people you get people. Here we need a balance of all
three. The current entry statement is conveniently
designed to park cars and buses. It does however
detract from the local and charming visitor experience
of the winery.
Visual Merchandising: the entry to, and interior of
the cellar door could be enhanced, again to provide
that ‘charming’ and ‘local’ winery experience. Visual
Merchandising at the winery would build upon the
work already done to cellar door, and would be minor
cosmetic changes or alterations.
7
Welcome signage: improve the welcome signage to
the Cellar Door along Jervois Road, to reflect the local
experience and the branding on the building.
8
Partnerships: work in association with the Langhorn
Creek winery to promote a regional wine experience.
Charming play area: this is not your typical play area,
it is a combination of creative designed art pieces,
positioned to form fun!
9
Encourage emergent vineyards: work with emergent
vineyards like The Point to encourage the Woods Point
experience.
3
Cafe: coffee and muffins are already provided which
is a great start, the café experience needs to be
promoted and enhanced,
4
Promotion: work with the local and broader tourism
organisations to promote the Cellar Door experience
and the local wine.
5
River access and walk: work with the owner and/or
landowners to open up access from the river to the
winery.
5
1
3
//
59
Woods Point Big Wins
1. Bridge the gap to improve community
connection
2. Encouraging cottage industries and artisan
crafts
Some participant’s at the community workshop noted two communities
exist within Woods Point, there is the community closer to the centre of
Woods Point (Arthur St area) and then there are those that are on the
outskirts (near the road). This community does not have a space or place
to gather.
The community of Woods Point would like to promote and support the
rural lifestyle both within their town and across the neighbouring towns.
In Woods Point there is closeness to the natural environment and to
growing your own produce. The community would like to formalise the
exchanging of fresh produce between neighbours and broaden this to
include the surrounding region. This strategy could be driven by the
community with some support from local farmers and the Council.
Community access to the river
Unless you have an allotment that backs onto the river, access to the river
through Woods Point is limited. The community would like to increase
access to and use of the river for recreation opportunities.
Erosion or wear can be seen at the end of Thomas Lane, this ‘desire
line’ or ‘goat track’ shows this space is currently being used by the
community. Use of this space could be formalised with the provision and
or installation of recreation facilities. The following suggestion could be
delivered jointly with the community, Council and private investors:
• Picnic table and/or seating
• A small BBQ facility
• Children’s play equipment
• Pedestrian Paths.
Community events
Help the community make better use of the hall and vacant buildings in
around town, by negotiating with landowner to use these facilities for
community use. Similar to Mypolonga hold a film night in the hall or a
community BBQ.
60
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Woods Point Big Wins
Path towards a co-operative Farm Shop at Wood’s Point
Some participants at the workshop would like to create a cooperative
farm shop that could operate from the Community Hall similar to the
school shop in Mypolonga.
In the interim we believe this exchange of produce could be formalised
with a fresh food market, which in the first instance could service
the immediate and local community. As the market grows in size and
popularity, it could be promoted to the wider Murray Bridge region
with fresh produce being sold through the Shop or used by local café
operators.
Woods Point Supporting Activities
3. Revegetation and removal of the Willows
Although willows (Salix spp.) are much appreciated for their various
benefits, concern has grown over the past decade about the invasive
natural spread in watercourses. The main environmental effects include
obstruction and diversion of streams and hence erosion, extensive
displacement of native vegetation with loss of biodiversity, and reductions
in the quantity and quality of water.
The community would like to see the Willows gradually replaced with
native eucalyptus trees and other appropriate native species. .
Work with Landcare South Australia to replace the willow trees across the
region.
//
61
Jervois Road Map
Jervois is an important service town for the wider region. It provides opportunities for employment, food
production and education in the area. Jervois also has a good residential base to build upon. Its strong
community, and position near one of the river crossings enlivens the town and makes it a great place to live,
and a desirable place to visit.
A decline in the dairy industry has had a significant impact on the availability of employment opportunities in
the area. New industry needs to be developed to diversify the local economic opportunities available.
6262 //
Industrious
For generations farmers have worked
the land. Jervois has a long proud
history of food production in the
area. As one industry declines,
another begins. New industries are
constantly emerging in Jervois.
Vital
A strong and vital local community
planting the seed of relocalisation,
and sustainability within the wider
region.
Big
Wins
One Big Idea
•
Activity
Enhance the Jervois Combined
Sports Club
•
•
•
•
The community of Jervois is active,
with multiple opportunities to
connect on the netball court or the
football field.
Capturing the personality of the
Riverflat Cafe
Community support for a declining
dairy industry
Knowledge sharing - Jervois Primary
School Leading the way
Beautifying the riverfront entry
Vision
A place built on the legacy of its farming community, its active community
provides places for the broader community to gather.
Jervois is a place enjoyed by many.
Renewal
Reactivating and using older dairy
farms for artists, emerging cottage
industries and for local businesses
will help to renew the local economy.
Small
Wins
Murray Bridge.
Place Primciples
•
Strong sporting identify and culture
Riverflat Café
Jervois Primary School and its commitment to
sustainability
Dairy industry and disused dairy farms.
Community
Strengths
and Assests
•
•
•
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
//
63
One BIG Idea - Enhance the Jervois Combined Sports Club
The Jervois Combined Sports Club is the home ground for
both the Jervois Netball and Football team. It is the incubator
of Jervois’ strong sporting identity and culture and a lifeline
for the local and wider community.
The Jervois Combined Sports Club is the only sporting facility
outside of Murray Bridge which caters for residents from the
towns between Riverglen to Wellington. By strengthening
this club and local identity, you are making an investment
not only in the local Jervois community, but also the adjacent
communities from these neighbouring towns.
64
//
Initiatives for the Jervois Combined
Sports Club
5
The strategies are listed in order of priority, and it is expected
that they will be delivered in conjunction with the Council,
community and private investment. The community as a small
win may adopt individual strategies separately.
1
Amenities for children: upgrade the quality of the
playground. Revamp the playground facilities. Install
a new and improved playground area with shelter.
Provide seating in close proximity so parents can
comfortably supervise their children playing.
2
Blitz the public amenities: Add some colour and
interest. Investigate organising a community mural
to the men’s and women’s toilet block as a way of
beautifying a blank wall.
3
Blitz the Netball Club: transform the Netball club area
from a grey space to a colourful one. Consider painting
out parts of the veranda area in bright colour or club
colours. Hold a community blitz event to facilitate the
transformation.
4
Central Notice Board: consolidate all pinned up notices
into one easy to find area.
6
Welcome entrance: improve the welcome experience
at the sporting club entry. Restore original stone
entry posts. Clean stained sandstone and repaint
fence. Upgrade the existing ticket booth shed with an
improved ticket booth that becomes part of the entry
experience and is complementary to the original fence.
Football club rooms: enhance the appearance of the
football club and change rooms.
2
3
1
//
565
Jervois Big Wins
1. Capturing the personality of the Riverflat Café
It is our belief that trader’s make the world’s best placemakers. Shop
owners who show a passion for product and place, build community spirit
and pride. The Riverflat café is a perfect example of such a place for the
community of Jervois. It is the only shop within the region that sells a
collection of local produce. It is a unique stop for tourists and locals alike.
Through a few simple cosmetic improvements, the café can better realise
it’s potential as a true local champion.
The interior of the café is well presented and expresses some sense of
local character through its display. The exterior could better express these
same qualities and improve the overall sense of welcome for tourists and
locals who often frequent the shop.
The following strategies outline some ideas around how the Riverflat Café
could be enhanced.
1. Welcome entrance: improve the welcome experience at the café entry.
• Consider installing a retractable fabric awning over the entry to
provide shelter and shade when needed.
• Investigate a refreshed brand and signage at the entrance that better
reflects the café’s personality and local offer.
• Explore simple ways to beautify the entry from the car park. Consider
a general tidy up of the back-of-house area and landscaping in
movable pots to demarcate the café entry from the car park.
66
//
• Look at installing a ‘chalk’ sandwich board out the front to entice
visitors and display promotional specials. Consider a fixed chalkboard
connected to the existing balcony.
• Tidy up landscaping around the front of the entry and side. Consider
a unique landscaped feature out the front or to the side of the café,
which ‘brands’ the place. E.g. consider planting out a cluster of
disused farm equipment as a quirky touch.
• Paint out or refinish the balustrade in a contrasting yet
complementary colour/material to the exterior façade, as a way
of drawing interest from the road. Consider using a colour and/or
materialality which fits in with new branding/signage.
2. The porch garden: Explore ways to beautify and green the porch
experience.
• Beautify the balcony with more planting. Consider a cluster of
colourful pots that can be rearranged to suit the changing climate. See
beautifying the balcony as a way to engage with the local community.
For example, engage with the local school children to donate hand
painted pots to decorate the balcony.
• Consider decorating this area with herbs, so that they can be used by
the café. E.g. Mint, parsley, rosemary or look to indigenous herbs.
• Replace existing plastic chairs with more café like seating.
• Consider installing a timber communal table in this area too). To suit
larger tourist groups, families and encourage socialising.
3. Dressing the space: Add simple touches to tables to finish
the experience:
• Simple touches such as a cluster of flowers, hand painted
pot-plants or sugar dispenses on each table can help
finish and personalise the space.
• Organise displayed newspaper clippings in one area on
a notice board. Consider positioning this notice board
closer to where people may sit, so that they can read
while enjoying a coffee.
4. Consider the visual appearance from the outside, like
painting a mural on the front and back of the building.
//
67
Jervois Big Wins
2. Community support for a declining Dairy Industry
Jervois has a long, proud history of dairy farming in the region. It would be fair to say
this industry is also steeped in the history of Murray Bridge.
Cow’s crossing, farm machinery and farmers are still a common sight along the Jervois
– Wellington Road. The industry is however in decline. The Rural City of Murray Bridge
runs the risk of not only losing this industry, but being left with the remnants and
remains of disused and abandoned dairy farms.
Whilst it is difficult to control the market forces or consumer preferences, we can
support the emerging industries that in turn may help to support some of the local
dairy farms. The strategies below were offered from the community and have been
further developed.
Providing an alternative income to Dairy Farmers
The natural landscape and the country style properties provide the perfect backdrop
for a farm stay. A farm stay is any type of accommodation on a working farm. Some
farm stays offer children the opportunity to feed animals, collect eggs and learn how
a farm functions, while others offer a more retreat style escape. Farmers/families are
able to receive an additional income in exchange for a ‘bed and breakfast’ experience.
For a more elaborate provider see the Old Dairy Case Study.
What will make this successful?
1. Selecting a catalyst farm and operator, suitable to hosting visitors to provide an
example to other operators and build confidence in the area.
2. Training and education. Many local institutions provide simple (inexpensive) short
courses in running your own business, like the “Starting Up & Running a B&B” short
course offered at Workers’ Educational Association of South Australia Inc.
3. Project partners. Project partners are important in creating a distinctive and local
experience. Partners might provide assistance with funding for necessary renovations
works or physical assistance. For example you might partner with a local artist or
68
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school to create a feature or garden.
4. Promotion, once established the farm stay experience could be promoted
through Tourism SA and local tour operators and visitor services.
Finding alternative uses for disused Dairy Farms
South Australia has a passionate arts community, that is supported by a strong
arts authority. This combined with the active community of Jervois, natural beauty
and location of Jervois, make the use of a disused dairy farm an attractive arts
incubator or events space.
What will make this successful?
(In lose priority order, it is assumed that some tasks will be done concurrently)
1. Partnerships: working with the local arts community, universities, local investors,
Renew Adelaide and Country Arts South Australia to find a project driver and
funding partners.
2. Feasibility study: put together some initial figures, and a simple and realistic plan
for the transformation and use of the farm. Upgrading the farm to suit might be
too costly, it might be more affordable to build a new structure onsite.
3. Adopting a dairy farm: select a farm, which is held high in the hearts of the
community, a farm that the community will be passionate in restoring in an
accessible/visible location. Create a preliminary governance structure for the
management and running of the farm space.
4. Talent audit: conduct an audit of the arts talent in the wider Murray Bridge
region, find out what community groups exist and who is interested in contributing
to this project.
An actual Jervois Cow
5. Community blitz: hold community run clean-ups over a series of
weekends to clean the farm facility and do minor repair works. Couple
this with simple community events like ‘planting trees’ or a community
BBQ to get the rest of the community involved.
6. Promotion: create an activation strategy to promote the experience
widely with events and activities.
Planting the cheese making seed
According to the Australian Specialist Cheesemakers Association,
Australians consume an average of 12 kilograms of cheese per head
each year, of which more than half are cheddar or cheddar-type
cheeses, with Australia now producing more than 100 varieties of
cheese.
Given Jervois’ proximity and relationship to the dairy industry it is
possible to foster cheese making in the town, or at least working with
the existing operator to encourage public sales and provide another
experience on a region wide food and wine trail.
Conversation and determining a champion: start a conversation with the
local dairy farmers in the region, cheese makers and/or the appropriate
cheese making authorities. Find a local champion to drive the project.
Provide support through seed funding and throughout the planning
process.
//
69
Jervois Big Wins
3. Knowledge Sharing The Jervois Primary School leading the way
The Jervois Primary School is leading the way in spreading the
sustainability message and the concept of relocalisation. The
school currently partners with a range of organisations like the
Monarto Zoo and works with the community on projects like
the Willow Project and Clean Up Australia Day.
Given the prominence of the school, connection to the
community and its facilities, investigate opening up access to
the local community. Multi-purpose schools allow community
users to access the facilities out of school hours for fitness
classes, festivals or markets etc.
The Jervois Primary School would also like to work collectively
with the community and is open to this idea, provided
community access is well supported and resourced, particularly
use of the library. An opportunity exists to work with Council
and the community to deliver upon some of the larger
strategies and projects that are in line with the schools
curriculum and its environmental commitments.
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Jervois Big Wins
4. Beautifying the riverfront entry
“Make the ferry landing accessible, beautiful and comfortable”.
Workshop Participant
The ferry crossing between Tailem Bend and Jervois is a popular
crossing both for visitors to the area and for residents doing the
daily commute.
The community would like to see this area of Jervois beautified,
as for some it is the first impression of the town, and for others
it is there access point to the river.
Ideas to beautify this area include:
• Installing soft infrastructure like comfortable seating and
tables on both sides of the crossing (including Geisley
Reserve) to provide comfort for passengers waiting to cross
the ferry; and
• Walking tracks from the ferry crossing to the town,
including access to the swamp area and reserve.
//
71
Wellington Road Map
Wellington’s history is steeped in the history of Murray Bridge and the greater Adelaide Region. It is the
original gateway of the Rural City of Murray Bridge, and for some Wellington still remains their first point
of contact with the region. Wellington’s significance to the Murray and its location to the sea add to its
uniqueness.
Many of the businesses in and around Wellington are targeted towards the tourist trade, and given the
difficultly in predicting the tourists trade, these businesses do not always open regularly. Wellington would
benefit from an enhancement of its residential services, as a growth in resident numbers would begin to
support some of these businesses, and in turn enliven Wellington’s local economy. Since the decline of the
dairy industry this community would also benefit from an facelift to improve motivation and spirit.
72
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Historical significance of the river crossing
Physical asset of the river crossing
Courthouse and Café site
Location and proximity to the natural resources
Wellington Reserve.
Community
Strengths
and Assests
Living
The community protects the river
and the living environment and as
a result both are flourishing and
healthy. New business and growth
opportunities are openly discussed
with the local community and
pursued considerately.
•
One Big Idea
Gateway
Peaceful
Wellington’s ferry crossing is steeped
in history, as well as the history of
Murray Bridge. For many, Wellington
is still considered the gateway or
the first welcome into the region. Its
close proximity to the lake and sea
is valued.
Reactivate the Wellington Court
House & Historic Ferry Crossing
Precinct
Big
Wins
•
•
A place loved by its local residents
and visitors. Wellington is a safe
place. The lifestyle and amenity are
appreciated by the community.
Strengthening the Baker Reserve
Revegetation and removal of the
Willows
Vision
It is still as significant to the wider region as it was in days gone by. For some,
Wellington remains their only contact with the region.
Wellington is a living gateway.
Renewal
The local eateries and restaurants
are enjoyed both during the day
and at night. The local economy is
prospering and many new businesses
have opened to service both the local
residents and visitors.
Small
Wins
Murray Bridge.
Place Primciples
•
•
•
•
•
Initiatives to
acheive the vision
//
73
One BIG Idea - Reactivate the Wellington Court House
& Historic Ferry Crossing Precinct
The Wellington River Crossing precinct is not only important
to the community of Wellington it is also important to
the Rural City of Murray Bridge region. The river crossing
provides another tourism experience, and for some it is their
first point of contact with the region as they cross the river.
A few of the community assets listed above are also
contained within the River Crossing Precinct. We believe
this site could be a stronger heart for the community of
Wellington and the broader region.
Initiatives for the Court House and
Precinct
1
3
//
4
Seating: at the time of the visit the only public seating
available was at the top of the site close to the
court house away from the river and the historical
information. Work with the operator to position seating
that can be made available on the site. For example
set up deck chairs by the river for people to watch the
crossing.
5
Community events: encourage the community to make
better use of the precinct, work with the Court House
operator to hold community events like a BBQ, film
night or a local market.
6
Promote: Wellington is only a short drive from Murray
Bridge and has the potential to provide an amazing
visitor experience. First promote the changes and
visitor experiences to the residential community. This
can be done through an open day or a family picnic,
have all of the experiences available on offer such as:
•
Seating by the river
•
Balloon artist and face painters in the playground.
•
A town crier reliving an olden day court scene.
The strategies are listed loosely in order of priority, it is
expected that some of these strategies will be delivered
concurrently and in conjunction with the Council, community
and the Court House operator.
2
74
is tasteful and very unique in Wellington.
Playground: install a public playground for both the
nearby residents and for travellers to have a rest from
driving. The play equipment does not have to be your
typical play equipment, it could be creative pieces
commissioned to suit the current look and feel of the
site.
Court House Operator: it is our belief that trader’s
make the world’s best placemakers. Shop owners who
show a passion for product and place, build community
spirit and pride. The Court House is in a prominent
location and the grounds and the building are
immaculately presented. The difficulty is its opening
times. Consistency of opening is the key, this of course
needs to be managed financially. We recommend
Council works with the operators to assist the Court
House in opening more regularly, either through
promotion, volunteers or through funding.
Welcome signage: improve the size and the visibility of
signage to the Court House, this signage is only visible
to cars exiting and entering the ramp leading to and
from the ferry. There is no signage on the front of the
building to capture the passersby. The current signage
4
3
1
4
Community Values Report // Prepared by Village Well
//
75
Wellington Big Wins
1. Strengthening the Baker Reserve
The Baker Reserve appears to be a well used park, worn paths
leading from the carpark to the river and the size of the carpark
alone gives the impression that it is a popular place to visit as
a resident or a visitor. The site also has easily accessible toilets
and a playground.
Working with the community, we suggest a quick makeover to
the following areas:
• Access from the carpark space – formalise the desire lines,
both for safety and for access, with steps and a handrail.
• Public Toilets – the public toilets are on the JervoisWellington Road work with a local artist of community to
beautify the front and inside of the toilets to reflect the
beauty of the natural area.
• Seating - replace or beautify the existing brick seating with
seating that tells the local story.
76
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Wellington Big Wins
2. Revegetation and removal of the Willows
Although willows (Salix spp.) are much appreciated for their
various benefits, concern has grown over the past decade
about the invasive natural spread in watercourses. The main
environmental effects include obstruction and diversion of
streams and hence erosion, extensive displacement of native
vegetation with loss of biodiversity, and reductions in the
quantity and quality of water.
The community would like to see the Willows gradually
replaced with native eucalyptus trees.
//
77
78
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Regional Placemaking Report - Imagine Murray Bridge 2020

Transcription

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