By TANIA PHILLIPS
STANTHORPE scenic lookout Mt Marlay is set for a make-over with funding announced under the Queensland Government’s Scenic Lookout Upgrade Program.
Southern Downs Regional Council mayor Tracy Dobie said the council was delighted that its application was approved for $82,000, on a 50:50 contribution basis.
“Southern Downs Regional Council was one of 25 local governments that secured Scenic Lookout Upgrade Program funding, and this demonstrates another great effort by our staff to submit a winning funding application in a competitive environment,” Cr Dobie said.
“This funding contribution is a welcome investment from the State Government that will help Southern Downs Regional Council to revitalise an iconic spot on the Granite Belt tourist trail.
“The upgrade works will be carried out in the 2016/2017 financial year and will include the resealing of the road leading up to the Mt Marlay lookout with the addition of line marking.
“The road is quite narrow, but well used, so the reseal and line marking will certainly increase safety.
“The existing directional plaque and signage located at the lookout will definitely benefit from a spruce up. They are quite old and faded and some of the information needs updating, so the funding will enable this to be done and replacement signage installed.
“Locals and visitors alike will also be able to enjoy picnicking under-cover, with the project to include installation of a covered picnic table at the lookout.
“The Southern Downs is a destination, with the wineries, climate, natural landscape and scenery of Stanthorpe and the Granite Belt a major draw card for tourists.”
Mt Marlay is a popular stop for tourists travelling through the region, as it gives visitors a fabulous way to appreciate the layout of Stanthorpe and surrounds, and it’s equally popular with locals as a regular walking location.
“The upgrade of facilities like the Mt Marlay scenic lookout is another milestone on the drive to attract more visitors to our region, bringing economic benefits for local businesses,” Cr Dobie said.
“And, we may even attract visitors who might just choose to make the move permanently, and become our next most welcomed residents in the Southern Downs.”
