Small Towns

DCP_0861.JPG

DCP_0862.JPG

Mr Sanders, the Shire's Development manager and Tourism officer gave an informative talk to the year 7s.

The drought, now into its seventh year has had a serious impact. It has left the Yarriambiack Creek without water and our major lakes, Hindmarsh and Albacutya empty. The weir pools, once favourite picnic spots in the towns, are empty. They can be no swimming, motor boating or water skiing.

There has been a general decline in population and services in our area. It is largely due to changes in agriculture. Bigger farms mean less employment. the shire lost 75 people last year.

This trend can be reversed. it needs committed local community support. We can create job opportunities for young people here. Some problesm for bringing in large industries are the limited power supply and the cost of upgrading the infrastructure. The railway is neglected and can only be used for slow goods. What rural areas should focus on is supporting and maintaining existing businesses.

Amenities are impotant in maintaining rural communities. They attract businesses and keeps the locals. The developments in the main street, will give Warracknabeal an air that it has a future.

The piping of the water to replace the open channel system will make a dramatic difference. The rivers will run and the lakes will fill. Water sports and activities will return to the Wimmera. We should see the benefits of this ten year project when it starts in the near future.