A new shade structure at Warialda’s Cranky Rock Recreation Reserve will greet visitors later this year with funding secured to renovate the outdated facilities.
Gwydir Shire Council was allocated funding from the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitment Allocation program, which provides benefits to local communities through a range of events, services and programs, playground and park upgrades, and more.
Member for Northern Tablelands, Brendan Moylan, said the upgraded shade structures will improve visitor comfort, particularly in hot weather.
“Cranky Rock is a popular spot for families, tourists, and locals to visit with plenty of facilities and activities on offer there,” he said.
“The Reserve is a great place for bushwalking, picnics, camping, swimming, birdwatching and more.
“Having more shade facilities will make visiting the Reserve a much more comfortable experience.
“Well done to Gwydir Shire Council for identifying the need to upgrade the shade structures and being successful in their application to the LSCA program.”
Gwydir Shire Council mayor, Tiffany Galvin, said bettering the Reserve was a priority and the $24,000 from the LSCA program for the shade structure certainly helps.
“Many groups meet at Cranky Rock; special interest groups, families, travelling groups,” Cr Galvin said.
“When they visit the site, the caretaker puts out temporary gazebos for them to use. With this funding there will be a permanent shaded meeting and gathering spot for them.
“A new shade structure with solar lighting and fans will be used by many who visit the site.”
It is anticipated the new shade structure will be completed by the end of October 2025.
