Leeton shire's Gogeldrie Weir has new caretakers

New caretakers will be taking over at the weir in January, with the facility now being rebranded to be known as the Gogeldrie Riverside Park.

The complex will revert to operating as a council-managed service in the new year.

New caretakers, Nicole and Jason Smith, said they were looking forward to maximizing the potential of the park.

"Jason grew up in the Riverina and we moved to Leeton four years ago to raise our daughters," Mrs Smith said.

"We are excited to be helping council operate this important visitor attraction and local recreation area."

Leeton Shire Council will resume management of the Gogeldrie Riverside Park when the current licensee's contract ends on December 22.

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However, to fully transition from the current licensee to the new caretaker, the park will be temporarily closed from December 23 and will reopen under the new management on January 10.

Prior to the recent council election, chairman of the Gogeldrie Weir Management Committee and the caretaker selection panel, councillor George Weston, said he was impressed with the strong calibre of people who had expressed an interest to manage the park.

"We are extremely pleased that Jason and Nicole have agreed to manage the park for the next two-and-a-half years and look forward to them settling in in the new year," he said.

Cr Weston acknowledged while the boat ramp will remain open throughout the closure period, there would likely be some families disappointed the park will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period.

"Unfortunately, the timing of the changeover could not be helped as the previous licence ended right up against Christmas," he said.

Reflecting on plans for the new year, council's group manager shire activation, Andrew Reilly, said council would seek funding and firm up plans to respond to the Gogeldrie Weir Public Recreation Area Master Plan, which was adopted in September.

"The plan gives council a plan of improvements for the park, as well as improved ability to apply for grant funding opportunities as they arise," he said.

"We have an exciting list of improvements to work through with our new caretakers, including investigating options for replacement cabins as part of the change-over in management.

"In the short term, there will be campsites and caravan sites for all to enjoy, including powered sites, with bookings being open January 10.

Any booking inquiries should be directed via email to grp@leeton.nsw.gov.au from January 10 onwards.

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