It has been a restoration many years in the making, with more recent efforts involving Deniliquin High School and Deniliquin Kolety Landcare Group.
Funding from Murray Irrigation Limited has allowed for the provision of seating, a table and gravel paths for improved accessibility.
The reserve’s official committee was formed in 1984 by residents who were “sick and tired of the neglected state” of the reserve, and wanted more for their children and visitors alike.
Among those founding members was Sally-Ann Dillon, who was a special guest at Wednesday’s restoration project opening.
“We are so proud of the young kids that are involved in the project today,” she said.
“Our bird population has doubled and is a popular tourist attraction for birdwatching for locals, interstate visitors and an international market as well.”
The opening began with a Welcome to Country by Danica Reeves who spoke of pride for the regeneration and rebuild of the natural wetlands in our town.
Deniliquin High School teacher Allana Moorse explained how Year 10 students have really enjoyed learning out of the classroom on this project and others undertaken by the Landcare group.
It also gives them some ownership of the maintenance and enhancement of our town’s natural lagoon system.
Landcare group representative and ecologist Dr John Conallin said it has been a pleasure to work alongside the students and partner organisations on such an important project.
He particularly thanked Edward River Council for its decade-long support, and highlighted how unique it was to have a natural reserve so close to town - and one that attracts visitors from all over the world for the bird life.
With that in mind, the next project for the Blake Botanic Reserve committee is to work on a brochure to help capitalise on the eco-tourism opportunities.
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