Beautifying the main street of Dongara-Port Denison

2/8/02
A project to encourage tourism in the twin coastal towns of Dongara-Port Denison was launched today by Parliamentary Secretary Ken Travers, representing Tourism Minister Clive Brown.
Announcing the completion of the Dongara Main Street Enhancement Project, at the Shire of Irwin Chambers in Dongara, Mr Travers said the project would encourage tourists to explore the region's diverse attractions.
Mr Travers also congratulated the shire on promoting tourism in the twin coastal towns by allocating $200,000 towards the project. The State Government approved funds of $50,000 to assist the Shire of Irwin.
"Dongara is the gateway to the Batavia Coast and the completion of the Dongara Main Street Enhancement project is an impressive entry statement for tourists," Mr Travers said.
"The Dongara-Port Denison area is becoming an increasingly popular tourism and recreation destination. The friendly atmosphere, tree-lined main street, historic buildings, excellent beaches and picturesque marina make the twin towns an ideal year-round holiday destination."
Mr Travers said tourism initiatives such as the beautification of Moreton Terrace in Dongara helped to ensure the long-term economic, environmental and social survival of regional areas.
"The financial benefit of tourism is not just restricted to obvious areas such as tour operators, hotels and restaurants," he said.
"Tourists use a range of services including supermarkets, general stores and service stations.
"About 60 per cent of all tourists travel to rural and regional WA. This generates employment and helps to stabilise country populations.
"The beautification of Moreton Terrace and the creation of a people-orientated precinct not only benefit tourists; they benefit the local community and generates a pride in the town."
The construction of a roundabout at either end of the main shopping area, along with traffic calming devices, had diverted heavy traffic from the main street - creating a safe and comfortable area to walk or shop and to enjoy the majestic old trees.
"The sinking of the powerlines in the precinct has not only made the area more aesthetically pleasing; the foliage of the Moreton Bay Fig Trees has been protected and new shoots are already appearing on the side of the trees where the powerlines used to be," Mr Travers said.
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