Lock Island has been identified as an alternative site to host Bruce Munro’s eagerly anticipated Trail of Lights installation due to its proximity to Mildura’s riverfront and central business district.
Mildura Rural City Council is now working with the Murray Darling Basin Authority and Goulburn Murray Water to work through the process of understanding the suitability of the site and if the move can become a reality.
Discussions have also been underway with hospitality and tourism businesses to further understand how the location could maximise visitor numbers and the resulting economic benefit to the region.
While Trail of Lights was originally earmarked to be staged at Lake Cullulleraine, Council’s General Manager Strategy and Growth Peter Alexander said a comprehensive review of the project had revealed several significant challenges.
These included safe access to the site, barriers presented by distance from major centres including access to medical facilities and an expected increase in traffic on the Sturt Highway – a major freight route.
“This was certainly not a decision that was made lightly,” he said.
Council has also begun consulting with residents near Lock Island regarding the proposed move.
Any final decision on an alternative site will need to be ratified at a Council meeting.
Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/lightbulb-illuminated-lighting-3489395/
