Historic Beltana Weir set for a makeover

Beltana's iconic century-old bluestone weir is set to be cleaned up and revitalised thanks to financial support provided by SA Water's 2019 Community Partnerships Program.

Providing $8,000 to the Beltana Progress Association to assist the project, the restoration works will clear large amounts of debris and soil collected in the town's dam over many years, before repointing the existing bluestone.

SA Water's $75,000 Community Partnerships Program supports local community groups deliver events and projects that aim to foster a better life across regional and metropolitan South Australia.

SA Water's General Manager Customers, Strategy and Innovation Anna Jackson said the project is a deserving recipient in providing a better life to the Beltana and wider Flinders Ranges community.

"The beautiful original stonework on the weir is estimated to be over 130 years old, but as it has slowly fallen into disrepair the water flowing into the dam has reduced significantly," Anna said.

"Not only is the site a popular picnic and recreational area for residents and visitors of Beltana, but it also provides an important haven for kangaroos, emus and other wildlife in the area.

"Water is an important part of life in remote outback communities like Beltana, and we look forward to working with the Beltana Progress Association to help restore the weir for the benefit of the township and those who visit."

The project is one of 11 successful recipients of this year's Community Partnerships Program, which saw overwhelming interest from community groups with ideas involving water or water use for a better life.

"We had more than double the amount of applications than for our 2018 program and narrowing the field down to our final list of projects was tough given the amazing range of community groups and events," Anna said.

"It's clear that so many of our customers have great ideas and events that make a difference to the lives of others in the community, and we can't wait to support this group of worthy recipients throughout the next year as their events, projects and programs come to fruition."

To see the full list of successful recipients of the 2019 Community Partnerships Program, visit sawater.com.au.

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