Community
19 September, 2024
Scenic viewing area unveiled atop Mt Noorat
THE sprawling panoramic views atop Mt Noorat can now be further enjoyed thanks to the opening of a new scenic viewing area and walking track.
The viewing area and track was officially opened on Sunday, giving locals and visitors a unique spot to enjoy the views overlooking the region’s pastoral land, Terang, Noorat, Mortlake and the Mortlake South Wind Farm.
The opening followed a community planting day in which dozens of community members and members of the Mt Noorat Management Committee assisted in planting native trees.
The walking track and viewing area was funded thanks to a $50,000 investment from Mortlake South Wind Farm developer ACCIONA Energía under the Community Benefits Sharing program.
Mt Noorat Management Committee chairperson Will Conheady said the addition would provide more reason for locals and tourists alike to visit the mount.
“We are grateful to ACCIONA Energía for its generous funding for this project which promotes recreation in the local area,” he said.
“By having this dedicated look-out and track, we hope to attract locals and visitors who want to take in the beauty of the landscape surrounding Mt Noorat with wind turbines on the horizon.”
Corangamite Shire mayor Kate Makin thanked those who had been part of the community planting day, and thanked the Black family for gifting the 146-hectare site to Corangamite Shire in 2017 to become a community asset.
“As we know from the annual report, visitation is increasing to Mt Noorat each year,” she said.
“Everyone gets to come and see the amazing views and what a great place Mt Noorat is to come and visit, and to enjoy what we have right here in our backyard.
“Thank you to ACCIONA Energía for their contribution, we really do appreciate it.
“They are committing to continuing the relationship here and making sure there is other things going forward to help improve the facilities here and ensure everyone can enjoy what is happening.”
ACCIONA Energía community and stakeholder engagement manager Dominic Luddy said enhancing the area was a point of pride for the company.
“The viewing area and access track are among a number of projects we’re proud to support as part of the Mortlake South Wind Farm Community Benefits Sharing Program,” he said.
“As a renewable energy company committed to creating a positive legacy in the local area, we want to support projects that make a difference and have a lasting impact.
“By improving access to the splendid Mt Noorat and supporting community members and tourists of all ages to be active, I can’t think of a better example than this project.”