Getting the controversial Campbelltown Billabong Parklands project completed has not been an easy journey, Mayor George Greiss admitted during Tuesday night’s council meeting.
After announcing that the Billabong would be officially opened on Saturday, June 8, Cr Greiss explained how he had decided to proceed when he inherited the project after being elected as Mayor in January 2022.
“What was immediately clear to me was that how the Billabong had come about wasn’t what was important,’’ he said.
“What was important was to deliver it – there was no turning back.’’
Mayor Greiss told council the official opening would be a grand celebration.
“Residents of our community are encouraged to apply for free tickets, which will be allocated through a ballot draw,’’ he said.
“A series of further events will be held throughout the weekend, for which tickets will be available in coming weeks.
“All these events, as well as the ongoing access to the Billabong, will be free of charge.’’
The project, which was effectively forced on council by Cr Greiss’ predecessor in 2018, upset ratepayers and local MPs when the cost was pushed up by $13 million before the elevation of Cr Greiss to the mayoralty.
Cr Greiss voted against allocating the $13 million to install a bigger filtration system.
When more than $8 million was also spent on related drainage works, and another $4 million from the NSW Government coffers, the total cost jumped to more than $40 million – and rising.
When first announced in 2019, the Billabong was going to cost just $18.5 million, council’s share a little over $3 million, and the rest from the federal and NSW governments.
The project was also plagued by delays, caused by the filtration works, the pandemic, wet weather events and change in contractors, among others.
But as Mayor Greiss said on Tuesday night it’s time to put all that behind us and just enjoy Campbelltown’s newest attraction.
“This grand opening event marks a significant milestone for our community, and I look forward to celebrating this new attraction with all of you,’’ he said.
“Please join us in making this a memorable occasion for Campbelltown.’’
To enter the draw for tickets to the opening day on June 8, click here.
This is clearly a waste of money. Where is the parking? How many people will be allowed in any one time? I am sure the money could have funded more swimming pools in the area. Is it just for ratepayers or will anyone be able to access it free? The council quibbles about collecting rubbish but spends millions on this. Unbelievable!
What a waste of money. Will this help children learn how to swim? This money could have funded more swimming pools in the area.