A Melbourne quarry has been given a new lease on life and helped a local community have a space to come together and enjoy.
One of Melbourne’s most popular quarries has been revitalised with a makeover to transform it into a tourist hot spot.
Quarry Reserve in Ferntree Gully, Melbourne was once a thriving bluestone quarry and contributed considerably to Victoria’s infrastructure.
The quarry was in operation for close to a century as its milled product helped build Victorian roads and railways before it was closed and decommissioned in 1996.
A masterplan for a $2.05 million upgrade was implemented in 2015 before the quarry was officially opened by Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King recently.
The final part of the upgrade will see a lookout installed over the quarry which is expected to be completed later this year.
Knox councillor Megan Baker said it was great to see a former quarry be re-used to positively contribute to the local community.
“It could be to throw a frisbee or kick a footy, it’s for multiple generations to come down and enjoy,” she told Star Weekly.
“I’m looking forward to the lookout, that’s a new project at the Quarry Reserve.”
Deputy mayor Jude Dwight added: “When backyards are getting smaller, we need places and we need to protect and enhance them so they can be used.”
While the quarry’s man-made lake is currently closed due to elevated bacteria levels, residents can still access the playground, BBQs, nearby tables and shelters and public toilets.