As the drought continues and Lake Keepit sits at below 1 per cent, a surprising amount of activity is going on at the Lake Keepit Sailing Club.

The club is in the process of upgrading its clubhouse and facilities after successfully applying for a federal government Drought Communities Programme Extension grant.

The grant will see a significant upgrade to the iconic A-frame clubhouse that overlooks the lake.

The extension will include:
• An increase in the boat storage area
• Improved shower and toilet amenities on the top deck
• An automated in-ground watering system for the lawn and rigging area
• An upgrade to the guard rails between the disability access road and the parking area.

Gunnedah Shire Council Director Corporate and Community Services Col Formann said it was great that the club had managed to maintain its focus and optimism despite the current conditions.

“This upgrade will help make the club more family-friendly, with improved accessibility to facilities for all visitors and provide for future growth,” Mr Formann said.

“The guard rail changes will also ensure inclusive and safe access for drivers and people with mobility challenges.

“The Lake Keepit Sailing Club is a net contributor to the economic activity of our region and their annual Keepit Kool event brings hundreds of people to the region each year”

“All the work on the site has been undertaken by Gunnedah locals and this project tops off an impressive list of projects that were delivered by Council and community groups under the Grant Programme”

The Drought Communities Programme Extension aims to deliver support to drought-affected areas of Australia by funding local community infrastructure and other drought relief projects.

Above image: Sailing Club updates in action