Plenty of “Progress” at Tumby Bay
Tumby Bay’s new Tourist Hub transforms foreshore
The open area across from the foreshore provides a perfect stopover for caravans, motorhomes, and buses. It offers a spacious covered area, great for groups, and will serve as a hub for tourist information. The beautifully made seating is a welcomed addition to the Travellers Rest, created by Port Augusta Prison as part of their prison industry program.
Treasured Jetty re-opened
This unique stopover for tourists is just one of many initiatives this community group has led to keep their town thriving. The Progress Association and the District Council played a pivotal role in the reopening of the town’s beloved jetty. They didn’t wait for government handouts either, putting their ‘money where their mouth is’ contributing $75,000. This proactive approach, according to LeBrun, sends a clear message – “The Tumby Bay community is not reliant solely on government funds. We are active participants in our future.”
And to celebrate the temporary re-opening of the Jetty, a “Winter Solstice” event with a community swim is being held on Friday, June 21 – a perfect example of their commitment to creative community engagement and promotion. Led by LeBrun, ABC Radio Eyre Peninsula will broadcast live from 6am with swimmers taking the plunge at 7am. The Lions Club will be on hand providing a hearty community breakfast on the foreshore.
Creative Explosion drives economic growth
But Tumby Bay isn’t all about the Jetty and its infrastructure – It’s now an art lovers paradise boasting 29 murals as part of the “Colour Tumby Street Art” collection. This initiative, LeBrun highlights, has been a huge economic driver, particularly during the winter months, and complements the ever-popular Tumby Silo Art.
The talent behind these murals is nothing short of stellar either. Award-winning artists like Matt Adnate (winner of the 2024 Archibald Packing Room Prize), Sam “Smug” Bates, and company Juddy Roller have all left their mark on Tumby Bay’s streets. With whispers of another “Colour Tumby Festival” in March next year, the town’s artistic explosion will continue to flourish.
Tumby’s future looks Bright
Looking ahead, LeBrun says Tumby Bay is a “watch this space town.” The proposed Northern Water Project, a desalination plant planned for the region, holds a lot of promise for growth, revolutionising the region’s water supply and supporting green energy projects.
So, what’s the secret to a thriving local community? According to LeBrun, it’s about “bringing the right people together who are results-driven with a diverse mix of experience.” Tumby Bay is living proof that every town has this potential – it just takes the right spark to ignite it.
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