The community has celebrated the official opening of the project that's delivered a new footbridge over the Belubula, river-side paths, street furniture and gardens.
The Canowindra town centre and river precinct activation project was officially opened on Friday, 20 June 2025 by Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty, the Hon. Andrew Gee MP, Member for Calare, and Mr Phil Donato MP, Member for Orange.
Cabonne mayor Kevin Beatty described the day as a proud one for the community.
"It's been a long project but have a look at the results - it's absolutely fantastic," he said.
While the spaces look great, the project is about more than infrastructure, he added.
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"It's about creating spaces that bring people together, celebrating our heritage, and supporting local businesses and tourism in to the future," Cr Beatty said.
The Canowindra town centre and river activation precinct is a co-funded project by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund, the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions Fund, and Cabonne Council.
The works were designed to revitalise the town centre, improve safety and accessibility, and attract more visitors to one of Cabonne’s most iconic locations.
Federal Member for Calare Andrew Gee acknowledged the devastating effect the November 2022 flood event had on the community, its businesses and residents.
“I’m delighted that the $1,059,250.00 that I advocated for through the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund is going to help give Canowindra such a significant boost as its recovery continues," he said.
"We all know how special Canowindra is and this activation and this project is really going to help it shine."
State MP Phil Donato said it was great to see so many community members gather by the river for the official opening, highlighting the projects benefits for locals and visitors alike.
"A precinct like this, that facilitates people to get out, go for walks, ride their bikes, go for a run - whatever the case may be - in this beautiful setting, is what brings us together as a community but also provides the physical and mental health benefits we know is so important to our communities as well," Mr Donato said.
The combined beautification in the street and by the river would draw people to town, he said.
"It will encourage more people to visit, to support local businesses," he said.
