Major infrastructure upgrades at Valley Lake/Ketla Malpi in Mount Gambier have been completed, improving access and safety for residents and visitors using the popular recreation and tourism precinct. The project forms part of ongoing improvements to one of the Limestone Coast’s best-known natural attractions.

The completed works included significant upgrades to Davison Drive between Bay Road and Elliott Drive, an important route through the Valley Lake area. The project also included renewal of the retaining wall at the boat-ramp car park, helping improve the condition and safety of infrastructure used by visitors.

Valley Lake, also known as Ketla Malpi, is an important recreational area for the Mount Gambier community and attracts visitors because of its natural landscape, walking areas, lake facilities and proximity to the city. Improvements to surrounding roads and infrastructure are intended to make the precinct easier and safer to access.

The redevelopment is particularly important for local residents who regularly use the area for recreation, walking, sightseeing and other outdoor activities. Better road conditions and upgraded infrastructure can also improve the experience for tourists visiting Mount Gambier and the broader Limestone Coast.

The project was delivered as part of broader efforts to maintain and improve Mount Gambier’s public infrastructure and tourism assets. Valley Lake is closely connected to the city’s identity and is one of several natural attractions that contribute to Mount Gambier’s appeal as a regional tourism destination.

Renewing the retaining wall at the boat-ramp car park was another important component of the works. Retaining structures help protect roads, parking areas and surrounding land from erosion and movement, making their maintenance important for long-term safety and usability.

The completion of the project means visitors can now use the upgraded section of Davison Drive and the improved boat-ramp car-park infrastructure. The works are expected to provide benefits beyond immediate road improvements by supporting continued recreational and tourism activity around the lake.

The redevelopment also demonstrates the importance of maintaining infrastructure around natural attractions. Popular recreation areas experience regular vehicle and pedestrian traffic, making safe access roads, parking facilities and supporting infrastructure essential.

For Mount Gambier, the Valley Lake project adds to ongoing investment in the city's public spaces and visitor infrastructure. The precinct remains an important destination for both locals and visitors exploring the Limestone Coast.

The completed upgrades are expected to provide a safer and more reliable environment while helping preserve the area as a key recreational and tourism destination for years to come.