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Extra funding for outback toilets

Media Release | 27 May 2008

Tourists to South Australia's mesmerizing outback will enjoy the experience even more with the updgrading of remote and rural public toilets.

The Outback Areas Community Development Trust will receive nearly $130,000 from the State Government to improve the standard of public toilets in rural and remote South Australia.

The money is from the Upper Spencer Gulf & Outback Enterprise Zone Fund for two projects:

  • $67,500 for the Marla Septic Tank Effluent Disposal system upgrade and grey water reuse project.
  • $59,920 for the Outback Public Convenience upgrade project.

Minister for Regional Development Karlene Maywald says the projects will help boost tourism numbers and the quality of tourism experiences in South Australia's Outback.

"Marla is a popular roadhouse and stopover point on the Stuart Highway, 1,082 kilometres north of Adelaide, and this project will improve essential infrastructure in the township," Minister Maywald says.

"It services a high volume of tourists and community service providers travelling north.

"The Outback Public Conveniences project consists mainly of maintenance work to 16 public toilet facilities to ensure they are all at a similar consistent standard acceptable to travellers and in compliance with Department of Health regulations," she says.

The funding has been made available on condition that the Outback Areas Community Development Trust makes a matching contribution.

The Trust's manager, Mark Sutton, says the funds will ensure the high standard of outback public conveniences is maintained into the future for locals and visitors. 

"It is the little things that leave a lasting impression on travellers and add up to a memorable experience that will become more widely known," he says.

"Quality public conveniences are a small but valuable contribution to the State's tourism economy and underpin the unique South Australian outback experience."

The Upper Spencer Gulf & Outback Enterprise Zone Fund has committed $2.9 million for projects since 2005-06.