It’s an exciting time for Lachlan Shire, with the new Visitor Information Centre not only taking shape within Condobolin’s “Utes in the Paddock” tourism precinct but now also open for business!

Officially opened last weekend, and new cutting-edge visitor information centre also includes Jockey’s Memorial Garden, a heavy vehicle rest area and new traveller rest facilities. Part of the funding received was channelled into the Condobolin Improved Freight Logistics project.

The completed Freight Logistics project means motorists and freight operators will now have better access to Condobolin and Central NSW in the event of local flooding.

At the time of the funding announcement for these projects in 2020, NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway said the Condobolin Freight Logistics & Visitor Information Centre Project would upgrade 8.7 kilometres of the Lachlan Valley Way and Gipps Way to reduce its susceptibility to flooding.

“As locals know only too well, heavy rain can cause substantial flooding across the very flat Lower Lachlan Valley, which disrupts residents and industry whose livelihoods depend on being able to travel and transport goods through the region,” Mr Farraway said.

“The road upgrade will widen, strengthen and raise the height of the roadway to protect this important travelling and freight route to a 1 in 20-year flood event, which will improve safe access during times of flood and minimise productivity loss.

Mr Farraway also said the planned new Visitor Information Centre aimed to promote local and regional products, tourist attractions and experiences to encourage visitors to stay locally for longer.

Parkes MP Mark Coulton was in the Condobolin area for the opening.

Three years later and last weekend, MP Mark Coulton was on hand to help with the official opening and said he was thrilled to be part of the event.

"This magnificent new Tourist Information Centre, cafe and surrounds are sure to attract locals and visitors to Condobolin, the Lachlan Shire and wider central west NSW," he said.

Lachlan Shire Mayor, Paul Phillips said the opening is a tremendous milestone for Lachlan Shire and something the whole community should all be extremely proud of.

“There have been many components to this project, and Lachlan Shire Council is extremely appreciative of the support it has attracted,” Mr Phillips said.

Council hopes the new tourism precinct will become a focal point within the Shire and will be instrumental in improving the overall visitor experience.

The centre is open 7 days per week and with the doors now open Council is rolling out the volunteer Tourism Ambassador Program.