Council’s Director Development and Planning Heather Green said waiting until the school holidays to re-open the Pioneer Settlement ensured the entire site and experiences would be available to visitors.
“Not only will the Pioneer Settlement be able to resume normal business hours, but we’ll also see the return of our popular experiences,” Ms Green said.
“This includes PS Pyap cruises, Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Light Show, blacksmith demonstrations, vintage cars and horse and carriage rides.”
Ms Green added that Council had been working hard to ensure appropriate measures were in place at the site to stop the potential risk of coronavirus.
“Visitors will notice some differences at the Pioneer Settlement, including certain restrictions to ensure social distancing requirements are met,” Ms Green said.
“This includes reduced capacity for Heartbeat of the Murray session times. However, we will be running multiple shows during the school holidays, depending on demand.
“There will also be reduced capacity on the PS Pyap, which will be cruising daily.”
All buildings on site will be open, but will have limitations on the number of people able to enter them.
Protective screens have also been installed at the Pioneer Settlement reception area, as well as in the horse carriage and vintage cars.
A regular hygiene and cleaning schedule will be in place, and Pioneer Settlement staff will undergo COVID-19 training. Hand sanitiser stations will also be located at points throughout the site.
Ms Green said the re-opening of the Pioneer Settlement was another important step in supporting local tourism and businesses.
“Like many rural and regional areas, our local tourism industry has taken a significant hit due to the coronavirus pandemic,” she said.
“It’s great that we are now starting to see the easing of some coronavirus restrictions, including welcoming visitors to the Swan Hill region.”
Ms Green also thanked the local community for its support during the Pioneer Settlement’s closure.
“Our community has been very understanding and has shown tremendous support and interest in its re-opening,” Ms Green said.
“We look forward to our local community continuing to support the Pioneer Settlement when we re-open our doors on 25 June.”
Community members and visitors wanting more information regarding the Pioneer Settlement re-opening on 25 June can call the site on 1800 981 911 or email [email protected]
