The public appeal has now closed

Following a very generous response from the general public, Service Clubs, the Victorian Government and the City of Ballarat, the Appeal has now closed.

With sufficient funds (combined with much voluntary labour) the Society is now in a position to complete the boat.

The Society would like to express its deep appreciation to all who have contributed, however large or small their donations and in whatever form. Your generosity has ensured the presence of a traditional paddle steamer on the Lake will continue for many years to come.

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What about water in the Lake?

As the work on the boat has progressed, there has been much speculation about how well it will travel over a dry lakebed. Fortunately there are plans to address the long term water supply to the lake.

The December 2009 edition of the City of Ballarat myballarat Community Magazine, outlined plans to harvest stormwater, quadrupling the catchment area, and diverting this water to Lake Wendouree. The Lake will act as a reservoir, from which water will be distributed to community assets such as the Sturt Street gardens.

It is expected that the full range of works will be completed by June 2013 after which the Lake's water supply should be assured in perpetuity.