17 May 2017 Riverine Herald, Echuca VIC (General News) by Rusty Woodger A BARMAH landmark will receive a much-needed facelift in a move residents hope will boost tourism. The Barmah Punt, the oldest cable punt ferry on the Murray River, will have $200,000 splashed on it to overturn its decrepit state. The punt has sat in Jack Edwards Park since it was taken out of operation in 1966. It was a vital commodity to the Barmah community for 37 years until the construction of the Murray River crossing rendered it useless. Barmah resident Sharon Gallaway said the restoration funding was an exciting development for the town. In the short-term were going to see this (punt) come back to life, because its a bit dead at the moment, she said. It will see some workers involved in the project and some school excursions as the works are underway. In the long-term, hopefully we will see a boost to tourism, which will be great for our town. Works will see the punt lifted from its current location and placed on a new cradle structure to allow for better understanding of its original form and provide improved public access. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes was in Barmah on Monday to formally announce the grant. She said it was an example of the Victorian Government honouring one of the states treasured relics. The Barmah Punt is steeped in Victorian history and we want to make sure its remembered as fondly in retirement as it was during its working days, she said. This restoration project means so much to the Barmah community and were excited to make it happen. The project is being delivered in partnership with Moira Shire council, which also contributed $29,000. Mayor Gary Cleveland said the punt was an important part of the regions history and the funding would allow it to be preserved for future generations. The investment comes as the Barmah community fights to save one of its two caravan parks, which Moira Shire council is considering closing. If the Barmah Caravan and Camping Park is shut, it would be a severe blow to the towns economy, which relies heavily on tourism. The Barmah Punt is steeped in Victorian history and we want to make sure its remembered as fondly in retirement as it was during its working days Jaclyn Symes Member for Northern Victoria Caption Text: OUR PUNT: Barmahs Jill and Sharon Gallaway inspecting the towns punt, which is receiving a $200,000 overhaul and Jaclyn Symes, left, making the announcement on Monday. Photo: RUSTY WOODGER Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence