THE redeveloped Walker Place precinct was officially opened on Monday afternoon following six months of construction works.
Despite the area being open to cars and pedestrians since mid-July, Gawler Council held its official opening celebrations for the project, which has formed part of the $2.2 million revamp of the Walker Place-Julian Terrace precinct.
It was the first time the area had been closed off to traffic to hold an event, although attendance was restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gawler Mayor Karen Redman said the renovated space would be a boon for local businesses.
“The businesses are really happy and for me that’s number one,” she said.
“We wanted to do this project and we had a vision… but it’s been a collaborative process for businesses and local community members.
“To realise a really lovely and active space which celebrates history, is functional, and is easier to navigate for people with a disability is a fantastic outcome.”
Final touches on the precinct included signs bearing quotes in Kaurna language aimed at recognising local Aboriginal people’s connection to the land Gawler was built on.
The council collaborated with Kaurna and Narungga man Jack Buckskin to create the displays.
Mr Buckskin spoke at the opening event and said it was important to show aspects of Kaurna culture in prominent spaces.
“To have some language imbedded into this place is an awesome thing,” he said.
“Our culture is like our country. It’s not just for Aboriginal people or for Kaurna people, it’s all of us to embrace and utilise.
“Culture has been embedded into this place for a long time as we’ve shared this place and it’s good you can come along to share our culture.”
Next year will see the return of the popular Gawler Fringe opening event to Walker Place, if the Adelaide Fringe Festival proceeds as normal next year.
Walker Place will remain a one-way thoroughfare, with carparks, for motorists, but will be closed for public events when required.
The remainder of the Walker Place-Julian Terrace precinct redevelopment will see the existing public toilet block demolished and built closer to Apex Park.
The mural attached to the soon-to-be-demolished toilets will be kept in its original place, facing Walker Place.