Ecolodge upgrade to start

A much-needed replacement water supply system for Peel Forest’s eco-friendly lodge is to become a reality.

It has taken Peel Forest Outdoor Pursuits Charitable Trust, less than a month to raise half of the $22,000 required for the upgrade which includes a $6000 rainwater-harvesting system, $10,000 kitchen revamp, and a $6000 backup generator.

The current water supply was made unstable by flooding and silt build-up, trust operations manager Julie Grant said.

‘‘When there was a lot of rain we were called in to clear that out. That takes quite a lot of time,’’ Grant said.

The replacement system, fully funded by charitable foundation Alterno, would see rainwater collected and diverted uphill to a 30,000 litre tank.

Staff were now getting the area ready for its instalment, she said.

‘‘We’re trying to do everything as economically as we can so we make the best use of the money that we’ve raised.’’

Grant did not know how long the project would take but with the trust at its busiest until April, it would not be until then that it gained momentum.

There was also enough money – which came from two private funders and a Givealittle page where $3000 had been donated – for the new backup generator, a project that would start after the new water supply was ready.

The generator would keep the existing battery from being damaged, which happened whenever the power ran too low.

While people were charged to use the lodge, as well as to take part in outdoor activities – the money was only enough to cover running costs, Grant said.