The District Council of Barunga West is part of a region known for its high level of community connectedness. However, some of the challenges facing the region include older people living in smaller communities, who are at risk of isolation and with reduced access to infrastructure and transport. The population profile of the region is older than the average for regional South Australia and there are a higher proportion of people living with a profound or severe disability, a group that has been identified as particularly vulnerable.
The work of District Council of Barunga West recognises that benefits of walking can also be aspired to and achieved by those community members with mobility challenges that mean they may be unable to walk distances. Overall, this council-developed pathway solution meets essential safety needs, while promoting activity and developing a walking path that can be used by all residents. The project was funded by the Council itself with grant support from State Government.