The 12 month $12,000 project was finally completed last month and now boasts a level floor, two new barbecues, new tables and chairs, a new preparation bench and new lighting.

Internal walls also received a fresh coat of paint.

The only part of the Lions Park structure which didn’t receive a revamp was the roof and support beams.

“It’s a big change from what it was,” past president of the Forbes and District Lions Club Peter Bright said.

“We’ve always been a bit embarrassed about it. The barbecue wasn’t working and the bench was starting to crack up.”

A $10,000 grant received from Barrick Gold Corporation Cowal project meant the five year refurbishment project was whittled down to one.

“The funding … virtually paid for everything here except for the $2000 we raised locally in cash,” Mr Bright said.

“Not one business we approached knocked us back – be it in cash or in kind support,” he said.

“We are very impressed with Forbes. The people are terrific anyway but the businesses were totally supportive.”

As part of the refurbishment the former barbecue and preparation bench were demolished and removed.

A new layer of concrete was laid on top of the former “patchwork” floor to remove trip hazards and prevent water from running through the facility.

New picnic tables and chairs were then installed, along with a new sensor light above the barbecues.

The two barbecues were the last items to arrive, and according to Mr Bright, caused the biggest problems.

Prices increased between obtaining quotes and purchase and the preparation bench then had to be built around them.

It may have taken “a lot of man hours” to complete the refurbishment, but according to Mr Bright it was all worth it.

“People have come up and told me how good it all looks. That makes you feel that it’s all been worthwhile,” he said.

Mr Bright was president of the Forbes and District Lions Club when the decision was made to refurbish the facility.

“I think Forbes deserves it. It’s a beautiful spot and it just needed doing. This end of town doesn’t have a lot of facilities to it.

“We are always collecting money from people and this is putting something back and I must say, it’s pretty rewarding for us too,” he said.

It is hoped the refurbished facility will become a popular spot for families, parties and anyone wishing to enjoy a picnic along the foreshores of Lake Forbes.

The Forbes and District Lions Club re-formed in late 2008. Seventy per cent of funds raised by the club are returned to the community.