Wattle Park's iconic heritage tram picnic shelters have been transformed into a vibrant outdoor space thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos today announced the opening of the site, following the completion of the upgrades, including a new ceremonial space, and the replacement of the iconic tram picnic shelters.
Other upgrades to Wattle Park included a new all-abilities tram-shaped playscape, a walking and running track, and picnic area that opened in April 2023 - offering more open accessible outdoor spaces for visitors across Melbourne.
The park features two W-Class tram-shaped picnic shelters, replacing the old shelters that had been damaged over time. The replacement retired W-Class trams were supplied by VicTrack and converted into new picnic shelters at the Bendigo Tramways Heritage Rail Workshop.
The Labor Government has invested $5.1 million to upgrade Wattle Park as part of the Suburban Parks Program and the Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program.
This work ensured the heritage trams are easily accessible and integrate with the adjacent all-abilities playscape.
For more than a century, Wattle Park has been a living tribute to Melbourne's iconic trams. Since its founding in 1917 by the former Hawthorn Tramway Trust, this cherished site has been shaped and cared for by generations of tram operators, preserving a piece of the city's heritage.
To find out more about the extensive upgrades at Wattle Park go to parks.vic.gov.au/projects/melbourne-region/wattle-park-upgrades
As stated by Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos
"Wattle Park is a beloved space, made even more special by its tram heritage. Upgrading parks like this gives everyone the chance to relax, play, and enjoy the great outdoors."
As stated by Member for Box Hill Paul Hamer
"The trams are a much-loved icon of Wattle Park; it is wonderful to see the trams re-opened and ready for use in time for summer."
As stated by James Reade - Chief Executive Officer, Bendigo Tramways
"The Bendigo Tramways Workshop is a world class facility that allows us to restore, preserve and maintain a range of heritage transport."
"Projects such as the Wattle Park Picnic shelters are great as they ensure we keep the skills and expertise that we need to maintain our own tram fleet whilst providing great community assets that showcase heritage trams."
