Council officially opened the upgraded Hoddinott Reserve playground in East Bairnsdale on Thursday 16 July, marking the completion of a project that has transformed the once-tired reserve into a welcoming community space.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth, Councillors and Tom McIntosh MP, Member for Eastern Victoria, joined community members at Hoddinott Reserve in East Bairnsdale to celebrate the official opening.
Council delivered the project in partnership with Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC). The upgraded reserve and playground now feature interactive play equipment, nature-based play elements designed for children aged four to 12 years, new picnic facilities and seating - including a turtle sculpture table and seats crafted by Dougie Hood from GLaWAC's Business Enterprise team - shade improvements and landscaped areas providing spaces for families to gather and relax.
Mayor Cr Ashworth said the project had delivered a much-needed community asset that encourages activity and community life.
"Hoddinott Reserve has been transformed into a place where children can play, families can spend time together and neighbours can connect," Cr Ashworth said.
"Projects like this are about more than playground equipment. They create opportunities for healthy activity, strengthen community connections and help make our neighbourhoods great places to live.
"We were delighted to officially open this fantastic new space and want to thank everyone who contributed to bringing the project to life," Cr Ashworth said.
The project was jointly funded by the Victorian Government through the 2023-24 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund - Community Facilities Stream, and Council, with valuable collaboration and support from Gippsland Lakes Complete Health, Uniting Gippsland and Communities for Children East Gippsland, whose advocacy and involvement helped support the vision for the reserve.
The community turned out in strong numbers to enjoy the new play space throughout the day.
