Ocean Grove families have an exciting new place to play, after the official opening of the redeveloped Kingston Park playground on Adco Grove.
The sub-regional playground, within the 12.5 hectare Kingston Park Recreation Reserve, has been carefully designed to fit into its natural bushland setting.
It features areas for both passive and active play, as well as inclusive elements for use by children of all abilities.
The centrepiece is a six-metre high central tower with two slides, chosen via a community vote.
Surrounded by native vegetation, including rare Bellarine Yellow Gum, the playground itself also incorporates elements that fit a 'landscape as playground' theme. Parts of the design reference the local flora and fauna, and these are explained in story posts throughout the landscaping.
The $370,000 redevelopment was co-funded by the City of Greater Geelong ($270,000) and the Victorian Government ($100,000).
It was officially opened on Friday by Mayor Bruce Harwood and The Hon. Lisa Neville MP, Member for Bellarine, with students from Surfside Primary the first to test it out.
The site's former playground equipment will be sent to Sri Lanka and recommissioned there, under a program run by Rotary.
Mayor Bruce Harwood:
Kingston Park has been a much-loved playground in Ocean Grove for a long time and this major redevelopment will mean it continues to be enjoyed by the community for years to come.The playground fits beautifully into its natural setting and based on the excited reaction at today's opening event, it's already a huge hit with local children.
Councillor Peter Murrihy, Co-Chair, Social and Infrastructure Planning portfolio:
Playgrounds have an important role in creating healthy and happy communities.The new Kingston Park playground looks spectacular – especially the central tower, which was chosen by the community.
Council's investment in this project has been well worthwhile, and we thank the state government for its contribution.
If you live in Ocean Grove or anywhere on the Bellarine, make sure you take the kids for a play very soon.
Councillor Trent Sullivan, Bellarine Ward:
With the magnificent new playground, BBQ facilities, lots of seating and beautiful bush setting, Kingston Park is the perfect place for a family day out.The council is proud to have invested in a facility that will bring so much joy.
