We're creating a 35-hectare park in Melbourne's east, a place where local communities can enjoy the benefits of time in nature.
This new park is called ngarrak nakorang wilam park.
The name means 'Mountain Meeting Place' and it was chosen by the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.
The name celebrates Wurundjeri Traditional Owner connections to Country here and vividly expresses how parks bring people together.
John Mullahy MP; Shaun Leane MP; representatives from Whitehorse City Council; and local residents, stakeholders and community groups gathered to unveil new park signs, ahead of works starting on the park's features later this year.
These will include a 3.5km shared-use trail that will run the length of the park. The trail will also have seating, drinking fountains, signage and lighting at key points to help cyclists, runners and walkers along their journey.
There'll also be activity spaces to support recreation and play. Connected to carparks and trails, these spaces will include facilities like play areas, picnic tables, shelters, BBQs and nearby toilets.
Meanwhile, a major vegetation strategy will support the area's biodiversity. Gang Gang Cockatoos, kookaburras and echidnas are some of the wildlife that will benefit from new plantings. Weed removal programs and habitat support, such as nesting boxes, will further boost the area's environmental values.
The creation of ngarrak nakorang wilam park adds to Melbourne's amazing network of green spaces. In addition to boosting liveability and supporting healthy communities, urban parks provide essential habitat for native plants and wildlife, supporting biodiversity while also helping reduce emissions.