Following extensive community engagement over recent years, Council has adopted a Master Plan for the McDermott Avenue Reserve in Mooroolbark, mapping out 15 years of projects and works at the former netball facility to transform it into public open space.
The reserve has been vacant since the netball association using it relocated in 2015. Following a review of a past Council decision, Council resolved in October 2025 to retain the site to address the need for more neighbourhood open spaces in the area.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said the community had consistently shown strong support for keeping the reserve as public open space.
"We've engaged extensively over recent years on the future of this reserve and community members have overwhelmingly told us they want to see it rejuvenated and reactivated, with paths, opportunities for play and recreation, and spaces to gather with friends," Cr Higgins said.
"As communities grow, parks and open spaces become increasingly important. While there was a commitment from the previous Council to use part of the land for housing, we believe the best result for the community is to keep it as public open space and redevelop it.
The works will be managed in stages; first to rehabilitate the space, then to add infrastructure for the community to use, including a playspace, toilets and a multipurpose court. Projects outlined in the master plan are subject to funding through grants and future Council budget allocations.
"We had the opportunity to nominate the reserve in the Victorian Government's Pick My Park program earlier in the year and it's recently been shortlisted. We're urging all residents to vote for the project at www.engage.vic.gov.au to help us secure some funding to get the works underway.
"I'd like to thank the many community members who participated in various stages of community engagement. Your passion and vision have helped shape the future of this space and we look forward to making it a place where people once again gather to meet, play and make memories."
The final master plan prioritises generous new tree planting and Indigenous landscaping supporting enhanced biodiversity and environmental outcomes. To deliver all projects listed in the master plan with public safety and inclusivity in mind, it is necessary to remove one lemon-scented gum. While the works to remove this tree will take place in July, all other trees on site will be retained.
