New look for Proud Park improves puppy play – Wollongong

Pack your picnic basket and bring your four-legged friends, Proud Park in Helensburgh has had its winter refresh completed and is ready to enjoy.

The upgraded park features include a new fenced off-leash dog area and park entry, shelters and picnic facilities, a water refill station and dog bowl, park signage as well as landscaping improvements.

“Our Helensburgh community value Proud Park and is a popular off-leash dog area. As such, they have asked for upgrades to make the park more accessible and safer,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“So, we’re pleased to complete the upgrades to lift the park’s amenity and create a better experience for all. With the new fenced off-leash dog area, we also hope to see more dogs and owners enjoying this green space.”

The project was boosted by a $45,340 grant under the NSW Government Local Small Commitments Allocation (LSCA) funding program. The program supports small local projects to enhance community wellbeing and provide benefits to communities.

Cr Bradbery said Council is grateful to have received funding to help invest in community-focused facilities, like our much-loved parks, to make Wollongong a liveable and thriving city.

“We’ve ambitious plans to make our facilities and spaces the best it can be. The funding from governing bodies makes a great difference on uplifting projects and progressing them to completion,” he said.

“For our Proud Park project, the funding has aided the array of park improvements to complement our new fenced off-leash dog area. We’re always thankful in their support of our community goals and vision.”

Member for Heathcote, Maryanne Stuart MP, is excited by the improvements to the park:

“The upgrades to Proud Park are a wonderful enhancement for our community, especially for those with pets.

“This project reflects the Minns Labor government’s commitment to creating safe, welcoming spaces where residents and their pets can enjoy the outdoors together.”

“The new facilities will undoubtedly make Proud Park an even more popular spot in Helensburgh, and I’m proud to see our government’s investment making a positive impact on local lives.”

Council have also received $40,000 under LSCA to fund the current Stanwell Park Nature Play project. The works will incorporate nature play opportunities that complement the renewal of Stanwell Park playground. The works for the nature play are underway, and depending on weather and other conditions, it is anticipated works will be completed in September 2024.

“Our shared spaces are an integral part of community life. Our parks provide important places for people to connect and play,” Cr Bradbery said.

“We are looking forward to continuing our investments in our parks, now and into the future.”

Proudly funded by NSW Government Local Small Commitments Allocation (LSCA) funding program.

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