Excitement has been building in the Parkes Shire for the opening of the new play equipment at Lions Park in Parkes where kids can enjoy flying foxes, climbing towers, trampolines, and lots more.
This project, that is set to turn this recreational spot into a play paradise, has been jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program Phase 3 and Parkes Shire Council (PSC) to the amount of $850,000. The LRCI program committed $435,000 and PSC’s commitment was $415,000.
The park was opened to the public on Friday 11th August, with the official opening on Tuesday 29th August at 11am, with Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack in attendance.
Mr McCormack said infrastructure projects such as the Lions Park in Parkes was precisely why the LRCI Program was created.
“Upgrading Lions Park is all about bringing the local community together, whether it be a child’s birthday party or a place for community groups to gather,” Mr McCormack said.
“I established The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program so councils could complete infrastructure projects they identified as important to the local community and this wonderful project is a testament to that vision.”
Mayor of Parkes Shire, Councillor Neil Westcott said “The scope of this project included not only a new collection of play equipment, but also brand-new shelters and barbeques, giving this popular park a makeover. The big changes have a lot of community support and are sure to make the venue an even more popular destination for locals and visitors alike.”
The new equipment includes a 25m double sky-rider (flying fox), a multi-play Sky Tower, quartz rock climbing block, a swing set with an inclusive seat, a 2.3m carousel that can accommodate a wheelchair, three trampolines placed in the ground, a balance trail, and a junior multi-play unit.
All the equipment is placed on soft fall to enhance the physical experience of the park and encourage independent play, while a winding bike path around the equipment will encourage children of all abilities to engage in wheel-based play.
To keep the park looking beautiful for all the community to enjoy, Parkes Shire Council has ensured the new play equipment is under 24-hour video surveillance. Any illegal activity will be caught on camera and reported to the police.
The Australian Government has also provided Phase 3 Program funding for other local projects in the Parkes Shire including: improved access to Peak Hill Library; amenities block at Bushman’s Hill; fit out of new amenities and a grandstand building at Spicer Oval Precinct; Skate Park Precinct improvements including installation of CCTV; and Reid Street rehabilitation and drainage.
The LRCI Program supports local councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects across the nation, supporting jobs and delivering benefits to local communities.
