A much-loved piece of Cheltenham’s history has found a new purpose at the transformed Cheltenham Recreation Reserve playground.
Our newest playground blends imaginative play with local heritage, creating a destination where children can climb, explore and discover the reserve’s past.
Once part of the suburb’s bustling railway precinct, the Cheltenham Down Station building sits at the heart of the new playground. The building has been relocated and reinstated as a picnic shelter, shaded seating and viewing space overlooking the sportsgrounds.
The reserve’s historic steamroller has been restored and transformed into an interactive play feature, inviting a new generation to discover Cheltenham’s history.
Thoughtfully designed to reflect the character of the reserve, the playground features a custom treehouse, climbing tower and slide, misted water play, nature play, sand play, swings, spring rockers and a spinner bowl.
Bayside Mayor Debbie Taylor-Haynes said Cheltenham Recreation Reserve was more than a playground.
“This is a place where history, recreation and community come together,” Cr Taylor-Haynes said.
“Families can picnic beneath the restored station building, children can climb aboard the steamroller, and visitors can relax while enjoying one of Bayside’s newest community spaces.”
Accessible pathways, shaded seating and gathering spaces make the reserve easy to enjoy for visitors of all ages and abilities.
The upgrade also includes refurbished public toilets with improved accessibility and mobility features.
Delivered with a total budget of $2.1 million, the project included a $720,000 contribution from the Victorian Government’s Level Crossing Removal Project, with Council funding the balance.
The Cheltenham Recreation Reserve upgrade is one of a number of projects being delivered through Council’s 10-year Playground Improvement Plan, with Dendy Park South and Hampton Foreshore playgrounds also recently re-opened as a vibrant, inclusive and more accessible place for all abilities.
