Families in Melbourne’s south-east can enjoy hours of fun at Wattle Park, with a new all-abilities playscape, walking and running track, and upgraded picnic area now open at the much-loved location on Wurundjeri Country.
The expansive new playscape offers kids of all ages and abilities new ways to get active and have fun in nature. It features play structures including a double-storey tram fort, play domes, swings, spinners, slides and sensory play, which are wheelchair-accessible with assistance.
Fitness lovers can also enjoy new ways to boost their step count with a 3.25km walking and running track through the park, and over 500 metres of additional track formalised to create a loop around the oval.
A picnic area has been upgraded with new shelters, barbecues and all-abilities pathways and picnic tables, providing the comforts needed for a great day out at the park with family and friends.
The upgrades have been designed in consultation with the community, Heritage Victoria and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. Environmental assessments were completed to make sure the park’s beautiful bushland was preserved during and after the construction works.
Parks Victoria has delivered the improvements thanks to a $5.1 million investment from the Victorian Government, as part of the $315 million Suburban Parks Program and the $21 million Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program.
Further to these upgrades, Parks Victoria has drafted the Wattle Park Master Plan, which will set the long-term vision for the park.
The draft plan has been developed in consultation with the local community, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and other key stakeholders as part of a further $500,000 investment from the Victorian Government.
Community members can now view the draft Wattle Park Master Plan and have their say at the Engage Victoria website.
For more information about the Wattle Park upgrades and to plan your visit, visit the Parks Victoria website.
Quotes attributable to Sofia De Lesantis, Regional Director Melbourne, Parks Victoria
“The new playscape and picnic area have been designed to support people of all-abilities to get into nature.”
“We know Wattle Park is a special place for the local community. These new facilities will provide more opportunities for visitors to explore and experience this beautiful bushland in Melbourne’s south-east.”
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