By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Cockatoo’s Alma Treloar Reserve is now home to a newly completed outdoor performance area and upgraded park facilities, following the successful finishing of the Alma Treloar Masterplan Implementation Stage two project.
In late March, Development Victoria and Precincts Minister Harriet Shing announced the completion of the project, which received a $180,000 investment from the State Government, with additional support from Cardinia Shire Council and a grant from the Federal Government.
The new improvements at Alma Treloar Reserve include a fantastic amphitheatre with a stage, a shade sail canopy, two barbecues, picnic tables and shelters, as well as more seating around the playground area and extra trees.
These upgrades are designed to make the space more enjoyable for the community – whether it’s for gathering, learning, playing, or staying active.
Minister Shing highlighted the importance of the project for the local community.
“These wonderful upgrades are another example of how we’re supporting Melbourne’s suburbs to thrive,” she said.
“Our fastest-growing areas need extra support, which is why we’re making sure grants are going to where they’ll make the most impact and be of most community benefit.”
With more families moving into the area, these new facilities aim to make the most of the central location of the reserve, benefiting both locals and visitors from surrounding rural towns. The park will now cater to a wide range of users, offering a space for everyone to enjoy.
“Cardinia Shire Council has proudly delivered a series of upgrades recently at Alma Treloar Reserve as part of the Alma Treloar Masterplan Implementation, with great support and continuous advocacy from the Cockatoo community,” Cardinia Shire Mayor, Cr Jack Kowarzik said.
“With State and Federal Government funding, and investment from Council we upgraded the Amphitheatre and stage, added a new shade sail, picnic and barbecue area, drinking fountain, accessible ramps, seating, tables, and completed some landscaping. We also improved the adjacent carpark, which now has 42 spaces, including three new accessible ones.”
“These upgrades aim to make the park more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We’re excited to see the community events, performances, and concerts that will take place here.”
The project was made possible through the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, which helps councils across Melbourne’s fastest-growing suburbs build and improve local infrastructure. In Cardinia Shire, the Growing Suburbs Fund has supported 23 projects since 2015, totalling more than $36 million in upgrades.
Monbulk Member Daniela De Martino shared her excitement about the project’s completion.
“We’re excited to officially open the new and improved facilities at Alma Treloar Reserve, which will bring the people of Cockatoo together and benefit them for years to come,” Ms De Martino said.
With the Growing Suburbs Fund backing over 360 projects across the state since 2015, including the new improvements in Cockatoo, the State Government is helping create better, more connected communities, with over 11,300 jobs supported in the process.
For more information on the Growing Suburbs Fund, you can visit suburbandevelopment.vic.gov.au/grants/growing-suburbs-fund.
