By Peter Douglas
An inter-generational approach to designing play spaces may be the future for the region, as the Lilydale Lake Playspace is set to be unveiled on Tuesday 11 April.
If successful, the playspace could set a precedent for further developments within Yarra Ranges, as well as setting an example of what can be achieved through this approach.
An inter-generational method encourages children to not only enjoy outdoors play, but potentially enjoy more time with other members of their family, such as their grandparents.
Yarra Ranges Council manager of built and active spaces, Robyn Mansfield, said the space had been designed for all ages and abilities.
“Connecting with nature is important for children’s physical and mental development and it’s also good for adults,” Ms Mansfield said.
“Research shows that nature is positive for health in terms of recovering from stress, improving concentration and productivity, and improving our mental state.
“We know that nature is important to people, and the numbers of people seeking nature-based recreation are increasing.”
Local Government Minister, Natalie Hutchins, said everyone should have the opportunity to play in the park and play spaces.
“It doesn’t matter what your age is, everyone loves to play at the park,” she said.
“Growing communities deserve assistance to improve parks, playgrounds and community centres, which is what we are doing with the Growing Suburbs Fund.”
Features of the new play space will include:
* A dry creek bed with small water play pumps;
* Reed clumps;
* Giant basket swing;
* Sandpit with stone bug stepping stones;
* Large and small climbing structures resembling a bird’s nest;
* Platypus seat rocker;
* Music bells;
* Timber climbing posts;
* A six-seat swing set, including an Expression Swing that allows a parent and child to swing together while facing each other;
* Water play mushrooms;
* Glow-in-the-dark walking paths; and
* Platypus-shaped climbing frame.
Meanwhile, accessible elements of the play space that people living with a disability can enjoy will include:
* Double flying-fox with accessible seat;
* All abilities water play area, with water jets;
* Wheelchair accessible Liberty Swing.
After successful advocacy efforts from Yarra Ranges Council, the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund has contributed $1 million to the project, in addition to council’s contribution of $400,000.
Meanwhile, sculpture artist Clare James will host a nature-inspired sculptural workshop during the opening week activities, taking place from 19-23 April.
Ms James said her workshop allowed participants to create their own sculptures using natural materials such as sticks, raffia, grasses and vines.
No experience or special skills are required.
Suitable for all ages, with materials supplied.
Times as follows:
* From 10am to 11.30am on Wednesday 19 April;
* From 10am to 11.30am on Sunday 23 April;
Also included in the activities are Move to Improve Walk, Move to Improve, Play Trail, Story Weaving, Melbourne Parkour, and Djirri Djirri Dance – storytelling and workshop.
For more details, visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au.
