Official opening of the new and improved Stamford Park

More than $13 million have been invested to redevelop Stamford Park. Picture: SUPPLIED.

Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Knox Council is welcoming everyone to celebrate the opening of the new-look Stamford Park parklands and wetlands on Saturday 15 June from 11am-2pm.

The event is family-friendly outdoor and the council is encouraging residents and visitors to come along to the park and celebrate the new and improved park.

The eventful day will be packed with many new features to explore the expanded wetlands including – 3.5 kilometres of paths, intergenerational playground, five viewing decks, lookout tower, pedestrian bridge, boardwalks, yarning circle and open village green space for community events and activities.

The opening event will also feature live music, roving entertainment, education talks, a reptile show and scavenger hunt with prizes. Learn about revegetation works, public art installations and the local platypus colony.

A Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony will take place at noon as part of official opening proceedings.

Knox Mayor, Councillor Jude Dwight said the overhaul of Stamford Park had created a vast new open space for Knox.

“I am thrilled that this major transformation has opened up this significant site for everyone to experience,” she said.

“Open space consistently rates as one of the highest priorities for our community.”

“The network of paths has opened up 38 hectares of parklands so that residents and visitors can explore this unique and precious part of Knox.”

“The wetlands and creek at Stamford Park are crucial for our environment. They play an important role in stormwater management and providing habitat for native animals, including our local platypus colony.”

People can explore this unique and precious part of Knox with a new network of shared paths, links and trails over 38 hectares.

Council has contributed $12.9 million in the project and Melbourne Water contributed $600,000 through its Liveable Communities, Liveable Waterways Program.

The parklands is not merely redeveloped for the community’s enjoyment, but also the wetlands and creek play an important role in stormwater management and provide crucial habitat for native birds and other animals.

People can also visit the historic Stamford Park Homestead and gardens, recently reopened following renovations.

In the event of wet weather, the opening may be postponed, for further information visit knox.vic.gov.au or call 9298 8000 during weekdays for any update.