Hepburn Shire Council mayor Kate Redwood announced council’s endorsement of extensive plans detailed by community member Peter O’Mara.

“It’s an exciting progression that has been 10 years in the making,” Cr Redwood said.

“The thing that really stands out about this project, and is important, is the involvement of family members and young people.”

The $40,000 allocated by council to the project will allow the next stages to be implemented.

“We will see how far the money stretches, but we will put in shading and tanbark which make it a wonderful space for the community,” Cr Redwood said.

 Mr O’Mara said his endorsed plan identified 25 key actions that needed to be undertaken to ensure the facility grew to meet future local recreational needs.

The actions include capital works and a site improvement program; component-based funding strategy; regulated maintenance schedules; communication links and environment-wise protocols for the site. 

“The plan is the culmination of community inputs and idea of the last 20 years,” Mr O’Mara said. “All actions provide for an inclusive and accessible local community space that connects people and inspires physical activity, creativity and enjoyment.” 

Tenders will be opened shortly, with work expected to start before Christmas. 

Cr Redwood said the space would be ideal for all members of the community and was a great asset.