New play space for Macarthur Precinct with old play equipment disassembled for use overseas

A new play space formed part of the Stage 2 works for the recently completed Macarthur Precinct  in Western Victoria.

The precinct in Macarthur, which was redeveloped with extensive community consultation, and was completed via investment from all levels of government, aims to boost community engagement and revitalise the centre of town.

It was supported by $480,000 from the Australian Government, $500,000 from Emergency Recovery Victoria under the Federal-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and a further $300,000 from the Victorian Government through Sport and Recreation Victoria, as well as $192,000 from Moyne Shire Council and $50,000 from community contributions.

The precinct is home to the Macarthur Bowls Club and community outdoor pool, as well as open space, gardens and various other amenities.

• Stage 1 works were fully funded by the Australian Government and included new footpaths, kerb and parking improvements, drainage improvements and refurbishment of existing shade structures.

• Stage 2 works delivered a new play space, multi-sport court, barbeque and shade facilities, splash pad along with landscaping and road and access improvements to the precinct.

As part of the precinct revitalisation works, the existing playground was decommissioned and disassembled as part of the Rotary Overseas Recycled Playground Program. 

The old playground equipment is to be shipped and reused overseas at a disadvantaged school.

Unfortunately, the old playground no longer met new Australian Standards for playground equipment, preventing Moyne Shire Council from donating it or having it reinstalled locally.

Donating overseas ensures it can continue to have a life allowing children in disadvantaged communities to have a wonderful play experience.

Moyne Shire was one of the 18 eligible LGAs that could access DRFA funding as part of ongoing recovery from the 2019-20 Victorian Bushfires.

Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain enthused “It’s fantastic to see work on the Macarthur Precinct complete, the new facilities will revitalise the town centre and provide a space for locals to better connect.

“Seeing this complete is a great result for the community, as they were front and centre of the design process.

Mayor of Moyne Shire, Ian Smith added “This project has revitalised the centre of Macarthur and created an amazing precinct for the community and visitors to enjoy.”

Image. Installing new play space for Macarthur precinct. Credit: Moyne Shire Council