Works have commenced at the Ray Bastin Reserve to transform it into a revitalised regional park, with upgrades to the existing playground equipment, skate park and BMX track.
The $3.1 million redevelopment project will also include a range of active and passive experiences, such as a fitness circuit and fitness equipment, including a dedicated area for older adults, and a multi-use court with both netball and basketball rings.
The City of Casey’s chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said that the transformation of the reserve “reflects Council’s commitment to providing amenities for the community to be active, healthy and connected”.
Other new amenities also include a barbecue, picnic space with shelters and seating and upgrades to the existing public toilets.
Minister for Planning and Suburbs Sonya Kilkenny said that “we’re investing in community wellbeing by supporting local councils to build new and improved facilities in our fastest growing suburbs”.
“We’re building better places for people to live, work and connect with one another and supporting thriving communities.”
The council received $1.6 million in funding from the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, as well as $250,000 from Sports and Recreation through the Local Sport Infrastructure Fund; with the council contributing $1.495 million to the project.
Ms Duff added that the council “extensively engaged” with the community during its planning to ensure that the project met the locale’s requirements and suggestions.
This included talks with senior community members who provided input into the exercise equipment, including discussions with Aboriginal Elder’s reference groups to assist with formulating the park’s connection to Country “which will be realised through native vegetation landscaping, play elements and reflection spaces”.
Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson said that the upgrade will be a “fantastic asset” for the rapidly growing community, “providing safer and more inclusive outdoor spaces residents can enjoy for years to come”.
The overall Growing Suburbs Fund is a $440 million state government investment over 10 years that has since provided $1.3 billion of critical local infrastructure in LGAs like the City of Casey, with an additional $5 million from the 2024-25 state budget.
