New name in step

THE disused Narre Warren North tip’s transformation into a $1 million tourist attraction inspired by the 1000 Steps has a name.
The City of Casey, awaiting approval from the Registrar of Geographic Names and the public, has chosen to call the old landfill site Bayview Park and the unnamed equestrian trail within the site the Bayview Equestrian Trail.
These names are currently open to the public for discussion.
Councillor Rafal Kaplon said at the Casey council meeting on Tuesday 6 June that the community response so far to the name has been a “positive” one.
“The name highlights the history of the site,” Cr Kaplon said, in recognition of the former Bayview quarry on the site.
“At the moment it’s not a real park. It’s basically empty fields.”
In its draft 2016-17 budget, the council allocated $50,000 for planning the bland Kurll Park landfill’s transformation, including extensive landscaping and viewing platforms.
Cr Rafal Kaplon said the 1001 Steps project would be a unique take on the Dandenongs’ famous gut-busting track.
Councillors expect the redeveloped site to become a scenic and recreational magnet, attracting visitors and tourists from far and wide to a “breath-taking” view.
Cr Rosalie Crestani hopes a private cafe operator may move onto the site in the future.
“It’s introducing something that Casey hasn’t had before,” Cr Crestani said.
She noted the Casey project would include 1001 actual steps.
“I think the 1000 Steps is only actually 700,” she said.