Residents’ preferences on Pioneers Park in Berwick were in full swing, as the City of Casey set up shop in the park to hear the people’s voices.
On Saturday, 28 June, two tents and white boards were propped up just outside the Primary at Pioneers Park café in Berwick, with children and parents enjoying the playground’s facilities.
The City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, while unable to make it to the pop-up, said that the community feedback was “positive”.
“Members of the community enjoyed the opportunity to discuss the draft structure plan with council planners.
“An engagement summary report on the engagement’s findings will be available in August 2025,” he said.
Listed on one of the whiteboards were a swathe of post-it notes, and images of what the public would prefer to see following he $700,000 committed by the council on the playground’s upgrades.
An updated swing system and an in-ground trampoline were the favourite, followed closely by an improved slide, and an accommodating building.
On the notes, many residents requested monkey bars, as well as obstacle courses, sand pits, and improved fencing for added safety measures.
One user proposed a specific theme for the park, one that highlights the Old Berwick atmosphere and “connects to the heritage”.
One specific post-it note had additional stickers of support, calling for a flying fox to be installed in the park.
Previously, café owners Kerryn and Zach expressed easier access for all ages and abilities as a must, as well as increased safety measures.
The outreach event also served as the first of two consultation sessions for the Draft Berwick Village Major Activity Centre Structure Plan, with the second set for Wednesday, 9 July at High Street.
