Bannockburn Heart set to beat

JUST in time for the summer heat, work on stage one of Bannockburn’s new leisure precinct is complete and the taps are ready to be turned on.

Known as Bannockburn Heart, the $3 million project includes the Shire’s first water play space and will operate from 9am to 9pm every day of the week.

“It’s a very exciting day for the Bannockburn and Golden Plains community,” said Shire mayor Cr Owen Sharkey.

“Over the past eight months, we know many residents have been counting down the days until we could pull down the fence and everyone can play on all the fun equipment and splash in the water play space.”

Located on the corner of Milton and Byron streets, and along with the water park, Bannockburn Heart also features play equipment, barbecues, seating, lighting, all abilities public toilets and shaded areas.

The site will also be the location of the Golden Plains Farmers’ Market and as part of the works a sealed carpark was added, and the Bannockburn Scouts got a new meeting place.

“The Bannockburn Heart is sure to be a popular destination for Golden Plains’ families this summer holidays,” Cr Sharkey said.

“There’s play equipment for toddlers and children, as well as the ninja-style play area for teens, and there are accessible play elements including a flying fox designed for people of all abilities.”

Work on the project began in early April this year with funding coming from a range of backers.

The Shire council was the largest contributor at $1,233,500. The Federal government added a further $1.2 million, the State Government directly put in $566,500 via grant programs, while $500,000 came from Regional Development Victoria and $66,500 from Sport and Recreation Victoria.

Stage two of the Bannockburn Heart includes village green and performance stage. Council is currently looking at funding options for that part of the project.

“Council lobbied for many years to build stage one of the Heart and we thank the State and Federal government for their investment, making this a very successful joint project for the people of Golden Plains Shire,” said Cr Sharkey.

Stage one of Bannockburn Heart gets its official opening at 3pm on Thursday, 19 December, followed by the Golden Plains Twilight Market.