Garden proposed for cultural meeting plac

AN intercultural garden could be established in the green space on the north-west corner of Sturt and Pleasant streets.

Adjacent to the City Oval, it’s been proposed that the currently underutilised public land be upgraded to become a more welcoming community meeting place for people of all cultures and backgrounds.

The suggested works could see the installation of a platform for live performances, a barbecue, shelter, and flag poles, while general landscaping and plants could beautify the area.

The proposal also includes a changing display garden bed to recognise cultural events throughout the year.

Visions for the intercultural garden have been created by the City’s Intercultural Advisory Committee, in partnership with municipal staff and PLOT Landscape Architects.

Sherley Hart of the Filipino/Australian Association of Ballarat said she’s been advocating for an intercultural garden for a decade.

“This will be the symbol of multicultural celebrations here,” she said. “Multiculturalism is deepening and growing in Ballarat, and we want people to see that we are here, all the diverse communities.

“It would be a great space for all of us; the Chinese, Indian, Filipino, Vietnamese, Thai, Europeans, Africans… All of us will be unified.”

City of Ballarat’s Cr Belinda Coates said the space beside City Oval is bigger than many people may realise.

“An intercultural garden would be a wonderful way to bring lots of diverse backgrounds together and celebrate the cultures that contribute so much to Ballarat,” she said.

“It can be something that generates pride within the whole community and something to celebrate.”

It is expected that all abilities toilets would be installed on the south-east side of the City Oval if the garden is established.

In-person consultation sessions will be held at the proposed intercultural garden site on Wednesday, 15 February between 11.30am to 1pm, Thursday, 16 February from 5pm to 6.30pm, and Wednesday 22 February between 4pm to 5.30pm.

A fourth in-person drop-in consultation session on Wednesday, 22nd February will be held at the Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council’s Welcome Centre, 25-39 Barkly Street from 12pm to 1.30pm.

Feedback on the proposal can also be provided via bit.ly/3jwfY7X.