A space for all in Drysdale

THERE are some wonderful places to explore along the Bellarine, and there really is something for everyone depending on what takes your fancy.

Some of our region’s best restaurants, beaches, wineries and parks are all located in the Bellarine ward, which is something I am reminded of regularly when I am out and about in my area.

But a recent visit to Drysdale cemented my view that this is one of the best places in Greater Geelong to call home.

It came after seeing the completed upgrades at the Drysdale Town Square.

The $1.3 million transformative works bring community together, seamlessly integrating with the state-of-the-art Boronggook Drysdale Library.

The project, which came out of the 2012 Drysdale Town Square Urban Design Framework, aimed to create a civic heart for the town, and I am confident anybody who visits this space would agree it has succeeded.

With careful planning and collaborative efforts, these upgrades have integrated modern functionality with the rich history of Drysdale to provide a space that caters to all.

Feedback from a number of consultations helped to inform the final design of the town square, with the community, including Drysdale business owners and landlords, all invited to share their feedback on the design back in 2016 and again in 2021.

Some of the highlights include:

• Civic Heart Concept – The project intentionally merges the newly revitalised Drysdale Town Square and Park with the innovative Booronggook Library, creating a dynamic and inclusive Civic Heart
• Community-Centric Design – The design embodies innovation and accessibility with improved lighting, a pedestrianised mall, better surfaces, new furniture, seating, bike parking areas, Smart Nodes and new CCTV cameras
• Cultural Fusion – The upgrade celebrates Drysdale’s rich heritage by integrating elements of local culture and history into its design. A new sculpture which has a play element and gathering spaces pays homage to the past while embracing the present and future aspirations of the community
• Green Oasis – A lush and inviting green space features new gardens with over 2000 indigenous plants and 30 new trees, irrigation, lawns and grass mounds. This oasis underscores the commitment to sustainability and the environment, and fuses perfectly with Booronggook Library’s innovative green rooftop
• Multifunctional Gathering Spaces – The town square’s versatile design allows for a variety of events and activities, from farmers’ markets and outdoor performances to community festivals and gatherings, and
• Connection and Convenience – With an emphasis on walkability and accessibility, the town square is strategically located at the crossroads of community life.

Council contributed $1.23 million to this project, which was backed by $70,000 from the Australian Government as part of the Drysdale Traders CCTV project.

Funding towards the Smart Nodes also came from a wider grant from the Victorian Government.

Council’s commitment is to foster a town centre in Drysdale that supports health, wellbeing, and vibrant community life, and I believe this has been achieved through the town square upgrades.

This town square is not just a place, it represents our shared values and provides a beautiful setting for the community to come together.

Cr Jim Mason

Bellarine Ward,

City of Greater Geelong