A space for the community

CHRISTMAS can be a hectic time for many people.

There are catch-ups, work functions, end-of-year parties and family gatherings.

On top of that, cost of living increases faced by everyone at the moment means people may feel under more pressure to get presents for everyone in their lives this year.

But it is worth remembering that while it is a busy period, life goes on around us.

This means that taking time out to do something for yourself is important.

For me, what’s important in my life is family and remembering my roots, which is of course the eastern suburbs of Geelong.

I campaigned on a platform of representing this area of our region and when there are opportunities for residents of these places to have their say on issues that matter to them, I want them to speak up.

I know that the Aldershot Reserve playground has been a topic that many people from St Albans Park, Whittington, Newcomb and Breakwater have been talking about for some time.

They want this area beautified and brought up-to-date to modern standards, and for their children to have a safe and welcoming space to play.

Last week, the City of Greater Geelong launched a community engagement campaign on the renewal of Aldershot Reserve playground.

Aldershot Reserve’s existing amenities include junior play equipment, a basketball half court, shelter, BBQ, and pedestrian path network.

It is landscaped with a few trees, but it is not what you might see elsewhere across the municipality.

That is why in 2020-2021, Council worked with the community to develop a new master plan for the reserve to better meet the needs of local residents.

The master plan was endorsed in March 2021.

It includes planning for an entry garden, improved path network, new play space, pump track, dog park, open spaces, and fitness area.

What this playground renewal project aims to do is build on that work, and the input provided by residents, to provide is a district level play space for the local community.

The project is aiming to create a community-led concept plan of a play space with supporting amenities such as concrete paths, new shelter, park furniture, landscaping, and trees.

The playground design will be based on residents’ feedback but that means we need to get your input – it’s up to the community to help guide what’s included.

The City has an online tool where the community can identify priorities through a point system.

Interested residents can also meet with City officers on site to share their ideas.

There was an on-site meeting on Wednesday, 22 November and there will be another on Saturday, 2 December, 10am -1pm.

I appreciate that at this time of the year it can be difficult finding a spare moment, but I will be on site and would strongly encourage you to get along to have a chat.

I will also be around on Wednesday, 13 December with Member for Geelong, Christine Couzens MP, at the Bellarine Living and Learning Centre for a community meeting and BBQ for all 3219 residents.

This will be two days after the engagement period for the Aldershot Reserve playground renewal closes at 5pm on Monday, 11 December, with preliminary plans to be shared in the new year.

For those with an interest in this space, visit the City’s Have Your Say page via https://yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/aldershot-reserve-playground-renewal to get involved.

Let’s make sure that the details of this project and what it includes reflect the wishes of the local community.

Cr Melissa Cadwell

Brownbill Ward, City of Greater Geelong