Preserving skateboarding history

MY days of skateboarding and – more often than not – stacking at Corio Bowls might be well behind me.

But I want kids from Geelong’s north to experience the same thrill, and sense of belonging, that I got dropping in on the bowls decades ago.

That’s why I was proud to support Council’s recent decision to apply new heritage overlays at nine recommended places across Greater Geelong, including the bowls.

It’s hard to believe the Corio Bowl are now 46 years old!

Built in 1980, they are one of the earliest examples of skateparks in Australia.

Their construction followed a passionate campaign led by the Corio Skateboard Club – school kids and parents who simply refused to give up on their dream of a local skate park.

In the decades that followed, the bowls gained a reputation with skaters from across Australia due to their unique design.

The legend of Corio Bowls soon spread further, with touring international professionals making their way to site.

And I’m not the only councillor who enjoyed pulling a sick trick or two at the bowls during my younger years.

The Kontelj brothers – now Mayor Stretch Kontelj and Deputy Mayor Eddy Kontelj – both enjoying skateboarding there, while Councillor Ron Nelson was a regular on his rollerblades.

Today, the park’s three distinct bowls continue to challenge and inspire skaters of all abilities.

They’re still used by original members of the Corio Skateboard Club, and they continue to host milestone events that bring people together.

Although not a traditional example of heritage, Corio Bowls is a location that is rich in history.

They’re an inspiring example of community infrastructure fuelled by the energy and enthusiasm of the youngsters that campaigned for them.

They’re a timeless reminder of these kids and their campaign, and a symbol what you can achieve with a bit of grit and determination.

We understand the historical and social significance the Corio Bowls hold in the community, which is why we want to protect and celebrate them.

For me, this decision is about more than preserving concrete.

It’s about recognising a place that represents the energy, determination and community spirit of Geelong’s north.

And recognising that heritage can come in all shapes and sizes.

As part of the process, we’ll now seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning so we can engage further with the community, property owners and key stakeholders.

I’m looking forward to hearing from locals who know just how special this place is.

The Corio Bowls are on track to roll their way into the history books, ensuring their legacy is protected well into the future.

If protecting the bowls gives future generations the chance to drop in, bust some gnarly moves and take a few tumbles of their own – I think that’s something well worth preserving.