Skatepark works ready to ride

THE ribbon has been finally cut on Bannockburn’s upgraded skatepark.

Marked with an event last Saturday, the works include new obstacles, shelter and lighting, and were officially opened by the Member for Geelong, Christine Couzens, and Goldens Plains mayor Cr Gavin Gamble.

The project was completed through consultation with local young people, and Cr Gamble said the work serves as an example of youth influence in the community.

“Council believe that it’s important for young people to have a voice in their community and a meaningful say on projects that matter to them,” he said.

“We’re confident that we’ve delivered a project that matches what our local young people want because they were involved with this upgrade from the start.

“The results speak here for all of us to see and for some of us to enjoy more than others.”

At a cost of nearly $450,000, the upgrades were a joint effort with cash provided by all levels of government.

The State Government put in $250,000 via the Community Crime Prevention Program, while nearly $200,000 came from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Josh Bridgland visited the skatepark with his daughters Matilda and Anakie, and said the improvements will provide a safer space for kids to hang out with their friends.

“When we came down here a couple months ago, it was just this tiny little part of was here. Now it’s just expanded so much since then,” he said.

“Back in the day when we were younger, skateparks were just dismal and very limited in what they had. Now they’ve just opened it up more with ramps and open areas.

“It’s great for all the big kids and little kids alike. We’ll definitely get a lot of use out of it, and everyone will use it and love it. It’s a good, clean area for kids.

A second stage of upgrades is being drafted for the skatepark that will include an additional bowl and an adjacent bike pump track.