Rex Norman Park makeover on track
Published on 27 April 2018
Rex Norman Park makeover on track
Work is nearing completion on a major facelift of Gellibrand’s Rex Norman Park precinct, with a new playground, activity space, exercise equipment, basketball hard stand area and pathways among the upgrades.
Colac Otway Shire Mayor Joe McCracken said contractors were on track to complete the works this weekend. He said the project was part of the implementation of the Gellibrand Rex Norman Park Masterplan.
“It’s a sizeable upgrade to what was there and there’s been a lot of community consultation and input throughout the planning to ensure we end up with a great result for Gellibrand,” he said.
“The old playground was removed a couple of weeks ago, however there were a couple of pieces that the community wanted retained for static display as a bit of a nod to the park’s history.
“One of those was a Yogi Bear spring rider which was a bit weathered, but had been there a long time and the community wanted it kept. It will be mounted nearby a bit like a piece of public art.”
Cr McCracken said the new playground incorporated some modular pieces, but also rocks, logs and mounds to encourage free play.
“More and more of these types of projects are now creating play spaces where children use their own creativity to explore and find fun ways to enjoy the area,” he said.
“There are also the exercise benches and bars to encourage older members of the community to utilise the park as part of their exercise regime. There’s something for everyone and that’s how a park should be.”
Cr McCracken said a large basket net swing, spider web climbing apparatus and slides were among the other installations.
“There are some rubberised areas for children’s safety, as well as soft fall mulch as well. There has been drainage installed and path works which are part of the activity walking trail within the park.” he said.
“There’s a new rotunda, Council also put in a hard stand area and basketball ring in recent months and we’ve installed footings for a hit up wall to go in down the track as the masterplan continues to take shape.
“Shortly, some bench seating will also be installed for people to relax on and for parents to use while watching their children play.”
Colac Otway Shire Council jointly funded the project, with the support of a grant through the State Government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Program.