By CAITLIN CROWLEY
CONSTRUCTION has started on the long-awaited upgrade and expansion of Mitchell Memorial Park, with the first stage of Maranoa Regional Council’s project due to be finished by the end of this month.
The council worked with the community over the past 12 months to develop the site master plan, which now includes an upgrade to the existing playground area, new footpaths, a new shelter and BBQ area, as well as new shading for the skatepark.
“This is an exciting time for our Mitchell community,” Maranoa mayor Tyson Golder said.
“This project will provide new equipment and a space for families and visitors to come together and enjoy the elements this park will have to offer.”
While stage one will lay the foundations for the new space with a shared footpath, shade shelters, BBQ area and new seating and lighting, it’s stage two local families can really look forward to.
The council partnered with award-winning playground designers Urban Play to develop a bespoke adventure playground, to draw families from far and wide.
“We wanted to provide a destination that provided thrilling play opportunities for all ages and abilities,” said Kate Heise-Seabrook from Urban Play.
“My favourite play element is the custom Sky Cabins that stand at over 7m tall and offer exciting climbing opportunities with elevated views over the surrounding parkland.”
Other playground elements include mountaineer features specific for toddler play, a tipi carousel, net twister and two bay swing including a birds nest seat, standard seat and baby seat.
Work on the playground is scheduled to start in August and should be finished by the end of September.
The existing playground will be removed and reinstated at the Mitchell Weir area.
The park project received funding under the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program.
“This project will provide a vital boost for the local community, backing local jobs and economic growth while delivering lasting upgrades that will benefit residents for years to come,” Maranoa MP David Littleproud said.
“We also get councils to use local businesses and workforces to deliver these projects as much as possible, ensuring this stimulus flows directly into the hands of hard-working Aussies, their families, their businesses and their communities.”
Work has been coordinated to minimise interruption to the overall park however some elements may need to be temporarily closed while construction is underway.