A push for an ‘aggregated, inclusive’ Maleny park gains momentum
By Sonia Isaacs
Advocates for a multigenerational district park in Maleny are investigating utilising and linking additional park locations in Maleny.
The idea pivots from a single location at The Precint, but is aimed at ensuring the timely delivery of an all-inclusive community play space.
The concept of developing an ‘Aggregated District Park’ would see various sections of land linked to create a District Park whole, and Maleny Park for All (MPA) spokesperson, Rossi Moore, said she was keen for Council to consider the option ahead of community consultation for the new Maleny Community Precinct Plan.
Ms Moore said the group was currently developing a visual interpretation to illustrate the potential of reactivating underutilised space at Mary Allen Waters Park and Bicentennial Park to create further links with existing community infrastructure. She said the site could easily link with pre-existing facilities and pathways, and its close proximity to town and community facilities such as the Neighbourhood Centre, Community Centre, Library and Showgrounds provided additional advantages. She said the site area already had established trees and shade, and would have access to existing water and power utilities, as well as offering multiple modes of transport options, accessibility for all ages and abilities in a centrally located, visible and safe location.
“We believe that there lies a great opportunity to create something dynamic and re-activate an otherwise under-utilised space to further compliment facilities at The Precinct. We would be keen to engage on further discussions with Council on this community proposal,” Ms Rossi said.
Division 5 Councillor, Winston Johnston, said at the present time planning was well advanced to develop the community proposal for a new Maleny Community Precinct Plan with community engagement scheduled to commence in May-June 2024. He said funding was currently geared towards developing a District Level park at the Maleny Community Precinct location.
“It is possible that there will not be a sufficient single area on The Precinct for a district level park so it is possible that it may be in a number of different locations, however at the present time funding is focused around developing The Precinct area,” Cr Johnston said.
sonia@gcnews.com.au
