- Published: Thursday, 12 September 2024 15:29
Things Are Looking Bright For Livvi’s Place at Jacaranda Park
We are delighted to share that with all the work hard we are getting closer to the completion of our inclusive playground in Jacaranda Park, a space where we can all come together to play, learn, and grow.
Mayor Mark Johnson has expressed his joy for this space “The vision for this playground has transpired into a space that is truly inclusive with physical, sensory, imaginative and social play opportunities for all. Making sure everyone feels safe, comfortable and that they belong has been a priority and the design features lots of choice in the way the space can be used”.
The park consists of fully accessible pathways throughout, with lots of seating and shade, high action zones, sensory play areas and quiet spaces, an inclusive BBQ and sheltered table settings, with a fabulous fence around the entire extended perimeter.
The play equipment selection ensures we can all play together and includes an inclusive carousal, swings, accessible and supported nature play, sand pit and creek bed, and our bespoke fort, which is fully accessible right to the top and has an inclusive slide for all ages and stages to enjoy.
The additional instalment of an art deco sculpture, a half basketball court, and the upgrading a repurposing of existing play equipment and seating nestled amongst the park, along with the stage one pump track, installed late last year, has revitalised the whole space for all ages.
“I am looking forward to the opening of Livvi’s Place, a new inclusive playspace that received over $1million in funding from the NSW Government. This project highlights our commitment to building high quality community focused places that bring joy to people of all ages and abilities,” said Paul Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces.
“Livvi’s Place is more than just a playground—it’s a space where inclusivity, creativity, and connection come to life. By investing in projects like this, we are ensuring that every child has a safe, welcoming environment to play while strengthening the social fabric of our communities,” the Minister added.
“We are just so proud and excited to be part of the team that has created this Livvi’s Place for the children, youth and community of Moree and surrounding areas”, says Kim Becherand, Head of Inclusive Play at the Touched by Olivia Foundation.
“The kids and families of Amaroo shared the vision of Jacaranda Park becoming a thriving community hub and safe space for everyone in Moree to gather, connect and enjoy together. They thought carefully and shared what we needed to design to make this happen. This was back in 2023. Since then, the commitment by Council and the delivery team, has gone above and beyond to create this beautiful inclusive, intergenerational space that we know will be used and loved, often and by all, for generations to come.”
Scheduled to open at the end of October, we will call upon the community to attend the official opening to come on in, explore, and have fun!
The delivery of this project was funded by the NSW Government, contributing over $1million through the NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program, and $500,000 from Moree Plains Shire Council. The masterplan for the park was funded through a $20,000 grant from Variety the Children’s Charity.
Cooee Park is still on the agenda
Council is still committed to the creation of a play and recreational space in Cooee Park.
Embracing the vision and, hearing the community’s recommendations for this intergenerational space to be fully built and activated from day one, rather than a staged approach, has meant that full funding is required before work is commenced Council allocated in the 2024/2025 budget $250,000 towards Cooee Park to secure further funding through grants.
The NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program is an investment in high quality public open space. Together with the NSW Government, Moree Plains Shire Council is delivering vital infrastructure for communities to love the place they live. The NSW Government is contributing $694,299 to the Jacaranda Park project. For more information about the NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program, visit https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/policy-and-legislation/planning-reforms/nsw-public-open-spaces-legacy-program
Photo - Mayor Mark Johnson with Kim Becherand from Touched By Olivia