Melbourne communities can now enjoy improved accessibility and a better visitor experience when getting their nature fix, with new and upgraded facilities delivered at 21 popular parks.
More than 250 picnic tables, 75 benches, 20 shelters and 50 barbecues have been delivered through the Victorian Government's $21 million Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program.
The multi-year program has also provided new and upgraded toilets, playgrounds, drinking fountains and signage, and improved carparks and pathways.
Pictured above: New barbecues, picnic tables and shelter installed at Yarra Bend Park.
Parks play an essential role in boosting the health and wellbeing of communities across Victoria. In recent years there has been a significant increase in visitation at many of Melbourne's parks, highlighting how important it is to maintain the quality of these spaces – whether for exercise, recreation or spending time with loved ones.
These upgrades are making Victoria's urban green spaces more accessible and enjoyable to visit, so that people of all backgrounds and abilities can experience the benefits of time spent in nature.
In addition to visitor facilities, the seawall at Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park has also been repaired, ensuring the beach and promenade are preserved for the Williamstown community to enjoy for years to come.
Pictured above: The Point Gellibrand seawall has received important repairs, ensuring it is preserved and the promenade is accessible for the community to enjoy for years to come.
Further along the bay, this investment has also addressed a missing link in the Bay Trail. Cyclists and pedestrians can now enjoy a faster and safer off-road journey from Williamstown to Point Cook Coastal Park.
The Victorian Government is investing millions of dollars into parks and reserves managed by Parks Victoria, helping to stimulate the economy, improve visitor experiences and support the health of natural and cultural landscapes.
Pictured above: The Bay Trail extension travels across the Cheetham Wetlands. This photo looks towards the southern end beginning at Skoda Court.
A further $315 million is being invested through the Suburban Parks Program, which has delivered a new all-abilities playscape and upgraded walking track at Wattle Park. The new Plenty River Trail is currently being built, and three new regional parks are being planned in high-growth areas including Clyde, Werribee and Deanside.
