A small playground in Bandiana has united children of the estate in a big campaign led by nine-year-old Elly.
During a recent pop-up engagement event in the Kosovar Park playground to hear from residents about what they would like to see in an upgrade of the playground, Elly rode up to council staff on her scooter and presented a letter signed by 40 children.
Here's what she had to say about the playground in Alpine Views Estate:
Dear Wodonga Council.
I have seen that you want to do some additions and upgrades to Kosovar Park and I would like to suggest three of my top ideas, starting with a second set of swings along with an elevated slide and most importantly a skate pump or bike track to make the park seem lively. With these upgrades, I think people would thoroughly enjoy being at the park so much more.
It would also be good if we had more play equipment for eight-year-olds and up. This can also increase our fitness and vitamin D in our bodies, making us happier. These small changes can make a huge different.
From Elly
Elly wrote her letter, had her brother Charlie co-sign it and then turned it into a petition, getting another 40 children from the neighbourhood to sign it.
At the pop-up event, council received requests including a pool, tennis court and "flying fox from house to the playground".
It's not possible for us to deliver everything that everyone asked for at the playground.
But all feedback is noted and will be considered as part of decision making.
Stay tuned to Wodonga Council's Facebook page for updates on the outcome for this much-loved playground.
Why is it called Kosovar Park?
The park was named in honour of refugees from the Kosovo War in 1998 to 1999 who lived at the nearby Bandiana army base.
Bandiana was one of eight army barracks in Australia to host 4000 Kosovar refugees.
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