A $13.5 million redevelopment has transformed council-owned land in Rowville to provide a new park for people to explore and enjoy.
The redeveloped Stamford Park at 2 Emmeline Row includes expanded wetlands, 3.5 kilometres of walking and cycling paths, a playground, viewing decks and a lookout tower, boardwalks, a yarning circle, public art, a 'village green' for hosting community events and activities, new planting and a specially designed platypus habitat.
Knox Mayor, Councillor Jude Dwight said the overhaul of Stamford Park had created a vast new open space for Knox.
"I am thrilled that this major transformation has opened up this significant site for everyone to experience," she said.
"Open space consistently rates as one of the highest priorities for our community.
"The network of paths has opened up 38 hectares of parklands so that residents and visitors can explore this unique and precious part of Knox.
"The wetlands and creek at Stamford Park are crucial for our environment. They play an important role in stormwater management and providing habitat for native animals, including our local platypus colony."
The redevelopment of Stamford Park, including an extensive restoration of the historic homestead, has been funded by the sale of part of the land for housing.
Council contributed $12.9 million towards the redevelopment and Melbourne Water contributed $600,000 through its Liveable Communities, Liveable Waterways Program.
Celebrate the opening of the new park
Everyone is invited to celebrate the opening of the new park on Saturday 15 June from 11am-2pm.
There will be live music, roving entertainment, education talks, a reptile show and scavenger hunt with prizes. A Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony will take place at noon as part of official opening proceedings.
In the event of wet weather, the opening may be postponed - check knox.vic.gov.au or call 9298 8000 (during business hours Monday to Friday) for any update.
