Macedon Ranges Shire Council has welcomed this morning's $615,000 funding announcement by The Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas, Minister for Regional Development and Member for Macedon, for the third and final stage of the Romsey Ecotherapy Park.
Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson, met with Minister Thomas, and Romsey Ecotherapy Park Incorporated President Raelene Mottram and committee members at the park to announce the grant from the Regional Infrastructure Fund – Stimulus Round.
Mayor Anderson said Council is proud to collaborate with the Victorian Government and Romsey Ecotherapy Park Incorporated to deliver this community-driven project.
"I'd like to thank Mary-Anne Thomas for her support of our region and to Regional Development Victoria for partnering with us on this vital community project. I want to commend the Romsey Ecotherapy Park Incorporated committee for their vision and ongoing dedication to seeing this project realised.
"With this funding announcement and the $70,000 committed by Council in our 2021/22 budget, we will be able to move swiftly from stage two to the third and final stage of this project. The project delivers an inviting and accessible recreation open space for local community members and regional visitors," she said.
The Romsey Ecotherapy Park design emphasises providing people of all ages and abilities a unique sensory and therapeutic experience through engagement with nature.
Stage one of the Romsey Ecotherapy Park (the Active Nature Space) was completed in July 2018. The Active Nature Space along the Main Street side of the site forms the first stage of the park and includes a cubby under the branches of the significant oak tree, landscaped areas, seating, paths and nature-based play elements. The Australian Government ($215,000) and Council ($337,000) funded stage 1.
Stage two of the park is to commence in mid-2021. This stage of the park's development will include an events space with picnic and barbecue facilities, play spaces, an arts and culture space featuring several artistic features and a sensory garden all set within a beautifully landscaped area.
Stage three will add a Woodland Ramble and space to encourage nature play, including a hut building frame that will complement the climbing forest for older children and adults.
"Romsey Ecotherapy Park will become a significant destination for regional visitors, as well as a favourite location for local families and community groups," said Mayor Anderson.
