The heart of Dubbo is about to become even more fun with the expansion of play for all abilities in Dubbo's Victoria Park. The much-loved Livvi's play space in Victoria Park has served the community extremely well. However, the play equipment has reached the end of its recommended lifespan and requires replacement. As part of the Victoria Park Masterplan, Dubbo Regional Council (DRC) will strategically relocate the play space to the centre of the park, alongside the Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre Pool Deck Kiosk, allowing parents and carers to enjoy some refreshments while actively supervising their children.
Dubbo Region Mayor Stephen Lawrence said the new play space is an exciting upgrade of the previous amenity. "The new and improved play space will allow children of all ages and abilities to interact and socialise. The area also includes the nostalgic red rocket that has already been installed which I'm sure many residents young and old are looking forward to playing on," said Councillor Lawrence.
The new play space will have defined youth and junior play areas. The junior space will include an explorer dome for climbing, a 'we hopper' see saw, climbing and slide unit that includes musical play elements and games to improve gross motor skills. The youth space will include a custom climbing unit, a balance ring and in-ground trampolines, to name just a few elements.
Director Liveability, Skye Price said playground and new fitness node positioning has been strategically considered. "Relocating play spaces a much safer distance from a roadway, adjacent to a large lawn area, enables construction of bigger playgrounds, with more play elements, improving immersive experiences, motor skills and enjoyment. Co-locating play spaces with a kiosk, will ensure greater convenience and enjoyment, for parents and carers.
"Reconfiguring the existing Victoria Park play space to become a dedicated fitness zone, will be ideal for independent fitness, as well as teams that use No 2 and 3 Ovals, for training purposes. Coaches can easily integrate equipment use into existing training regimes," said Ms Price.
The high-level fitness node will have cardio, strength and general fitness elements, including multiple cycling/sports bikes, cross trainer, weights (magnetic) and other exercise equipment. The elements will be suitable for all ages and stages of life, including seniors and those with disabilities.
DRC have worked closely with the external providers to ensure all three spaces have been designed with the NSW Government's Everyone Can Play guidelines – How do I get there? Can I stay? Can I play?
The new play spaces and fitness node are expected to commence construction mid-October 2021 and be completed by early December 2021 weather and pandemic restrictions permitting.
