Latest state of play in the Derwent Valley

DETAILS  and drawings of a brand-new playground for New Norfolk have emerged, introducing state-of-the-art equipment and facilities previously unseen in the Derwent Valley.

The proposal for the Ellis Dean Reserve between George and Blair Street envisages multiple kid-friendly elements, including an overhead flying fox, open air movie theatre, basketball court andclimbing nets.

The proposal also includes a pump track, a circuit for bike-riders withrollers and banked turns designed to be ridden by generating momentum with up and down body movements.

Multiple plantings and overhead lighting provide both shelter and a sense of safety.

Designed by Playstreet, the same group whose new Kingston playground is now attracting large numbers of families, draws from discussions with local parents and children about what they want for the Ellis Dean space.

Playstreet principal Miriam Shevland,  on a site visit told the Gazette that proposed changes to the existing space included the removal of an obsolete pump shed, and excavating along the Blair Street side to flatten the site and improve access.

That is also the path of the 40-metre flying fox. The park is to be fenced along Blair street with a row of trees.

At its core is a play space formed by a large lawn for gatherings and events. Importantly, emphasised Miriam, this area offers a clear view to the back of the SES building, so that park-goers could see movies and similar projected onto the wall.

A play area is proposed with a climbing/net structure and swing include a basket swing. Seating areas and garden beds help create shelter from winds for a BBQ and a drinking foundation.

Waterproof and shade umbrellas are set over the seating.

In this area, too, is an ‘activity hut’ with shelter, picnic table and adjacent toilets. A shipping container is fitted out and covered in local art.

Artwork in the pavement reflects local flora and fauna in a design formed in collaboration with local youth. The proposal also suggests potential new artwork for the SES building facing George Street.

The roster of fresh features includes a full sized basketball court, along with terrace seating, all painted in vibrant colours.

In one corner is the pump track, separate from pathways, with bitumen and grassed pump track and bench seating.

Paths are well lit, with overhead lighting along primary pedestrianfootpath. A mini forest of autumn toned trees across the site will reflect character of new Norfolk.

Miriam said the proposal – now viewable in the attachments to July’s Council meeting minutes – was the result of multiple site visits, a clear briefing from Derwent Valley Council and discussions with community members, particularly young people.

“We came to understand the site and where it fits in the existing community, in determining what could be planted, and where the existing elements could be enhanced,” she told the Gazette.

“We set out to listen to what the local community was looking for, their history with that space and their aspirations for its future,” said the Playstreet chief.

“That helped us suggest what materials to use, what play options to add, and what facilities and furniture to introduce.”

She noted that important elements already existing were being incorporated in the newly proposed park. Next door, at the other end of the Ellis Dean reserve, is the Ptunarra Child and Family Centre which forms a visual bookend to the site.        

At this side, too, is a blackwood tree planted by local children for Daniel Morecombe, the 13 year old boy abducted on the Sunshine Coast in 2003. The tree will gain seating as part of a protected space.

“We want to improve facilities and activities, develop recreation and play opportunities, offer a secure place with a sense of safety and overall, and provide an enhanced environment for New Norfolk,” she told the Gazette.