This state-of-the-art Officer District Park is now open and is set to become a vibrant community hub.
Located on Lansell Avenue in Officer, the park will offer a range of exciting features and amenities for residents and visitors alike.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Kowarzik officially opened the park on Tuesday 17 December along with the Minister for Planning and Minister for Suburbs, Sonya Kilkenny, Federal Member for Higgins, Dr Michelle Ananda-Rajah, Pakenham MP Emma Vulin, Cardinia Shire councillors and Cardinia Shire Council CEO Carol Jeffs.
“We are delighted to see this incredible park opening just in time for the summer holidays, providing a perfect destination for families and friends to enjoy the outdoors,” Mayor Kowarzik said.
“With plenty of options for adventure, fitness, relaxation and the enjoyment of nature, there certainly is something for everyone.
“Offering breathtaking views and state-of-the-art facilities, this regional park provides incredible opportunities for recreation, community connection and leisure activities, and will no doubt attract visitors from far and wide.”
Stage 1 highlights include:
-Adventure playground: a large, modern playground designed for children of all ages, featuring climbing structures, slides, swings, and interactive play equipment.
-Parkour zone: incorporating a mixture of obstacles of different heights, angles and shapes. This space allows visitors of all ages and abilities to create their own moves and motion through the space.
-Fitness facilities: including fitness stairs for running and exercise, a 1-kilometre loop track and exercise equipment stations.
-Scenic lookout: offering breathtaking views over the southern part of the shire and out to Western Port, and providing a perfect spot for relaxation and appreciation of the natural surroundings.
-Dog off-leash area: providing space for dogs to run freely and for pet owners and their pets to enjoy social interaction and outdoor activities together.
-Picnic areas: multiple shaded picnic spots equipped with tables and barbecue facilities, perfect for family gatherings and social events.
-Walking paths: scenic trails that wind through the park, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for walking and jogging.
-Wetland area: adding to the park’s natural beauty, the wetland area will catch and treat water runoff using Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles as well as enhance the park’s biodiversity.
“This park is a testament to what can be achieved when the community and government work together through extensive and inclusive community engagement,” Mayor Kowarzik said.
“We thank the Victorian Government for their invaluable contributions through the ‘Growing Suburbs Fund’ and ‘New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program’ and the Australian Government for their much-appreciated contribution through the ‘Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program’.”
Toomuc Ward Councillor Casey Thomsen said he was delighted Officer District Park was now open to the community.
The council acknowledges that the area has experienced increased traffic and disruptions and is likely to continue to do so for some time.
The project has progressed through several stages, with construction beginning in early 2023 and Stage 1 now complete.
The council reminds all visitors to please be patient, drive safely and comply with parking signage throughout the area, especially during school times and around residential areas.
For more information, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/officer-park
