Park adventure ends

By Paul Dunlop
PAKENHAM’S adventure playground has been described as an example of ‘perfect’ local government.
Cardinia Shire mayor Bill Ronald delivered this verdict last week as council paid tribute to some of the key players in the playground’s development.
The popular children’s attraction at the PB Ronald Reserve was built in 1999 in an initiative involving council, businesses and the community.
“That’s perfect local government in my opinion,” Cr Ronald said of the threeway partnership.
Councillors delivered a vote of thanks to the playground’s committee of management, which has officially wound up.
Plans are also afoot for a major upgrade at the playground, including a liberty swing and improved access for people with disability — at a cost of about $18,000.
In recent years, council has taken over full maintenance of the playground in line with arrangements at similar facilities across the shire.
Council accepted the disbanding of the management committee after members had said they believed their role was no longer necessary.
Committee members, including Danny Hicks, Tom Gerdei and Hilary Mueller, met recently to formally wind up their activities.
The committee transferred their bank account of almost $3500 to council.
Councillors were glowing in their praise for the work done by committee members in driving the development of the popular children’s facility in John Street.
“It’s been a tremendous project and is a classic example of community involvement. The playground is a great asset to the people of Cardinia Shire,” Cr Brett Owen said.
Cr Graeme Legge described the playground as a monument to community spirit. He thanked the committee for its “wonderful contribution” to Pakenham and Cardinia Shire.
Cr Kate Lempriere said she wanted to see the money contributed by the committee used for the benefit of children.