Council responds to community’s rally to save KidsTown
By Aaron Cordy
BELOVED playground KidsTown is here to stay as community support rallies council into action and commit much-needed funds in the 2025/26 financial year to undertake necessary rehabilitation works.
When word leaked out that KidsTown might be abandoned, locals from all walks of life were outraged that a place filled with so many core memories and wonderful experiences could be so easily walked away from GSCC.
“Our community has spoken, this is a fantastic outcome for our region, with community consultations still to take place, this financial commitment ensures that KidsTown is able to be enjoyed by future generations to come,” said Mooroopna Community Plan Steering Group chairperson, Rowan Farren.
“Community pressure has worked, when the community sets a standard of expected behaviour and their representatives come to the table to reflect that standard, real change is achieved.”
At the council meeting on Tuesday, August 26, council endorsed a recommendation to commence a comprehensive community engagement process to inform the development of a Master Plan for KidsTown and approved a budget allocation of $650,000 in the 2025/26 financial year.
It will be a watch this space to see when council begins work on KidsTown, and what form that takes. The challenge will be to not let the much-loved adventure playground fall into disrepute once this allocation of funds is used up.
Mayor, Cr Shane Sali’s words on future generations enjoying the playground are a welcome step in the right direction.
“This revitalisation ensures it will continue to inspire and entertain future generations. We look forward to hearing from the community during the upcoming consultation to ensure any future investment and site improvements are guided by the community’s needs and aspirations,” said Mayor, Cr Shane Sali.
Community consultation commences on Friday, September 12 until Friday, October 31, with more information in the coming weeks.
