New Skate Park Opens in Yarragon

Published on 20 August 2018

A new 405m2 plaza style skate park catering for all ages and abilities was officially opened in Yarragon’s Howard Park over the weekend.

There to officiate the opening celebration was Baw Baw Shire East Ward Councillor Darren Wallace and Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing MP. 

East Ward Cr Michael Leaney and West Ward Cr Jessica O’Donnell also took part in the celebrations alongside Latrobe Valley Authority (LVA) CEO Karen Cain, the Yarragon Community Skatepark Association, contractors and the community.

Cr Darren Wallace spoke at the event saying it was fantastic to open a facility that will provide local young people with opportunities to set goals and challenge their abilities through physical activity, without having to travel too far from home.

“Local parks, open spaces and recreation facilities play a huge part in our Shire’s liveability. We now have a purpose-built skate park for beginners to intermediate skill levels, that is suitable for all ages and all abilities”, said Cr Wallace.

“Yarragon now has a dedicated space for young people to remain active and engaged within their community. It is a place where they can gather with their mates while developing their skills in a safe, inclusive and accessible environment. We hope this new facility will remain cherished by the community for many years to come.”

Cr Michael Leaney said providing activity spaces for our youth is vital for ensuring a well-rounded community.

“Skate parks provide the opportunity for individuals to participate without the need to be on a team, where you can play at your own leisure. The Shire hopes to roll out more skate parks in the more remote towns to deliver for all of the youth within the Shire, no matter where you live”, said Cr Leaney.

The $295,000 project has been jointly funded by a $221,250 grant from the LVA’s Community Facilities Fund and a $73,750 contribution from Council. 

Cr Darren Wallace thanked the LVA for their support and for the Victorian Governments ongoing commitment to sport and recreation throughout our region.

“This project has been a true partnership between Council, the Victorian Government and our community, in particular the Yarragon Community Skatepark Association. Their advocacy, engagement, research and support has been crucial to the delivery of this project and we thank them for their work”, said Cr Wallace.

Image: Harriet Shing MP cutting the ribbon with an excited crowd.

Image: Cr Darren Wallace speaking at the opening event.

Image: Decklyn Lelievre, Cr Michael Leaney, Harriet Shing MP, Cr Jessica O'Donnell, LVA CEO Karen Cain, Cr Darren Wallace and Janet Paken from the Yarragon Skate Park Association.

Image: Testing out the new ramps.

Image: Testing out the new ramps.