The City of Casey has taken out the National Infrastructure Development Category at the 2010 National Awards for Local Government for its Casey Fields Development Project.
Mayor of the eastern Melbourne Council, Lorraine Wreford, said the new facilities will offer a vast range of opportunities for Casey residents to engage in healthy and enjoyable activities.
“The Casey Fields Development Project comprises one of the largest playgrounds in Victoria and a regional athletics centre with world class features, along with associated works including shade sails and road works,” she said. “Construction of these facilities is underway and due for completion by late 2010.
“The regional athletics centre will include an international standard track, night competition lighting, multi purpose community pavilion and undercover spectator seating for 1,000 spectators.
“The playground will comprise a variety of different play experiences for all ages, including a large play hill, winding pathway through trees and native grasslands, an extensive slide, a multi purpose swing and a village green.”
The playground, which will cover almost three hectares, will include interactive art sculptures, climbing mounds, net bridges and a large Pirate Ship play structure. It will also include accessible paths and will be completely grassed with irrigation supplying Class A recycled water, ensuring the site remains lush and green all year round.
The regional athletics centre will be home to both Little Athletics and senior athletic clubs. The centre will also play host to major regional athletics events as well as a multitude of school athletic carnivals.
City of Casey Director Planning and Development Services, Peter Fitchett said through the project, Council will be well prepared for an ongoing population expansion.
“With more than 40,000 new residents expected to call Cranbourne home over the next 10 to 15 years, timely infrastructure provision is crucial to ensuring new residents have the services they require when they move in,” he said.
As a result, additional spectator shelters have been constructed on several sporting ovals to significantly add to the amenity provided to spectators during club matches and major regional events.
