Skate park officially opened

THE Kilcunda skate park and playspace was officially opened on Sunday.

A great crowd turned out for the grand opening after a seven-year process to bring the project to fruition.

“The support of the whole community has been fantastic. I’ve only been involved with the Kilcunda Community Association (KCA) for about 18 months, but obviously a lot of work has gone into this by a lot of people. I’m really grateful to the State Government and (Bass Coast Shire) council for the funding,” KCA president Marcel Van Den Bronk said.

Works at the park created a new skate bowl with a roll in for beginners and a deep end for advanced skaters.

The playspace features rock carvings and traditional play elements for climbing, sliding, swinging and a rubber undersurface will ensure it’s a safe space to have fun. 

There is also a shelter, seating and accessible ramp entrances from both the rail trail and foreshore sides. 

With a barbecue shelter, water fountain, bins, bike racks and toilet block, it’s an idyllic outdoor setting for families to enjoy beachside vibes, foreshore 
gatherings and active play. 

Mayor Cr Clare Le Serve officially opened the skate park with Bass MLA Jordan Crugnale.

“This is something that’s been in the pipeline for a long time, and here we are. We have a fantastic bowl here and you can see by the enthusiasm that the kids love it,” Cr Le Serve said.

Council contributed $470,000 to the project, with the State Government providing a $250,000 grant from the Local Sport Infrastructure Fund.

“This is a whole community project and it is magnificent,” Ms Crugnale said.

“It is backdropped by probably the most stunning seascape in Victoria, and it will be a home to a passionate community of skaters of all ages.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the KCA for their advocacy, passionate skaters, locals and also Bass Coast Shire for their significant contribution and project management. Great things happen in partnership and I’m thrilled to be part of this one.”

Former KCA president Andrea Bolch said it was a long process but thanked the association for its perseverance and the government representatives for their support.