Ready to roll at Romsey

A young BMX rider gets a feel for the new skatepark.

After 11 years of community campaigning and determination, Romsey Skatepark is now ready to roll.

A large crowd gathered to mark the skatepark’s official opening on Sunday, where the project creators and supporters were celebrated.

Lancefield Romsey Lions Club has been a key driver of project with long-serving Lions members Ged McLaughlin vital in building its momentum.

Ged said, at its core, the project was about community connection, youth engagement and providing a unique drawcard for Romsey.

The new-look skatepark includes a bowl, quarter pipe, mini ramp and various hips and corners, as well as shade shelters, seating, lighting, landscaping and pathways. Skaters, BMX riders and scooters lined the park with excitement to be among its first users on Sunday.

The skatepark has been a true community collaboration with almost everything from earthmoving to the design coming from the local region.

Kyneton-based Grind Projects together with Baseplate skatepark designer Darren White from Kyneton, created the unique space for Romsey.

Along the way, local skaters, BMX and scooter riders have also been able to contribute to the look and feel of the skatepark.

The park’s makeover also included a Creative Sparks Projects art mural on the toilet block with young and old getting involved.

Funding for the project has included $950,000 from the Victorian Government and $225,000 from Community Bank Lancefield and Romsey (Bendigo Bank).