Detailed design planning for stage 2 of Romsey Ecotherapy Park is under way, with construction scheduled to start next year.
Stage 2 of the master plan will deliver a sensory therapeutic space and an arts/culture open space for people of all ages and abilities.
Macedon Ranges Council is working in partnership with the community group Romsey Ecotherapy Park Inc. to deliver stage 2 of the park, which will provide a unique experience for both local residents and visitors to enjoy.
The park is located on the corner of Main and Palmer Streets and is being developed in two stages.
Romsey Ecotherapy Park Inc. and council conducted an extensive community consultation phase to develop a concept for the park in 2017.
Stage 1, the Active Nature Space, has been completed and includes landscaped areas, seating, paths, a flying fox and nature-based play elements including a challenging climbing forest (which was funded as a result of community voting through Pick My Project).
President of Romsey Ecotherapy Park Inc., Raelene Mottram, said development of the park was entering an exciting new phase.
“We are extremely excited to be entering this new phase of the development of the park, creating a place for events as well as a place of wellbeing in what will be a beautiful nature setting,” she said.
“As the shire looks to recover from the pandemic, this new area of park, which is ideal for rest and reflection, is sure to be a drawcard for visitors and local residents alike.”
A community fundraising campaign is also currently underway to see a range of unique art incorporated into stage 2 of the park.
Council’s director of assets and operations, Shane Walden, encouraged people to visit the park and see for themselves what had been achieved so far.
“This park is a fine example of how council and the community can work effectively together to realise a long-held vision and deliver a truly unique space for everyone to enjoy.”
Stage 2 of Romsey Ecotherapy Park is jointly funded by the Victorian Government through Regional Development Victoria ($718,000), Macedon Range Shire Council ($702,000) and the Romsey Lancefield branches of the Bendigo Bank contribution for the sensory therapeutic space ($80,000).
Visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/Romsey-Ecotherapy-Park to find out more and keep updated on the progress of the project.
Art in the Park
A Legacy that Matters launch
Romsey Ecotherapy Park Inc has launched a campaign for urgent funds to ensure unique art elements are included in next year’s construction of the park’s sensory therapeutic and arts culture spaces.
The community group says COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of spaces like the Romsey Ecotherapy Park to nourish one’s physical and mental health.
Renowned artists have conceptualised a broad array of sculptures, inspired by nature and site specific to Romsey Ecotherapy Park.
Utilising sound, wind, water and materials and styles, the group says the art installations will be the cultural jewels in the Romsey Ecotherapy Park crown.
‘Art in the Park – A Legacy that Matters’ launched yesterday to invite philanthropists, descendants of the region’s founding families, the broader community and supporters of public art to make a tax-deductible investment.
Campaign spokesperson Jenny Stillman said there was an urgent timeline for the campaign.
“The funding for these amazing installations needs to be secured before the next stage’s tendering process commences in February 2021,” she said.
“The art is a critical part of what will set this park apart from all others in the Macedon Ranges. Those supporting Art in the Park are helping consolidate Romsey Ecotherapy Park as a truly unique cultural and wellbeing asset for the region.”
Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal is supporting Romsey Ecotherapy Park Inc’s Art in the Park campaign with a partnership for tax-effective fundraising through a not-for-profit fundraising account.
For details about Art in the Park – A Legacy that Matters, or to receive a fundraising prospectus, contact Jenny Stillman on 0411 700 464 or email: romseyecotherapypark@gmail.com
