It’s been 11 years in the making and now works on a new Romsey Skatepark are finally under way.
Lancefield Romsey Lions Club has been a key driver of project and celebrated the milestone last week as demolition works began.
Long-serving Lions member Ged McLaughlin said the community began campaigning for a new skatepark in 2014.
“It is really exciting that it has reached this stage because of the number of people who have put in work to make it happen,” Ged said.
“It’s sad to see the old skatepark go because it has been a good friend to the town, but it’s time to move on.”
Romsey-based Newearth Constructions began clearing the site last week in preparation for the change and has donated its labour to make it happen.
“We’re clearing the site for construction at no cost to help make up for a funding shortfall. We wanted to be involved to help bring the project to fruition,” Newearth general manager Mick McCarthy said.
“We’re proud to be operating in the Macedon Ranges and when there are community projects that need support we do what we can to assist.”
Over the years, the Lions Club has led several successful youth engagement projects and recognised skatepark upgrades as a way to build on that work.
The Romsey Skatepark project gained momentum when the Lions secured $950,000 in Victorian Government funding in 2023/24.
Lancefield Romsey Community Bank helped bring the project to life with the remaining $147,180 for construction works in 2024. It marks the bank’s biggest community donation to date.
The bank also contributed towards the early stages of design through a $32,000 investment.
Contracts have now been awarded to Kyneton-based Grind Projects with skatepark design by Baseplate’s Darren White from Kyneton.
The new-look skatepark will include a bowl, quarter pipe, mini ramp and various hips and corners, as well as shade shelters, seating, lighting, landscaping and pathways.
The Lions members also aim to upgrade the park’s playground and improve landscaping of the site.
While Macedon Ranges Shire Council has anticipated the project’s completion for July 2026, community members are hopeful skating can begin by the end of this year.
