By Jessica Micallef
A climbing forest at the Romsey Ecotherapy Park is taking shape.
Planning and design work has begun on a climbing forest suitable for all ages which will include a three metre-high rope course, lookouts, a rope bridge, a vertical climbing net and a hammock.
Romsey Ecotherapy Park president Raelene Mottram said the forest would be a “wonderful addition” to the park.
“With the sensory therapeutic space also receiving a funding commitment from the Victorian government and construction on the horizon for 2020-21, the region’s community and visitors have much to be excited about,” she said.
Macedon Ranges mayor Janet Pearce said she was looking forward to the plans being implemented on the site.
“After the success of stage one of the park, I’m so pleased to see the climbing forest added over spring and early summer this year,” she said.
“The Romsey Ecotherapy Park project continues to showcase what is possible when government and community come together. Council would really like to acknowledge the years of work and dedication by this group of volunteers which has led us to this exciting stage of the project.”
The council purchased the former Romsey Primary School site in 2015 in an effort to create the park.
Stage one began last July and has been completed. The space includes a cubby house, landscaped areas, seating, paths and nature-based play elements.
In November last year, the state government announced $718,000 funding to help deliver a sensory therapeutic space. Planning for this space will start later this year and construction is scheduled for spring 2020.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said she was thrilled with the park’s progress.
“Local community members have reimagined an old school site into the incredible park it is today,” she said. “It is through their determination and passion that local residents and visitors will have this special place to connect to the outdoors and improve their mental health and physical wellbeing.”
The $200,000 climbing forest project is funded through the state government’s Pick My Project grant and is expected to be completed by December 31.
