Children and adults alike were jumping for joy in Lancefield on Wednesday, with a $100,000 state government grant welcomed as the ‘‘missing link’’ that will allow construction of a long-awaited skate and BMX park to begin later this year.
Money from Macedon Ranges council ($130,000) and the community ($20,000) means the latest funding seals the deal on a campaign that’s been running for almost 20 years.
The council has already approved community-led designs, incorporating a megafauna theme, for the south-east corner of Lancefield Park.
Skate park committee president Amy Bell said the money would help the group finally realise a dream that began with young people washing cars to raise $11,000 in the late 1990s.
‘‘It really is the missing link,’’ she said.
‘‘It’s been a long process, with a lot of consultation with the community on the design.
‘‘We’re looking forward to finally getting started.’’
Macedon Labor MP Mary-Anne Thomas said the skate park’s construction would provide an important space for young people.
‘‘Alongside the upgrading of women’s netball change rooms and other priority projects to be determined by the community, [it] will transform Lancefield Park into a busy and dynamic community hub for people of all ages,’’ she said.
Ms Thomas also announced $28,000 for the Lancefield Equine Group horse rescue training.
