By Oliver Lees
An innovative park in Romsey received its third and final stage of funding from the state government last week.
After more than a decade of community advocacy, a $615,000 grant has been pledged to the Romsey Ecotherapy Park.
In addition to the $1.53 million total contribution from the state government, community group Romsey Ecotherapy Park Inc (REP) has raised $113,000 for art projects to populate the new shared space.
Macedon Ranges council and Community Bank Lancefield and Romsey have also contributed funds to the concept.
REP committee member Jenny Stillman said the organisation is “thrilled” at the announcement following 11 years of campaigning.
“It’s been an exercise in perseverance,” Ms Stillman said.
“The REP are absolutely delighted, this [project] started with a derelict site, but the council saw some faith in our innovative vision, and now its finish is in sight with this funding.
“The concept on the whole is about having something for all ages and all abilities, not just a young person’s playground.”
Ms Stillman added that the park will be designed to “engage the senses”, which will include a sensory garden, a sound sculpture and a five-metre tall kinetic wind sculpture.
An arts culture space will also be included, featuring an outdoor performance space suitable for the performing arts or pop-up art exhibits.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said she was proud to see the project come to fruition.
“This has been one of my favourite projects in the Macedon Ranges and is all about ensuring Romsey locals have a beautiful public space to meet and connect in, as well as attracting visitors to Romsey from further afield,” Ms Thomas said.
“Congratulations to the dedicated volunteers who have worked so hard to make this project a reality.”
Stage Two of the development will begin in July and take about 12 months before the final stage, stage three, begins.
