An all-abilities nature playscape, new picnic facilities and a running and walking track are on the way for Wattle Park, with Parks Victoria starting works this month at the popular community park on Wurundjeri Country in Melbourne’s east.  

Children of all ages and abilities will soon enjoy a new nature-based playscape, featuring swings, spinners, water play, a sensory garden and double-story tram fort.  There’ll be hours of playtime! 

For the fitness-minded, the 3.25km walking and running track will pass through natural forest and hilly terrain, and feature distance markers and wayfinding signage.  

For families and friends, picnic area upgrades, with new barbecues, picnic shelters and tables will make sure Wattle Park remains a much-loved and visited destination. 

The project will also enable repairs to several significant buildings in the park, including the Curator’s Office, Stables and Curator’s Cottage.  

The Wattle Park upgrades are being delivered through an investment of $4.3 million from the Victorian Government’s Suburban Parks Program and $850,000 through the Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program.  

The concept designs for the playscape and track have been sensitively developed in consultation with the community, Heritage Victoria and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.  

A permit has been provided by Heritage Victoria for the upgrades, and Parks Victoria will continue to work closely with stakeholders to ensure the cultural heritage values of the park are protected. 

We will also be developing a Master Plan for Wattle Park in consultation with the community, which will set the vision and priorities for the park for up to 30 years, taking into consideration environmental and cultural heritage values, conservation and the visitor experience at the park.   

Subject to on-ground and industry conditions the project is expected to finish late 2022, with more information at the Wattle Park upgrades project page.

1.  2.  

Image descriptions:
1. Artist's impression of the new nature-based playscape, including the accessible bridge and tram fort
2. Artist's impression of the new nature-based playscape, including the play mound and slide