Toying with playground move idea

Donnybrook-Balingup shire president Brian Piesse has addressed residents’ concerns regarding the proposed relocation of the Vin Farley Rotary Playground by stating the matter was merely a discussion, not a decision. Given the enthusiasm towards the biggest community project ever contemplated by the council, Cr Piesse said it was unfortunate the magnitude and benefit of these opportunities were undermined. “Under no circumstances was there any intention by the stakeholder reference group, the staff or the council to diminish or dilute the recognition or contribution made by former councillor and Rotarian Vin Farley,” Cr Piesse said. “The concept of relocating Vin Farley Rotary Park and upgrading the VC Mitchell Park was based on providing even more prominence and stature to the recognition of both Farley and Mitchell and the contribution they made to the community. “A major benefit from this would be increased patronage, both during and between events, with off-street parking and CCTV security only 151m from the current site, which could include use of surplus play equipment from the soon-to-be upgraded Donnybrook Apple Fun Park.” Cr Piesse said subject to stakeholder consultation, the concept of relocating the playground was identified as a possibility only. “Any suggestion that relocating the playground to within the $12.7 million two-stage Donnybrook Community Sporting, Recreation and Entertainment Precinct was raised as a concept only, and no decisions have been made,” he said. “When final, detailed plans are developed ... neighbours and the broader community will be given the opportunity to comment. There was never an intention by the shire to do otherwise.”