Community fun day for playground proposal

A community fun day has been organised by the Peninsula Families Action Group for residents to "celebrate and learn more" about a "precinct park" playground proposed for development at the Umina recreation reserve.

The Peninsula Park Fun Day, organised by the Action Group with the support of Gosford Council and organisations such as Club Umina and the Umina SLSC, will be held on Saturday, May 12, from 10am to 2pm at the Umina Recreation Park opposite Umina Surf Club on Sydney Rd.

Action Group president and fun day organiser Ms Sarah Tolmie said the Fun Day catered for children and families with amusements and activities that include a giant slide, storytelling, clowning entertainments, face painting, bubbles, games and even play equipment for under five year olds.

Ms Tolmie said there would also be refreshments stalls, displays of playground equipment and information stands from community groups such as Umina Surf Lifesaving, Club Umina, LETS (Local Exchange Trading System), Water Conservation information and other community support services.

Ms Tolmie said the purpose of the event was to inform the Peninsula public about a precinct park proposal for the Umina Beach Recreation Reserve.

"Concepts of a new playground will be shown and community feedback can be given in regards to how you would use the park and what you would like to see included in the design," Ms Tolmie said.

"Ideas for the park design include state of the art equipment for all ages, adult exercise equipment, picnic and BBQ facilities, sculpture and natural landscaping.

"We want to get families and the community out, enjoying playgrounds and natural open spaces.

"This event helps to spread the message about the health, social and community benefits of quality parks, playgrounds and outdoor recreation.

"Our group has been working hard for almost two years to get this park project up and running.

"We are really pleased that Gosford Council is committed to providing a quality playground and community park facility.

"It is important that our community shows its support and can be involved in its design and planning.

"We should really be excited about this park as an important community asset."

Ms Tolmie said the Peninsula Families Action Group intends to work with council and "key community stakeholders" to "secure partnerships and explore grants opportunities to help fund the project".

Organisers are seeking volunteers to assist on the day and anyone interested should telephone 0418 640 901 or email stolmie@uptime.net.au

Press release, 25 Apr 2007 Sarah Tolmie, Peninsula Families Action Group