Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2024 at 11:10:16 AM
The Shire of Merredin is pleased to announce the official re-opening of Apex Park | Danjoo Waabininy Boodja, following an extensive six-month redevelopment. The beloved community space, which has served as a central gathering place for families and young people, has been transformed into a vibrant, multi-generational play and recreation area that celebrates Merredin’s unique environment and rich natural history.
Commencing in February 2024 and completed in August 2024, the park’s redevelopment culminated in a grand opening ceremony on Wednesday, 7 August 2024. Shire President Mark McKenzie and Hon. Darren West MLC had the honour of cutting the ribbon in front of hundreds of community members, including students, local business owners, Shire Councillors and staff, Merredin traditional owners, and representatives from Lotterywest and surrounding Wheatbelt Shires.
The redesigned park now features a brand-new skate park, half court, a variety of new play elements including a flying fox and slide tower, and the addition of wheelchair-accessible play equipment. Complementing these features are beautifully landscaped areas and enhanced amenities, all designed to increase the park’s appeal to families and young people, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for everyone in the community.
Shire President Mark McKenzie expressed his enthusiasm for the park’s reopening, stating, “Apex Park has long been a cherished space in our community, and this redevelopment ensures that it will continue to serve as a place of enjoyment, connection, and recreation for generations to come. We are proud to see how the park now reflects our community’s vision and our commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive public spaces.”
The park's opening follows the Council's decision to retain the name "Apex" as a tribute to the local APEX group who originally built the park. In addition, the Council has introduced the dual name "Danjoo Waabininy Boodja" to honour Merredin’s Indigenous heritage. This name, meaning "Coming Together (community) Playground," symbolises respect for history, the celebration of diversity, and a commitment to inclusivity.
The new park, which has been in the pipeline for twenty years, now stands as a vibrant public space that will serve as a hub for recreation, relaxation, and community gatherings. It is also expected to provide significant social and economic benefits to Merredin and the surrounding Wheatbelt region, reinforcing Merredin’s position as a key regional hub.
The transformation of the park was made possible through the generous contributions of Lotterywest, which provided $2.1 million in support, and the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, which contributed $1.8 million. The Shire of Merredin extends its sincere gratitude to these partners for their support in bringing this project to life.
Lotterywest CEO Colin Smith said this grant supports the revitalisation of the park, which is an important space for the local community.
"Lotterywest is proud of its support of more than $2.1 million to the Shire of Merredin, which has enabled the redevelopment of this much-loved community space," Mr Smith said.
"Places like Apex Park are important in building a stronger sense of belonging and participation, which aligns with Lotterywest’s vision for a more connected community life.”
While the major redevelopment works have been completed, some minor works within the park are still in progress. These include the installation of exercise equipment and lighting poles, with electricity expected to be connected in September 2024. These additional features will further enhance the park's functionality and ensure it remains a safe and enjoyable space for all.
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Note to Editors: Photos and additional information are available upon request. Please contact Shire of Merredin for media enquiries.
Kohdee Swinwood
Media and Communications Officer
E: media@merredin.wa.gov.au
P: (08) 9041 1611
M: 0435 551 925
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