My adjournment matter is directed to the Minister for Environment, and the action I seek is for the minister to join me for a sod turn at ngarrak nakorang wilam park. ‘Ngarrak nakorang wilam’ is Wathaurong language and means ‘mountain meeting place’. I take special pride in knowing that we have found such a fitting name, one in the language of the traditional owners of the land. Formerly known as Healesville freeway reserve, this expansive piece of land is larger than 18 MCGs worth of parkland, and clearly it would be an incredible waste if this magnificent space was underused. The Allan Labor government is stepping in with a $10.5 million investment, transforming this area into amazing open space. New parking, new public toilets, new signage and improved lighting are just some of the upgrades that will make this park a more visible and accessible place. There is so much more: new barbecues, new picnic facilities, new bike trails, new playgrounds and play spaces, new gardens, new plants and new vegetation. It is vital that we have green and open spaces for our community to enjoy. It is good for the environment, it is good for jobs and it is good for bringing people together. I want to thank everyone involved in making this project a reality. I know that the Glen Waverley district residents and surrounding suburbs of Forest Hill, Vermont and Vermont South are incredibly excited about this project. What a win it is for the residents of the Glen Waverley district and Melbourne’s east, and it is a win that is proudly being delivered by the Allan Labor government.
Minister’s Answer:
The Allan Labor Government is investing $10.5 million to establish a new park at the site of the former Healesville freeway reserve. This investment will transform 35 hectares of land into public open space to be enjoyed by everyone in the community.
In April 2024, following consultation with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, the reserve was renamed ngarrak nakorang wilam park, meaning ‘Mountain Meeting Place’.
Once complete, the new park will feature a 3.5 kilometre shared-use trail with seating, drinking fountains, signage, and lighting for cyclists, runners, and walkers. The park will also include designated areas for play, picnics, BBQs, shelters, and a car park creating a diverse and inclusive space for visitors.
I would be happy to join the Member for Glen Waverley at a sod turning event when the project reaches the construction phase. I commend the Member for Glen Waverley for his leadership and advocacy in this and other projects in his electorate and on behalf of the community.
Steve Dimopoulos MP
Minister for Environment