Memorial Park officially opened now featuring immersive playgrounds and community spaces

The $1 million redeveloped Pingelly Memorial Park was officially opened by O’Connor MHR Rick Wilson on Friday.

The project was spearheaded by the Shire of Pingelly with support from a Federal Government grant through the Drought Communities Program.

The park now features immersive all-ages playgrounds, community barbecue spaces and an accessible toilet block.

Planning for the park started in May last year and the first sod was turned in February, with the Shire incorporating feedback from the community into the design. The official opening was attended by Opposition Leader Mia Davies and Shire councillors.

Shire president William Mulroney said the park was a testament to the shared vision and ownership the community had for the town’s future.

“Memorial Park is a place where we remember those that have fallen, it is a place where we create new memories with our children and grandchildren,” he said. “It is a place for these young people and for the future generations to remember fondly as a positive part of their childhood.”

Mr Mulroney said he hoped the park would attract visitors to stop and explore Pingelly.

“This park not only represents an asset to the community, but an attraction for tourists passing through town.

“This park, along with the Driver Reviver initiative at the Town Hall opposite, provides the ideal location to stop ... play and walk down the street to look at our beautiful historic buildings, discover the attractions of Pingelly and stop at the various shops.”

Mr Wilson said Memorial Park was an integral part of the civic heart of Pingelly.

“This redevelopment will provide an attractive stopover for visitors, increasing the likelihood they will stay longer rather than simply pass through,” he said.

“This is expected to see an increase in activity for local businesses, and so build economic resilience as the Wheatbelt and the rest of Western Australia recover from the pandemic.

“Memorial Park had been an under-used community asset, but with the significant improvements ... will serve a wide range of families, both local and visiting, for many years to come.”