Grand Re-opening of Casburn Park in Wingello

Published on 02 July 2024

Grand Re-opening of Casburn Park in Wingello Brings Community Together

Last Friday afternoon, June 28, the community of Wingello gathered to celebrate the highly anticipated grand re-opening of Casburn Park, a new recreational haven for the Southern Villages. The well attended event drew many local families, residents and school children from Wingello eager to witness the unveiling of this exciting new community space.

The reopening of Casburn Park was made possible by a generous $2.5 million grant from the NSW Government's Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund (BLERF), co-funded by the Federal Government. To mark this special occasion, distinguished guests including Federal Member for Hume, Angus Taylor MP, and State Member for Goulburn, Wendy Tuckerman MP, delivered inspiring speeches.

Adding to the event's significance, speeches were also given by Wingecarribee Shire Council’s Administrator, Mr. Viv May; Lions Australia (Bundanoon) Project Coordinator, Mrs. Elizabeth Cranny; and Wingello Village Association Vice President, Mr. Peter Thorne. Their words highlighted the collaborative effort and resilient spirit of the Wingello community.

Reflecting on the park's transformation, Wingecarribee Shire Council Administrator Mr Viv May said, "The devastating 2020 bushfires took a heavy toll on Wingello, shaking our foundations but never breaking our resolve. With Casburn Park, we build anew. This isn't just a playground; it's a place for laughter, shared stories, and forging new friendships. The revitalised park is a testament to the strength and spirit of the Wingello community."

The event featured a BBQ run by the Bundanoon Lions Club, live music from guitarist Nic Lee, and an exciting display by the Wingello RFS with fire trucks and brigade members handing out fire hats and lolly bags. Velo Solutions and BMX and MTB pro rider Jaiden McArthur were available for questions about bike safety and provided an exciting demonstration on how to use the track. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as the community came together to enjoy the festivities.

The creation of Casburn Park was a true community effort, made possible through the collaboration of local council members, planning committees, donors, and volunteers. Their dedication and hard work brought this project to life, embodying the strong community spirit of Wingello.

Wingello residents and visitors can now enjoy all the new features of the upgraded park which include:

• Fire truck play station
• Large sandpit
• Spacious picnic areas,
• New amenities block
• A flying fox,
• Upgraded climbing equipment,
• New parking facilities for easy access,
• New footpaths,
• Timber decking, and
• Wingecarribee's first pump track, designed and built by Velosolutions.

As the festivities concluded, Mr May thanked all who made this day possible.