ACCESSIBLE PLAYGROUNDS OPEN IN ARARAT AND LAKE BOLAC

20 December 2023

Ararat locals and visitors can now enjoy new play spaces, thanks to an investment from the Allan Labor
Government.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett today represented Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney
to announce the completion of the two playgrounds at the town’s Alexandra Gardens and at the nearby
Lake Bolac. The upgrades have been made possible thanks to a $180,000 investment from the Labor
Government.

It’s the first time the playgrounds have been upgraded in almost 20 years, supporting people of all
abilities to enjoy the playgrounds, while making sure the equipment meets the community’s needs for
years to come.

New equipment at both playgrounds includes swings, slides and all-abilities play equipment, supporting
every community member who wants to visit to stay active.

The upgrades add even more reason to visit the popular Alexandra Gardens, where locals come to enjoy
the walking trails surrounded by native bushland, while families, local groups and visitors regularly use
the picnic areas.

Alexandra Gardens’ upgrades have been delivered in partnership with the Rural City of Ararat, which has
also completed the Lake Bolac playground project at a popular location for swimming, skiing, fishing and
camping.

The Lake Bolac playground is close to the visitor information centre with picnic areas, shelters, barbecues
and a heritage walk for everyone to enjoy.

More accessible community infrastructure such as the Alexandra Gardens and Lake Bolac play spaces will
support Ararat to thrive by delivering the infrastructure that people want and need.

The project is part of the Government’s record investment of more than $41 billion since 2015 to ensure
rural and regional Victoria is an even better place to live, work, stay and play.

For more information, visit rdv.vic.gov.au/

Quotes attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“It’s great to see more accessible play equipment come to Ararat to support kids of all abilities to stay
active and enjoy family and community gatherings in Alexandra Gardens.”

“We’re committed to making sure our rural and regional towns grow and prosper for years to come
through projects like this.”