Greater Dandenong City Council has partnered with Rotary to harvest playgrounds for disadvantaged overseas communities.
Rotary Overseas Recycled Playgrounds (RORP) is a state-wide project collecting unwanted playgrounds from councils and schools by gently dismantling and rejuvenating equipment for children to enjoy.
Chief Executive Officer John Bennie said the initiative provides benefits for all involved.
“This is a great example of community spirit and environmental sustainability in action. We have 120 playgrounds in the City of Greater Dandenong, and we are thrilled to see that the equipment we replace can find a happy home for children in other countries.”
In October Rotary successfully dismantled the playground at Ross Reserve in Noble Park, which will be shipped to Sri Lanka, where the local Rotary will assemble a playground for children living in the area.
Greater Dandenong City Council declared a ‘Climate and Ecological Emergency’ in January 2020, committing us to emergency action on climate change. Mr Bennie said this is one of many initiatives that help Council work towards a sustainable future.
“We recognise that everyone has a role to play in reducing our impact on the environment and preparing for climate change. It’s great to see our vision put into action with projects like this.”
The playground at Ross Reserve will be replaced with an All Abilities Playground, which is currently being developed by Council in partnership with the Victorian Government.
Construction commenced on 1 November (Stage 1 of 4) and is due to be completed in June 2021.
The All Abilities Playground will offer an inclusive and diverse range of play for all ages and all abilities and has been designed around the Red Gum environment.
“This project has so many benefits, with children overseas set to enjoy the harvested equipment, and children here able to look forward to a new, accessible playground,” said Mr Bennie.
