Victoria Park Playground Update

Published on 18 February 2016

Rockhampton Regional Council’s Parks and Recreation Committee Chair Councillor Cherie Rutherford would like to update the community on the measures taken to address safety concerns at the Victoria Park playground.

A number of traffic control measures are in place including a reduced speed limit and a series of traffic calming devices. 

“There were calls from members of the community to fence the playground however Council received very mixed feedback in response to this request,” Councillor Rutherford said.

“I have continued to work with Council Officers to look at alternative options which would provide a barrier and avoid closing in and fencing such a large area.

“I am keen to work with members of the community to discuss a number of options which I believe will go a long way to addressing their concerns without compromising the open and inviting feel of the playground,” Cr Rutherford said.

“One of the options is to plant a low hedge which would act as a barrier to stop small children from running onto the road and would add to the beauty of the area.

“I believe this would be a great compromise that would address the concerns raised so far without disappointing those community members who don’t want the park fenced.

“It is important that playground fencing is not used as a substitute for child care or supervision. Ultimately the safety of our children relies on combined responsibilities of careful controlled traffic movement, provision of a clean, safe environment and parents or carers being present and vigilant.

“Victoria Park playground is one of the most popular locations in the region and I am confident that if we continue to keep the lines of communication open we will find a solution,” Cr Rutherford said.