News

Community consultation feedback

9 May 2025

Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback on the proposed ideas for the expansion of the Dandenong Park Red Gum Rest playground.

Community consultation was held from 11 November to 8 December 2024.

The existing playground is now more than ten years old, so it was important that we heard from regular users of the playground to find out what they like and don't like about the current playground area, and what they would like to see improved.

The proposed ideas included:

  • a youth space with activities that have digital activation
  • interactive play pillars with programmable games
  • interactive ball wall with LED panels
  • dynamic cable sliding rail
  • integration with the existing playground area
  • trees and garden beds
  • park infrastructure, such as seating, shelters and water fountains
  • path connections and fencing.
  • online participation activities (survey and ideas wall)
  • flyers posted to surrounding properties
  • notification posters placed in the park
  • two community drop-in sessions at the park
  • an article in the November 2024 edition of the Greater Dandenong Council News magazine
  • an article in the November 2024 edition of Council's Our Bright Green Future eNewsletter
  • social media posts, including targeted posts via Youth social media channels
  • engagement with community groups.

What we heard

Most of the contributions were received via the online survey.

The key themes we heard were:

  • the proposed digital elements are exciting and different from other playground offerings in Dandenong
  • integrate more nature play throughout the play areas to provide sensory opportunities
  • consider the access and comfort of older visitors and those with disabilities
  • fence the playground to ensure safety.

Feedback that was not related to the playground area has been passed on to the relevant departments.

We also heard ideas and suggestions which were not able to be considered within the scope of this project.

Next steps

A draft concept plan will be developed based on the feedback received and will be open for feedback in late 2025.

We will then seek support and funding for these capital works projects through Council’s annual budget process.