Families and community members turned up to the new destination playground in droves for the official opening of the new-look park.
A free sausage sizzle, cooked by Deniliquin Rotary, and a huge chocolate sponge cake were enjoyed by all who attended.
Edward River Council Mayor Norm Brennan invited NSW Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier Steph Cooke to help him with the ribbon and cake cutting.
Family members of Alex Scott, after whom the park is named to recognise his efforts to have it established, were also called upon to help with the honour.
After the official part of the morning was over, children ran in all directions to enjoy the BMX pump track, half basketball court, zipline and other new equipment. The refurbished rocket, which gave the park its nickname, was also a popular play spot.
‘‘It is great to see so many people visiting Scott’s Park again, and I look forward to seeing plenty more families and children enjoying the facilities for many more years,’’ Cr Brennan said.
‘‘I know when I first moved to Deniliquin my children loved this playground.’’
The $676,620 invested in the playground was made possible by the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Ms Cooke, who is the Member for Cootamundra, said she was glad to be involved in its opening at her first ever trip to Deniliquin.
‘‘The Scott’s Park redevelopment is exactly the kind of project the Strong Country Communities Fund is designed to deliver, and I’d like to thank every single person, from the tradies to the council staff, who helped make this happen.’’
At the opening, Cr Brennan said the park facilities would continue to grow in coming weeks. He said a swing set is expected to be installed this week.
In his Welcome to Country, which he completed alongside Shia Parsons, local Wamba youngster Isaac Wilson made sure to put forward his own wish list for the park.
He called on the council to install lights at the half court, which he says he uses each day with his friends and brother.
In addition to the play facilities, the park features ample space for parents with shelters, tables, and barbecue facilities. A toilet is also located in the park.
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