Playground Engagement Success

Renmark Paringa Council is excited to announce the successful conclusion of a robust community engagement process regarding the replacement of two playgrounds at Bert Dix Park in Paringa and SS Ellen Park in Lyrup.

Due to the River Murray Flood, both playgrounds were significantly damaged and required major repairs to comply with Australian Standards. As such, it was deemed more economical to undertake a full replacement of the playgrounds.

In December 2023, the community had the opportunity to vote on one of two design options for each playground, one a like for like and one an alternative design.

Engagement with the community on the design options consisted of multiple methods which included an online survey, e-news mail out, face to face consultation at the library during the school holiday program, social media and traditional media.

Engagement with the community was a huge success with 206 people voting via the online survey and 50 people voting at the face to face consultation at the library.

Promotion of the survey via social media was also a huge success, with scheduled posts and reels on Facebook and Instagram reaching 2,000.

Mayor Peter Hunter said

“We are pleased to receive such a strong response from the community on the playground options shared and thank everyone who took the opportunity to participate.”

“We look forward to listening to the laughter and excitement from the children, when making use of the playgrounds once completed.”

The new playgrounds are expected to be installed before the end of the 2023/24 financial year.