Sod Turns at New Bateman Park

My record on protecting and enhancing our public open space is clear. 

In May last year, the City of Melville Council broke its promise to deliver a park at 13 The Esplanade. 

Here is how I advocated for this important community development to ensure Bateman did not miss out on this amenity, despite initial setbacks. 

• Wrote to Mayor Katy Mair (cc'd Councillors) ahead of the May Council meeting to advocate for the funding- read my letter here
• Supported the community's petition which received approx. 2,000 signatures
• Raised the issue in a Grievance to Minister John Carey in the WA Parliament

I also met with Mayor Katy Mair and City of Melville CEO Gail Bowman following the Council's decision not to fund the park.  In this meeting, I recommended the City pursue alternate funding via Lotterywest. The City took up my recommendation and submitted a successful funding application.

Earlier this year, I committed $150,000 to enhance the park with features like mature trees and an expanded playground - aligning the space with our community’s vision. 

Last week's sod turning ceremony was an important milestone and I can't wait to see how work progresses over the coming months.

The park, which will connect The Esplanade with Kishorn Road, is expected to take around six months. 

To have your say on this and any other local park, please fill out my survey.