Officer’s new regional park now open!

This state-of-the-art park, located on Lansell Avenue in Officer, is set to become a vibrant community hub, offering a range of exciting features and amenities for residents and visitors alike.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Kowarzik officially opened the park on Tuesday 17 December 2024 along with the Hon. Sonya Kilkenny, Minister for Planning and Minister for Suburbs, Dr Michelle Ananda-Rajah, Federal Member for Higgins, Emma Vulin, State Member for Pakenham, Cardinia Shire councillors and Cardinia Shire Council CEO Carol Jeffs.

“We are delighted to see this incredible park opening just in time for the summer holidays, providing a perfect destination for families and friends to enjoy the outdoors,” Mayor Kowarzik said.

“With plenty of options for adventure, fitness, relaxation and the enjoyment of nature, there certainly is something for everyone.”

“Offering breathtaking views and state-of-the-art facilities, this regional park provides incredible opportunities for recreation, community connection and leisure activities, and will no doubt attract visitors from far and wide.”

Stage 1 highlights include:

• Adventure playground: a large, modern playground designed for children of all ages, featuring climbing structures, slides, swings, and interactive play equipment.
• Parkour zone: incorporating a mixture of obstacles of different heights, angles and shapes. This space allows visitors of all ages and abilities to create their own moves and motion through the space. 
• Fitness facilities: including fitness stairs for running and exercise, a 1-kilometre loop track and exercise equipment stations. 
• Scenic lookout: offering breathtaking views over the southern part of the shire and out to Western Port, and providing a perfect spot for relaxation and appreciation of the natural surroundings. 
• Dog off-leash area: providing space for dogs to run freely and for pet owners and their pets to enjoy social interaction and outdoor activities together. 
• Picnic areas: multiple shaded picnic spots equipped with tables and barbecue facilities, perfect for family gatherings and social events.
• Walking  paths: scenic trails that wind through the park, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for walking and jogging.
• Wetland area: adding to the park’s natural beauty, the wetland area will catch and treat water runoff using Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles as well as enhance the park’s biodiversity.

“This park is testament to what can be achieved when the community and government work together through extensive and inclusive community engagement,” Mayor Kowarzik said.

“We thank the Victorian Government for their invaluable contributions through the ‘Growing Suburbs Fund’ and ‘New and Upgraded Dog Parks Program’ and the Australian Government for their much-appreciated contribution through the ‘Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program’.”

Toomuc Ward Councillor Casey Thomsen said he was delighted Officer District Park was now open to the community.

“It’s great to see the community enjoying this amazing new park,” Cr Tomsen said.

“With something for all ages, Officer District Park is a great day out for the whole family. Whether you’re keen to try out the adventure playground, get active or simply enjoy the scenic surrounds, this fantastic destination has it all.

“We look forward to seeing this park being enjoyed by the community for many years to come.”

Cardinia Shire Council thanks the community for its support and patience throughout the duration of the project. Council acknowledges that the area has experienced increased traffic and disruptions and is likely to continue to do so for some time while the excitement of the new facility is at its peak and appreciates the community’s cooperation and continued support.

The development of the park has been a collaborative effort, with extensive community consultation shaping its design and features. The project has progressed through several stages, with construction beginning in early 2023 and Stage 1 now complete.

Council reminds all visitors to please be patient, drive safely and comply with parking signage throughout the area, especially during school times and around residential areas. Parking is available on-site, but we encourage carpooling, cycling and walking if possible, to minimise traffic congestion.

For more information, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/officer-park

Cardinia Shire Council is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through the development of community-focused projects and initiatives. For more information, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/majorprojects

Photo caption: 
Left to right: Cr Liz Roberts, Carol Jeffs (Cardinia Shire Council CEO), Deputy Mayor Cr Alanna Pomeroy, Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik, the Hon Sonya Kilkenny (Minister for Planning and Minister for Suburbs), Dr Michelle Ananda-Rajah (Federal Member for Higgins), Emma Vulin (State Member for Pakenham), Cr Casey Thomsen, Cr Samantha-Jane Potter, Cr Brett Owen at the official opening of Officer District Park.