The Pinnaroo Village Green Project

The Pinnaroo Village Green Project was undertaken to help revitalise the main street of Pinnaroo.  The project focused on improving the amenities in the central green area adjacent the main street, with the aim of increasing the vibrancy of the town and enticing travellers to stop and explore the Southern Mallee.  

The finished project was the culmination of four years of work. It began with community consultation and the development of a masterplan. Significant work went into applying for grant funding which was successful. A steering committee was formed to help guide the project design. The project works were completed in two stages and feature:

• A new nature playspace which includes a large rock mound with two slides, a basket swing, a 25m flying fox, a tri cell net climb, spinning disc and sand pit.  The inclusion of paths, seating, plantings and natural rock and log edging elements complete the space.
• A civic plaza which includes a large paved area, the installation of totem pieces, seating and landscaping.
• Revitalisation of the war memorial surrounds through new landscaping.
• A new footpath which runs the length of the street ensuring easy accessibility and strengthening the street aesthetics.
• Four new pavilions and picnic settings.
• The addition of a caravan and RV rest area, access road and recreational loop paths which provide a high level of connection throughout the area.

This project was a significant scope of works for a small regional Council and it has successfully transformed the village green area. It has been great to see high visitation to the area since the project was completed with both the local community and tourists stopping to enjoy the space, utilise the towns services and explore the area.

The project would not have been possible without the support of the funding bodies which included Commonwealth Drought Extension Programme Funding, Commonwealth Building Better Regions Funding and Commonwealth Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Our relationship with the LGFA and use of CAD loan facilities was also critical to the success of the project as we managed cash flow and progress payments through the construction phase in the different stages of the project.

Information provided by Rachel Ridgway, Project & Corporate Services Officer, Southern Mallee District Council