Mallacoota was severely impacted by the 2019-20 bushfires. 123 homes were lost and many more properties and community facilities severely damaged. The trauma and distress caused by the fires has deepened by the COVID-19 restrictions. This has particularly impacted the local youth, who have been isolated and unable to connect socially in an informal space.
The much-loved, but out-of-date, skate park at the heart of Mallacoota is set for a complete upgrade with funding of $600,000. The Victorian Bushfire Appeal’s Community Grants Program funding will redevelop the Mallacoota Skate Park as a community recreation hub.
Ageing equipment will be replaced, new jumps, ramps and new features will also be added. It will also be made accessible to wheelchair users, younger children learning to skate, scooter users, and BMX riders of all abilities.
Local artists will be able to display their pieces and will be a place for locals to hold community events. The park will allow young people suffering from trauma to get together and connect.
The new park will be a visual symbol of community pride in recovery.