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October 19, 2022 | IN Media Release and News | BY Holly Brennan | 3 min read

The brand new $1 million-plus Floré Neighbourhood Park in Diggers Rest has delighted northwest Melbourne residents since its opening in October.

The fourth park at AVID Property Group’s (AVID) Bloomdale community, Floré Neighbourhood Park is its biggest yet, spanning one hectare and boasting numerous opportunities for fun and discovery across nature-based play zones.

AVID Property Group Victoria Project Director Danny Boubli said the park was designed in close collaboration with residents to complement the community’s existing seven hectares of green space.

“The playground will offer everything from toddler-friendly equipment, exploration maze and musical chimes to an inclusive orbit carousel and basket swing, and for older children, a 3.5 metre high slide and timber and rope agility course,” Mr Boubli said.

“We started working closely with the community back in 2020 to design key park elements through a detailed focus group format, so we could suit local needs well into the future.

“Overwhelmingly, residents told us they wanted spaces to provide an experience for everyone to enjoy, from our littlest residents to the young at heart, and we believe that’s what Floré Neighbourhood Park delivers.”

Park visitation levels have increased above pre-COVID-19 levels globallyi highlighting a demand for increased urban and community parks with safe and convenient access.

According to CDA Design Group Associate Landscape Architect Adam Pappas, the need to cater for a range of age groups has strongly influenced the design.

“Whether people are looking for somewhere to sit and relax, get some work done outside of the home office or have a run around, we have aimed to create a space for a variety of active and passive activities,” Mr Pappas said.

“From a design perspective, we have incorporated elements of accessibility, safety, visibility and shade, for example, through the inclusion of accessible paths and in the selection of tree planting and vegetation.

“Likewise, the open grass area with soccer goals is designed to encourage groups of friends and families to play together while also helping to increase park safety by providing clear sight lines.

“The seating area at the entry is located away from the active play zones and surrounded by planting – a quieter zone that people can retreat to, whether it be for work phone calls or simply to sit and read.”

Floré Neighbourhood Park also provides increased connectivity for residents and links to the community’s broader park network and facilities like a multi-sport half court and goal post, fitness equipment, table tennis table and children’s playground.

To celebrate the opening of Floré Neighbourhood Park, an official celebration was held on Saturday, October 8 with more than 250 community residents, and special attendances from City of Melton Mayor Goran Kesic, Cr Lara Carli, and MP Josh Bull. The event, provided by AVID Property Group, featured free food, as well as art and craft activities for children.

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