East Bairnsdale’s once-tired Hoddinott Reserve has been officially transformed into a vibrant community space, following the grand opening of its upgraded playground on Thursday, July 16.
East Gippsland Shire Council mayor Jodie Ashworth and Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh MP joined local families and community members at the Hoddinott Street site to cut the ribbon on the much-needed neighbourhood asset.
The extensive upgrade features a diverse mix of interactive and nature-based play equipment tailored for children aged four to 12, alongside new picnic facilities, shade improvements and extensive landscaping.
Cr Ashworth said the revitalised reserve delivers a space that actively encourages outdoor recreation and social connection.
“Hoddinott Reserve has been transformed into a place where children can play, families can spend time together, and neighbours can connect,” Cr Ashworth said.
“Projects like this are about more than playground equipment. They create opportunities for healthy activity, strengthen community connections, and help make our neighbourhoods great places to live.”
The project represents a deeply collaborative community effort, having had its early inception in advocacy work undertaken by Gippsland Lakes Complete Health with the East Bairnsdale community.
Council delivered the physical transformation in partnership with the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC), whose construction team completed the civil works and drove improvements across the reserve and surrounding public space.
A standout feature of the new playground is its accessible custom seating, which includes a turtle sculpture table and seats designed and handcrafted by Dougie Hood from GLaWAC’s Business Enterprise team.
Mr McIntosh said the project highlights the value of targeted regional investment.
“This is a fantastic upgrade for locals — Labor is investing in community infrastructure right across country Victoria, including East Bairnsdale,” Mr McIntosh said.
The project was jointly funded by the Victorian Government through the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund and Council, with ongoing design and vision support from Gippsland Lakes Complete Health, Uniting Gippsland and Communities for Children East Gippsland.
