The Green Machine opens at Sandy Bay park
Move a side old, blue slide — there’s a new Green Machine in town and it’s ready to play. How two young Tasmanian sisters led the charge for the project.
Tasmania
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Long-time big slide fans have had their letters answered after the official opening of “The Green Machine” — Hobart’s newest, longest slide.
The new piece of play equipment at the Parliament St Reserve has replaced the old slide that was retired for safety reasons.
Bonnie and Belle Lyon used to enjoy the old slide while visiting their grandparents in Dynnyre.
The sisters led the charge in advocating for the new 15m slide by writing letters to the council – which was rewarded by being the first to test the Green Machine.
“I am grateful to have this opportunity to be one of the first to go down the new slide,” Bonnie said.
“We wrote to the Lord Mayor to state our opinions about the removal of the big blue slide, and we were thrilled to hear they were putting in something more fantastic.
“It was an exciting experience receiving letters from the Lord Mayor.”
Belle said she was so excited when the mayor, Anna Reynolds, told them they were opening the new slide.
“I think it was a great learning experience writing to the Lord Mayor and very exciting when she wrote back to us,” she said.
The $140,000 project, funded through a state government grant, prioritises safety including with an enclosed top, controlled speed turns and soft fall areas.
Ms Reynolds said she was excited to see children enjoying Hobart’s biggest slide once again.
“The Green Machine is not just a slide; it’s a symbol of our commitment to providing safe and fun recreational spaces for our community.”
The area has also been “beautifully” landscaped with dolerite rock work, new gardens, a picnic table and gravel paths.
The upgrade included five Morrisby’s gum tree and more than 1000 native plants and grasses.
Originally published as The Green Machine opens at Sandy Bay park
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