‘Modern platform’: Vision realised as Ross Park Opens

Stage 1 of 4 in the Lennox Village Vision $10 million beautification project opens. Here are the details.

Ballina Shire Council have officially opened stage 1 of the $10 million Lennox Village Vision project at Ross Park.

The flashy upgrade is part of a beautification project for the seaside village.

It includes an all-ability wheelchair accessible carousel, play and seating areas along with interactive sculptures and serene landscaping.

Former Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year, Tracey Everingham-Armstrong, raised $30,000 to purchase the carousel through community fundraising events.

Citizen of the year Tracey Everingham-Armstrong of Lennox Head. Photo Doug Eaton

“I have been raising money for around 30 years for children with disabilities,” Mrs Everyingham-Armstrong said.

“The carousel was bought from two Melbourne Cup fundraisers and a 100s club dinner which brought in another $10,000 for a handshaped surfboard that had been signed by every pro surfer on the quicksilver pro tour in Australia.

“I see things in the community and think that’d be great matter to fundraise for; and this was one of those things,” she said.

Stage 1 of 4 in the Lennox Village Vision project, Ross Park, is now open.

With a ‘nature play focused’ area inspired by a community-led design process the area keeps within the serene environment of Lennox Head.

The area is easy on the eyes, uses local natural elements in the play area and incorporates public artworks with pavers designed by community members and the Lennox Community Arts Board.

A new timber fort and nest swing also feature in the new design.

An all access, all ability design is also a big part of the newly designed park.

Artists Charlotte Haywood and Edward Horne artwork “Green Sea Turtle” is a fun and engaging artwork for families and young children to use for play, contemplation or as a gathering space.

Shaped seats made of local blackbutt timber, sandstone and copper represent the turtle’s flippers and head, while its shell is expressed through a mosaic of platforms made of sandstone and copper.

These platforms can be used as a low-lying rock hopping device, mini maze or individual seats and mini tables.

Ross Park officially opens stage 1 of 4 in the Lennox Village Vision project.

Ballina Council Project Management Officer Brett Dyki said stage 1 is a modern platform of boardwalks, and recreational areas to emphasise the stunning beach views.

“New seating, landscaped lawns and covered picnic areas provide plenty of options for gathering in the park,” Mr Dyki said.

“The new play equipment and interactive sculpture promotes fun and adventure while encouraging respect for the unique local environment.

“We look forward to locals and visitors enjoying this beautiful outdoor space in the centre of the Lennox village.”

New amenities will remain closed as construction continues however the existing Lennox Park toilet remains open and is within a short walk of the park.

With construction continuing on the Lennox Village Vision, please follow the direction of traffic control and be mindful of construction zones.