Hawthorn rocket ship: Thousands call for “Rocket Park” Hawthorn to be saved

The Hawthorn rocket ship has been temporarily closed, but there are promising signs for fans of the play equipment.

A petition has been started to save the beloved rocket at "Rocket Park" in Hawthorn.

The much-loved rocket ship in Hawthorn has been temporarily closed off to the public, as Boroondara Council conducts structural inspections.

The beloved play equipment in Central Gardens, better known as “Rocket Park,” hit the headlines last month when news broke the council was considering removing it.

According to the council’s website, due to its age and condition, the playground is scheduled to be replaced in 2021-2022.

“While the current rocket is safe, it no longer meets current playground standards across multiple areas,” the council said.

Simon Gannon’s petition calling for it to be saved has now been signed by more than 9000 people.

“Did you know Boroondara Council has plans to tear down the famous rocket at “Rocket Park”, Hawthorn, and replace it with something much less fun?” the petition states.

“It has been there for 50 years. Kids love it. It’s simple. It’s safe.

“What is Rocket Park without its rocket?

“We call on Boroondara Council to preserve the existing rocket for future generations to enjoy.”

In an email update to residents this week, the council said it was evaluating the feedback received during its recent community consultation on the proposal to redevelop the play area.

“While no decision has yet been made on the rocket or existing play equipment, we have heard the community’s desire to keep the current rocket,” the council said.

“We are genuinely exploring options that could allow us to keep the existing rocket within a redeveloped play area.

Tape has been erected around the beloved rocket.

“To further evaluate the feasibility of retaining the existing rocket, we need to complete some additional structural inspections.

“These underground inspections will be conducted throughout this week. Please note the rocket will be closed off during this time to ensure community safety and to enable us to complete the inspection works thoroughly.

“The surrounding play equipment will remain open.

“Once the additional investigations have been finalised and the evaluation of community feedback is completed, you will receive an update on what the next steps will be.”