Marina Reserve skate park in St Kilda given green light to host public events and competitions

KICKFLIPS, ollies and grinds will soon be on show at a skate park in Melbourne’s south after it was given the green light to host public events and competitions.

The skate park in Marina Reserve has got the go ahead from Port Phillip council to host events and competitions. L-RBen Brunner (9), Julian Lawton (8), Kai Lwton (8) and Ava Godfrey (12) Picture: Ellen Smith

KICKFLIPS, ollies and grinds will soon be on show at the Marina Reserve skate park after it was given the green light to host public events and competitions.

In what is a coup for the area’s fast-growing skating population, the State Government has ticked off on a council request to hold skate events at the Marine Parade site, situated on the St Kilda foreshore.

Former professional skateboarder Renton Millar, who regularly uses the skate park, said the decision was an investment in the area’s young skaters.

“Some of the most dedicated young skaters aged between 12 and 18 use the bowl and the decision to hold events there could really help their careers,” he said.

“Events will be a spectacle for the local community and will help with social interaction for the kids.”

Mr Millar said he would like to hold skating classes at the park at a time convientant to all.

Port Phillip Mayor Amanda Stevens said resident fears skate park events would result in anti-social behaviour were allayed during a trial event in June.

“It was good to see everyone from 40-year-old men to three-year-old kids on their scooters and skateboards.

“Given the way the skate park is built people can sit around and watch which encourages family events,” she said.

Cr Stevens said the 80 per cent of local residents were now in favour of events and competitions being held at the park.

Port Phillip Council are yet to schedule a competition at the skate park.