Work underway at ‘fusion’ park
Large feature rocks, ‘moon gates’, interactive play spaces and an area suited to wedding ceremonies – with plants fusing Chinese and Australian culture – are among features of an Alexandra Gardens Island design.
Ararat Rural City Council released conceptual designs for the project, with excavation works scheduled to start this week.
Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the new island garden design celebrated Ararat’s Chinese heritage connection.
Dr Harrison said the design included two round ‘moon gates’ – traditional Chinese architectural garden elements – that would be at two locations to frame the island scenery looking out towards Alexandra Gardens.
He said large rocks would also be focal points and used for seating around the island.
“The design also includes an area that is suited for gatherings including wedding ceremonies, so that will be a great addition for the community,” he said.
“Stepping stones will be placed throughout the plantings, which will include bamboo, creating secret paths.
As the plants grow and this will enhance
establish, the interactive spaces for children to explore and play in.”
Dr Harrison said the island gardens would include different plants incorporating Chinese and Australian species such as the pomegranate, cherry, ginkgo, grass trees and red tea tree.
“The island’s soil structure is such that it doesn’t suit large trees, so the garden design will include low-level plantings with some medium-sized feature trees,” he said.
“The council has already had comments from the community saying how much better the island looks without the large trees because it has opened up the area.
“We appreciate comments that contributed to this design.”