Rainbow school transformation

Project leaders are urging Rainbow and district residents to have their say on a draft design for a new community garden park at the old Rainbow Primary School site.

Features of the plan include a golden rainbow soundshell, palm trees, indigenous food garden, cool mist sprays, play areas and expansive lawn, and exhibition and performance precincts.

The garden would surround the former Rainbow Primary School, which is also being refurbished as part of the two-year Oasis Rainbow Small Town Transformations Project.

The project aims to create a network for Rainbow community’s recreational activities and artistic pursuits.

A draft design for the garden has arrived and project manager Adelle Rohrsheim said she was keen to hear what the community thought.

“Back in February, in the middle of the heat wave, we spent a hot afternoon at the primary school listening to the community’s ideas for this garden. Now our consultant Enlocus has provided plans, including several images,” she said.

“One feature would be a stunning golden soundshell for performances, which will be complemented by a series of seating walls to support the exhibition and performance areas.”

Ms Rohrsheim said all sport and recreation areas had been maintained and further lawn areas would be added for more sporting opportunities.

She said there would also be a lawn to link north and south areas of the site and an indigenous food walk to produce small-scale food crops.

Ms Rohrsheim said strategic lighting was planned for safety and to highlight key features, and earth moved to create a new skate park could be developed into a viewing embankment.

“A series of misting points will create a true oasis feeling along walkways near buildings at the school site,” she said.

“There will also be a Mallee forest garden path to create areas of shade, and places to explore.

“Large blocks of local stone will be used for both seating and play and there will also be areas featuring lemon-scented gums and transplanted mature palms.

“But it won’t be all garden, with areas for exhibition, performance and concerts.

“With murals proving popular across the region, the designers have also highlighted tanks and buildings that could be used for wall art, including projections.”

Public comment

Ms Rohrsheim said copies of the plans would be available at various Rainbow outlets to allow people to view them and make comment.

“This is a garden which has been designed with community input for the community and we want everyone to have their say on these plans,” she said.

“The plans will also be on display at a Goods Gardeners Guide to Seeds and Cuttings workshop at the old school site on Saturday from 10am to 3.30pm.”

Ms Rohrsheim said people could comment on the garden plans until April 22 by calling her on 0431 820 493 or emailing feedback to oasis-rainbow@hotmail.com.