Ferntree Park Drouin grand opening a success

The highly anticipated Ferntree Park grand opening on Saturday attracted a terrific number of families who were delighted to take part in the celebrations and eager to explore Drouin’s newest outdoor play space.

Crowds gathered in the spectacular autumn sun for the official opening hosted by well-known local muso Adrian Darakai. Baw Baw Shire Mayor Danny Goss officiated the opening which also included a Welcome to Country by Kurnai Elder Cheryl Drayton and a short address by LandGipps Director David Sowerby.

Baw Baw Shire Councillor Ben Lucas and Ferntree Ridge developers, the Seebeck family, were also in attendance for the official ribbon-cutting. Mayor Goss congratulated the Seebeck Group on the “delivery of quality open space and infrastructure” across the development.

“This is what residents and Drouin people want. It’s a brilliant park and it will be so well used”, said Danny.

Seebeck family member Brad Dixon played an active role in the development and construction of the dynamic, adventurestyle park and was thrilled to share his hard work with the community.

“Many elements of the park were inspired by my kids. The flying fox and scooter path were their ideas”, said Brad.

The 1.54Ha park features a carefully curated selection of native and exotic trees that sit within the required botanical theme.

This theme will carry across to future park projects within Ferntree Ridge that include a soon-to-be constructed off-leash dog park, extensive walking trails and a history-themed park.

The development will also become home to a sporting hub, shopping precinct and new schools to meet the needs of the growing community.

Local families were thrilled with the event, enjoying complimentary party food and songs from Jo’s Acoustic Music throughout the morning. Children loved free face-painting, balloon animals and show bags to take home. Brad Creighton, sales manager for event organiser LandGipps was pleased with the turnout and said “The park is a sea of kids bobbing around with fairy floss and having a hoot.

“This is what it’s all about. Getting outdoors with the kids and having some good old-fashioned family fun”, said Brad.

If you missed the grand opening celebrations please pop down and enjoy the all-new Ferntree Park in Ferntree Ridge Drouin.

Baw Baw Shire Mayor Danny Goss (left) cutting the ribbon to open Ferntree Park Drouin with Brad Dixon of Seebeck Group.

From left, Natalie and David Sowerby of LandGipps with Ferntree Park Drouin grand opening host and entertainer Adrian Darakai and Isabella Sowerby.

Maeve (left) and Elsie Tumino of Warragul enjoying Ferntree Park Drouin and the work of their father Mick Tumino who completed the concreting at this playground.