Port Fairy has now had over 12 months of the new Martins Point Playground. My family and other local families feel it leaves much to the imagination, leaving us feeling very disappointed with the new playground and the lack of opportunities it offers for local and visiting children. All playgrounds should service a range of age groups and abilities. For a playground that cost over $150,000 and aims to be inclusive, the only demographic it is well suited to are those under the age of 2. 

The current equipment does not challenge children or encourage them to take positive risks, which is vital for their development. Certain pieces of equipment are also damaged, taking away key parts of the overall space. For such a family-friendly town, not only for locals but for tourists, the playground does not offer a welcoming and enjoyable environment. Many local families now avoid the playground due to a lack of enjoyment and interaction and are now using alternative play areas, including caravan parks, to provide free entertainment for their children. 

Port Fairy is a destination visited by thousands of families every year - a playground plays an important part in entertaining such tourists. When young families visit other regions, one of the top visited attractions is a high-quality playground. Although new play facilities will be an expensive upfront cost, the longevity of such equipment will benefit through ongoing tourism.

So, this is the current picture, but I don't want to come to you with just complaints. Some ideas include:
- Additional play equipment to engage and challenge children aged 3-10 years
- Bike track with roundabouts, stop signs and pedestrian crossings, promoting road safety and physical activity (also wheelchair inclusive). This also benefits Port Fairy's rideability and promotion of the Port Fairy Bicycle Implementation Strategy
- Greater use of an alternative site closer to town, preferably Railway Place, making use of existing facilities and the upcoming renovation of the Railway Shed. Martins Point is not inviting and does not allow for strong creative direction.

If you agree with everything above, please sign and comment on this petition.
***PLEASE ALSO SHARE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN, BOTH ONLINE AND IN PERSON***

Community consultation is extremely important, so please take this opportunity to have your say. The purpose of this petition is to have evidence to take to the Moyne Shire Council to show there is a groundswell of support amongst the community for improved play facilities for our children of all ages.

To find out how you can have a great contribution, please email portfairyplayground@gmail.com