While the process hasn’t been without its challenges, the park is beginning to take shape, offering a glimmer of hope for what this space could one day become. This is just the start of the story, and with planting season around the corner, there’s plenty to look forward to. Together, the community and council have the opportunity to create a local asset for everyone to enjoy.

Reflecting on the Journey so Far

The road to where we are now hasn’t been an easy one. Many in Dawesville feel deeply disappointed by the developers who left the area without fulfilling their obligations. Promises to create thriving, functional spaces weren’t met, leaving the council to pick up the pieces. But rather than dwell on what was lost, the Dawesville community decided to step up and take action.

The Melros Urban Park project kicked off with meetings & discussions with council, where local residents voiced their concerns and aspirations for the space. The council acknowledged the importance of collaboration and began working alongside the Dawesville Town Team and local residents. Repairs and groundwork became priorities, and bit by bit, the park has started to evolve.

Efforts so far have included clearing debris, fixing damaged paths, and getting the land ready for the next steps. This initial progress has set the stage for something greater, but there’s still a lot of work to be done to make this vision a reality.

Looking Ahead - A New Chapter Begins with the Rain

With the rainy season expected to begin in just a couple of months, the pace of the Melros Urban Park project is quickly picking up. The rain will be crucial for supporting new vegetation, and it’s the perfect time to begin planting efforts. Plans are already in motion to introduce native plants and trees that will enhance the park’s natural beauty while promoting biodiversity.

Community planting days are being organised, offering a hands-on way for locals to contribute. These events won’t just beautify the park; they will also strengthen the community spirit as neighbours come together to make a difference. Everyone’s involvement in these efforts will result in a greener, more welcoming space we can all take pride in.

With ongoing council support, there are also discussions about creating zones within the park that cater to a range of activities, from relaxing picnic areas to spots for kids to explore and play. If the planting phase succeeds, it will lay a strong foundation for more ambitious projects in the future.

What Kind of Neighbourhood Do We Want?

The Melros Urban Park project is about more than just a piece of land; it’s about defining the kind of neighbourhood Melros & Florida wants to be. While frustrations with past development failures remain, there is a silver lining. This project has shown that when the community takes ownership, positive change can happen.

It’s clear that the council is willing to help when they see the community is actively engaged. Their support has been critical for securing resources and approvals to move things forward. But the success of this project depends on all of us stepping up and staying involved. Whether it’s planting trees, joining clean-up days, or participating in planning discussions, every effort counts. Together, we can transform this space into something special.

Imagine a future where the Melros Urban Park is a thriving hub for locals. Picture families gathering for weekend picnics, children enjoying shaded play areas, and friends meeting for walks surrounded by native greenery. This isn’t just a dream; it’s a possibility that’s within reach—with patience, hard work, and continued collaboration.

Opportunities Beyond Melros

While the focus right now is on Melros Urban Park, this is just one part of a broader vision for Dawesville. Ocean side has potential for enhancement, and there’s plenty of work to be done in creating spaces that truly reflect the beauty and character of our community. Projects like this start with a single step, and the momentum being built right now could inspire future efforts across our neighbourhood.

This isn’t the end of the story. It’s the beginning of a much larger transformation. The successes we achieve here at Melros can serve as a blueprint for what we can accomplish elsewhere. The question is, how far are we willing to go to make our neighbourhood the kind of place where families feel proud and connected?

Be Part of the Journey

The Melros Urban Park is more than a project; it’s a reflection of our values as a community. The work that’s been done so far is inspiring, but there’s still a long way to go. The rains in the coming months mark a pivotal moment in bringing this vision to life. With planting days ahead and opportunities to shape the future park, now is the time for everyone to come together.

This is our chance to show that when a community steps up, it can make a real difference. Together with the council and with each other, we can build a brighter future—not just for this park, but for all.