Torquay Playground
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A GORCC - Rotary partnership has led to a new children's playground on the Torquay foreshore.
Youngsters visiting or living in Torquay can now enjoy new purpose-built playground equipment thanks to a recent joint effort between the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee (GORCC) and the Rotary Club of Torquay.
Located on the Torquay foreshore just across from Anderson Street, the new swings and climbing bars were installed by Rotary volunteers who worked over several wintry weekends in partnership with GORCC’s outdoor works team.
According to Rotary Club of Torquay President Amanda Hough, the project was made possible through the Rob Emmett Fund, which was established following a series of fundraising events organised by the club in Rob Emmett’s memory.
“Rob was a long-serving Rotarian, club President and Paul Harris Fellow recipient, Rotary’s highest award for outstanding contributions to the club and the community. After he died aged 50 from cancer, the club established a fund to be spent on projects to benefit Torquay’s youth,” Ms Hough said.
“His daughters, who are now adults, have fond memories of playing on the old playground equipment as children. It therefore seemed only fitting for our club to join forces with GORCC in building a new, improved playground for today’s children,” she said.
“The Rotary Club of Torquay has done a sterling job in making this playground a reality by providing funding and voluntary labour for construction,” explained GORCC Chief Executive Officer David Clarke.
“To support the project, GORCC developed the requisite plans and engineering specifications, helped to source materials and equipment, and provided additional funding. Our outdoor works team assisted with the works and supervision.
“Rotary plays a vital role in helping to care for and improve our coast. This latest joint effort with GORCC has resulted in a brand new playground in a picturesque setting on the Torquay foreshore that will be enjoyed by young children for years to come,” he said.
In recognition of a successful partnership and the Rob Emmett Fund’s contribution, GORCC and the Rotary Club of Torquay held a joint dedication ceremony for the new playground on Saturday 30 August 2008. Members of the Emmett family attended the ceremony and unveiled a plaque at the site.
