MP’s ‘park boost’

By Erin Pearson
A PROPOSAL to redevelop Torquay’s Grasstree Park has won the backing of state MP Andrew Katos.
The Member for South Barwon said Surf Coast councillor Joe Remenyi’s call for an environmental education facility and cycling facility in the park was “fantastic”.
“I’d certainly be very supportive of councillor Remenyi’s call to preserve that little triangle and activate it so the community can go in and use the park,” Mr Katos said.
“The addition of a cycling track around the outside of the park would also help bring more people into the park.
“It’s an area that eventually will have development all around it with Messmate Road right there, so upgrading facilities there is a great idea.”
The Independent revealed Cr Remenyi’s plan last week, with community environment and cycling organisations offering support. Cr Remenyi said he wanted to turn the park into a “first-class” environmental education precinct with accommodation and cycling facilities.
Mr Katos said he had yet to see any formal plans but would be open to suggestions.
“I’d be happy to work with members of council and Joan Lindros from Geelong Environment Council to progress ways to help preserve the park. I’d be happy to entertain any ideas or thoughts around it and certainly look at it in the future.”
Mr Katos said the park, near the entry to Torquay, should be “shown off”.
The council land off Surf Coast Hwy accommodates rare native grasstrees and former rubbish tip land.
Wathaurong Aboriginal Cooperative indigenous protected areas officer Reg Abrahams said he would love to see the site used for education purposes.
He called the park a “little, hidden paradise”.
“It’s a true representation of how Torquay used to be vegetation-wise. People would be astounded at all the wildflowers and things there,” Mr Abrahams said.
“Grasstrees themselves were used by Aboriginal people as fire sticks. They would cut pieces off and dry them off to use as fire-lighters.
Mr Abrahams said plants used for Aboriginal medicines could also be in the park.