Popular skate park officially opened in Forrestfield

The Shire of Kalamunda received 54 suggestions for a name from the community, with a total of 379 votes entered.

A shortlist was created of five entries, suggesting the names The Field, Moorditj Djena, meaning “strong feet”, Wanju Park, the Nyungar word meaning “welcome”, 605SK8 and Skateway.

Results of the voting provided a clear winner, 605SK8.

Forrestfield resident Corey Denton (20), said the name was a play on the Forrestfield postcode. Corey received 159 of the total votes.

Kalamunda shire president Sue Bilich said the project had been a big success.s

“It was completed on time and on budget and involved extensive consultation with local youth,” she said.

Cr Bilich said the Hartfield Park location was inspired by the rich vegetation and Aboriginal significance, setting a new benchmark for skate parks among native bushland.

Hundreds of young skaters have already used the facility.

Kalamunda chief executive Rhonda Hardy said the new park had attracted a number of users.

She said the only negative so far had been some complaints about rubbish left behind.

“Community members have made comments about the amount of litter appearing at the site.

“We strongly encourage all users to take a real sense of pride in our newest skate park and help to keep it nice and clean,” she said.

The new design allows skateboarders, BMX and scooter riders to use the facility, which incorporates local art and themes into the designs to reflect Kalamunda’s rich cultural heritage.

“The purpose is to create a facility that will also cater for young children and parents, with plenty of shade and spectator spaces,” Mrs Hardy said.

An official event to celebrate the opening of the park will be held during the school holidays on September 30.

A skate open day will be held from 1pm to 3pm and will feature live DJs, a sausage sizzle, freestyle now clinic and prizes.

The project was jointly funded by the shire and the Department of Sport and Recreation.

A Lotterywest grant of $70,000 helped to provide popular and place-appropriate infrastructure, such as barbecues, seating, nature playgrounds and other non-skating activities to create a natural aesthetic and inclusive public space.