An example of what can be achieved when working By Melissa Meehan
CLUBS in the Upper Yarra region have joined forces to develop the Yarra Junction Recreational Reserve.
Members of the tennis, football, and cricket clubs and members of the community house are working together on the project.
The work is among five projects in the Upper Yarra Community Building Initiative, a partnership with the Shire of Yarra Ranges.
The community identified the development of the reserve as a priority during the CBI Community Opportunity Workshop in March 2007. Upper Yarra CBI facilitator Jeff Isaac said the ground’s location was ideal for the community to reach the various activities it offered. The location is the heart of the Upper Yarra.
He said user groups had been willing to work together to build their vision of a first class recreational complex with multi functional facilities.
Upper Yarra is one of only a few areas to have a versatile recreational facility.
Mr Isaac said the people could be justifiably proud it belonged to them. “The way the community has shown a willingness to work together on this project is a perfect example of what the Community Building Initiative is all about. Building on existing community strengths is a key part of its success,” he said.
Chairwoman of the Rec Reserve Working Group Sally Brennan said the project was an example of what could be achieved when people worked together.
“There’s no point in doubling up resources when by simply talking to each other we can come up with a better solution and one that is more cost effective,” she said.
