Yarra Ranges residents and visitors can soon again enjoy water play parks in Lilydale, Seville and Warburton, when the season begins in mid-September.
From 17 September, water jets will be active at Seville Water Play Park at the recreation reserve, Lillydale Lake splash pad and Warburton Water World.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Jim Child, said the parks provided a fun space to meet with friends in the warm weather.
“In the spring and summer months, there are few better places to be than with your friends and family at a water play park, a pool, or a leafy, shady park. Our water play parks are extremely well-visited – and for good reason. The jets, the equipment and the scenic surrounds make for a wonderful day out,” he said.
“I’m excited that the water jets will soon be starting up again, giving our community a space to cool off and make the most of the warmer months. I’d encourage everyone in our community, particularly our families, to plan a picnic or grab some food from their favourite local restaurant or café, and head down for a day of water play and fun in the sun.”
Water play park jets turn on between 8am-10am, depending on location and are turned off at 8pm.
On days where weather is forecast to be 35 degrees of higher, the water jets at our play parks will stay on for an extra hour – usually finishing at 9pm.
When visiting water play parks and splash pads, sun smart behaviour is a must – make sure to apply sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses and clothing to reduce skin exposure, and take breaks in the shade. Bring water and snacks for everyone with you, and watch out for sun burn or exhaustion.
Cr Child encouraged community members to have a back-up plan when visiting water play parks on warm days, weekends and public holidays.
“Our water play parks are very well loved, but this also means that we get a tremendous amount of tourists and locals flocking when the temperature rises,” he said.
“If you arrive and see a full carpark or too many people, have a backup plan in mind – another water play park, or a playground you can visit, or a community outdoor pool when they open through November and December.
“Please, be covid safe and do not visit a water play park if you or anyone in your family is feeling unwell or displaying symptoms.”
On days of Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger Ratings, water play parks will not be active.
For more information on your local water play park, visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/waterplay
