Port Stephens Council has successfully secured $1.35m in funding from the NSW Government through the Stronger Country Communities Fund, and will contribute a further $320,000 to the project.

The council’s community and recreation coordinator, Brock Lamont, said consultation is now underway for stage one of the upgrade which includes a skate park, playground, public amenities and car park.

“We know the community of Anna Bay has been waiting a long time for this upgrade, so we want to make sure that they have a say in the design of their new playground and skate park,” Mr Lamont said.

“We’re now seeking feedback on what elements should be included, as well as how the design should look and feel. Our consultant McGregor Coxall will use these ideas to help shape the design of these new additions to Robinson Reserve. 

“We’ll go back to the community for further consultation once the concept designs have been developed, with construction of stage one on track to start next year.  

“As the park is within a declared Aboriginal Place, we are working closely with registered Aboriginal parties to understand the cultural significance of the site and how to appropriately manage any potential impacts the project may have.”

Residents can have their say during the Tomaree Youth Community Action (TYCA) open day on Saturday, October 13, at Tomaree Sports Complex.

A drop-in session will be held at the TYCA open day at the Croatian Bocce Club between 10am and 2pm.

Residents can also head online to share their ideas on the Robinson Reserve revamp – haveyoursay.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/robinson-reserve – ​or complete the ‘create your dream design’ survey available at Port Stephens Libraries, the council’s administration building in Raymond Terrace or the Visitor Information Centre at Nelson Bay.

Feedback is being sought from now until Sunday, October 28.