Playgrounds open, but some closed for cleaning

by Jack Morgan

Children under 12 were allowed to play at the playground again after a small easing in restrictions from the State Government last week. 

It was met with many smiles from parents and children who had the opportunity to use the equipment during sunny weather.

Rilee Flechsig and Maddison Buxton are cousins and missed coming to Warragul’s Civic Park playground quite a lot.

“This is probably the favourite playground we’ve been to,” Rilee said.

“They’re just lots of fun to do and you can meet up with your friends,” Maddison said.

Mother Steph Flechsig said it was great to get the kids outside again.

“Especially for the little one because he goes stir crazy at home, we don’t have too much in our backyard as well so I take him on walks, but it’s not the same as having something to play with outside,” Ms Flechsig said.

As restrictions eased, Baw Baw Shire Council closed many playgrounds for brief periods in Drouin and Neerim South that were scheduled for cleaning.

It was met with backlash on social media, with many members of the public commenting dismay.

“Ridiculous. Could have and should have been done during lockdown. Another slap in the face to families,” a Facebook comment from Chris Grant said.

“This is a bit rough, how many mums and dads have told their kids they can go to the park tomorrow and now have to tell them no,” another comment from Jennifer Strattan said.

A statement from Baw Baw Shire Council said the cleaning works were programmed with the intention they would be completed during lockdown.

“The Victorian Government’s announcement to reopen playgrounds came earlier than anticipated, however,” Baw Baw Shire Council said.

Craig Watts Park in Neerim South and Neerim Junction Park Playground are both scheduled to be cleaned today.