All good cities and towns have their iconic parks the Mount Gambier green areas are no different. One large green space that dominates the landscape is Vansittart Park complete with beautifully maintained botanic gardens and well used playgrounds, this is one space both locals and visitors flock to. Mount Gambier’s Vansittart Park is a popular public recreational area and a family-friendly neighbourhood park. Many locals often come here to play, run and jog. Today, Vansittart Park is a popular children’s play area, with many families bringing their children here for hours of fun activities. The play area features different play equipment, suitable for young children. Vansittart Park also houses a beautiful and well-maintained picnic area. The picnic area is fenced and pets are not allowed, but owners can bring their pets for walking along the outer area in the designated dog walking circuit. The Mount Gambier Railway Lands is a unique and exciting new public space located in the heart of the City of Mount Gambier. ‘The Rail’ is an initiative of the City of Mount Gambier which aims support the community to test and trial a range events and activities at the Railway Lands. The once mighty rail precinct close to the CBD, has over the many decades seen a change in the way freight and travelers have come to this region resulting in a rapid decline and abandonment of the rail yards. In 2015, after over a year of work, the Railway Lands was completely transformed into a public community space. 20,000 square metres of turf covered the entire former-industrial site. The grand opening in November saw thousands of residents come together to utilise the area. A “back to nature” playground, wheelchair-accessible barbecues, a pond with a creek, native plants, a labyrinth, plus many more features for the community to use. Mount Gambier City Council plan to use the area for a number of annual events, but encourage local community groups to also activate the area. There is always a green space to visit whether it be Vanisttart Park, the new Railways Lands or the many other wonderful gardens to spend time playing or explore in Mount Gambier. Make time to enjoy them on your next trip to the Limestone Coast. WATCH THE CLIP
