Frankston City Council has officially opened its first exercise park for seniors, featuring
fitness equipment designed to improve the balance, dexterity and agility of older people.
The park is located at Wingham Park Reserve at Ashleigh Avenue, Frankston, and also offers playground equipment for children of all ages.
The $235,000 play and park improvements were co-funded by Frankston City Council, the
Victorian Government and the National Ageing Research Institute. Construction followed a
community consultation process where residents provided their feedback on Council’s plans
for the site.
Attending the opening event was Frankston City Mayor, Nathan Conroy and the State Member for Frankston, Paul Edbrooke.
Mayor Conroy said the park provides a unique way for seniors to stay fit and active while enjoying the benefits of being outdoors.
“The park will not only benefit our older residents’ physical health, but will also encourage
social interaction and reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation,” said Mayor Conroy.
“The new site features fitness equipment for seniors, new seating, drinking fountain and
outdoor activity deck, and park improvements including accessible paths, accessible car
parking bays, garden beds and new trees.
“Given the proximity to the already existing children’s playground, it’s a great opportunity
for grandparents and their grandchildren to get outdoors and play together,” he said.
State member for Frankston, Paul Edbrooke highlighted the importance of age-appropriate
recreational areas for our ageing population.
“There’s never been a more important time to focus on the physical and mental wellbeing
of this cohort, making projects like Wingham Park extremely important to the community,”
said Mr Edbrooke.
“The Victorian Government is delighted to contribute funds through the Local Sports
Infrastructure Fund to make this project happen for the people of Frankston,” he said.
