Kings Park receives major boost to visitor facilities

6/10/02
Western Australia's number one tourist attraction, Kings Park, has added a major new attraction today with the completion of the $2.4million Western Power Parkland.
The redevelopment, officially launched by Energy Minister Eric Ripper and Environment and Heritage Minister Dr Judy Edwards, has revitalised the existing adventure island and surrounding play area near May Drive, as well as the original Arthur Fairall playground.
Focusing on a new environmental theme, the Western Power parkland features a 75m-long elevated walkway, a three-tiered island fort, and large scaled replicas of dinosaurs.
The new parkland also has refurbished visitor facilities, including upgraded pathways, lighting and toilets, as well as a new caf?.
Mr Ripper said the new parkland continued the Government's strong commitment to enhance visitors' experience of the park, while upgrading facilities in a environmentally friendly manner.
"Kings Park is a WA icon, with over 4.5million people visiting last year," he said.
"With this comes the responsibility of ensuring sound facilities are in place to manage the strong interest in this community asset.
"The Government is continuing to invest in both the park's tourism and research facilities, including $1.1million to upgrade the Plant Conservation Centre, currently home to world class research in conservation genetics, seed biology and cryostorage.
"Work will also continue on major environmental restoration along the Mt Eliza scarp, as well as additional work to the Frasier Avenue precinct."
Dr Edwards said the redevelopment would ensure one of the most popular parts of Kings Park remained so.
"This innovative redevelopment project has maintained, and enhanced, the original design philosophy developed by Arthur Fairall, the first superintendent of Kings Park and after which the original playground was named," she said.
"It ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy these facilities, as their parents and grandparents have done since the late 1960s.
"The environmental theme of the playground is a welcome addition, providing both a recreational and educational focus for children."

Minister's office: 9220 5050