Age no limit for fitness at Darch park

The free standing exercise equipment is specifically designed to help improve balance, flexibility and mobility for seniors as well as other people with limited mobility.

Mayor Tracey Roberts said several different sites in Darch and Madeley had been considered as possible locations for the equipment.

“Monaghan Park was selected as the most suitable location due to availability of parking, pathway connections throughout the park and surrounding streets, in addition to its proximity to public transport, the Darch Plaza and Darch Medical Centre,” Mayor Roberts said.

“Community consultation with local residents also showed strong support for Monaghan Park as the preferred location for seniors’ fitness equipment.”

Other new features at the park include a bench, shade sails and a footpath.

The new exercise equipment and other upgrades cost $81,000, including a grant of $61,000 from the State Government’s Local Projects, Local Jobs program.

“I would like to thank Margaret Quirk MLA for the State Government’s financial support and of course our community for their feedback and suggestions.”

Margaret Quirk MLA said the project was a first for the Northern Suburbs.

“I am delighted that my 2017 election commitment has become a reality with the City of Wanneroo’s collaboration,” Ms Quirk said.

“It is all about making our community age friendly, and providing equipment to cater to our seniors’ needs,” she said.

“Building strength and balance assists in preventing falls allowing seniors to remain active and independent in their homes for longer.”

Mayor Roberts said City of Wanneroo was considering the installation of security lighting at Monaghan Park to improve community safety and reduce anti-social behaviour as a result petition received in 2018.

Separately, concept plans for a seniors’ fitness park at Bert Togno Park on Civic Drive, are out for public consultation until 2 April 2019. 

Photo: (L to R) Billie Kopec, Terry Todd, President of the Girrawheen/Koondoola Senior Citizens Club, Deanne Hetherington, Treasurer of the Girrawheen/Koondoola Senior Citizens Club, Cr Brett Treby, Ms Margaret Quirk MLA, Mayor Tracey Roberts and Cr Domenic Zappa.