Orbost - Forest Park upgrade

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The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.





Project Background

The Forest Park Orbost upgrade will revitalise and modernise Orbost’s premier passive recreation area and visitor rest-stop. This will both grow local tourism by providing a destination for travelers using the Princes Highway; and provide a place for community members of all ages to gather, connect and enjoy the beautiful location and facilities. This will assist the Orbost community to recover from the 'Black Summer' fires that came on the heels of three years of drought and announcements that will see an end to the area’s native timber industry.

The works will include;

  • a new accessible toilet block with baby change facilities
  • access improvements, new paths and increased parking
  • an adventure playground
  • improved open spaces and shelter for picnics, barbecues, and family fun

Budget

Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.

Community consultation

Community consultation through in-person sessions and an online survey for feedback on the layout of the proposed plan was completed in June 2021. We thank everyone who participated in the consultation process. Council is reviewing all feedback and will be providing responses shortly.

The detail of the playground area is being co-designed with students from Orbost Secondary College. Their brief is to “design, plan and pitch a proposal for the new Forest Park playground. Playground should have elements suitable for ages 1-15”. This exciting initiative is being facilitated through the Broadening Horizons Program.

Council has hosted information sessions in Orbost to gather feedback on the proposed concept plan for the new and improved Forest Park, the sessions included a session with Councillors present to answer any concerns raised by the community.

The feedback received at all sessions was supportive of the plan with some additional input received. Council has awarded a detailed design contract to a local consultant.

To ensure the project meets the intended outcomes for community, Council has undertaken a detailed review of the proposed project costs based on the most recent concept design. As a result of this review, Council has determined that further refinement of the concept design was required and continued to work with the Project Representative Group and support the Orbost community on ways to deliver this important project.


For updates on the progress of the project please see the News Feed tab below



Project Background

The Forest Park Orbost upgrade will revitalise and modernise Orbost’s premier passive recreation area and visitor rest-stop. This will both grow local tourism by providing a destination for travelers using the Princes Highway; and provide a place for community members of all ages to gather, connect and enjoy the beautiful location and facilities. This will assist the Orbost community to recover from the 'Black Summer' fires that came on the heels of three years of drought and announcements that will see an end to the area’s native timber industry.

The works will include;

  • a new accessible toilet block with baby change facilities
  • access improvements, new paths and increased parking
  • an adventure playground
  • improved open spaces and shelter for picnics, barbecues, and family fun

Budget

Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.

Community consultation

Community consultation through in-person sessions and an online survey for feedback on the layout of the proposed plan was completed in June 2021. We thank everyone who participated in the consultation process. Council is reviewing all feedback and will be providing responses shortly.

The detail of the playground area is being co-designed with students from Orbost Secondary College. Their brief is to “design, plan and pitch a proposal for the new Forest Park playground. Playground should have elements suitable for ages 1-15”. This exciting initiative is being facilitated through the Broadening Horizons Program.

Council has hosted information sessions in Orbost to gather feedback on the proposed concept plan for the new and improved Forest Park, the sessions included a session with Councillors present to answer any concerns raised by the community.

The feedback received at all sessions was supportive of the plan with some additional input received. Council has awarded a detailed design contract to a local consultant.

To ensure the project meets the intended outcomes for community, Council has undertaken a detailed review of the proposed project costs based on the most recent concept design. As a result of this review, Council has determined that further refinement of the concept design was required and continued to work with the Project Representative Group and support the Orbost community on ways to deliver this important project.


For updates on the progress of the project please see the News Feed tab below

The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 20 December 2024

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    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 29 November 2024

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    Today we celebrated the completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    What a great facility in a top location. Here's a few snaps from today’s official opening...


    Today we celebrated the completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    What a great facility in a top location. Here's a few snaps from today’s official opening...


    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • Colour and win!

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    COLOURING COMPETITION

    Open to kids up to 10 years old.

    1st prize is a voucher to Andrew’s Land and Surf in Orbost, proudly donated by Whelans Group.

    Additional prizes for two runner-up entries.

    Drop your entry to one of our Customer Service Centres by 12-noon Monday 9 December 2024.

    Winners will be notified before Friday 13 December via contact information provided and may be asked for a photo when collecting their prize; East Gippsland Shire Council may use the photo for promotional purposes, including social media. All entries may be displayed.

    The winning entry will be published in the Snowy River Mail.




    COLOURING COMPETITION

    Open to kids up to 10 years old.

    1st prize is a voucher to Andrew’s Land and Surf in Orbost, proudly donated by Whelans Group.

    Additional prizes for two runner-up entries.

    Drop your entry to one of our Customer Service Centres by 12-noon Monday 9 December 2024.

    Winners will be notified before Friday 13 December via contact information provided and may be asked for a photo when collecting their prize; East Gippsland Shire Council may use the photo for promotional purposes, including social media. All entries may be displayed.

    The winning entry will be published in the Snowy River Mail.


    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 27 November 2024

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    We will formally open three major projects in coming days, celebrating with the community new facilities that are supporting people, social connections and economy.

    The official opening of Orbost Forest Park will take place at 10.30am this Friday, 29 November, followed by the WORLD Sporting Precinct at 5.30pm on Thursday 5 December, and Stage 1 of the Omeo Mountain Bike Trails at 11.30am on Friday 6 December.

    Each project features a formal ceremony, and community celebrations, with all residents and visitors encouraged to attend.

    WORLD Sporting Precinct Building on a long history

    The WORLD Sporting Precinct represents a $17.4 million investment in regional sport and recreation. Featuring new netball courts, hockey pitches, and a modern pavilion, the facility builds on decades of community effort and volunteer dedication.

    “It’s not just a place for sport - it’s a hub where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and communities come together,” Fiona said.

    The opening event will include an exhibition netball game by the Bairnsdale Netball Association.

    Orbost Forest Park a draw for locals and visitors

    The $1.9 million revitalisation has transformed the park into an inviting and accessible space, complete with enhanced amenities and new playground.

    It includes enhanced walking paths, expanded parking, new picnic facilities, a barbecue area, and a modern adventure playground designed input with local students. The park is a leading example of community-focused design and reflects the importance of listening to our communities.

    The result is a vibrant space that caters to everyone - from families enjoying a picnic to visitors discovering the region.

    The opening event will feature a teddy bears’ picnic for kids, as well as a barbecue and formal ribbon cutting with more than 100 children expected to head to the park for the event.

    Omeo Mountain Bike Trails - Putting Omeo on the MTB map

    The opening of Stage 1 of the Omeo Mountain Bike Trails marks the completion of the first 50km of trails. Designed for riders of all abilities, the trails are complemented by Livingstone Park’s new facilities, including changerooms, showers, a bike wash and pump track.

    When finished, the trail network will extend over 100km, positioning Omeo as a premier mountain biking destination.

    Locals and visitors are invited to bring a bike and give the trails a try after the formal opening.


    To read more, visit:

    Media Release: Council to launch major sports and recreation projects (eastgippsland.vic.gov.au)

    We will formally open three major projects in coming days, celebrating with the community new facilities that are supporting people, social connections and economy.

    The official opening of Orbost Forest Park will take place at 10.30am this Friday, 29 November, followed by the WORLD Sporting Precinct at 5.30pm on Thursday 5 December, and Stage 1 of the Omeo Mountain Bike Trails at 11.30am on Friday 6 December.

    Each project features a formal ceremony, and community celebrations, with all residents and visitors encouraged to attend.

    WORLD Sporting Precinct Building on a long history

    The WORLD Sporting Precinct represents a $17.4 million investment in regional sport and recreation. Featuring new netball courts, hockey pitches, and a modern pavilion, the facility builds on decades of community effort and volunteer dedication.

    “It’s not just a place for sport - it’s a hub where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and communities come together,” Fiona said.

    The opening event will include an exhibition netball game by the Bairnsdale Netball Association.

    Orbost Forest Park a draw for locals and visitors

    The $1.9 million revitalisation has transformed the park into an inviting and accessible space, complete with enhanced amenities and new playground.

    It includes enhanced walking paths, expanded parking, new picnic facilities, a barbecue area, and a modern adventure playground designed input with local students. The park is a leading example of community-focused design and reflects the importance of listening to our communities.

    The result is a vibrant space that caters to everyone - from families enjoying a picnic to visitors discovering the region.

    The opening event will feature a teddy bears’ picnic for kids, as well as a barbecue and formal ribbon cutting with more than 100 children expected to head to the park for the event.

    Omeo Mountain Bike Trails - Putting Omeo on the MTB map

    The opening of Stage 1 of the Omeo Mountain Bike Trails marks the completion of the first 50km of trails. Designed for riders of all abilities, the trails are complemented by Livingstone Park’s new facilities, including changerooms, showers, a bike wash and pump track.

    When finished, the trail network will extend over 100km, positioning Omeo as a premier mountain biking destination.

    Locals and visitors are invited to bring a bike and give the trails a try after the formal opening.


    To read more, visit:

    Media Release: Council to launch major sports and recreation projects (eastgippsland.vic.gov.au)

    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 14 November 2024

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    Forest Park Redevelopment now open!

    The newly redeveloped Forest Park is officially open to the public! After months of hard work, this vibrant new space in Orbost is ready to welcome locals and visitors.

    It features

    • State-of-the-art playground equipment for kids to explore.
    • Open spaces for picnics, barbecues and family fun.
    • Covered areas providing weather protection.
    • Modern toilet facilities and bins conveniently placed throughout.

    The landscaped gardens and lawns have been revitalised, with ongoing maintenance ensuring they remain lush and inviting, and travellers will appreciate convenient parking, including long-vehicle spaces.

    This project reflects Council’s commitment to creating spaces that enhance the community and environment. Thank you for your patience as we completed this exciting transformation.

    Come and explore Forest Park today!

    We would like to thank our lead contractor, Whelans Group Investments, for their efforts on this project. Whelans' professional conduct resulted in an efficient delivery of works, despite delays due to weather and other events.

    The Orbost community’s patience during the construction period is appreciated, and also the businesses who were affected by park closures and delays.

    We would like to invite you to join us for the official opening on 29 November 2024 from 10:30 at Orbost Forest Park, Nicholson Street Orbost. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, speeches, and photo opportunities.

    The Orbost Forest Park upgrade project was funded by generous grants from the Australian Government, and a substantial contribution from East Gippsland Shire Council.

    Forest Park Redevelopment now open!

    The newly redeveloped Forest Park is officially open to the public! After months of hard work, this vibrant new space in Orbost is ready to welcome locals and visitors.

    It features

    • State-of-the-art playground equipment for kids to explore.
    • Open spaces for picnics, barbecues and family fun.
    • Covered areas providing weather protection.
    • Modern toilet facilities and bins conveniently placed throughout.

    The landscaped gardens and lawns have been revitalised, with ongoing maintenance ensuring they remain lush and inviting, and travellers will appreciate convenient parking, including long-vehicle spaces.

    This project reflects Council’s commitment to creating spaces that enhance the community and environment. Thank you for your patience as we completed this exciting transformation.

    Come and explore Forest Park today!

    We would like to thank our lead contractor, Whelans Group Investments, for their efforts on this project. Whelans' professional conduct resulted in an efficient delivery of works, despite delays due to weather and other events.

    The Orbost community’s patience during the construction period is appreciated, and also the businesses who were affected by park closures and delays.

    We would like to invite you to join us for the official opening on 29 November 2024 from 10:30 at Orbost Forest Park, Nicholson Street Orbost. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, speeches, and photo opportunities.

    The Orbost Forest Park upgrade project was funded by generous grants from the Australian Government, and a substantial contribution from East Gippsland Shire Council.

    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 16 September 2024

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    Further updates will be provided on YourSay following the Council Election on 26 October 2024, and the questions/feedback tab will be reinstated.

    From 12.00 noon Tuesday 17 September until 6.00 pm on Saturday 26 October (Election Day) we will be in the Local Government Election Period (also known as Caretaker Period).

    During this time, we will limit our printed communications, website content, social media activity, and community consultations. The ability for people to comment on our social media content will also be disabled during the Election Period.

    Each of these steps is to ensure our content does not affect voting in the election and is consistent with steps taken by other Victorian Councils and the Local Government Act 2020.

    These changes are only temporary; we'll be back to normal communication activity after the election.

    Further updates will be provided on YourSay following the Council Election on 26 October 2024, and the questions/feedback tab will be reinstated.

    From 12.00 noon Tuesday 17 September until 6.00 pm on Saturday 26 October (Election Day) we will be in the Local Government Election Period (also known as Caretaker Period).

    During this time, we will limit our printed communications, website content, social media activity, and community consultations. The ability for people to comment on our social media content will also be disabled during the Election Period.

    Each of these steps is to ensure our content does not affect voting in the election and is consistent with steps taken by other Victorian Councils and the Local Government Act 2020.

    These changes are only temporary; we'll be back to normal communication activity after the election.

    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 13 September 2024

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    • The playground is almost complete
    • Landscaping continues throughout the site
    • The buildings and shelters continue with finishing touches.
    • The court bowl and additional long vehicle parking asphalt sealing has been completed.

    We have experienced some delays to the installation of balustrade handrail and fall protection throughout the retaining wall section of the project due to supply issues; our contractor is now working hard to confirm a date for installation.

    We are really looking forward to re-opening the park to the community, which we now anticipate being in October 2024.

    An official opening celebration is being planned for the end of November 2024, further details will be shared soon.

    East Gippsland Shire Council is limited in the community engagement it can undertake during the Council Election Period, 17 September 2024 to 26 October 2024.
    Further updates will be provided following the Council Election on 26 October 2024.
    • The playground is almost complete
    • Landscaping continues throughout the site
    • The buildings and shelters continue with finishing touches.
    • The court bowl and additional long vehicle parking asphalt sealing has been completed.

    We have experienced some delays to the installation of balustrade handrail and fall protection throughout the retaining wall section of the project due to supply issues; our contractor is now working hard to confirm a date for installation.

    We are really looking forward to re-opening the park to the community, which we now anticipate being in October 2024.

    An official opening celebration is being planned for the end of November 2024, further details will be shared soon.

    East Gippsland Shire Council is limited in the community engagement it can undertake during the Council Election Period, 17 September 2024 to 26 October 2024.
    Further updates will be provided following the Council Election on 26 October 2024.

    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 27 August 2024

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    Whelans Group Investments is moving into the final few weeks of construction and rehabilitation, which has already seen the site transformed into an inviting recreational space.

    Works are on track, and we anticipate the site will open for the September school holidays ...so get ready to swing into spring!

    An official opening celebration is being planned for the end of November; further details will be shared soon.



    Whelans Group Investments is moving into the final few weeks of construction and rehabilitation, which has already seen the site transformed into an inviting recreational space.

    Works are on track, and we anticipate the site will open for the September school holidays ...so get ready to swing into spring!

    An official opening celebration is being planned for the end of November; further details will be shared soon.



    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 8 August 2024

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    View the August project update, now available in the documents section -


    new progress images have also been added to the photos folder:

    Photos | Orbost - Forest Park upgrade | Your Say East Gippsland

    View the August project update, now available in the documents section -


    new progress images have also been added to the photos folder:

    Photos | Orbost - Forest Park upgrade | Your Say East Gippsland

    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.



  • 10 July 2024

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    Playground equipment is being installed!!

    The playground is taking shape, with large components installed and already creating community interest.

    • Bulk of the earthworks and retaining walls are nearing completion.
    • Accessible pathways are currently under construction
    • landscaping areas that will later be inaccessible above the retaining walls.
    • Drainage infrastructure in the carpark and preparation for kerb and channel in the court bowl is also under construction.
    • Additional long vehicle parking has been included into the project and is currently being constructed.

    The project is now well underway; however, there is still much to do before its anticipated completion before the busy summer season.


    Playground equipment is being installed!!

    The playground is taking shape, with large components installed and already creating community interest.

    • Bulk of the earthworks and retaining walls are nearing completion.
    • Accessible pathways are currently under construction
    • landscaping areas that will later be inaccessible above the retaining walls.
    • Drainage infrastructure in the carpark and preparation for kerb and channel in the court bowl is also under construction.
    • Additional long vehicle parking has been included into the project and is currently being constructed.

    The project is now well underway; however, there is still much to do before its anticipated completion before the busy summer season.


    The completion of the Orbost Forest Park playground was celebrated on 29 November 2024.

    Thanks to everyone who turned out, including St Joesph’s Primary School and Orbost Community College students and teachers, Tim Bull MP, community groups, contractors, and Rotary for cooking the barbecue.

    Funding was provided through the Council and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications via the Regional Recovery Partnerships program.