The Kings Park Recreation Reserve Facilities and Maintenance Volunteers were nominated for a community group award, which recognises groups that make a significant contribution to their community.
Ken Hall, Peter Oblak, Ossie Taylor, Carol Parsons, Gary Bester and Bryan White have been maintaining the Kings Park and its facilities for the past 20 years.
Ken said the park is known and loved by the Seymour and district community for its outstanding facilities that attract large events, including the Alternative Farming Expo.
‘‘Approximately 30000 visitors and exhibiting businesses attend the three-day expo annually, contributing millions of dollars to the Seymour economy,’’ he said.
‘‘This is due to the effort put in by these volunteers. During their tenure, Kings Park was a site chosen as part of the Olympic Torch Relay, where 11000 spectators gathered.
‘‘It features prominently in the Australia Day ceremonies, Christmas barbecues, and the recent 175th anniversary of Seymour.’’
The not-for-profit group of volunteers are supported by Mitchell Shire Council, who provide $88000 per annum for maintenance of the Kings Park facilities.
‘‘We also have income from hire of the various facilities to offset provision of electricity, water, rubbish collection and other ongoing costs,’’ Ken said.
‘‘The group runs on approximately $170000 per annum, which we consider borderline to requirements.
‘‘Without the voluntary labour and expertise, the budget would be at least double that figure.’’
Ken said maintaining what is often referred to as ‘‘the jewel in the crown of Seymour’’ was not without its challenges.
‘‘There’s always the day-to-day disappointments of vandalism and theft, however the recent installation of security cameras in strategic locations around the park is hoped to alleviate those problems,’’ he said.
‘‘The other main issue is the group is of an average age of 70-plus and are finding it difficult to get new personnel to carry on their work.
‘‘We’re always looking for new people keen to help us maintain this fantastic asset for the Seymour community. This ranges from occasional helpers to office bearers.
‘‘But we will continue to push on with whatever jobs come our way to ensure Kings Park remains a fantastic place for the community to be proud of.’’
If interested in volunteering, call Ken on 0405064855.
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