Kyabram Fauna Park’s new splash park opens soon

“The way it’s been set up, it’s half park and half splash area, so it’s also a 12 months of the year play area,” he said.

“Even when it’s winter, we’ve set it up in a way that when the water is turned off, it’s still able to be played in.”

Among its features will be waterfalls and trampolines. The water component of the park will be at zero depth, making it a safe place to play.

Mr Lavars said he was looking forward to helping local and visiting families beat the heat in summer.

“If it’s 35ºC, it won’t be a bad day to come to the zoo because the kids will still have something to do,” he said.

“We think it’s going to be a good thing for the town, especially when you’re talking about channels and dams. A lot of kids like to swim in the country and it’s a nice, safe option.”

On top of the splash park, new green spaces with extra seating are being constructed, gravel paths will be sealed for accessibility and new enclosures are on the way.

An obstructive fence and dead foliage adjacent to the wetlands have been removed, allowing for a better view of the water and bird life.

A new demountable has been placed on-site for a veterinary nurse and the function centre has been renovated, among other buildings.

During the school holidays, access to the park is free for children and a number of wildlife encounters, including with cassowaries and koalas, are on offer.

Mr Lavars said with the opening of the splash park imminent, families in Kyabram could consider purchasing a 12-month membership to the park.

“If they get a membership, they can just roll in any time at their leisure,” he said.

“We’re trying to become a place where it’s safe for families to bring their kids. They can enjoy themselves and enjoy the arts, crafts and activities ... that we have along the way.”

Entry for children is also free on weekends and public holidays.

For more ticketing information, visit www.zoo.org.au/kyabram/prices-and-tickets/