Mogo artist Bronwen Smith with her cousin Kizzy Nye, who inspired Bronwen’s family-themed mural on the Mogo recreation park amenities building. Photo: Elise Searson
The days of Mogo kids having to fight over the only two swings in the park are over. The community campaign to upgrade the play space and end the tussle for swing time culminated this week with an open day to celebrate new facilities and fun.
“Too deadly!” were the powerful words used by Sherrie Nye to describe the new Mogo Recreation Park. Representing Mogo Aboriginal Lands Council, Sherrie says she’s over the moon. “It’s so important for kids to have outdoor play and learning space.”
The new Mogo Park. Photo: Supplied
In recognition of Mogo’s strong Aboriginal heritage and culture, the reserve includes a yarning circle and mural by local artists Bronwen Smith and Gavin Chatfield. Bronwen says the mural, painted on the amenities building, was inspired by her cousin, Kizzy.
“Kizzy said I should do family circles. It’s like a big family journey, coming through Mogo and coming together. It’s symbolic of childhood and of now, and it represents all of us,” she says.
Mogo local Amiirah, who turned seven on Wednesday, cut the ribbon to open the new park with help from Auntie Gloria and Mayor Liz Innes. It followed a smoking ceremony performed by Mogo’s Adam Nye.
Mayor Liz Innes with Mogo’s Adam Nye, who conducted a smoking ceremony at the opening of Mogo recreation park, helped out by Amiirah, aged seven. Photo: Supplied
Council’s director of community services and recreation Kathy Arthur says for her, the standout feature of the project was the real collaboration that happened between the Mogo community and Council.
“We’ve got a brilliant result that meets community needs and celebrates the whole community and our local Aboriginal culture.”
The park was made possible through Council’s Recreation and Open Space Strategy funding which identifies Mogo projects as ‘high priority’.
The challenging climbing frame, fun slide, spinning carousels and swings AND new barbecue area is guaranteed to put a stop to the swing bickering – but more some bring community together.
You’ll find the new park at the Mogo Sports Oval on Tomakin Road.
Paul Nye leaving his mark. Photo: Supplied
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