Ms THEOPHANOUS (Northcote): My question is to the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, and I ask: what is the latest update on our upgrades to Yarra Bend Park? In 2020 I was thrilled to announce that Yarra Bend Park in Fairfield will see an uplift as part of our $52 million safer, better public parks initiative—a massive investment in park upgrades across the state. Yarra Bend is a much-loved spot for residents to come together for walks, bike riding, canoeing, local sport, picnics and a family day out, but over the years some parts of the park have become tired or simply are not as accessible and welcoming as they should be. Things like new play equipment, barbeque facilities, toilets, shade and lighting would go a long way. Over the past three years I have been proud to deliver more and improved open spaces in my local area. That includes upgrades at Alphington and Penders parks, a new pocket park in Preston, a new community garden in Croxton and of course huge swathes of new open space as part of our level crossing removals. Quality, well-maintained open spaces are central to our health, wellbeing and sense of connection. My community would welcome an update on this exciting project.
