Waters Ward Multigenerational Recreation Space

A concept design for a new Multigenerational Recreation Space in Waters Ward has been developed with feedback received from the community.

The staged and prioritised project will include a multigenerational regional playground and other recreational elements as well as lighting, new pathways, an improved car park and public facilities.

Feedback was positive for the development of a new multigenerational recreation space in Malak, with over 68 per cent of respondents agreeing with Malak Oval as the most appropriate location and over half of respondents saying they would visit the space with their children.

The area surrounding Malak Oval was identified as the preferred location for the recreation space due to its proximity to transport corridors, schools, local amenities and other recreation and community facilities.

The concept has been developed to address safety and security concerns by incorporating elements such as additional lighting, improved visibility throughout the park and location of amenities in high traffic areas.

The concept design includes a new and improved car park that can be utilised by people who frequently use the Malak Oval area and the surrounding buildings including the City of Darwin community centre and childcare facility.

Creating cool, clean and green spaces with ample shade is a priority, and the design will increase shading using various methods such as tree canopy, shade sails and seating shelters.

Once complete, this space will cater to the diverse community and benefit residents, including young families, seniors and people who are new to the area.

Previously, City of Darwin committed $500,000 for the investigation, consultation and design of the recreation space. As per City of Darwin’s Draft Municipal Plan 2025/26 a further $1.5 million will be contributed towards construction, in addition to a grant funding promise from the Northern Territory Government of $500,000.

The first stage of the project will include infrastructure upgrades made to the carpark and access paths as well as the installation of some fixed play equipment, with these elements scheduled to be complete in the next financial year.

With the completion of public consultation in August 2024, the concept design has been developed, incorporating community feedback, and endorsed by Council to proceed to detailed design.

Are you a young Darwin resident and have an idea for the ultimate recreation space? City of Darwin wants to see your most imaginative ideas to help us design the perfect recreation space in Waters Ward. This is your chance to help us create a space that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy.

The artworks submitted will be considered as part of the community feedback that will influence the design of the Waters Ward Multigenerational Recreation Space. The entries will also be displayed online and at public libraries for the community to enjoy.

Prize

One lucky winner and runner up will receive a voucher for:

First prize: Cinemas double movie pass
Runner up prize: Double entry to King Pin

Plus, we’ll showcase the entries on City of Darwin’s Engage Darwin website, social media and at public libraries.

How to enter

Create a drawing that showcases your ideas for what you’d like to see in the new Waters Ward Multigenerational Recreation Space. Your ideas could influence the final design of this space. The competition is open to residents of Darwin, aged under 18 years.

1. Download our drawing activity template or pick up a hard copy from a City of Darwin library in Darwin city, Casuarina, Karama or Nightcliff.
2. Return your completed drawing to one of the below options:

• A City of Darwin library
• Email a photo of your drawing to engage@darwin.nt.gov.au. Please submit your entry by 5pm Monday 30 September 2024. The winner will be notified by 31 October 2024.

Judging process

A panel, which will include City of Darwin staff, will judge the entries. The winner will be notified via the contact information provided.

We can’t wait to see what you come up with!