Toddler play comes to Goughs Bay

Published on 28 November 2025

After a comprehensive community engagement process over a new toddler playground for Goughs Bay, the new playground equipment is now proposed to be installed by the Goughs Bay Area Progress Association (GBAPA) at the existing Picnic Point playground to expand the playground’s offering.

Council is working collaboratively with GBAPA on this playground expansion, with the scheduled installation of the toddler equipment planned for late November. GBAPA requested to install the equipment at the existing Picnic Point site and their volunteers will be undertaking the installation work. We would like to thank the volunteers for their dedication in delivering these works, for the benefit of the Goughs Bay community.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie highlighted the community’s active participation and called the final outcome a common-sense solution.

“This is a clear case of Council listening to community feedback and working with the community to deliver a productive project for Goughs Bay,” he said.

“The initial proposal for a new site on Lake Valley Drive raised some valid concerns, we listened to this community feedback, and we acted to achieve an outcome that works for everyone.”

“The Goughs Bay community was passionate and vocal about this project from the start, and I applaud them for their participation in the project engagement. It shows just how effective and productive the relationship between local Councils and communities can be.”

The new equipment includes a toddler slide, three rockers and two additional picnic tables.

Expanding the existing playground at Picnic Point provides better amenity, with established car parking, public toilets and a BBQ shelter already available for families. This solution also avoids any additional impact on neighbouring properties, such as noise or obstructed views.

Des Haberman, President of the Goughs Bay Area Progress Association, is excited to see the project get underway.

“The Goughs Bay Area Progress Association is looking forward to seeing the playground at Picnic Point expanded with new toddler play equipment. It is a project our volunteers are proud to be delivering for the community,” he said.

“This will be a great asset for the children and families living within Goughs Bay. We know how much the community values this space and the upgrade will ensure it can be enjoyed by our youngest residents for years to come.”

The new equipment will be sourced from an Australian supplier and the installation will be inspected by Council’s playground inspector to ensure it meets all Australian safety standards.

Installation of the new equipment is scheduled to take place by the community volunteers from late November to be ready before Christmas (weather dependent).

“We are really pleased with this outcome. It proves that by working together, we can find a solution that delivers what the community wants in a way that is practical and respects the needs of the whole neighbourhood,” said Cr Rabie.

"The new toddler slide and rockers will be a wonderful addition for younger children. We look forward to seeing the new equipment installed and enjoyed by local and visiting families."

For any enquiries relating to the upcoming construction works, please contact Council’s Capital Works team on (03) 5775 8555 or email capitalworks@mansfield.vic.gov.au.