Gerald Lynch
Concerns of over concentration of current large open spaces in Hume has opened discussions on more spaces being developed or upgraded.
While the Hume municipality boasts more than 580 parks, reserves, and open spaces, only a select few have the capacity to host large public events.
This has caused Craigieburn’s ANZAC Park, Jack Roper Reserve in Broadmeadows, and the Nook in Sunbury to bear the brunt of hosting a number of events within a short span of time.
Council noted that the concentration of events has caused challenges for residents with increased traffic congestion and high levels of noise on a frequent basis, particularly for those living close to ANZAC Park in Craigieburn.
Councillor Joseph Haweil said Hume is a proud destination area, but the open spaces availability is struggling to keep up with the amount of large scale events that are held.
Aside from the noise complaints of local residents, Cr Haweil also noted that all the current large sites lack a common theme; shelter.
“Many residents groups and associations ask us more than anything else for a festival and events site that has a covered or shaded area,” he said.
“Unfortunately, we as an organisation have had to cancel very many of our own events because they’ve been rained out and because of the weather conditions.
“We want to reach a point where we do make an investment in a place I think will be very well utilised, which will draw people from across the city and further afield.”
He noted that this is a long term move of five to 10 years, but there are a number of “quick wins” available for council to act on to address the current issues.
Councillor Jim Overend said not a week goes by without a big event, and they can often run long into the night.
“We do need a permanent home for these events, with a permanent stage and cover,” he said.
Last year, Hume’s Carols by Candlelights was abandoned due to wet weather conditions.
Council will use the coming financial year to assess options and look for suitable outcomes for a future capital works program, and look to address it in the 2025-26 budget.
