WHEN Elly Green walks outside her front door and looks at the transformation of the Wendouree West Reserve she is filled with pride in her community.
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The “matriarch” of the reserve, Ms Green is well aware that the Wendouree West community is often maligned, but with new gardens, a playground and new CCTV cameras installed, the future looks bright.
While dignitaries such as Wendouree MP Sharon Knight, Ballarat Mayor Samantha McIntosh and political figures from all parties were in attendance at the opening of a $302,000 upgrade, Ms Green was happiest playing with her great granddaughter Amelia on the playground.
“It’s about time West Wendouree started getting some attention,” she said. “I’ve never been prouder of my community. Look at it, it’s just so beautiful.
“There’s a lot that people say about this area, but we are not bad people, we all look out for each other. This is a great community.”
Bob Arnold, who has been a resident in the area for more 30 years, agreed.
“We reckon this is fantastic. It’s the beginning of new era for the Wendouree West area,” he said.
“Everyone keeps bringing up things that happen, but it’s not people from around here. The residents around here are great people.
“It’s the first time in many years that something has been done here. I’m really looking forward to its future.”
The $302,000 makeover includes four new CCTV cameras, a new playground, as well as pathways, lighting and street furniture and was jointly funded by the state government and the City of Ballarat.
Wendouree MP Sharon Knight said the area was transforming.
“There’s lots of community groups, kids sports, the soccer club, they will all feel better here in being able to use this place,” Ms Knight said.
“I hope people will feel more comfortable coming here. I want to take this opportunity to thank the fantastic members of the Wendouree West community who love living here and want to make it even better.”
Wendouree Neighbourhood Centre manager Manya Ferwerda said she hoped it was the start of a great future for the region. “This has been a long time coming,” she said.
“This has taken hold over a two year period and in that time we’ve done a lot of community listening and getting the community involved.”
