Pioneer Park Masterplan Development

Consultation has concluded

Naracoorte's Pioneer Park - home of the town's iconic steam locomotive - is getting a facelift to enhance its significance as an important open space asset for locals and visitors alike.

A Draft Masterplan has been prepared for the Park, complete with an overall concept design, and Council and Naracoorte Lions would love your feedback!

Implementation of the Plan will see:

  • The 1877 V9 class steam locomotive restored (subject to successful grant funding)
  • The existing amenities facility demolished and rebuilt in a new location
  • The Naracoorte Lions Club to undertake work on the Park's historical wall
  • A gazebo and new BBQ facilities
  • Upgrades to the top carpark
  • Additional off-street angled parking on Moore Street
  • Access and inclusion car parking on Moore Street
  • New street furniture, pathways, tree planting, signage and garden upgrades
  • Long vehicle linemarking on MacDonnell Street
  • Irrigation upgrades

Improvements to the Park will take place over the next decade, with the majority of works taking place over the next 5 years at a cost of over $600,000.

Discussions on future improvements for the Park began in earnest early last year when the Council's Botanical Working Group recommended that Council staff engage with Naracoorte Lions Club representatives to develop a Masterplan for the Park.

Since then, the Lions Club - which has had a long association with the Park - and the Botanical Working Group have teamed up to progress the development of the Masterplan.

Pioneer Park, located near the town centre on MacDonnell Street, offers a quiet, open space for community members and tourists to have a picnic or BBQ.

For train enthusiasts, there is the steam locomotive, and there is also historical information about the 50th anniversary memorial of the municipality of Naracoorte and a commemoration of pioneering families of Naracoorte. The Park was once the former Naracoorte-Kincraig Cemetery.

The development of the Draft Masterplan highlighted that the Park is not widely used and has few visitors, infrastructure is old, garden beds need upgrading, many of the trees are in serious decline and the park is fragmented.

It was also observed that Pioneer Park can play an important role in appealing to a different demographic to Market Square, especially 'Grey Nomads' and older residents. Caravan and RV parking is also difficult in the area at the moment due to the parking needs of surrounding businesses.

Work to date on the Draft Masterplan has highlighted the following key development themes:

History

  • Enhance the story of the locomotive and history of rail in the region.
  • Celebrate pioneers of the district and the story of the cemetery.
  • Collaborate with the Sheep’s Back Museum.

Tourism

  • Clean, modern facilities will encourage visitors and locals to the Park.
  • Promote the Naracoorte Caves and other tourist attractions in the region.
  • A place to relax and enjoy for visitors.

Gardens

  • Create a botanical parkland in a sustainable way, planting significant trees which will be part of the landscape for generations to come.
  • Trees will thrive with minimal maintenance and the lawned area easily maintained by Council.

Community

  • Work with Lions, the Men’s Shed and Schools to have a whole of community approach to the Park’s development.
  • Ensure any upgrades are sustainable from a maintenance point of view.
  • Enhance an existing green space in the town for community benefit.

The concept design for the Park has been prepared by Andrew Hutchison Garden Solutions, of Naracoorte, and features in the Draft Masterplan in the documents library on this page.

Now we want to know what you think of the plans for Pioneer Park! You can provide feedback in the online forum below, email Council at council@nlc.sa.gov.au or write to Box 555, Naracoorte, SA, 5271.

Hard copy feedback forms will also be available from the Naracoorte Council offices, Naracoorte Library and Naracoorte Visitor Information Centre.

Feedback will close on Wednesday 22 June 2022.

Council and the Naracoorte Lions Club will then consider feedback on the Draft Masterplan.







Naracoorte's Pioneer Park - home of the town's iconic steam locomotive - is getting a facelift to enhance its significance as an important open space asset for locals and visitors alike.

A Draft Masterplan has been prepared for the Park, complete with an overall concept design, and Council and Naracoorte Lions would love your feedback!

Implementation of the Plan will see:

  • The 1877 V9 class steam locomotive restored (subject to successful grant funding)
  • The existing amenities facility demolished and rebuilt in a new location
  • The Naracoorte Lions Club to undertake work on the Park's historical wall
  • A gazebo and new BBQ facilities
  • Upgrades to the top carpark
  • Additional off-street angled parking on Moore Street
  • Access and inclusion car parking on Moore Street
  • New street furniture, pathways, tree planting, signage and garden upgrades
  • Long vehicle linemarking on MacDonnell Street
  • Irrigation upgrades

Improvements to the Park will take place over the next decade, with the majority of works taking place over the next 5 years at a cost of over $600,000.

Discussions on future improvements for the Park began in earnest early last year when the Council's Botanical Working Group recommended that Council staff engage with Naracoorte Lions Club representatives to develop a Masterplan for the Park.

Since then, the Lions Club - which has had a long association with the Park - and the Botanical Working Group have teamed up to progress the development of the Masterplan.

Pioneer Park, located near the town centre on MacDonnell Street, offers a quiet, open space for community members and tourists to have a picnic or BBQ.

For train enthusiasts, there is the steam locomotive, and there is also historical information about the 50th anniversary memorial of the municipality of Naracoorte and a commemoration of pioneering families of Naracoorte. The Park was once the former Naracoorte-Kincraig Cemetery.

The development of the Draft Masterplan highlighted that the Park is not widely used and has few visitors, infrastructure is old, garden beds need upgrading, many of the trees are in serious decline and the park is fragmented.

It was also observed that Pioneer Park can play an important role in appealing to a different demographic to Market Square, especially 'Grey Nomads' and older residents. Caravan and RV parking is also difficult in the area at the moment due to the parking needs of surrounding businesses.

Work to date on the Draft Masterplan has highlighted the following key development themes:

History

  • Enhance the story of the locomotive and history of rail in the region.
  • Celebrate pioneers of the district and the story of the cemetery.
  • Collaborate with the Sheep’s Back Museum.

Tourism

  • Clean, modern facilities will encourage visitors and locals to the Park.
  • Promote the Naracoorte Caves and other tourist attractions in the region.
  • A place to relax and enjoy for visitors.

Gardens

  • Create a botanical parkland in a sustainable way, planting significant trees which will be part of the landscape for generations to come.
  • Trees will thrive with minimal maintenance and the lawned area easily maintained by Council.

Community

  • Work with Lions, the Men’s Shed and Schools to have a whole of community approach to the Park’s development.
  • Ensure any upgrades are sustainable from a maintenance point of view.
  • Enhance an existing green space in the town for community benefit.

The concept design for the Park has been prepared by Andrew Hutchison Garden Solutions, of Naracoorte, and features in the Draft Masterplan in the documents library on this page.

Now we want to know what you think of the plans for Pioneer Park! You can provide feedback in the online forum below, email Council at council@nlc.sa.gov.au or write to Box 555, Naracoorte, SA, 5271.

Hard copy feedback forms will also be available from the Naracoorte Council offices, Naracoorte Library and Naracoorte Visitor Information Centre.

Feedback will close on Wednesday 22 June 2022.

Council and the Naracoorte Lions Club will then consider feedback on the Draft Masterplan.







Pioneer Park Masterplan Development

Please provide your feedback here on the plans to redevelop Naracoorte's Pioneer Park.

Consultation has concluded
CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

I wish to support the concept plan and the redevelopment of Pioneer Park. The work that has been completed so far is very visible and has certainly added to the appeal of the park. Pioneer Park is a great area for people travelling to stop and relax and for children to explore. The concept plan will beautify the area even more. It is great to see the Lions Club and Council working together to beautify this area and make it even more appealing than it is now. I understand a budget is needed but it would be great to see this development progress as soon as possible. Thank you, Jill Wight.

collinsj almost 2 years ago

My concern is re the angle parking on Moore Street:
- cars backing out into traffic close to the corner may present a safety issue;
-will the Wickham Flower workers use these parks which are intended for the visitors, tourists. Maybe require some clear signage re that issue.
Apart from the above points, I have studied the plan and think it will be a fantastic area for the town. Well done to all involved.

collinsj almost 2 years ago

I think the map of the proposed changes to Pioneer Park over the next 8 years or so are excellent. They are clear, inviting, carefully set out to enhance the history of our town. I especially like the leisurely paths so people can stroll through the area. Toilets definitely need knocking down and recycling the rubble in eg a pathway!!? Parking space for large buses is a necessary idea but could impact on the businesses along the street. Signs to show where to park (clearly) are necessary too. Budget has been provided to show residents how it will be paid for which is informative and should be commended. Any work that can't be done by Council I think should go to timely tender for local companies. A suggestion - in the indigenous plant area I would like it to be considered perhaps a cross bar of four metal information boards with appropriate information about 1) acknowledge our First Nations heritage in Naracoorte 2) traditional uses for indigenous plants and animals by Aboriginals 3) extinct and endangered species from our areas 4) Names (including traditional language names) of the indigenous plants nearby. Some local art installations dotted through the park.

collinsj almost 2 years ago

What a great plan, it will be good to see it take shape. Maybe include more seating, with shade.

collinsj almost 2 years ago

I would like to support the draft plan for Pioneer Park. All towns need open park areas and the train area has always been a hit with my family and I have taken any kids up to play on the train. The idea of a memorial for the original cemetery would be great. The proposed BBQ area by the train would mean birthdays parties for kids etc. as an alternative to the playground park. The significant trees to be planted would be great for future generations in Naracoorte.
Nick

millerj almost 2 years ago

I would support the draft plan for Pioneer Park. All towns need an open park area and the train area has always been a hit with my family and I have taken many kids up there to play on the train.
The idea of a memorial for the original cemetery would be great. The proposed BBQ area by the train etc. would mean birthday parties for kids etc as an alternative to the playground park.
The significant trees to be planted would be great for future generations in Naracoorte.
Nick.

collinsj almost 2 years ago

As well as offering a quiet, open space for community members and tourists to have a picnic or BBQ, the park development offers the opportunity to showcase our local indigenous plants.
If plantings concentrate on species indigenous to the Limestone Coast and individual plants are labelled, this will give an added educational aspect, particularly if it has a reason for its inclusion e.g.
• Garden beds include species used by the original inhabitants for food, utensils and tools etc
• Tree species used in development of Naracoorte (Red gums, Blue gums)
• Species essential for the survival of endangered fauna….stringybarks for Red tailed cockatoos; Hill gums for sugar gliders etc
Using species indigenous to the local area will result in minimal losses, maintenance and water use as well as educating visitors about our local species.
Having labels on plants with a story, will encourage tourists to stop, look and learn more about our local environment.
Mick Deland.

collinsj almost 2 years ago

We support the redevelopment plans for Pioneer Park.
- Historic site of old cemetery needs recognition - not many people are aware.
- History - particularly Naracoorte-Kingston rail, needs to be acknowledged.
- Parking for travellers with vans needs to be within easy walking distance of shops - increase parking along MacDonnell Street.
- Toilets - need to be maintained.
- Pleasant surrounds and BBQ area.
- Large expanse of lawn area for children to play well off roadways.
It is great to see that there is a sensible, practical development plan for this area, making it user friendly - congratulations to the Lions Club for getting the ball rolling.
Alan and Lyn Schinckel.

collinsj almost 2 years ago

We would like to support the draft plan for Pioneer Park in Naracoorte. All towns need open park areas and the train area has always been a big hit with children travelling through the town. The proposed BBQ area by the train would provide great opportunities for travellers to stop, have lunch where adequate parking is available for cars and caravans. The significant tree planting would also be beneficial to future generations.
Rob and Lyn.

collinsj almost 2 years ago

Totally excited to see the plans for this area. The gently sloped pathways will ultimately meander through the trees creating our own botanic gardens. This zone will provide quiet reflective areas for both grey nomads and other members of the public with special needs. The section containing trees indigenous to our area will create a conversation for all. A great way to honour our history and share with the wider community.

Shelley almost 2 years ago

I support the master plan although I can’t really see anything wrong with the toilets. The park generally is underutilized and uninviting. There are a lot of bare areas which could be made attractive with landscaping as could the garden beds which are in a dreadful condition. The picnic facilities are basic and ugly including the four table rotunda which is just bloody awful. The train remains the main attraction, but the signal tower needs a new paint job.

Neil almost 2 years ago

Yes! Lets redevelop Pioneer Park! It needs it. It could do with a contemporary make over.

Sharon Matthews almost 2 years ago

I think that the 10 year plan for Pioneer Park is a great consept. The park features the history of Naracoorte and also a place for local families and tourists to enjoy a open space within the town. Resticted parking time so bussiness in Moore street can't take up all the parking by the toilets.
As a rate payer I fully suport this project.

Ian almost 2 years ago

YES - we are so pleased for the update of this area. A great place for tourists and locals to stay and lunch or just enjoy - away from the playground areas. An easy walk into town centre for tourists and adequate parking. The train and the memorials including the Lions Memorial Wall are all significant to Naracoorte and interesting points of discussion for visitors. The proposed plantings will encourage not only people but beautiful birds and bees.

Naracoorte Lucindale Council almost 2 years ago

I would like to enter my personal support on this project for Pioneer Park. The site for the original cemetery of Naracoorte needs recognition and markers to show our locals as well as tourist traffic.
The original train system for the Naracoorte area is quite significant and the Train at the park is an attraction.

Graeme almost 2 years ago

Great idea! Near steps - add graded slope path for walkers, walking stick-aided people = shorter track for these people. Wood logs-stumps for children. Simple activity area for children made of natural vegetation. Yes, inform locals and visitors of history of park area. Maybe add information of local nature parks that could keep people in town area longer with enjoying these areas. Photos of flora and fauna examples to get others' interests activated. Encourage photographers etc to areas.
Anonymous

collinsj almost 2 years ago

Great to see angle parking on Moore Street. And the walking tracks are very good, will make much more accessible for prams, wheelchairs etc. Will look forward to seeing this redevelopment progress, well done.

FP almost 2 years ago

I think its a great plan. We have only lived in Naracoorte a few years but everytime we drive past Pioneer Park it catches my eye and I believe with the work that will be put into it will greatly benefit Naracoorte for years to come with showcasing the history with the restored locomotive and the information on original cemetery and with community maintaining the gardens and the other improvements it will certainly draw on tourism to our wonderful town.. Fabulous thinking on the future improvement of Naracoorte

Jeff almost 2 years ago

I believe it would be used more if it was fully enclosed. Option for parents groups, family's with small children to use with less stress. I would take my kids there regulary if was enclosed.

Meg almost 2 years ago

Like the design.
The existing RV and caravan parking near the playground could have been better utilised by not having such a large area of garden which is not that attractive or used because of the surface mulch, and more parking could have been complimented.
Several shelters to sit under would be great, also table and chairs. This is needed in summer.
Anonymous.

collinsj almost 2 years ago