Whitfield Reserve Redevelopment

As a popular regional rest stop within the King Valley Food Trail and High Country Cycle Trail, improving visitor comfort and functionality was central to the brief. The original reserve had a landmark shelter featuring a huge dead tree stump as the central support post for the BBQ shelter. Key priorities in the design brief included incorporating the remnant of the original shelter support tree into the design in some way, creating an inclusive playspace for children of all abilities, and upgrading rest stop facilities to better support the steady flow of visitors. Given the reserve's outlying location from Council's Wangaratta operations base, durable, low-maintenance materials and finishes were also essential to ensure long-term performance and ease of upkeep.

Working closely with Council and the local community, we revitalised the reserve into a modern, inclusive and welcoming space. Upgrades included new restroom facilities, improved parking, a drinking fountain and information hub, along with sustainable native landscaping and additional shade trees to improve comfort year-round.

A new adventure playspace now sits at the heart of the reserve, featuring a 6m rope tower and slide, a variety of swing options, inclusive carousel and natural play elements that encourage exploration for children of all abilities. Sculptural timber features celebrating local character add a strong sense of place, with the remnants of the shelter stump now hosting a custom made Wedgetail Eagle fabricated from salvaged scrap metal parts and tools.

The result is a refreshed, practical and character-filled reserve that balances play, rest and regional identity — designed to serve the community well into the future.