Pingelly set to open new pocket park with NAIDOC Week event

The Shire of Pingelly will officially open its new pocket park on Parade Street on July 6 with a special NAIDOC Week event recognising the community’s elders. “We’re excited to officially open the Pingelly pocket park during NAIDOC Week,” Shire of Pingelly CEO Andrew Dover said. “The whole community is invited to attend the sundowner and enjoy the festivities.” Built on a vacant lot adjacent to the Pingelly RSL Hall the new park has rejuvenated the southern end of the Wheatbelt town’s main street. “The pocket park transforms a previously under-utilised area into a cultural hub which includes a yarning circle and an intimate performance venue,” Mr Dover said. The park features a custom-made steel fence displaying native fauna and flora and a unique fire pit made from the shell of a World War II mine. The stage area is nearing completing and will be finished before the NAIDOC celebration. On Thursday night the fire will be lit and the Pingelly community will be treated to a feed as it comes together to celebrate the opening and Pingelly’s First Nations People. The park was funded by a Reconnect WA grant from RAC and the launch event will be funded by a NAIDOC Week Activity grant from the National Indigenous Australians Agency. The event will take place from 5pm on July 6 and community members wishing to attend are encouraged to get in touch with the Shire of Pingelly on 08 9887 1066 for catering purposes.