Blue Mountains News

The modern design of the new concrete skate parks is in stark contrast to the old modular steel facilities they replaced - a welcome improvement for both towns. While the cement is still drying at Portland, the construction of Wallerawang skatepark finished last month and has since been embraced by the local young people.

"Council is delighted to provide these facilities for the communities of Wallerawang and Portland, in particular for our children and young people. The parks will provide a place to enjoy each other's company as well as promote health and physical activity." said Mayor Ray Thompson. "Lithgow has had a modern skatepark for a number of years so it is only fitting that Wallerawang and Portland now have their own."

Local parent Lydia Commins has been thrilled by the community's response to the Wallerawang skatepark.  "The park has been packed every day and the kids are thrilled with it. It is so nice to see families, young kids and older kids all hanging out and enjoying the facilities. It is good to see families enjoying the new park. It is definitely a great asset for our town."

The parks were designed to create a 'skate park circuit' with Lithgow, Portland and Wallerawang all offering different challenges and equipment to suit an array of abilities and interests. This is expected to not only interest our local young people, but also visitors looking to try something different.

"Oasis Skate Parks has designed and constructed two great parks here," said skate park builder Brad Kacsh. "They are in close proximity to each other but have a diverse range of features to cater for all flavours. BMX, scooter riders or skateboarders will all find something they like, with both parks perfect for beginners to higher intermediate abilities.

"Wallerawang has got the bowl that will enthuse both skaters and scooter riders while Portland has free standing singular features that make for a good flow and run. I'm a BMX rider and I'd be excited to ride both of these parks."

It is widely recognised that community skate parks provide both social and recreational opportunities to local residents. They provide a safe and challenging place for skaters, scooter and BMX riders of all levels to develop as athletes; as well as a place where young people and families can socialise.

Both the Portland and Wallerawang skate parks received funding from Lithgow City Council and the NSW Stronger Country Communities Fund.