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‘New space for the kids’: first stage of Maude St Mall opens

Playing: Archie Owen, 3, enjoying the new playground in Maude St Mall. Photos: Youssef Saudie Photo by Youssef Saudie

Children climbed up play nets and slipped down slides, making use of a new playground in town, as the first stage of Shepparton’s Maude St Mall opened on Saturday, May 7.

City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Kim O’Keeffe said it was “really exciting” to see the redevelopment for businesses and families.

New set up: Vin, 2, and Carly Bostancioglu sitting at the new playground. Photo by Youssef Saudie

“Making sure that people know that the businesses are here and that they’re open, talking to them they’re very positive, as it’s been a really challenging time,” she said.

“To have a playground for our community to come in and use to socialise, grab a coffee, it’s really important to have this opened up.”

Dozens of families went to celebrate the opening, with everything from face painting and temporary tattoos to live music and wild animals on offer.

Family time: Sao and Connie Tyler, 3. Photo by Youssef Saudie

Sao Tyler said the playground was “really awesome” for the kids, as “there’s not many gated areas for young kids” to play on in town.

“We’re so glad that we’ve got a new space for the kids to play in town, because it’s gated, it’s just a lot safer.”

Work on the north end of Maude St Mall is due to be completed by the end of July, followed by the south end mall at the end of August, and Stuart St in October.

Instruments: Max Borthwick, 4. Photo by Youssef Saudie
Animal fun: Courtney Snelson, Anna Hudson and Ambrose Burcher Photo by Youssef Saudie
Live Music: Caterina Sibio performing with her guitar. Photo by Youssef Saudie
Up the slide: Erin and Isla Owen, 3. Photo by Youssef Saudie
Free tats: There was a stall for people to get free airbrushed temporary tattoos. Photo by Youssef Saudie