There were thrills and spills aplenty – accompanied by shouts of joy – as kids tried out their new skatepark that opened at Wallalong yesterday.
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The occasion was also a triumph for those who organised the building of the skatepark – Paterson MP Bob Baldwin, the mayor of Port Stephens Bruce Mackenzie and Port Stephens councillor Ken Jordan.
The skatepark cost $120,000 – a $60,000 federal government grant and $60,000 from Port Stephens Council.
“This is just what our kids want and we want it for them too,” Cr Mackenzie said.
“It will mean kids out in the fresh air, maybe grazing their elbows and knees, but having fun.
“It has been a long time coming, but it is warmly welcomed by everyone here.”
Mr Baldwin said 100 children made use of the skatepark on Saturday, before the official opening.
“Assistant project officer Jason Lantry said the skatepark was of a unique design, offering many different challenges,” Mr Baldwin said.
“We also believe it will bring in people from several outlying areas.”
The final words came from young Luke Burton as he plunged down a slope on his skateboard: “It’s just so great – the best.”
