Now, after long-standing concerns about its condition, the beloved Mooroopna playground is officially stepping into its next chapter.
Greater Shepparton City Council has announced improvement works will begin at KidsTown Adventure Playground, requiring a full closure for three weeks from Monday, February 16 to Sunday, March 8.
While the gates will be locked and the swings stand still for a short time, what’s happening behind the fences signals something far bigger: the first physical step towards a revitalised KidsTown.
Heavy machinery and excavation will be used across the site to remove ageing infrastructure and prepare the grounds for future upgrades, making it unsafe for public access during the works.
Council acting director infrastructure Janelle Bunfield said the closure was a necessary — and exciting — milestone.
“KidsTown is a much-loved community destination, and it’s important we carry out these works safely,” she said.
“These works allow us to remove ageing infrastructure and prepare the site for future upgrades.
“New infrastructure will also be installed, informed by ideas shared through community consultation, and will remain in place once the master plan is implemented.”
Mayor Shane Sali said the short-term inconvenience would pave the way for long-term change.
“This is the first step towards securing the future of KidsTown,” he said.
“We know how special this place is for families across Greater Shepparton, and we thank the community for their patience while this important work gets under way.”
Council also confirmed that the iconic KidsTown pavers — cherished by generations of families — would be preserved, with only a small number affected and reinstated in a new location along the path.
During the closure, the entire facility will be fenced and closed to the public.
KidsTown is expected to reopen following completion of the works and final safety inspections, with updates shared through council’s usual channels.
