Nestled beside Benmore Street in the heart of Windermere, the future Stage 26 Reserve promises to be a vibrant community space that combines nature, play and connection.
Designed by GbLA Landscape Architects, the 1.2-hectare reserve embodies a vision of sustainability and community spirit, drawing inspiration from the surrounding Windermere master plan.
Windermere Stage 26 Reserve is conveniently located with access points from Benmore Street, Renwick Crescent and Produce Drive. It also connects seamlessly to the estate’s linear reserve network, ensuring accessibility for all residents and visitors.
“This reserve is designed to encourage exploration and interaction. It is a space where neighbours can come together, children play and families enjoy the beauty of nature,” said Chris Chung, project landscape architect.
The park’s design reflects Windermere’s vision, emphasising the creation of a fruit orchard to foster social interactions and community bonds. This theme is evident throughout the park, from its landscaping to play areas. “We wanted to create more than just a park. It is about nurturing a sense of belonging and providing a welcoming space for people of all ages,” Chris explains.
The reserve features raised garden beds filled with ornamental pear trees, flowering pink cherries, English lavender and rosemary, bringing the orchard to life. Paving featuring pear and cherry graphics adds a whimsical touch, while children can engage with the scents, textures and colours of the plantings.
The play spaces include timber towers with tube slides mimicking stacked apple crates, along with a smaller tower shaped like a tractor. Accessible equipment such as a wheelchair-friendly carousel, inclusive swings and market stall play cubbies ensure fun for children of all abilities and encourage social play.
Bespoke timber seating under deciduous trees creates inviting spots for relaxation. A covered communal dining area and multipurpose lawns provide spaces for picnics, gatherings and events. The reserve also includes diverse tree planting with over 130 trees including hickory wattle, spotted gum, claret ash and flowering pink cherry. These trees will provide shade, seasonal colours and a lush green backdrop as they mature.
Parks play a vital role in master-planned communities, offering spaces for recreation, mental well-being and connection. Chris explains, “Green spaces enhance quality of life. They provide a retreat from urban life, foster mental and physical health and bring people together. Windermere Stage 26 Reserve embodies this vision by creating a colourful node within the estate’s linear park network, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for the community.”
Construction for the reserve started last month, with completion targeted for mid-2025. This will mark the second major local park in Windermere, following the successful opening of Twain Road Park last year. As the park’s naming process is currently underway with Wyndham City Council, residents can look forward to updates soon.
