Families make use of the new playground as the South Jerrabomberra Town Park officially opens. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
What began as a masterplanned vision for South Jerrabomberra became reality on Saturday with the opening of the new Town Park and Community Centre — a multi-use recreation and event precinct spanning more than 2.5 hectares forming part of the growing South Jerrabomberra development.
The Village Building Company and Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council marked the milestone in the growth of this thriving new community with a ceremonial opening, live entertainment, food stalls, children’s activities, outdoor games and giveaways. The launch of the park and community centre follows the opening of the nearby dog park in September.
Designed as a major family recreation destination for the region, the park, located on Carnation Drive in Tralee, includes the region’s largest free splash pad and a large all-abilities playground with swings, slides and nature-play elements.
The park also includes an impressive learn-to-ride bike track with traffic lights and signage. The learn-to-ride facility received $150,000 in support through the NSW Government’s Regional Job Precinct Program.
There is also an outdoor gym, half basketball court, Village Green, BBQs and picnic shelters, toilets, with plenty of shaded seating and landscaped open spaces for community gatherings and weekend markets. Lighting throughout the area has been installed to support safety and usability.
Beside the park, the new Community Centre provides flexible spaces for events, workshops and social gatherings. It includes four function rooms, two kitchens, and a dedicated bar area, catering for a wide range of community and private events.
Community Centre facilities are now available for use with bookings managed by Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council.
The Village Building Company deputy CEO Rob Fisher, Member for Monaro Steve Whan, Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Mayor Kenrick Winchester, Deputy Mayor Esma Livermore, NSW Minister for Regional Development Tara Moriarty and The Village Building Company non-executive director Bob Winnel at the South Jerra town park opening. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
Sustainability features were incorporated into the design, with solar panels and on-site battery storage allowing the Community Centre to operate largely off-grid. This system also supports the park’s lighting and splash pad.
At the opening, NSW Minister for Regional Development and local resident, Tara Moriarty, said the event marked “a wonderful milestone for the community, especially for the hundreds of local families who will enjoy this outstanding new park for many years to come”.
“This expansive park is set to become a place where children of all ages can explore, splash about in the water play areas, and learn to ride along the fantastic bike tracks,” she said.
“In the years ahead, friendships will be formed and community spirit strengthened as people come together here to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions in this beautiful setting.
“Congratulations to the Village Building Company and the Council for creating a space that will bring lasting joy and be a true asset to our community for generations to come.”
Village Building Company deputy CEO Rob Fisher said the project reflected the company’s broader vision for community development.
“This project is a shining example of what Village stands for — building innovative, thriving communities that bring people together,” he said.
“The South Jerrabomberra Town Park and Community Centre aren’t just facilities, they’re spaces designed for connection, activity and a genuine sense of belonging. They reflect our ongoing commitment to creating places where families can live well and communities can flourish.”
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Mayor Kenrick Winchester said, “This park is for everyone, and I’m sure the growing South Jerra community will love relaxing, playing, and connecting here.
“Congratulations to Village for developing such a great space — I look forward to the community enjoying it for many years to come.”
Village Building Company general manager ACT Jamie Cregan said delivering the Town Park and Community Centre marks a proud moment for everyone involved.
“These facilities give residents a place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy, whether it’s kids learning to ride for the first time, families cooling off at the splash pad, or neighbours catching up over a weekend barbecue, it’s about building a community that grows together.”
The Town Park and Community Centre will be followed by the construction of the South Jerrabomberra Town Centre, which is set to commence in early 2026. Once complete, the Town Centre will provide residents with a supermarket, cafés with outdoor dining, retail outlets, and specialty stores — creating a vibrant lifestyle hub at the heart of the community.
