The Bookham community has officially celebrated the opening of a new playground at the village rest stop, with Squadron Energy proudly supporting the community-led project.
The project was the vision of the Bookham Community Association, which identified the opportunity and played a leading role in turning the idea into reality.
Squadron Energy provided funding through a grant from the proposed Bookham Wind Farm and the Bango Wind Farm Community Enhancement Fund, making it the project’s largest funding contributor.
An official opening event on Saturday was attended by local residents, Yass Valley Mayor Jasmin Jones, councillors, Bookham Community Association President Tess Julian, and representatives from Squadron Energy.
The new facility provides a welcoming space for local families and travellers passing through the village.
A decade-long community vision realised
Squadron Energy EGM Corporate Relations and Community Dan Newlan said the project is a strong example of what can be achieved when communities take the lead on local initiatives.
“This playground is a great example of a community-led idea becoming a reality,” Mr Newlan said.
“The Bookham Community Association came to us with a clear vision for what they wanted to achieve, and we were very pleased to support them in bringing it to life.
“They’ve worked very hard to make this happen and the result is now a welcoming place for families, children and travellers to come together in the heart of Bookham.”
Bookham Community Association President Tess Julian said the playground was the result of years of community effort, with support from Squadron Energy helping to make it a reality.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Squadron Energy for coming on board as the major sponsor of this playground,” Ms Julian said.
“This has been a dream of the Bookham community for more than 10 years, and it simply wouldn’t have become a reality without Squadron’s contribution, as well as the support from Yass Valley Council.
“To see local children and families already enjoying the playground is fantastic. It’s a beautiful addition to Bookham, and we’re extremely grateful to everyone who helped bring it to life.”
The playground is part of the Yass Valley Council’s Bookham Masterplan and was identified by the Bookham Community Association as an important project for the village.
Squadron Energy’s support of the development of the playground was announced in May, with the playground opening to the public in July.