Work starts on Carnarvon’s Big Banana feature as part of Van Dongen Park project

A new landmark for Carnarvon is taking shape, with fabrication starting on the Big Banana feature that will be a centrepiece for the multi-million-dollar Van Dongen Park project.

Earlier this month, the Shire of Carnarvon provided the community with an update on the project, with fabrication of the new structure reaching an important milestone.

Further geotechnical studies have been conducted onsite recently to ensure the development continues to progress smoothly and safely.

Set to become one of the town’s most exciting public spaces, the Van Dongen Park project aims to transform Carnarvon’s entryway into an inviting and vibrant community hub.

The project — the first phase of which has been funded through a $3.357 million Lotterywest grant as well as council allocations of $277,325 in its 2024-25 and 2025-26 budgets — was developed as part of the Carnarvon Activation Plan following community feedback in 2022.

That feedback highlighted concerns about the town centre’s appeal, safety and economic vitality, with Van Dongen Park emerging as a flagship project to address those issues.

The project was shaped through a co-design process in which residents, businesses and groups provided feedback in community workshops in 2023. The priorities included more shaded areas, functional public art and a playground, better safety measures including improved lighting and accessibility, a stronger connection to Carnarvon’s identity, and celebrating its status as the State’s food bowl.