Cathy Huang

Ngargee Park

The project is aimed at transforming the Fitzroy Street precinct of Albert Park into a key welcoming point for the greater St. Kilda metropolitan area. The space will transition visitors from an urban setting into a relaxed parkland softened by civic and passive recreation activities. An existing indigenous plant garden together with the Ngargee Tree maintained by the Boon Wurrung Foundation played an important role determining the design direction. The park has seen many transformations, and yet these important symbols of Boon Wurrung culture endure. The site is split into two areas by Lakeside Drive. These areas are designed to provide spaces for the local community to relax and engage in, but each has its own distinct character. The south side of the park attracts visitors from greater areas to partake in ephemeral events and experience the recreational facilities that cater to people from all age groups and walks of life. A large plaza, playgrounds and cycle track encourages active movement with recreation. The north side of the park establishes a secondary node to the Ngargee Tree, drawing in the local community to engage with each other and facilitate learning and healing from a difficult history. The planting here will immerse visitors in the natural characteristics of the site, creating a more relaxed atmosphere where performances and art exhibitions may take place.