By Mikayla van Loon
As the completion of Mooroolbark station nears, the final touches are being put into place and new artworks have just been installed at the bus interchange precinct.
The commemorative wall showcases the history of the area in a 42.6 metre graphic display.
After consultation with the local community in the planning phase of the project, the overwhelming feedback was that locals wanted to see the history reflected in the station design somehow.
Historical images of the Mooroolbark area, overlaid by green leafy stencilling, take on the theme ‘a journey through time’ and highlights the natural landscape of the outer-eastern suburb.
Monbulk MP James Merlino said not only will the new station deliver a better commute on public transport for local residents, it will also provide a safe community space.
“We’ve removed the dangerous and congested level crossing at Manchester Road – working closely with the local community to deliver a new station precinct that reflects the heritage and environment,” he said.
“We’re delivering faster commutes, a brand-new station precinct and valuable community space that connects either side of the rail line.”
While some design elements have been questioned by the local community, particularly pertaining to the location and usefulness of the play equipment, mostly the feedback has been positive.
Some have taken pride in the look of the station, like Bruce Lethborg who said he was “Pretty pleased with our station” and others like Karl Imby saying it’s “So much better than it was.”
The murals too have been well received on social media, with comments reflecting the desire to have the history of Mooroolbark involved in the design.
“I really like this! I love the inclusion of the old photos,” Renae Jones said.
“Awesome work; really like how they’ve incorporated the local history into the murals,” Joan Sammartino posted.
Overall the design includes a new station forecourt, lifts, stairwells, bus interchange and double the amount of car parking spaces, as well as bench seats, landscaping and play equipment, in the hopes it will transform the area for generations to come.
Final landscaping works will also continue throughout 2022, with more than 60,000 trees, shrubs and plants to be planted as part of the project.
