Toolamba UDF and Memorial Garden

Client: City of Greater Shepparton
Type: Park Planning & Design
Date: 2002-2007

This project began with the preparation of an urban design framework for Toolamba in 2002 that was prepared in close consultation with the community and later adopted by Council. This plan provided a vision for the future development of the town and it also recommended a number of public realm improvements to be implemented over time.

The town was devastated when two sisters Colleen and Laura Irwin murdered in January 2006. The community approached Council requesting assistance to develop a memorial. A small urban plaza was proposed at the centre of town in the UDF on unused rail land. Urban Initiatives Pty Ltd were engaged by Council to work with the community to develop this site as a memorial and a community gathering space, especially attractive for youth.

Artwork and poetry created by the girls, was incorporated as ceramic decoration on seating walls, by local artist Angie Russie.

The garden and memorial was opened in 2007.