Mosman Park Better Block

In May 2023, young Mosman Park residents teamed up with RAC, Town Team Movement, the Town of Mosman Park, and Better Block to reimagine the public space near Mosman Park’s Alf Adams Pavilion. Here’s how it went.

As part of the first Australian Better Block project, young Mosman Park residents were given the opportunity to lead the way in reimagining the public space near the Alf Adams Pavilion.

Based in Dallas, Texas, Better Block is an urban design nonprofit that believes well-designed public spaces are hugely beneficial to individual and community health. Better Block projects focus on converting under-utilised public spaces into lively, walkable districts that prioritise people over cars and foster social connection among communities.

Two primary goals were established for the Mosman Park Better Block project: to make the area more accessible, and to encourage people to spend more time in the public space.

How young people shaped the Mosman Park Better Block

A group of 30 young Mosman Park residents contributed to the transformation of the space around Alf Adams Pavilion. Situated in the heart of Mosman Park, the Pavilion is the perfect place for community connection. However, its surrounding spaces were not being used to their full potential.

The process

To kick off the project, local young people aged 14 to 24 joined workshops where they brainstormed ideas for the transformation. Guided by mentors and urban design professionals, they identified key areas for improvement and explored practical ways to bring their ideas to life.

The young project team was involved in every step of the transformation. Once they had decided on their vision for the new community space, they got to work with the physical renovations.

The outcome

Renovations included installing a bike path and bike racks, planting shade trees, and painting the basketball courts and skate park in vibrant shades of pink and purple. A shipping container was installed for use as a community library and to host pop-up events.

Innovative Wikiblock furniture was custom-built and positioned throughout the space, and the skate bowl was temporarily transformed into an urban beach while awaiting repairs.

In addition to the physical makeover of the space, participants also enjoyed transformations of their own. Through their involvement in the project, they were able to gain valuable work experience, develop new skills, and build connections with likeminded individuals. This will lay the foundation for future collaborations, personal growth, and continued involvement in community initiatives.

The importance of youth-led projects

Projects like the Mosman Park Better Block are important, as they create opportunities for young people to positively impact their communities.

When young people’s needs and desires are placed at the heart of decision-making, it creates an environment where they feel comfortable to express themselves and leave a lasting impact on their community.

How you can get involved in youth-led projects

Is there a street or place in your community that could use a makeover? We’re always on the lookout for young people to help create new youth-friendly streets and public spaces. Click the button below to register your interest in our next local makeover project.

Register your interest