New park showcases the art of table tennis

It’s not often that the worlds of table tennis and public art come together. However, an new lakeside park in Birtinya has combined the two with the help of local artists.

Florey Park is the latest parkland to open at Oceanside and features four table tennis tables painted in a unique, pop-art inspired design by artists Steven Bordonaro and Merry Sparks.

Steven has also created a complementary mural in the nearby Sunshine Coast Health Precinct.

Designed to encourage local residents and visitors of all ages to get outdoors and active, Florey Park is particularly focused on opportunities for teenagers and adults to have fun.

Arts Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski, who enjoyed a hit on the new tables with Division 3 Cr Peter Cox today, congratulated Stockland for incorporating public art into the new local park.

“Public art can be practical as well as help create places with a distinct sense of personality” Cr Baberowski said.

“Council is a great supporter of diverse forms of public art with engaging ideas about culture and sense of place.

“The artwork that talented Queensland artists Merry and Steven have created here has added a wonderful light-hearted touch of surprising design to an otherwise practical form of play equipment.

“It’s great to see interactive pieces such as this being incorporated into new developments and I’m sure the local community will be a little more inspired to hit a ping pong ball across such unique table tennis tables.”

Florey Park also features a waterfront walkway, handball courts, a canoe access point, barbecue, climbing rope equipment, picnic shelter and toilets.

Mark McMahon, senior development manager at Stockland, said the public artwork added extra colour and life to Florey Park.

"This will enhance its appeal and ultimately attracting more residents and visitors to get active and enjoy the beautiful outdoor lifestyle on offer at Birtinya at Oceanside,” he said.