Although 2025 still has a couple of months left, Junee Council has received a report on its accomplishments throughout the past year, which gives insight into the success of many of them, including the Athenium’s upgrades, among other things.
With statistics and feedback, Council can now reflect on some 2024 projects to see if they were worth the wait and effort.
Although the list is lengthy and minor, the report gives a peek into some behind-the-scenes information on the Memorial Park Playground. Although it technically saw completion in 2024, it was very late in December, and many of its uses wouldn’t come until this year.
Despite being a very quick project in the late year, it was completed on time and within budget.
The extensive renovations included the installation of brand-new play equipment designed to cater to children of all abilities, improved safety surfacing, upgraded pathways and enhanced seating and shade structures to provide a comfortable environment for families and carers.
The playground’s vibrant and modern design reflects valuable community input, with 230 residents and 150 children from nearby schools, preschools and daycare centres actively contributing to the planning process.
Due to the success of the project and its reflection of the community’s input, it is a good sign for community input in future Council projects. Beyond providing a place for recreation, the upgraded playground was said to enhance the overall appeal of Memorial Park as a key community gathering space. These upgrades are said to keep the location a central part of the community for years to come.
The Athenium also saw its first year in 2025 since its upgrades, still hosting shows and events even while under construction last year. Council said the upgrades were done to ensure its continued role as a premier venue for arts, entertainment and community events.
The Athenium reopened in September 2024, and the Council believe that it has enhanced both functionality and accessibility while preserving the Theatre’s historic character.
Key upgrades included:
• Backstage Enhancements- Improved facilities to better accommodate touring productions and local performances.
• New Dressing Rooms and Rehearsal Spaces -Dedicated areas providing performers with professional preparation spaces.
• Modernised Kitchenette -Upgraded amenities to improve event catering and hospitality.
Feedback has suggested these upgrades are very welcome for those who use it. These improvements have also enhanced the Theatre’s ability to attract diverse performances, from live music and theatre productions to film screenings and community events. By modernising essential infrastructure, the Theatre now offers a more functional and inclusive space for performers, organisers and patrons alike.
The report says the upgrades reflect the Council’s commitment to preserving the Athenium Theatre while supporting the region’s growing arts and culture sector.
A 2025 project, the Lawn Cemetery Toilets, is a small but significant project for Junee, as it reflects a commitment to keeping every nook and cranny of Junee up to standard. Even in the short time since its completion a few months ago, feedback has been positive.
The new toilet provided much-needed amenities to locals and visitors who attend funerals. Two new, fully accessible disabled toilets and an access ramp were installed, which is a significant amenity improvement that was sought after by the community.
While the year is getting closer and closer to finishing up, there remains much for Council to do, especially on the Inland Rail front, but if 2024-25 is any indication, there should be plenty to look forward to in Junee.
– Jack Murray
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