Hundreds of people turned out for the opening of the Marton Skate Park on Saturday 25 May. After years of dreaming and planning, The Rotary Club of Marton has helped to make the dream come true. Local Skater Roman Strong approached the Mayor some years ago and collected a large number of signatures to support a rebuild of the Skate Park. Pania and Ray Hemopo took up the challenge and prepared a detailed and comprehensive report to support an extension of the Skate Park. Pania approached the Rotary Club of Marton for help and with the injection of Rotarian Andrew Shand's enthusiasm and practical approach the project took off. Nearly $300,000.00 was raised by Rotary in a very short time.
By engaging the best designer and the best builders a brilliant result has been achieved. BBQ’s and family seating have yet to be installed but the Park is up and running and delighting the users. This project is a great example of a Rotary Club working with local people, businesses, the District Council and community groups to make a seemingly impossible dream come true. A great asset for the community that will serve generations to come. Pania and Ray’s son VChay, was the first to ride the course. The weather, too, came to the party and turned on another brilliant sunny day in paradise.