Matamata Rotarians gathered at the Peria Road Reserve dog park last Wednesday, to unveil the group's latest community project - a brand new sheltered seating area.

The official opening gathered Mayor Adrienne Wilcock, Matamata ward councillors, Rotary District Governor Bill Robinson and current International Rotary President Gordon McInally who led proceedings ''With 1.4 million Rotary members around the globe, I am extremely grateful to be here with the group in Matamata,” said McInally. "It's projects like these that really showcase the positive impact Rotary can have in our communities''.

Matamata Rotary President Jane Belton said the new shelter is “great for people in the community who bring their dogs, to sit, relax and enjoy the scenic views - especially for our elderly''. Construction of the new shelter began in April this year with the installation of new concrete, led by Rotary member Peter Vossen and the wider team at Peter Vossen Builders. ''During this project, we've been very fortunate to have a lot of trades people on board giving their time and donating materials as well was consulting with council to ensure that this was a sustainable project and something we can maintain moving forward'' said Belton.

The idea of building a shelter in the dog park was championed by Rotary member Peter Vossen during our 'Your Voice Your Vision' consultation in 2020.  During this consultation we asked the community for ideas on what would make our district the ‘Place of Choice’.  After holding discussions with vets, dog agility businesses and community members it became clear there was a real need and support for a fully fenced dog park in Matamata.

For Mayor Adrienne Wilcock, the new shelter represents the important role community groups play in shaping our district. ''I'd like to congratulate Matamata Rotary for another job well done. What we are witnessing today is as simple as people doing things for people and that's what makes a community,'' said Mayor Wilcock. Matamata Rotary were able to secure some of the funding through a council grant and have worked closely with staff to create spaces we can all be proud of.

This community led project is part of a bigger proposal to make some exciting upgrades to the dog exercise area. In the future they hope to add agility courses and potentially fence off some space for smaller dogs. Watch this space! 

Pictured above: Group gathered at Peria Road Reserve Dog Park. From left International Rotary president Gordon McInally, Rotary president Jane Belton, Heather McInally, Mayor Adrienne Wilcock, Deb Robinson, Rotary District Governor Bill Robinson and Matamata Rotarian David Hulme.

Pictured above: New shelter a Peria Road Reserve Dog Park, constructed by Peter Vossen Builders on behalf of Matamata Rotary.