by Bonnie Collings
Baw Baw Shire councillors, officers and community members recently toured the Rollo St Park site in Yarragon, as works continue to transition the former primary school site into a new community asset.

The $1.77 million project is a joint venture between council and the state government, with a $1.52 million investment by the state government through its Growing Suburbs Fund.
The project will deliver a new loop walking path, seating and picnic tables, a drinking fountain, bike racks, rain gardens and new plants and trees.
So far, the old fencing has been demolished, earthworks have been undertaken for the new footpath, carpark and Hanns Lane, as well as drainage and electrical work.
Also in attendance at the site tour was Yarragon stalwart Angela Malacarne, who council is proposing to name the park in honour of.
A Yarragon resident for most of her life, Ms Malacarne was a teacher at the former Yarragon Primary School for almost 40 years and taught hundreds of Yarragon students.
While most commemorative names are granted posthumously, the Registrar of Geographic Names Victoria granted a rare exemption in recognition of Ms Malacarne's long-standing connection to the site and contribution to Yarragon.
At the December 4 council meeting last year, council endorsed the name "Angela Malacarne Park" and a consultation period has since opened for community to provide feedback on the proposal.
Ms Malacarne said she felt "humbled" by the naming proposal.
"I never ever expected this to happen, I'm really thrilled," she said. "What's wonderful about it (the park) is that the community will be able to use it and enjoy it, and so will I because I'm still alive."
Baw Baw Shire mayor Danny Goss said the naming proposal was a first for council and he looked forward to hearing the community's thoughts on the proposal.
"There aren't too many people in the Yarragon area who aren't familiar with Ms Malacarne, who taught at least 800 local children during her 38.5 years as a teacher at the Yarragon Primary School, the primary school she also attended herself," Cr Goss said.
Cr Brendan Kingwill said he was proud to see the naming proposal move ahead and also looked forward to seeing the outcomes of the transformation to the park.
"As a former student of the school, this site holds fond memories of my childhood. I also recognise the locals and former councillors who fought to save the site so that we can have this here today," Cr Kingwill said.
"Following a strong desire from our local community to revamp the site of the old school, council has taken proactive steps to ensure this space was not lost, and I can't wait to see the many benefits it brings our local community once the reconstruction is complete."
Works at the site are expected to be completed in April with an official opening to follow.
Community members can provide their thoughts on the proposed naming of the park by visiting www.bawbawconnect.com.au/rollostreetpark
The consultation period will close on Monday. March 3.