Melinda Walker-Smith
Young Highlands Hero, February 2025
Melinda Walker-Smith is proof that age is no barrier to achievement and that community spirit is thriving in our young people.
In 2017, when she was just 8 years old, Melinda began a campaign to save Cook Street Park in Mittagong and set in motion a 7-year journey to bring this valuable community space back to life.
Save Our Park
Council began the removal of playground equipment from Cook Street Park in 2017 after it was deemed outdated and unsafe with no immediate plans to replace it. What had been an important recreational space for Melinda, her family and many children in the area, quickly fell into disrepair.
Melinda was devastated by the loss of the park and encouraged by her parents, decided to write to the Council to try and find some answers. Communication was slow and with no plans for redevelopment forthcoming, Melinda began her campaign to draw attention to the situation.
Over the next few years, through countless hours of lobbying; emails to Council, sharing her story with local media, a large sign on the railings of the dilapidated park and rallying community and local business support, funding to revamp the park was finally confirmed.
In 2020, the Wingecarribee Shire Council announced a $129.000 refurbishment of Cook Street Park. Additionally, thanks to the support of Arglye Housing and Challenge House, a further grant of $81,000 was obtained via the NSW Government’s ‘Everyone Can Play’ program to enhance accessibility at the park.
Emma Calver, SHCF Chair of External Relations said;
“We are thrilled to announce Melinda as the first recipient of our Young Hero award. Her story stood out to us because of her passion, her years of dedication to her campaign and because she really understands the power of community. The success of Melinda’s campaign is a wonderful reminder of the importance of listening to young voices and I hope that through this award and by sharing her story, others are inspired to get involved in projects and initiatives that change our community for the better.”
Never give up
Cook Street Park re-opened in 2023 and while Melinda is now 16 and has a full schedule with schoolwork, volunteering at Bargo Wildlife Sanctuary and teaching dance, she remains a regular visitor at the park, saying it’s still her favourite place to spend time outdoors.
When asked what her advice to other young people who have a cause that they are passionate about, Melinda says; “Don’t give up! You can do anything if you put your mind to it, so stick to it, you can do it!”
The Young Highlands Hero Award is a $3,000 grant that recipients can donate to their chosen cause. Melinda will work with the Wingecarribee Shire Council to invest further in Cook Street Park, possibly purchasing a shade sail or another piece of play equipment.
The SHCF Young Highlands Hero Award
The Young Highlands Hero Award is open to young people between the ages of 13 and 21. The judging panel is looking for young volunteers and fundraisers whose hard work and dedication has made a real difference to their cause. The nominee does not need to be a member of a community organisation however, their activities must be for organisations that benefit the Southern Highlands community. Winners receive a $3,000 SHCF grant that recipients can donate to their chosen cause. Find out more about the program and how to nominate here.
Do you know an unsung hero?
We’re looking for nominations now. If you know of someone who might fit the bill, please complete the nomination form below.
