By Alana Mitchelson
Public art ping pong tables are to be installed at Heatherbrae and IYU recreation reserves.
Cardinia Shire Council cultural development officer Jadah Pleiter said public outdoor ping pong (POPP) was one of the world’s fastest-growing recreational pursuits, with free-to-use tables enlivening public spaces and drawing people from all walks of life to share a game.
Accomplished local street artist and avid ping pong fan Mark Bernard has painted a ‘cow over the moon’ design on the POPP table at the Arena Play Space next to the Heatherbrae Recreation Reserve.
His concept references the renowned dairy farm ‘Heatherbrae herd’ that once occupied the site.
“I have used a concept that both adults and children can relate to and wanted to create an original piece that I will be proud of,” Mark said.
“I am a table tennis fanatic and will definitely visit the venue in the future.”
The second POPP table will be installed in the coming months at the IYU Recreation Reserve with a design by artist Thea Clarke, depicting a range of sports and fused together with blue to represent the natural watercourse that once ran through the estate.
A limited number of bat and ball packs are available for the first 50 residents who express interest at arts@cardinia.vic.gov.au
