Recently we opened our newest playground in Zuccoli Village, and it’s safe to say it has been extremely well received by locals and the community at large! On August 5, the park was officially launched and named the Michael Ting Park. Dedicated to the memory of Michael Tien-Lok Ting, a remarkable man whose journey of life, service and dedication left a permanent and meaningful mark on the community.

Originally from Malaysia, the Ting family moved to Darwin in 1982, eventually settling in the growing community of Palmerston. Michael was one of four to contend for the office of Mayor, when the very first municipality of Palmerston was established in 1985. He was elected, and became a dedicated representative to the people of Palmerston.

While serving as mayor, Michael became a passionate advocate for many, and undertook a Bachelor of Law through the University of Queensland at the Northern Territory University. He graduated in 1993 and transitioned careers, becoming a Solicitor. Throughout his life, he remained outspoken and forthright, always ready to stand up for what he believed was right.

In 1995, Michael and Lily relocated to Perth, where Lily pursued her profession as a specialist midwife. In 2017, the couple moved to Canberra to be closer to family, but sadly, Michael was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive skin cancer in 2019, and he passed away on July 30, 2022.

Michael Ting Park serves as a testament to Michael’s enduring legacy of service, advocacy, and dedication to community building. It stands as a symbol of his love for nature, family, and the community he so passionately served throughout his life.

Spanning an impressive 10,000 square meters, the park was a collaborative effort between Zuccoli Village, landscape architects Clouston Associates, Urban Play, and NT Shade. It features preserved greenery, open spaces shaded by trees, play and fitness equipment, three gazebos, covered areas with picnic tables, barbecues, waste bins, and drinking fountains for people and pets.

Play equipment includes an innovative double butterfly play structure, designed by Urban Play which is the first of its kind in The Northern Territory. The park also includes an Elements Grow play space featuring a tipi carousel, a cocowave pendulum swing and a four-person rocker.

We’re thrilled to see the Michael Ting Park receive so much excitement and praise from the community and know it will serve as a source of joy and place of connection for the people of Palmeston and Zuccoli for years to come.