Brisbane PARK(ing) Day

PARK(ing) Day was started in 2005 by Rebar to raise awareness about the lack of green spaces in San Francisco’s downtown. It transformed an on-street car park into a ‘people park’ by temporarily providing turf, seating and shade. It is based on the idea that paying for a parking meter is like ‘renting’ a public space.  

Since then it has been creatively adapted and sparked imaginations around the world and in 2008 there were over 200 PARKs in 50 major cities, including New York, London and Los Angeles. In 2008 Brisbane participated and featured 40 parks on the day, attracted many people and the media. 

The PARKs are surprising, fun additions to the everyday street environments, and powerful symbols of placemaking and communities wanting to improve urban quality.  

Brisbane PARK(ing) Day is all about –  
1. Calling attention to the importance for urban public spaces  
2. Rethinking the way we use our streets  
3. Creating diverse conversations about how we can make sustainable cities

The promoters of Brisbane PARK(ing) day aspire for this event to–

• Be accessible to everyone across age groups and cultural background
• Be accessible to every Ward and suburb in Brisbane.
• Be accessible across all sectors (community, schools, universities, business, Councilors, government policy sections)

Our greatest levels of success will be measured by–

1)      Creating an annual event that does not need us.   That you and your community will drive and expand this event.  *This is our 5th year!

2)      Hearing memorable, surprising, funny stories and experiences in public space.  That you change the culture of Brisbane and inspire friendly spaces.  *Just look at the photos!

3)      Creating community connections and collaborations.  That it inspire collaboration between people on the day and more importantly inspire ongoing projects well BEYOND the event day *Park(ing) Day has been integrated into the design studios and education of QUT, UQ

4)      Inspiring dialogue, permanent spaces and policy changes about public spaces, parking and urban design.  Every extra area of public space that gets enlivened or negotiated out of this city is a WIN. *Games Night in King George Square, and permanent spaces in Valley (Deicke Richards office) has been a direct result