Picnic in the Park, held at Melbourne Park from July 29 to August 2, 2024, provided a vital service to the community by offering over 270 nutritious lunches to children entitled to free school meals. The event attracted nearly 1,400 attendees, highlighting its local significance and the pressing need for such initiatives. Schools helped facilitate the process by distributing booking links to eligible families, which allowed for easy access to the meals provided by the catering company, Bean To You. The event was designed to be inclusive, welcoming all children to enjoy the festivities, which included themed activities based on a fun fair and Olympic sports. Daily entertainment featured engaging workshops and competitions, promoting active living among participants.

The success of the event underscores the importance of community support and the positive impact of providing resources for families in need. By bringing together nutritious food and fun activities, Picnic in the Park has established itself as a crucial local event for fostering community spirit. This year’s initiative not only addressed food insecurity but also strengthened community bonds through shared experiences.