Open Space Strategy

Xyst’s audit identified the need to review and update the Council’s existing Open Space Strategy (2013) to provide a structured and consistent approach that will inform the strategic and planning processes for parks and gardens. The audits findings allowed Council to determine whether it was providing a sufficient level of clarity to make investments and […]

Tree Contract Review Recommendations

Xyst was commissioned by Maroondah City Council to lead a workshop with relevant staff to assist in reviewing the current approach to outsourcing of arboriculture services for the following activities: collection of tree data, risk assessment and monitoring of physical works, street tree pruning and wire clearance works, supply and planting of street trees and […]

Level of Service Summary

Xyst identified and developed Levels of Service through a series of staff workshops, assisted by an analysis of the current asset inventory and review of the contract specifications. The levels of service will address both development and operating levels of service and will be guided by an agreed strategic parks category framework that could be […]

Park Observation Study

Xyst developed a methodology including a set of observation criteria. Merri-bek City Council used its own labour force to observe people in 230 parks and, combined with Xyst’s observation criteria, data surrounding park usage was developed. Xyst collated, analysed and presented this data to Merri-bek City Council.

Playground Performance Assessment

Xyst was engaged by Mount Alexander Shire Council to undertake a performance assessment of its playgrounds. Playground performance assessments were then conducted over 24 sites. Data was captured into an online platform that collated the information for analysis. The assessments recorded and evaluated many key attributes of each playground, eg places to sit/socialise. This data […]

Open Space Asset Management Plan 2021

Xyst was approached by Mount Alexander Shire Council to develop an Asset Management Plan to formally document the management approach applied to parks services and assets. This long-term planning approach was considered necessary given the large capital and operating expenditure expected. The developed AMP covers a 10-year timeframe and its main focus was in determining […]

Open Space & Street Furniture Guidelines

Xyst were engaged to develop guidelines to be used to support existing Council policies and strategies and act as a compendium to the strategy. These guidelines were used to produce a consistent method of replacing damaged and ageing furniture and designing new parks and streetscapes. Providing these guidelines allowed Moyne Shire to meet their need […]

Rural City of Murray Bridge – Water-Based Recreation Management Plan

Xyst developed the Management plan to help RCMB identify opportunities for rejuvenation along the Murray River Corridor, encompassing future potential for residential land uses and sustainable environmental management. Xyst participated in inception and research and consultation and assessments to deliver a final management plan. From this Xyst identified opportunities and constraints relating to a broad […]

Bushland & Wetland Reserves Prioritisation & Planning

Xyst produced the document to help Council produce a more strategic and consistent process to ensure bushland and wetland reserves are managed for their long-term sustainability, on ground actions are prioritised and that councils resources are used efficiently and effectively. To prioritise the reserves and plan for the management, a process of combining state criteria […]

Eltham Lower Park Wayfinding Audit

Xyst developed an audit to identify the existing signage placed within the Eltham Lower Park and adjoining areas. This existing signage included signs directing people to the park and within the park. Each sign within the park was assessed to consider the condition, functionality and wayfinding needs for visitors to the park. At the end […]

Open Spaces and Tree Management Market and Service Delivery Assessment

Xyst worked with City of Melbourne staff to develop an understanding of how the current delivery model is performing and, importantly, what changes are recommended to meet the City of Melbourne’s future requirements. Xyst carried out interviews with staff and service providers; questionnaires and data from Yardstick were all used to provide the City of […]

The Tracks and Trails of WA’s Wildflower Country and Coast

Xyst delivered a Regional Trails Master Plan that was sufficient to enable Western Australia’s constituent councils to give due consideration to the strategic aspects of the question as to whether it is feasible to progress with the planning and physical development of individual trails. Xyst completed a market analysis, site development considerations and feasibility studies […]