Regional Playground ­ Sir Joseph Banks Park

When Council created at Booralee Park the first of our new initiative of regional playgrounds we really had no idea of the success it would prove to be among local residents.  We always thought it would be successful but, almost from the moment it was opened, the playground at Booralee has been packed.  Go down any afternoon and you will see children, watched by their mothers and carers, having fun on the equipment.
 
Based on that success, we’ve embarked on our second regional playground – down in Sir Joseph Banks Park.  What we’re doing is to expand the existing playground with a whole new area and a central shelter for parents so they can supervise children.
 
The playground is for those under 12 and will have rockers, swings, a pod swing, the biibox climbing and activity structure, a climbing hut and, in the middle of a sandpit, a Kompan waterfall, which is an activity centre for younger children.
 
Last week, we added a parents’ and carers’ shelter, which had not been in our original plans.
 
By November of this year, we will have our second regional playground as we expand the special facilities we provide for our City’s youngest residents.  As we’ve done in the past, we match demand for playgrounds with the actual provision of playgrounds. Via examination of census statistics, we determine where there will be an increased demand for playgrounds due to a rise in the number of children.
 
As our City grows, our demographics change and we’re seeing more and more young families move into our suburbs, creating a need for playgrounds.
 
I think we’ve kept pace with growing demand and our playgrounds, both new and existing, have become a welcome place for children and those who supervise the children.