The local council had funding allocated to make a number of upgrades to this reserve located at the end of the main street, and approached ECS for a complete design and construct package.

The council was specifically seeking a playspace that reflected themes and activities that referenced the local Murray River environment, and to have inclusive activities to engage a wide range of users.

The works area was essentially a blank slate after old play equipment, BBQs and park furniture were removed. A master palette was developed using colors inspired by the foliage and bark of River Red Gums, with use of natural materials in key areas. The layout has also been intentionally designed to fit seamlessly with concept plans prepared for future extra play items, and upgrades to the mini rail station that runs through the park.

ECS worked together with playground manufacturers to design a twin sky tower customised especially to the site. Children can select from a range of climbing and play activities over three levels, to reach the top challenge to use the “possum crossing” to reach the mega slide.

Plantings of native trees and shrubs will grow to form a shady billabong-esque area around the bespoke waterplay and sandpit. Waterplay channels made from reclaimed redgum logs have wheelchair access from one side, and also abuts the large sandpit area with sandplay module.

Wetpour rubber surfacing connects new linking paths with inclusive play items such as a 2m wide saucer spinner, a tripod nest swing, and an all abilities harness on the traditional style swing. Sensory plantings of both textural, edible, and scented plants are also scattered through the play areas.

New cantilever shade structures, DDA BBQs and picnic settings, drinking fountain and have created a gathering space for park users, with the new café style stool and bar table overlooking the play area especially popular.

ECS produced a number of specially designed and fabricated bespoke items for this park – from sensory items such as the oversized ‘Bang-a-Rang’ Bell, wind spinners and quirky sculptures, to a reedlike arching custom arbour as an entry feature, and three custom designed cabinets to conceal existing ugly outdoor electrical outlets with images of local fauna laser cut on doors.