Gold Coast City Council and Disability Services Queensland joined forces to create the Gold Coast's first 'All Abilities Playground' at Kurrawa Pratten Park, Broadbeach.
The playground provides access for all children to experience fun, interactive and challenging play, while their families and carers watch over them in an enjoyable and relaxing environment. The playground was purpose-designed to reflect community needs and include sensory, motor, imagination and educational aspects of play. The first stage is now complete and open for play. A playground concept image can be viewed by clicking here (PDF 1.59MB).
The All Abilities Playground is a place for inclusive play that:
- enhances the enjoyment of play for all chidren regardless of their ability
- provides a safe and magical play environment that stimulates the imagination
- encourages interaction through dramatic play, cooperation and sharing
- stimulates the senses through visual, sound and tactile elements
- allows parents and carers to relax and enjoy the children at play
What's in the playground?
The entirely fenced playground features several zones of play to address the varied play abilities and ages. The community was heavily involved in developing the playground concept. Fun days, workshops, and creative arts school based curriculum have all contributed to the playground design.
The playground’s design features three zones - Sandcastle, Undersea and Hill – all connected via a network of pathways and six interactive community art projects, created by 70 special education students from six local schools.
Other features of the playground include sand play, spring toys, stepping blocks, hill slides, a giant basket swing, sway swings, a flying fox and a carousel with harnesses.
Stage Two of the playground will include a large sandcastle structure with sound tubes – pipes through which children can listen to each other speak over a distance of six metres; raised tables to enable wheelchair access and sand play; and a submarine and mermaid in the Undersea zone. It is expected this will be complete by March 2011.
MLAK key change room
A key aspect of the project is the amenities block which features an MLAK key access change room with a changing bench and hoist. It was developed especially for people with high physical support needs and their families. The facility is only the second in an outdoor playground in Australia.
Play in the All Abilities Playground on-line
A fantastic on-line All Abilities Playground game has been developed. Visit the website to play the virtual game. There are entertaining activities as well as four great games to play.