A safe place to play

12 May 2023

Playgrounds are important spaces for the community to enjoy recreationally and socially, and Southern Downs Regional Council has a duty of care to maintain equipment so it is safe to use and compliant with Australian standards and guidelines.

Following a high level and considered examination, playgrounds in the following parks will require removal:
• Apex
• Meadow Bank Estate
• Shilliday
• Arcoola
• Mountain View
• Pennant

Areas will be remediated and turfed to increase green space. Council is pleased to advise essential playground works at Chase Estate Park are now complete and this playground has re-opened for business.

Council’s Manager Parks and Operations Chris Collingwood said Council’s unwavering priority is community safety.

“Council conducts routine maintenance and regular safety inspections and it is our duty of care to respond immediately when potential hazards are identified. The most secure and efficient way to do this is by fencing off areas of concern whilst inspection, assessment and repair is underway,” Mr Collingwood said.

“We recently inspected a number of playgrounds in the Warwick area and fenced off seven playgrounds due to a range of emerging safety issues.

“Where repairs pose an unrealistic spend of ratepayer dollars, particularly with consideration to a park’s location and usage, some playground equipment will need to be removed.

“Development of a comprehensive Recreation and Open Space Strategy and an associated playground management plan will inform and enable sound decisions on future investment in replacement structures, founded upon community need and available funding.”

Other recent developments include Council’s Parks and Workshops collaboration with the Warwick Men’s Shed to give the heritage roundabout at Leslie Park a new lease of life. The team at the Shed generously donated their time and expertise and the roundabout now presents as new, allowing enjoyment for years to come.

The flood damaged fitness precinct at Queens Park has also benefitted from complete replacement with a significant investment in new state-of-the-art outdoor marine-grade flood resilient gym equipment. The swing area to the north-west corner is also undergoing a transformation with a new surface to complement a refurbished ‘bird’s nest swing’ and new carousel. Practical completion of both areas is due next week with removal of temporary fencing to follow. Total investment is approximately $220,000 and will assist in promoting health, equality and socialisation.

Council thanks the community for their understanding and patience whilst the region-wide audit of equipment continues to ensure public safety remains a priority.