The Harbour Playground Recognised as One of WA’s Best
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Located on the Secret Harbour Foreshore, The Harbour Playground is a $2 million purpose-built play space designed for people of all ages and abilities.
The project fended off competition from a number of facilities in other local governments including the City of Stirling’s $4 million Scarborough Beach Intergenerational Plaza and the City of Busselton’s ‘Sea Play on the Bay’ nautical themed playground to win the award.
City of Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels said it was fantastic to see The Harbour Playground recognised on a statewide level.
“The Harbour Playground was an action in the City’s Disability Access and Inclusion Strategy and its terrific to see such an innovative project receive the recognition it so richly deserves,” Mayor Sammels said.
“When designing and constructing this project the City took the time to engage with people living with disability, as well as industry experts who have the experience and expertise in assisting the diverse needs of people with disability.
“The outcome of this is a fantastic community play space that removes barriers for people with disability, giving visitors of all ages and abilities the chance to have fun in a safe and welcoming environment.”
Construction on The Harbour Playground began in November 2017 and was completed in late June 2018 before officially opening to much fanfare from residents and visitors alike.
The centrepiece of The Harbour Playground is an “underwater cave” with a giant octopus. All areas of the cave, including the tunnel are accessible and offer a range of play pieces including seaweed ropes, slides and a giant whirlpool net.
There are also a wide range of play areas that include a cruise line swing and a wheelchair-accessible roundabout.
The Harbour Playground was built with funding contributions from Lotterywest, the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Programme and the Rockingham Rotary Club. Contractors EPCAD (Environment Places Creativity Design), Environmental Industries and Play Check also had a vital role in delivering the project.