MEDIA RELEASE - New playground to deliver fun in spades as Councillors ‘dig in’ to kickstart construction
Families will soon be able to explore an expansive range of exciting new play equipment in the heart of Sutherland, with construction of the new Waratah Park playground officially getting underway today.
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd, was joined onsite by Councillors Diedree Steinwall, Meredith Laverty and Peter Tsambalas to formally commence construction of the new all-abilities playground, turning the first sod on the project which is set to be delivered as part of the Waratah Park Masterplan.
Once completed the new playground will offer engaging play experiences including sand and water sensory play areas, a flying fox with accessible seat, accessible carousel and slides, swings with a variety of seating options, a junior bike path and musical and nature play features.
Mayor Boyd said he was looking forward to welcoming local families to enjoy the new playground once construction is complete, with the array of equipment to be delivered onsite set to create opportunities for children to connect, play, and enjoy the area’s natural surroundings.
“We are thrilled to announce the start of construction to this project which represents Council’s ongoing commitment to fostering vibrant, inclusive, and accessible recreational spaces that reflect the needs of our growing community,” Mayor Boyd said.
“The new Waratah Park playground will not only provide a fantastic space for children of all-abilities to engage in play but also deliver shaded seating and social areas where families can come together. It’s a space that has been designed to truly welcome everyone, regardless of age or ability.
“The playground at Waratah Park has been shaped by extensive community consultation undertaken during the development of the Waratah Park Masterplan. The views of our residents have been at the heart of this project and the playground’s design reflects the feedback received from the community, ensuring it meets current and future recreational needs.”
With the playground set to be completed in mid-2025, other new additions will also be rolled out across the site including a new all-abilities amenities building, well-lit pedestrian pathways connecting to Rawson Avenue, shade structures over specific play elements and natural shaded areas as well as perimeter fencing. An adjoining carpark completed in 2023 will also ensure ample parking is available for those visiting the amazing new play facilities.
The Waratah Park Masterplan aims to enhance community sport and recreational opportunities by improving and expanding the quality, accessibility, and variety of facilities on offer while also boosting the environmental values of the park.
Future upgrades to the park will establish two major sporting precincts. The first will feature an improved Sutherland Leisure Centre, basketball stadium and tennis courts. The second will upgrade Lincoln Oval and the playing fields to allow greater flexibility of use.
Additionally, the Master Plan includes an upgraded criterium cycling track, more green space with a network of paths and fitness stations, and a new elevated pedestrian walkway for walking, exercising, and playing in nature. Extensive bush regeneration will further support the natural environment.
For more information on this project and the suite of works set to be delivered as part of the Waratah Park Masterplan, visit go.ssc.nsw.gov.au/WaratahPlay