POOCH PERFECT PARKS
ABBOTT PARK AND BALLYBUNION FAMILY PARK
WHO knew the area surrounding the Gold Coast University Hospital was such a haven of parks and reserves?
Well I didn’t, so I was pleasantly surprised when I found two potential new spots to take the hounds for a walk.
Luckily, these spots are also family friendly, so they’re great for a day out spent barbecuing or doing whatever it is your family does.
First stop, Ballybunion Family Park. Mostly comprising bushland, there is also a reasonably sized grassed area for the kids to run around in, plus barbecue facilities, a small basketball court and playground.
People wanting to explore a little can follow the grass strips behind the houses fringing the park. Keep an eye out for cockatoos and dozens of butterflies here – they’re not shy!
If a longer day out at the park is more your thing, then Abbott Park, situated off Parkwood Blvd, might be more to your liking.
This spot has two sides to it – on one side is a smaller space for those wanting to just relax in the surroundings. There’s just one bench there to sit on, and you’re parked right next to the golf course.
Again, there’s a larger basketball court, complete with a fun mural the kids can pose alongside, two playgrounds and picnic tables. Take the little bridge across the small drain-slash-creek (keep your imagination open, there’s beautiful monstera plants growing on the corners) to get to the enclosed dog park, complete with agility equipment.