Upgrade is child’s play
GETTING INTO THE SWING OF $1.1m WATER GARDENS’ OVERHAUL
JINGILI Water Gardens playground has a fresh new look, with the creation of an inclusive and accessible play space for all children to enjoy.
The $1.1m upgrade features custom-built slides and climbing nets to allow all children to play, while the change facility provides a hoist and bench for children with disabilities and their carers.
Six local artists, who live and work with disabilities, created a Magical Mangroves themed design for the playground, reflecting the local, tropical environment.
Darwin council chief executive Scott Waters said community input was central to the development of the new play space.
“The new facility replaced equipment which was dated and unsuitable for children with disabilities,” Mr Waters said.
“The community clearly indicated they wanted a place children of all abilities could enjoy.”
To improve playground accessibility, council collaborated with the children’s charity Variety NT.
Variety general manager Katrina Fong Lim said inclusive public spaces had a range of benefits
for children with disabilities.
“Being outside, playing, using their motor skills . . . that gives them great health outcomes,” Ms Fong Lim said.
“They might have family members who do not live with a disability who can play with them all together, and make new friends and make sure that they’ve got this social network happening.”
Resident Amber Hamilton said it was great to have a space that accommodated all children with all abilities.
“The kids loved it,” Ms Hamilton said. “The wooden balancing beam and tunnel were cool.”