Gowanbrae Community Centre, Merri-bek

The newly upgraded playground at the Gowanbrae Community Centre in Merri-bek City Council is a dream come true for children and families in the area. Set amongst a beautiful and leafy green environment, the playground has been designed using a neutral and cool colour scheme with pops of yellow, making it an inviting and fun space for kids to play in. With a range of exciting features including row swing with toddler seats and strap seats and a frog multi rocker, the playground is sure to provide hours of entertainment for kids of all ages.

One of the standout features of the playground is the three main structures, all linked together with climbing base play options such as the Everest Climbers. The tallest structure boasts a rung climber that leads to a platform with a congo net (inclined) as well as a higher platform with a telescope panel and spiral slide. The second structure has a curved slide, combat joiner with rails, a rock wall, colour panel, tunnel – inclined and a couple of hole panels for additional climbing fun. The smallest structure has a shop counter, safety panel and counting panel. The overall playground has a combination of both hexagonal and curved roofs, adding to the fun and playful atmosphere.

The benefits of play for children are well documented and cannot be overstated. Play allows children to develop a range of skills, including physical, social, emotional and cognitive skills. When children engage in physical play, they develop gross motor skills such as running, jumping, climbing and balancing. They also develop fine motor skills through activities such as drawing, painting and building with blocks. Socially, children learn to interact with others, share and take turns, and develop important communication skills.

Emotionally, play provides children with a safe space to explore their feelings and express themselves in a way that is natural and uninhibited. This can be especially important for children who may struggle with anxiety or other emotional challenges. Finally, play is an excellent way to stimulate cognitive development, as children are encouraged to think creatively and problem-solve in a way that is both fun and engaging.

Overall, the upgraded playground at the Gowanbrae Community Centre in Merri-bek City Council is an excellent addition to the area, providing children with a safe and exciting space to play, learn and grow. With its range of features and stimulating environment, the playground is sure to be a hit with kids and families for years to come.