Wodonga – Henrika Kuljurgies Playground

Henrika Kuljurgies Playground – Wodonga

Project Overview

Safe Play worked with Wodonga City Council’s brief to replace a termite-damaged playground with a durable, nature-inspired play space built to last. Their wishlist called for a well-rounded mix of play elements: swings, a slide, a climbing structure and an agility course – all with a natural aesthetic that wouldn’t compromise on longevity. The result is a space that delivers on every count, with a meaningful local touch woven into the design.

Design Response

With longevity front of mind, the design team specified Safe Play’s composite timber panels throughout — delivering the warmth and character of natural timber with none of the vulnerability to termites or weathering. It’s a practical choice that doesn’t ask for any visual compromise.

The play structure itself offers genuine variety: a linear unit with two slides, an easy-access option for toddlers, monkey bars, a cube climbing structure, an agility course and a freestanding shop front panel for imaginative younger play. The mix caters to a wide age range and encourages different kinds of physical and creative engagement side by side.

A standout feature of the project was the research that went into honouring its namesake. Henrika Kuljurgies was a local artist known for placing a magpie in the paintings she created. In recognition of this, a custom magpie panel was incorporated into the design, a quiet but meaningful nod to her legacy that gives the space a genuine sense of place and story.

Outcome

The Henrika Kuljurgies playground delivers a play environment that’s built to endure and designed to delight. Families have a space that’s rich in play value, respectful of its surroundings, and connected to the local history that makes Wodonga’s community its own. A termite-resistant playground with a magpie watching over it — we think Henrika would approve.

📍 Location: Wodonga Council
👷 Installation: Safe Play Australia