Hobsons Bay City Council was upgrading McCormack Park to create a more inclusive playspace for children of different ages and abilities. One of the main requirements was wheelchair access to an elevated platform 2.3 metres above ground level. Council provided an initial layout showing a large L-shaped ramp leading to the upper platform, with an adjoining climbing structure and a wide concrete slide designed to accommodate users with limited mobility.

With that design brief, Activity Playgrounds designed, manufactured and installed a custom-designed, multi-level timber and steel playground structure featuring an accessible ramp, elevated platforms, internal climbing challenges and integrated nature-inspired details, including the main elevated play structure and Native agility trail. The team also supplied and installed the concrete slide, along with additional play equipment and park furniture.

The main structure includes a long, elevated timber ramp leading to an upper platform and multi-level climbing tower. With such a large structure, it was important to maintain plenty of play opportunities along the way. The tower includes internal rope-net platforms and climbing walls to add more challenge, rather than simply providing a way to reach the slide.

Per the request of the Council, the playground has a natural look, with timber used throughout the main structure and butterfly and dragonfly details that tie in with the existing park. With a natural finish that is easy to maintain. Cutek Oil was chosen to protect the timber while allowing it to gradually weather to a natural silver colour, rather than needing to maintain a traditional stained finish. For the steel elements, a powder-coated colour was used that resembles weathered Corten steel, along with galvanised mesh panels. The larger butterflies and dragonfly were added during the design process to carry the nature theme through the structure.

Together, these design decisions helped deliver a playground that responds to Council's accessibility requirements while retaining visual appeal and varied play opportunities.

KEY FEATURES OF THE PROJECT

• A large, custom-designed elevated timber playground structure forming a centrepiece of the park
• An extensive L-shaped ramp designed to provide wheelchair access to an upper platform 2.3 metres above natural ground level
• A wide concrete slide connecting with the elevated platform
• A multi-level climbing tower incorporating internal rope-net platforms and rock-climbing walls
• A Native agility trail providing additional climbing, balancing and movement challenges
• Custom butterfly, dragonfly and nature-inspired steel details reflecting the park's existing landscape features
• Additional play elements and park furniture contributing to the wider playspace
• A combination of natural timber, Corten-look powder-coated steel and galvanised mesh
• Timber protected with Cutek Oil to support a natural weathering appearance
• A sectional design and construction approach developed to accommodate the size of the elevated ramp and the site's sloping ground

Visit Activity Playgrounds via the links below to learn more