Love Street Park, Bulimba, is a gem of a park that is often overlooked unless you live nearby. It is on a street that is only used by local traffic and is bordered by the river, so you could say it is one of Bulimba's hidden treasures. It had not been long open when the floods hit and the council commenced phase two of its installation. All that is in the past now and it is up and running in all it's glory which includes some fine pirate themed climbing frames, fishing rods, bridges, rigging and hammocks.
Built in a giant sand pit, it is ideal for smaller children and pre-schoolers in particular love the chunky toys and often bring their own digging utensils. There is equipment for older kids too. My six year old has progressed to the rock climbing side of the larger climbing frame and feels a kamikaze leap from the top into the sand is the obvious way back down. A roundabout offers a bit of a challenge, too, as children are initially happy with mere holding on but soon advance to standing up and surfing the tilt as bigger kids push full steam ahead.
Phase two of the installation has been a big bonus as there are many more activities to keep children happy for a couple of hours at a time. Previously the park was inhospitable in the day as the glare of the sand made it too hot to use until after about 4pm. New sun sails have been erected and the park has seen increased numbers using it as a result.
The park is also a dog lover's dream as it contains a generous, fenced dog area which is always popular without being overcrowded. Barbecue areas are available closer to the water and are just begging for sausages and a nice cool drink as you watch the many joggers and cyclists go past.
Marks out of ten
Play items: 9 Good variety for all ages
Safety: 9 Sand is great but oh so tempting to throw!
Sun safety: 8 Sun sails over most of the play area
Water bubbler: 9 Two bubblers including one in the dog area
Toilets: 0 The main drawback
Coffee access 7 Not far from Oxford St
Parking: 7 Street parking but watch out for yellow lines
