There is a fabulous new playground in Goolwa which, it seems, is more popular with adults than children. A friend, who shall remain nameless, was attempting to squeeze through the barrier protecting the playground, just before the opening date early last month. She had caught a glimpse of the new equipment, musical instruments and artwork from the road and wanted a closer look. She had almost gained access when a smiling security guard approached and told her she was about the twentieth adult to be refused entry within the past week. Apparently no children had been caught 'breaking in', only grown-ups!
Nature Playspace, Bristol Smith Reserve,Goolwa
Named 'The Nature Playspace', the playground opened to much anticipation and excitement, in early December 2015.
It features a wooden boat, which, if you know Goolwa, is very much in keeping with local culture.
wooden boat
There are climbing nets and climbing poles.
climbing net
There is a slippery dip and all manner of swings.
swings
Everyone loves the huge sandpit, the tunnels and the water play which features a small creek.
more swings
There are benches and barbecues for picnics and there's a sandy beach at a shallow part of the river for swimming and paddling. But here's my favourite bit - and, I suspect why so many other grown ups were so impatient to get in - the musical instruments and artwork.
xylophone art statement
Really, they've thought of everything!
swan drums and fish art
The carved tree on the periphery of the playground was created by two Alexandrina Council employees who donated over 120 hours of their own time add further local flavour to this wondrous project.
carved tree
And there's a little carved seat where you can sit and watch the pelicans, swans and watercraft glide past on the river.
little carved seat
I consider myself lucky to have two delightful granddaughters, and therefore an excuse to visit this fantastic playground often. Because THEY want to, of course!
The wooden boat mermaid
