Every now and again a playground comes along that is not just for the little kids, but for the big kids and the biggest kids of all - adults.
Explorer Park in Haynes, a growing suburb of Perth's south, is just that. With an impressive playground for kids of all ages to enjoy plus an extensive network of bike paths, a basketball court, outdoor exercise equipment and even cricket nets. Wow!
At the heart of the playground is the 'tree' play structure. In my almost five years of being a parent, I must say, I have never seen a play structure like this one. It is one of the best, with the tree trunk the climbing structure for kids to explorer, plus branches and giant green leaves.
Inside, there are easy steps to the midpoint, then a more challenging, ascending rope-based structure to get the kids to the top. There is a slide at the midpoint and one at the top.
You will need a full morning or afternoon to have a play on everything. There is musical play, swings, a birds nest swing, a roundabout, various bits and pieces to climb, balance and explore.
There is a smaller play structure for little kids, but at the time we visited it didn't have any shade, so it may get hot in the summer heat. The majority of the other play equipment is shaded.
The park has a huge grassed area that is perfect for the kids to have a run around on and on this side of the park, the cricket nets, basketball court and 'rock climbing' wall.
Over in this section, there are a number of tunnels that appear to be old building materials, or partially made from. You can walk through these, or the kids can play in and around them.
All around the park is a network of bike and walking paths that are nice and flat, making them perfect for younger kids learning to ride bikes, although once they see the park they may lose all interest in riding their bikes. Older kids and adults can make use of the free, outdoor gym equipment.
If you live around the Armadale area or are just passing through for the day, this innovative park is worth a visit. It well and truly has something for all ages and will keep the kids busy and active all day.
