Australia’s largest inclusive slide is just the start of the accessibility features at Clyde North’s new playground.
The Tree Walk Park opened for play on 16 April before a community party on 3 May marked its official launch in the Berwick Waters estate.
The Crosswater Boulevard playground is a Livvi’s Place inclusive playspace, designed with the Touched by Olivia Foundation.
The inclusive slide is easy for mobility device users to transfer into and out of.
The treetop canopy walk weaves through mature trees, has views of the adjoining wetlands, and is fully accessible.
The ramp design ensures climbing, walking, and wheeling play opportunities.
Other inclusive aspects include accessible swings and spinners, fencing and handrails, continuous connecting accessible pathways, communication boards and visual mapping, breakout quiet areas, shade and seating, barbecue shelters with large format accessible picnic tables, and accessible toilet facilities with an electric adult change table.
Inclusive play panels, music chimes, and bells provide sensory experiences.
Fixed fitness equipment, half basketball, quarter netball, and four-square courts, a grassy area, and a fenced dog park round out the 1.3 hectare space.
Touched by Olivia Foundation is a non-profit improving individual and community wellbeing through inclusion and belonging.
Tree Walk Park is among almost 50 Livvi’s Place inclusive playspaces across Australia.
The foundation’s head of inclusive play, Kim Becherand, said Tree Walk Park was “truly intergenerational, with challenge and adventure for young and old alike”.
“It also boasts the largest inclusive slide in the country,” she said.
Kim said simple inclusions could ensure everyone had the same play opportunities, like the handrails in the park’s nature play area.
“They offer a little extra support to balance if needed, so everyone can join in or safely supervise on what might be uneven ground,” she said.
