Our goal for the upgrade is to enhance Queen Elizabeth Reserve as a vibrant, inclusive destination that reflects its heritage while providing engaging spaces for play, recreation, and community connection.

This playground is catergorised as a District Park playspace. District Parks are large, regionally significant open spaces that serve multiple neighbourhoods within an approximate 2km service radius and attract visitors from a wider catchment.

The design reflects the reserve’s unique character, providing modern spaces for play and recreation while honouring its local heritage.

Community consultation: What we heard

In mid 2025, we conducted Phase 1 of our engagement to understand what the community wanted to see in an upgraded playground. Key themes included:

• Interest in equipment for toddlers through to older children, including climbing equipment, flying foxes and nature play
• Requests for exercise equipment and ball sport areas
• A desire for a safe learner track with traffic features for bikes and scooters
• A request to acknowledge the site’s history as a former RAAF facility and migrant camp.

While community input from Phase 1 has directly informed the project concept, it is important to note that Council cannot always implement every specific request. Due to site limitations, technical constraints, environmental factors, maintenance requirements, and budget parameters, we focus on delivering the best possible outcomes within the practical confines of the project.

Concept Design

We want to hear your thoughts on the concept design. It includes the following features:

• An expanded play space with accessible and inclusive play elements
• Themed play equipment offering a variety of play opportunities
• A learn-to-ride circuit for children to ride bicycles and scooters
• An extensive accessible pathway system linking site facilities
• Upgraded park furniture, including bins, bubblers, seats, and tables
• Opportunities for adventure play activities
• Increased planting areas and natural play elements
• Outdoor gym equipment
• A half-court basketball area with twin hoops

See the concept design below. Click on the image for a larger version or download here.