New play space brings more fun to Hope Avenue Reserve

The former playground has been replaced with a fun, new play space structure designed to encourage physical, imaginative and social play. Kids can whizz down the spiral slide, tackle the monkey bars and rock wall, navigate the cable rope climber and sway bridge, or enjoy the swings - one with an accessible seat.  

There are also plenty of interactive features to spark imaginative play, including a shop panel, noughts and crosses, horizontal abacus, binoculars and steering wheel. Shade sails will be installed over the playground before summer. 

The upgrades don't stop there. A new shelter with table and seating provide a place to relax, while older children can challenge themselves on the new activity cube and its 2.5m vertical rock wall. 

The basketball/netball court has also received a makeover, with surface repairs, new line markings, a sound-deadening basketball backboard and new basketball and netball equipment.  

The play space was earmarked for an upgrade as part of the City’s 2025/26 Capital Works Program due to its age and condition, and in line with the City's Public Open Space Plan 2025. It was designed following community feedback gathered in September 2025. 

Next in line for an upgrade this financial year will be George Burnett Park which will receive a new playground to replace the two existing ones. Community consultation on the playground design will take place closer to construction, with more information to be shared soon.