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New playgrounds and pump tracks unveiled in West Arthur and Kulin

Isabel VieiraNarrogin Observer
The redeveloped Lake Towerrinning playground.
Camera IconThe redeveloped Lake Towerrinning playground. Credit: Shire of West Arthur

New playgrounds and youth facilities have opened in the shires of West Arthur and Kulin, giving the region’s younger generations a happy start to the new year.

The Shire of West Arthur’s new playground is a part of a larger redevelopment project at Lake Towerrinning which also includes upgrades to the jetties at the popular ski spot.

Project officer Kerryn Chia said the upgrades were part of the Shire’s community strategic plan funded by the Federal Government.

“The playground at Lake Towerrinning had to be replaced because we water the lawn with salt water and the water had resulted in the playground becoming quite deteriorated,” she said.

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“So we had to replace the fence and the playground.”

The Lake Towerrinning new playground is a part of a larger redevelopment project.
Camera IconThe Lake Towerrinning new playground is a part of a larger redevelopment project. Credit: Shire of West Arthur

Ms Chia said the playground’s features were inspired by the natural environment, wildlife and the ski activities.

“We’ve recycled some components of the playground, which included a plastic slide and a boat,” she said.

“We decided to make the playground more in harmony with the natural environment so we’ve incorporated more natural features such as stepping stones and logs.

“We’ve got a climbing feature with a net which is made with bush polls.

“The lake is used for skiing, so we’ve got the boat and we have incorporated a spring wake board.”

The standout feature of the Lake Towerrinning playground is the long-necked tortoise play-sculpture designed and crafted by Albany artist Darrel Radcliffe.

The long-neck tortoise play sculpture at Lake Towerrinning playground.
Camera IconThe long-neck tortoise play sculpture at Lake Towerrinning playground. Credit: Shire of West Arthur

“We have a long-neck tortoise sculpture which has been included in the playground for the children to play on,” Ms Chia said.

“We engaged with the students at Darkan Primary School and we asked them what they wanted to see.

“And the things that came out of that were the climbing net and the tortoise sculpture.”

Shade sails and seating are set to installed at the playground and it will be officially opened later this year.

The completion of stage one of the Shire of Kulin’s All Ages Precinct Project was celebrated with a community Christmas party in December.

The Shire of Kulin's new pump track.
Camera IconThe Shire of Kulin's new pump track. Credit: Shire of Kulin

“It was our annual town Christmas party for the kids; we normally have it at the recreation centre but this year we had it at the all ages precinct,” Shire chief executive Garrick Yandle said.

“Father Christmas attended and handed out lollies and presents and there were skate demonstrations for the kids.”

The first stage of the project involved the installation of a pump track, skate park, hit up zone and half-court basketball area.

The barbecue and picnic area, public toilets, playground and landscaping were also given a facelift.

The next stage of the upgrades will involve the installation of a ninja warrior obstacle course as requested by local primary school students.

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