A key feature of the design is the use of nature play elements comprising of timber and natural materials for major play equipment rather than traditional painted metal and plastic equipment. This is more in keeping with being environmentally friendly and strengthening the natural surrounds of Stirk Park.

The plans for the park include a half sized basketball court, exercise equipment, flying fox, picnic facilities: BBQs, bench seating and shade shelters, a new toilet block, a viewing platform with arbour, and a historic bridge.

There will be a new junior play area complete with water fountain and sand play zones, a timber arbour meeting place, board walk, rope walk, shop front, zig zag climber and animal and human tracks telling a Dreamtime Story.

The plans also cater for youth with a zig zag boardwalk, triple swing, thread chimes, talking tube, school tiled pathway, double flying fox with all abilities seat, and a possum hangout.

Mayor Margaret Thomas said the transformation of the park will benefit the community through significant social, economic, and environmental outcomes.

“This is a hugely important project for the City as we continue our mission to provide safe and healthy environments for our community to enjoy.”, she said.

“The new space will provide a more inclusive environment at Stirk Park and better cater for large family and social outings while providing the community an opportunity to connect with the local environment through the nature play theme and explore local history and Aboriginal heritage information through the history bridge concept.”

“Stirk Park is already a destination of choice for visitors to our region, and the improvements will further activate the site and enhance its reputation, bringing vital tourism revenue to local businesses.”

The project has been led by the community, with the recent adoption by Council coming after extensive community consultation was undertaken to develop both the Stirk Park Master Plan and the concept designs.

The $3.8M project will be funded from a combination of sources including funding from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program,  Lotterywest, a contribution of $75,000 from the Rotary Club of Kalamunda and the City of Kalamunda

The project will now proceed to tender, with the aim of construction commencing towards the end of 2022.

Full details of the project can be found here or alternatively, please contact the City of Kalamunda on (08) 9257 9999, email enquiries@kalamunda.wa.gov.au.