Playground at Karlkurla is a winner
The nature playground at Kalgoorlie’s beautiful Karlkurla Bushland Park has been recognised as a national leader in play safe design.
The playground, opened in 2024, is the winner of the Public Playspaces $500K to $1M category in Kidsafe Australia’s National Playspace Design Awards.
Image credit: Kalgoorlie-Boulder Urban Landcare Group
It was recognised for excellence in community engagement, whilst incorporating innovative approaches to embracing risky and challenging play and integrating the use of sustainable resources.
This popular playground, supported by the WA Government, the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Northern Star Resources and Western Power, was delivered by the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Urban Landcare Group which maintains a community nursery and Eco and Cultural Education Centre at Karlkurla Bushland Park.
“The idea of building the nature playground was to get kids off their devices and into nature and attract them to Karlkurla Bushland Park,” said the Group’s CEO Kim Eckert OAM.
Image credit: Kalgoorlie-Boulder Urban Landcare Group
“Time spent outdoors encourages active play, which supports healthy development, improves fitness and boosts immune function. Nature also provides a calming environment that reduces stress and anxiety, helping to improve focus, mood, and sleep.
“Away from screens, children engage more deeply with the world around them—observing, asking questions, and using their imagination. These real-world experiences foster curiosity, creativity, and a stronger connection to the environment, nurturing a sense of responsibility and care for the planet.
“The combination of adventure, discovery, and tranquility in a bushland park helps children develop a deeper connection to nature.”
