Minnamurra Public School students watch the ribbon cutting on their new playground. Photo: NSW Premier’s Office.
What would you build if you had more than $100,000 to play with?
Minnamurra Public School boasts a brand-new nature playground for students, thanks to a $110,000 election commitment from the NSW Government.
The new playground is a blast from the past: rather than brightly-coloured stainless-steel and plastic installations, it incorporates natural materials.
It includes a timber fort with a climbing wall, two climbing nets and a ladder step, teepee structure and timber cubbyhouse, timber jetty platforms with tree log posts, a dry bed creek with log crossings, hopping logs and sandstone log seats.
Minnamurra Public School Principal Linda Wilbraham said the whole school community was involved in the playground design.
“Minnamurra Public School is situated on beautiful Dharawal Country, and our school community highly values the opportunity for students to connect with our environment,” she said.
“The creation of a nature playground at our school provides the perfect space for students to explore, move and play, while interacting with natural materials and built structures.
“The playground features active zones as well as creative spaces for performing and imaginative play.
“Its design was inspired by the drawings and ideas of our students, and their voice is truly reflected in the final product.
“Our parents and carers were also actively involved throughout the design process and our whole school community is delighted with the completed project.
“It is sure to be a special feature of the school for many years to come.”
NSW Member of the Legislative Council and Government Spokesperson for Kiama Sarah Kaine said the playground could bring health and education benefits for students.
She said community advocacy was key to securing the funds and praised the commitment of staff and former students.
“Minnamurra Public School has always played a key role for young people in this town and it is great students can now take advantage of these new exciting facilities,” she said.
“The school and the staff do wonderful things for the local community.
“By increasing the number of recreational spaces available, this nature playground will contribute to improved physical fitness, academic performance, and community engagement.
“I want to acknowledge the advocacy of former Minnamurra Public School students like Katelin McInerney in helping to secure funding for this playground.
“This playground is a real win for the local community, ensuring the students have access to the facilities they deserve. I look forward to seeing current and future students use it to the fullest.”
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