The design concept is farmyard themed, to honour and reflect the farming heritage of the Rowville area.

Some of the key features of the new playspace include:

• a large pioneer style farm structure
• a mammoth swing
• an accessible tractor for children to climb
• a sandpit with water play
• multiple interactive play elements.

The new playground will also:

• be fully fenced and have access gates in two locations.
• Have additional picnic seating in and around the playspace.

We are dedicated to creating an all inclusive playspace where all children no matter their ability, age, cultural and social background, can play together side-by-side and parents, grandparents and carers feel welcome too.

Following the motto of 'Can I get there?' 'Can I play?' and 'Can I stay?', the design addresses these considerations ensuring the playground is accessible for the whole journey including arriving at the carpark, accessing play equipment and using public facilities.

The design also includes:

• wheelchair-accessible ramps to as many parts of the new playground as possible.
• communication board to identify playground elements with images for children who struggle to express themselves verbally
• a guide to each playground area and the type of play that can be enjoyed including motion play, imaginary play, sensory play and social play.

The design was developed using feedback from extensive community consultation.

Feedback was received online via surveys and ideas walls made available on our Knox Have Your Say webpage and also in person via local pop-up information sessions at Stud Park Shopping Centre and Wellington Village Shopping Centre.

The timeline for consultation:

• February 2021 – first consultation about what you would like us to include in the new playspace.
• October 2021 - the draft concept design was presented to you for further feedback
• December 2021 - consultation on the final draft detailed design

Refer to the Community Engagement Summary below for further information.