City of Newcastle will celebrate the completion of the $3.5 million upgrade to Gregson Park with a special family-friendly event.
Featuring a wide variety of new play equipment and community amenities, the upgrade promises aims revitalise the beloved park and provide new opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
The celebration will feature free activities such as face painting, roving entertainment, and treats from an ice cream truck, running from 10 a.m. to noon.
Among the standout features of the upgraded park is a new focus on inclusivity and nature-based play. The design incorporates a bush tucker garden and a yarning circle, which honours Indigenous traditions and encourages knowledge sharing. The upgraded play area now boasts equipment suitable for all ages and abilities, including a six-metre-high climbing tower, trampolines, and a balance obstacle course. Additionally, an upgraded, accessible amenities building ensures that the park is welcoming to everyone, including those with limited mobility.
The playground has been designed to cater to a range of interests and physical abilities. Children can enjoy a variety of play options, from a softball mound with slides and climbing elements to waterplay features, a seesaw rocker, and a swing set.
For those with accessibility needs, the park offers an inclusive carousel and other specialized equipment, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun. Passive and active recreation opportunities are plentiful, with new shaded areas, seating, footbridges, and an outdoor gym.
A particularly cherished feature of the park, Maddie’s bench, remains at the heart of the new play space. The bench is named in honour of a community member, Maddie, and serves as a spot for reflection and enjoyment of the park’s tranquil surroundings.
The Gregson Park family-friendly celebration event is happening on Tuesday, 8 October from 10 am. For more information visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au.
