Frequently asked questions on playgrounds.
How many playgrounds are there in Wodonga?
There are 72 designated public playgrounds in Wodonga, which are categorised as local, neighbourhood or regional. They are distributed throughout the local government area in sportsgrounds, parks and reserves.
Why are parks categorised?
Parks are classified for planning and management purposes. The three levels of classification are known as local, neighbourhood and regional. This system allows for the basis of a design brief.
Regional: Known as destination playgrounds that provide play experiences for people outside their immediate residential areas
Neighbourhood: These service a whole residential precinct and are typically larger than the local play space.
Local: They serve homes within walking distance. They are unlikely to attract users from further afield. These are usually located either within 500m or 10 minutes’ walk of a resident’s home.
Why are some playgrounds fenced and others not?
Playgrounds are only fenced if there is a potential hazard such as a busy road, car park or water nearby. Alternatives such as plants are used if appropriate. Facilities such as seating and shade are provided inside the fence to encourage an appropriate supervision level by carers.
Why is bark mulch used as undersurfacing (softfall) in playgrounds?
Playground bark mulch (conforming to Australian Standards) is used as undersurfacing in most playgrounds, with rubber used in high wear areas under individual pieces of equipment such as swings, slides and spinners. The mulch is used in preference to sand and rubber as it is best at absorbing impact, and therefore has the most potential for reducing possible injury in the event of a fall. Sand is used by cats and is an easier material in which to conceal objects. Bark mulch undersurfacing can be topped up and aerated as required to meet appropriate Australian Standards.
Where are toilets and barbecue facilities provided?
The provision of public toilets and barbecues is determined through the classification of play spaces. Generally public toilets may be provided at those categorised as neighbourhood or regional. They usually contain multiple recreational opportunities and visits are likely to be of an extended time.
How is shade provided at playgrounds?
Provision of shade for children and carers is considered when playgrounds are designed and upgraded. Natural shade from trees is preferable to shade sails, but sails are installed if shade is inadequate and trees cannot provide shade within a suitable timeframe. Shade sails are often vandalised and are also susceptible to storm damage.
Why are metal slides installed in playgrounds?
Plastics in public spaces are prone to fire and vandalism damage. Metal slides are installed for their durability and design.
For what age range do playgrounds cater?
In general, playgrounds cater for children in the 0 to 14 age range. It is difficult to categorise equipment and activities provided as suitable for a specific age range, as children of the same age vary greatly in their physical and other abilities. Where possible a variety of graded challenges is provided in each playground rather than age appropriate equipment. Some equipment can however be considered appropriate for a general age group such as spring rockers for younger children and climbing walls and flying foxes for older children.
What do I do if my playground is damaged?
If there is damage to any play equipment, please contact Wodonga Council on (02) 6022 9300 to report its location and specifics of the damage so that it can be either be repaired or replaced. The city’s playgrounds and fitness equipment are audited by an independent auditor annually.
How can I be involved in playground design?
Community consultation is included in all park landscape improvement plans. Residents living in the vicinity of the park have the chance to submit ideas and requests for the park, including playgrounds. Visit makewodongayours.com.au for more information on the projects happening in the city.
Where can I find out more information about playgrounds?
You can find out which facilities (including toilets, barbecues and parking) are available at each park and playground on our parks, gardens and playgrounds page