New equipment and shade for local playgrounds

Published on 14 April 2026

Families across the Fraser Coast will soon benefit from safer play equipment and more shade, with upgrades to four local playgrounds starting this week.

Upgrades will take place at Alex Gillespie Park in Torbanlea, Parklands Boulevard Park in Wondunna, Woocoo Wildlife Reserve in Tinana and Anzac Park in Maryborough.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the projects are part of Council’s Park Strategy 2041, which is guiding planned improvements across the region’s park network.

“Parks and playgrounds are important spaces where families come together, kids stay active and communities connect,” he said.

“These upgrades will deliver safer, more modern equipment so locals can enjoy these spaces for years to come. We’re continuing to invest in parks across the region to make sure they meet the needs of our growing community.”

At Alex Gillespie Park and Parklands Boulevard Park, works will include removing ageing equipment and installing new playgrounds with improved drainage, sand soft fall and upgraded edging.

At Parklands Boulevard Park, shade structures, shelters, lighting and surrounding landscaping will also be refurbished. At Alex Gillespie Park, a new shade structure will be installed and improvements will be made to the gravel car park.

At Woocoo Wildlife Reserve and Anzac Park, new shade sail structures will be installed to provide better sun protection for families using the playgrounds.

Parks and Playgrounds spokesperson Cr John Weiland said the upgrades would make a noticeable difference for park users.

“Investments like new equipment and better shade go a long way in making playgrounds safer and more comfortable, especially in our climate,” he said.

“These projects are about creating spaces where kids can play safely while parents and carers can relax knowing the facilities are well-maintained. We’re proud to deliver improvements like this across the Fraser Coast to support active, healthy lifestyles.”

Works at Woocoo Wildlife Reserve and Anzac Park start this week and are expected to be completed by late May, while playground replacements at Alex Gillespie Park and Parklands Boulevard Park are expected to run from early May to late June, weather permitting.