Laughter, movement and community connection filled Anzac Park on Saturday, 7 February, as families and children came together to celebrate the official opening of Glen Innes’ Nature Play Park.
The $1.2 million Nature Play Park is the result of strong community advocacy and is one of the most significant recreation projects delivered by Glen Innes Severn Council in recent years. The playground was designed and constructed by Moduplay, transforming a well-used community space into a modern play area that supports inclusive, imaginative and nature-based play.
Mayor Margot Davis said the opening was a proud moment for the Glen Innes community.
“It was wonderful to see families and children enjoying the park from the moment it opened,” Cr Davis said.
Cr Davis also acknowledged the local parents whose advocacy sparked the project.
“This playground began with our community. In 2022, a group of Glen Innes Severn parents wrote to Council with a clear and heartfelt message about the need for a modern, accessible play space. Their passion and persistence set this entire project in motion, and today’s opening is a testament to what community voices can achieve,” she said.
Throughout the opening weekend, the park was alive with activity, with children exploring the new play equipment and families spending time together in one of Glen Innes’ most loved public spaces. The Nature Play Park includes a range of play elements designed to encourage active, sensory and social play for children of all ages and abilities.
The Nature Play Park was officially opened by Brendan Moylan MP, Mayor Margot Davis and Deputy Mayor Carol Sparks. Member for the Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan MP said the project was an important addition to the region and highlighted the benefits of collaboration across all levels of government.
“The new playground at Anzac Park is a huge addition to the region’s recreational infrastructure and provides a safe space for families to come together and enjoy being outdoors,” Mr Moylan said.
“It is fantastic to see all three levels of government working together to create something the whole community can be proud of. It is a major addition to Glen Innes’ regional infrastructure, and I hope people of all ages will enjoy it for years to come.”
Cr Davis said investing in high-quality, accessible play spaces was an important part of supporting community wellbeing.
“Playgrounds like this are about more than play, they’re about bringing people together, supporting healthy lifestyles and creating places where families feel welcome,” she said. “The Nature Play Park is a fantastic addition to Anzac Park and a space the whole community can enjoy for many years to come.”
The opening event was supported by Council’s Youth Booth, along with the New England Club / Glen Innes Services Club and Grey Street Gourmet Grocer, with strong attendance from local families and children helping to mark the occasion.
As with any major construction project, minor rectification works will continue following the opening, with Council already in discussion with the contractor regarding a small number of defects, including elements of the shade structure. These works will be addressed as part of the normal post-completion process while the park remains open for community use.
Proudly funded by NSW Government Stronger Country Communities Round 5, Australian Government Growing Regions Program Round 2 (administered by NSW Government), and Glen Innes Severn Council.
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