This weekend RiotACT introduces a new regular feature, the playground review. Our expert reviewer, Kate Buscombe, visits playgrounds across Canberra to give parents and carers the low down on what’s new, fun and interesting when it comes to play.
The Boundless playground is a relatively new play space that lays claim to being an all-ages and all-abilities domain.
A bright Sunday morning was the perfect time to investigate Boundless with three play experts, Artie (4 years), Clyde (2 years) and Kaden (18 months).
Boundless, which opened in October last year, is spread over a large area and caters to a variety of interests and needs. The play equipment includes swings, a sand pit area, water play station as well as climbing equipment and slides.
The fort area is predominately made of timber which reduces slipperiness when wet and also does not retain as much heat as metal or plastic – good for little hands on hot days. The main area includes two enclosed slides and one infant slide, joined by balancing challenges and bridges.
Throughout the playground there are small games for the children to stop and play, including number and letter identification as well as plastic flip-to-reveal games. Artie particularly liked climbing across the ‘wobbly bridges’ to get to the forts while the younger boys were occupied with the slides.
There is a water play area with large metal spouts that can be moved shoot water intermittently. Beware if you are standing close by as the water shoots a few metres in all directions! I noticed that some children found it difficult to operate the spouts as they are heavy to move and it was not clear how to turn them on.
All abilities features include a reclined swing and a raised sand pit bench. The ramps on the main equipment are wide-set allowing wheelchair access and mobility. Most of the playground’s flooring is soft-fall or grass, however there are a few concreted areas. The ground is mostly even and ramps allow access to any part of the play space.
The grassed areas and picnic tables invite families to take a break from playing and refuel. Unfortunately shade is limited and grassed areas are in full sunlight, making it difficult to cool off on hot days.
There are two water stations with bubblers and taps. The toilets are in the playground and are touch-less, including large change table benches with nappy and sanitary disposal bins. Garbage bins are conveniently located throughout.
All in all we had a great time at Boundless and the variety of areas and activities provided entertainment for our three boys. I would definitely recommend visiting Boundless – make sure you bring hats and drink bottles to stay cool!
What: Boundless playground
Where: Kings Park (Near the Carillion on Lake Burley Griffin, access via Kings Avenue)
When: Open everyday, 7am-8pm (during daylight savings), 7am-5pm
Parking: Limited around the lake, so be prepared to walk a short distance
Recommended for: Children of all abilities and interests, from 1 year – 10 years
For more information, visit the Boundless Canberra website.
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