New hospital playground helping kids connect through play and education

WA Country Health Service has delivered a one-of-a-kind design playground at Bunbury Regional Hospital – providing a fun and safe place for patients and visitors.

Built by local company Active Discovery, the playground is designed to be engaging for children who may be spending time in hospital or visiting loved ones.

Located close to the paediatric ward, it offers kids a unique sensory experience and connection to the South West’s natural surroundings through sensory panels, farm equipment and a shopfront for imaginative play.

The area will also include shade sails and painted murals to provide a safe play space for children and their families to enjoy.

Bunbury Regional Hospital Director Jeff Calver said it was important to have community input into the design, which is firmly focused on allowing children to learn while playing.

“The design of the playground incorporated feedback from the hospital community including our paediatric nursing and medical teams.

“We wanted to make sure the playground was engaging, age-appropriate and was a safe space for children who may be spending time in hospital or visiting a patient,” he said.

“We’re proud that the outdoor space will aid play, education and respite for kids and their families, for years to come.”

Incorporating sustainability into the build, the playground’s matting is made from recycled material and other plastic products. Its use helps reduce landfill and carbon emissions and uses less chemicals than conventional playground material.

The laminate used to make the play equipment is also made from 100 per cent recycled material and natural renewable products.

Artwork to surround the playground will be painted after further consultation with the community in January 2024.