Construction is now underway for the Dharawal Nature Playspace and Simmos Beach Parklands projects at Simmos Beach Recreation Reserve, Macquarie Fields.
The Dharawal Nature Playspace Project will see a one-of-a-kind, family friendly playground which will celebrate the habitat, lifecycle and shared Dharawal and Wiradjuri Dreaming of the Platypus.
Members of our local Aboriginal community worked closely to co-design playspace, which draws inspiration from Aboriginal culture, local landscapes and community stories. Public artist Aunty Michelle Hailes has helped shape and bring the project's creative vision to life through sculptures, drawings and artistic features incorporated throughout the playspace, helping to create a meaningful place for families to play and connect.
The Simmos Beach Parklands Project is set to see new community infrastructure, including a new viewing deck, footpath upgrades, and amenity upgrades, supporting passive recreation, green spaces and outdoor learning.
Central to this project is public artwork connecting to the Dragonfly Dreaming and the music produced by a dragonfly's wings in flight. Reflecting the creative vision, co-designed by members of our local Aboriginal Community, the artwork invites visitors to connect with Country through stories written and illustrated by Jo Tanginoa.
Together, the projects represent an $8.7million investment into the popular local and regional destination.
"The Dharawal Nature Playspace and Simmos Beach Parklands projects will transform this much-loved riverside reserve into a destination where families can play, learn and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of our natural environment we have here in Campbelltown," said Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Darcy Lound.
"By bringing together nature-based recreation, Aboriginal storytelling, public art and improved community facilities, we're creating a place that celebrates the unique identity of our city and our connection to Dharawal Country," said Cr Lound.
Member for Macquarie Fields, Anoulack Chanthivong MP said the projects would greatly enhance the popular Simmos Beach Nature Reserve.
"These exciting projects will provide local families with more recreational opportunities close to home, while connecting to Dharawal Country and showcasing our local natural beauty."
To facilitate construction works, vehicle access to Simmos Beach Recreation Reserve is limited.
Public access to Simmos Beach and the reserve will remain accessible to pedestrians and cyclists throughout the construction period, which is scheduled to be completed in early 2027.
The Dharawal Nature Playspace and Simmos Beach Reserve Projects are proudly funded by the NSW Government through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program in partnership with Campbelltown City Council.
