Earlier this year, Mount Waverley's Pinewood Reserve and Mulgrave Reserve in Wheelers Hill (pictured above) were nominated by Parks and Leisure Australia for their statewide awards.
This is an outstanding recognition of how highly regarded these Council playgrounds are for the local community.
Both playspaces were upgraded in 2025. Now, with a year under their belts, we asked local sports clubs who play at the reserves what their players and families love most about them.
Mulgrave Reserve
Mulgrave Reserve's district playspace has been a hit with families.
"My daughter is obsessed with the playground," said Eastern Devils Women's Football Club senior player and regular park visitor Elley.
"As soon as we arrive at the reserve, she races to the gym equipment to balance on the balance beam, and then she runs as fast as she can to climb up the playground equipment and slide down the giant slide. The mini trampoline is also always a must."
Mulgrave Football Club player Mitch said the playground has become a regular part of game day for his family.
"I've played football at Mulgrave for years. Now we can't come to the reserve without our daughter insisting we stop at the playground before and after the game! She especially loves bouncing on the trampoline!"
Pinewood Reserve
For junior team families, the playground at Pinewood Reserve provides a welcoming space for younger children while older siblings take part in weekend sport.
"My youngest son loves the playground at Pinewood Reserve while his older brothers are playing footy with Waverley Blues on Sundays," said one U-11's parent.
"He heads straight for the big swing, see-saw and climbing nets. He says the curved netting is especially fun to climb on. The playground is really safe and great for all ages. It's been a fantastic addition."
(Image: Pinewood Reserve in Mount Waverley)
More playspaces planned
While the playspaces did not win in their respective categories, we're incredibly proud to see them recognised at a state level and valued so highly by the local community.
In the 2026-27 financial year, we'll be investing in even more outdoor spaces for our community, with $3 million in Council's budget for new playspaces at:
- Princes Highway Reserve in Oakleigh East
- Gladeswood Reserve in Mulgrave
- Queens Parade Reserve in Ashwood.
The upgrades are supported by $678,650 from round one of the Victorian Government's Pick My Park program.
