- Ground broken on $1.25 million all-abilities playground at Whiteman Park
- Local company secures tender for State Government funded project
- Construction on nature-based playground to be completed by late 2019
Planning Minister Rita Saffioti was today joined by Tony and Amy Rudd, and representatives of the Touched by Olivia Foundation, in turning the sod for an all-abilities playground at Whiteman Park.
WA company Nature Play Solutions has been successful in securing the tender for the construction of the much-anticipated playground, to be named 'Pia's Place'.
The project is being funded via a $1.25 million grant from the Western Australian Planning Commission and will be managed by the Touched by Olivia Foundation.
The start of construction marks the culmination of years of planning by the Rudds who wished to create a special place for all children, in memory of their late daughter Pia.
The Rudds have been supported in their fundraising efforts by the Noranda Lions Club as well as the Touched by Olivia Foundation, which specialises in developing inclusive play spaces.
The nature-based playground will feature customised play equipment including an elevated lighthouse, polished concrete slides, a basket swing, an all-abilities carousel, a sensory garden and family friendly shelters.
In addition, the WAPC is investing $250,000 for an all-access amenities building with shower, toilets and lifting equipment, to further enhance the accessibility of the playground.
Located near the Mussel Pool East tram stop, Pia's Place playground will be suitable for children of all abilities including those with physical disability and mobility challenges.
As stated by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
"I am delighted to see this project progress to the construction phase.
"Pia's Place all-abilities playground has been years in the making, largely driven by Amy and Tony Rudd in honour of their late daughter Pia.
"The commitment that the Rudds and their supporters have demonstrated in bringing this inspirational project to fruition should be commended.
"It is also very pleasing to note that the tender has been awarded to a WA company.
"The WAPC has funded all-access amenities near the playground to ensure that Pia's Place is a place for everybody.
"Whiteman Park is a popular attraction for both locals and visitors alike; the Pia's Place all-abilities playground will further cement its place as an iconic Western Australian family destination."
