Lake Macquarie City Council is swinging into family-friendly action, with children's playgrounds underway or in the pipeline at sites across the city.
Tuesday marked the opening of the city's latest space for children and families to burn off some energy - a complete transformation of the playground at Keith Barry Oval, Toronto.
Previously, the playground consisted only of two dated, lonely swing sets.
But thanks to the overhaul, the site now boasts climbing structures, netting, a firepole, a see-saw, a spinner and a creative play 'shopfront'.
Bench seating and a perimeter concrete path are also included in the project.
The NSW Government contributed $150,000 to the upgrade via its Local Small Communities Allocation Program.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz, who cut the ribbon on the project on Tuesday 18 August alongside Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper, said similar upgrades were planned for the 2026-2027 financial year at Marmong Point, Morisset and New Lambton Heights.
"We've built an enviable reputation in Lake Macquarie for creating playgrounds and public spaces that are more than just swings and slides. They're destinations where families can connect and children can explore and play."
"Recognition such as Rathmines Youth Hub being named Australia's best play-space last year shows what's possible when we invest in great design and make the most of our incredible open spaces."
"Our community surveys consistently show the maintenance and improvement of these spaces rank among the highest priorities for Lake Macquarie residents, and projects like the Keith Barry Oval playground are a direct response to that feedback."
Mr Piper said he was pleased to see NSW Government-funded programs making "a real and tangible difference" in Lake Macquarie's growing communities.
"A makeover for the Keith Barry Oval playground was long overdue, and I appreciate Lake Macquarie City Council's work in delivering this great new space," he said.
"As the home of the Macquarie Scorpions Junior Rugby League Club, Keith Barry Oval draws visitors from far and wide who will enjoy the new playground, as well as mums, dads and kids living locally."
Council has also recently completed community consultation for the upgrade and expansion of Wyee Community Hall Reserve to a district level park incorporating a neighbourhood playground, active recreation facilities and picnic facilities.
Those plans propose play equipment for a broad range of ages, including a flying fox, obstacles, climbing elements and a social space for teens.
Design will be progressed this year with construction subject to future operational plan.
"We will also soon be engaging the Cardiff community on the replacement of the skate park at Wilkinson Park," Mayor Adam said.
"We want to understand how people use the space now, and how they might like to use it in the future."
Meanwhile, Charlestown Lions Park will undergo significant expansion in the current financial year, with a view towards completion in 2027-2028.
The upgrade will feature a half multipurpose court and hit-wall, a new playground, public amenities and car parking.
Council manages more than 110 playgrounds across the local government area. Go to lakemac.com.au
