$520,000 reconstruction of community playground starts

Port Hedland’s Marapikurrinya Park is finally getting a renovation after it was destroyed in an arson incident in 2015.

The Town of Port Hedland announced last week construction had begun to rebuild the park’s playground.

Mayor Camilo Blanco said the $520,000 project was made possible with funding support from Lotterywest, the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities program, donations from the community, and the Town of Port Hedland.

“We were overwhelmed by the support we received from residents and businesses who threw their support behind rebuilding the playground,” he said.

“The new playground will be an improvement on what was there previously — with the park overlooking our port and shipping activity, the playground will have a nautical theme with accessible equipment for people of all abilities, which was one of our key priorities.”

Highlights of the new playground will include a new permanent shade structure, accessibility ramps, a new accessibility-friendly carousel, a larger playground footprint, a play tower, a sunken timber boat bow for junior pirates, play equipment for children aged between two and 12, and perimeter fencing.

The first stage of the project is expected to take about four-five weeks and will include the installation of the new shade structure, followed by the installation of the modular play equipment.

“The Town is also looking at ways we can engage kids in the rebuild of the playground so they can be proud of what they have and ensure others respect this community area,” Mr Blanco said.

Marapikurrinya Park was reduced to rubble in October, 2015 after flames tore through the favourite community spot, with an estimated damage of more than $250,000.

Since the destruction, community consultation has been ongoing to ensure residents have had the opportunity to share their ideas on the playground rebuild.

The reopening of the Marapikurrinya Park playground is expected in May.