Tee off at one of Ipswich’s newest playgrounds, Pace Park in the rural suburb of Rosewood. This brand new golf themed playground stakes claim to Australia’s very first giant dome – a massive, shaded climbing structure. It is full of challenges and interactive elements which are sure to excite thrill seekers while the little ones can explore the specially designed toddler section.
Pace Park Playground
Pace Park is located next to the Rosewood Golf Club and carries a golf theme throughout with plenty of ball shaped obstacles, a predominately green and yellow base and even a golf inspired hoop course.
The centrepiece is the history making 6m tall climbing dome which packs in dozens of playable elements from wooden ladders, rock climbing holds, hammocks and multiple platforms. It’s also completely shaded which is particularly important on those scorching hot Ipswich days.
The spacing of the netting and the height of the activities means the dome is most suitable for children at least four years old and even then you might find yourself climbing up the top to “rescue” them (like we did!).
Apart from the dome, there’s also a bunch of other super fun additions like a dual flying fox, an in-ground trampoline and a seated disc spinner, which accommodates five children at a time and resembles the dimpled surface of a golf ball. This is accompanied by a cute, low to ground toddler playground and a learn to ride track complete with road signage.
Another feature worth highlighting is the unique disc golf/frisbee course located on the connecting grassed area. Named after golf course holes, the field consists of a series of posts each with differently positioned rings for frisbees to sail through. These could also double as netball hoops or really any other ball sport that interest you.
Note – There are NO toilet facilities at this park.
Imagination Factor at Pace Park
Pace Park playground scores a hole-in-one for creativity with its bright, sporty theme and range of equipment with over 170 different features.
The toddler playground looks like a cubby house with a bridge, twinkly star roof and windows that overlook the climbing dome. It’s contained within the figure-of-eight bike track which also surrounds the dome, creating a nice and natural flow between play spaces.
The dome itself is full of surprises with inspiration for pretend play hidden throughout while its towering height encourages a riskier style of play. Harry Potter fans will almost definitely see a resemblance between the frisbee course and a Quidditch field but it could also easily lend itself to many other imaginary play scenarios.
Accessibility at Pace Park
This park is pretty light on in regard to facilities given it is located in a new residential area. There are two picnic shelters and a water fountain, however there are no toilet or BBQ facilities which means it isn’t ideal for parties or families with very young children. There is one, shaded set of swings which includes a harnessed adaptive swing for those children requiring additional upper body support.
Pace Park Features
- Unfenced playground
- No toilets
- Partially shaded by shade sails
- Rubber base
- Golf themed playground
- Giant climbing dome
- Dedicated toddler playground with slides
- In-ground trampoline
- Dual flying fox
- Seated disc spinner
- Multiple swings including adaptive and toddler swings
- Learn to ride track
- Grassy field
- Frisbee hoop course
- Two picnic shelters
- Water fountain
- Off and on street parking available
Some other great attractions worth visiting in the Ipswich area include Leichhardt Park, Haigslea EWE Nique Hobby Farm and the Ipswich Children’s Library.
What We Thought of Pace Park
The Pace Park design raises the bar on residential playgrounds with its spectacular climbing dome and novelty golf theme which is both vibrant and inviting. It is a bit of a trek from Brisbane and with no toilet or BBQ facilities on site it is really only practical for locals and families who live close by.
That being said we really enjoyed our visit and even spotted a few kangaroos and some gorgeous parrots which added a nice country feel to the morning out. Although it’s likely to be lost on the kids, this playground is also largely made out of recycled materials and marine waste which is a great move towards creating more environmentally sustainable communities.
This review was written by Brisbane parent and explore Kate
How to Get to Pace Park
Pace Park is located at Vassalo Drive, Rosewood QLD 4340, in the new housing development of Rosewood Green.
Pace Park, Vassallo Drive, Rosewood 4306
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