Terry and Frances Slaughter Park Playground

A lovely green pocket on a grassy hillside by the lake is the perfect setting for a freshwater adventure. The park’s central feature, the wooden sailing ship, is striking and invites children aboard to explore.

The tall rope-net climbing structure here resembles a ship’s mast and crow’s nest lookout with several climbing elements providing access to the top. It is reasonably high and open, making it better suited for school-aged children. On the ship’s side are two rope-based tightropes resembling some planks to walk.

Younger children can keep busy with the equipment in the top section of the park, where there is a fun banana swing, a stand-on seesaw and a smaller climbing mast with ropes. A metal tunnel slide cascades down the hillside to the bottom of the ship.

In this lower area is a unique rope swing. There is also a mound with rock climbing grips that lead back up to the mid-level of the playground. At the same time, the grassy hillside is a brilliant place for chasing games or just rolling down a hill.

Terry and Frances Slaughter Park is an ideal location for a pirate or maritime-themed birthday party.

Imagination Factor at Terry and Frances Slaughter Park

“Ahoy, me hearties! This playground be a treasure trove for all ye little pirates. With a mighty wooden ship at its heart, ye can climb the mast’s rigging and spy land from the crow’s nest. And any scallywags who don’t follow the captain’s orders will be dealt with accordingly. They will have to walk the plank!

If pirates are not your thing, then perhaps this is an expedition for scientists exploring a shipwreck discovered in a suburban hillside after a big storm. Where did it come from? Where was it going? Why is it here?

Accessibility at Terry and Frances Slaughter Park

This location has smooth concrete pathways from the car park and accessible toilets. Multiple elevations and a bark chip base make it challenging for individuals using wheelchairs or prams.

Parents with speedy toddlers may struggle as it is a spot where little ones can move up and down between different sections much faster than parents, especially if you are supervising multiple children. Close supervision is recommended at all times. 

Terry and Frances Slaughter Park Features

• Unfenced playground (next to a lake)
• Bark and soft fall play base
• Accessible toilets
• Ship-themed playground
• Mast and crow’s nest rope-based climbing feature
• Stand on seesaw
• Thick rope swing
• Tunnel slide to lower level of playground
• Banana swing
• Soft fall mound with rock climbing grips
• Tightropes
• Covered picnic tables
• BBQs
• Open grassy hillside
• Lake views
• Shade sails
• Car parking

Another wonderful park nearby worth exploring is Discovery Park, Springfield Lakes,

What We Thought of Terry and Frances Slaughter Park

We found this park to be green and lovely. The equipment also differed from what you usually see in parks, which my son loved. We plan to stop by again soon!

Mosquitoes can frequent the area, so be prepared and bring insect repellant. But don’t let that discourage you – this park is worth a visit!

How to Get to Terry and Frances Slaughter Park

Terry and Frances Slaughter Park can be found on Santorini Way, Springfield Lakes.

More Photos of Terry and Frances Slaughter Park

Train themed playgrounds in Brisbane

Milton Train Park, Milton

One of the most well-known train-themed playgrounds in Brisbane can be found in Milton. Not only does the Milton Train Park have a replica train for kid to clamber over and on, it also has tracks, a railway crossing, and a very cool tunnel mural that gives the illusion the stationary train is heading somewhere.  A brilliant way to pass the hours for any imaginative train fanatic, the surrounding playground is fully fenced and generously shaded too.

Train Features: Replica train, tracks, painted tunnel mural, railway crossing

Other Playground Features:

• Fenced playground
• Play equipment under shady trees
• Rubber and bark base
• Climbing structures
• Slide
• Swings
• Rockers
• Basketball half-court
• Grassy open spaces (unfenced)
• Bike and walking paths
• Electric BBQ
• Picnic tables and shelters
• Small carpark and street parking
• Fenced off-leash dog park

Address: Milton Road near Eagle Terrace (opposite the former tennis centre) in Milton

Read our full review of Milton Train Park here.

Ewing Park, Woodridge

Ewing Park in Woodridge has always been a Brisbane kids’ favourite when it comes to playgrounds that feature trains. Whilst the original playground that actually featured a play train has now been renovated and the train feature removed, the actual train drawcard is what surrounds it.  Running circles around the park is a miniature train track with crossings, a platform and even boom gates.  Even better – every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month there are actual train rides! Weather and restrictions permitting, from late January to November you and your children can enjoy train rides from 10:30am-4pm.

Train Features: Miniature train rides, railway tracks, crossings, train platform, boom gates.

Other Playground Features:

• Wheelchair-accessible toilets
• Playground equipment for a variety of ages over a sand base
• Unfenced, unsheltered playground
• Four single electric BBQs
• Few shady trees
• Sheltered picnic tables
• Jacaranda trees
• Shopping centre next door
• Large carpark (often busy during sporting matches)
• Many interconnecting bike and walking paths

Address: Netball Drive, off Ewing Road, at Woodridge

Read our full review of Ewing Park here.

John Scott Park, Samford

Tucked away in the delightful country town of Samford is John Stott Park and its sweet train-themed playground. A generous park that features BMX tracks, a basketball court, bike and walking paths and also some pretty cool playground elements, the small little play train that is found here is perfect for the youngest of visitors or any child with an imagination and love of locomotives.  Surrounded by niche art and craft stores, cafés and a wide-open stretch of grass, John Scott Park in Samford Village is perfect for a morning or afternoon play in the outdoors.

Train Features: Play train

Other Playground Features:

• Partially fenced playground
• Accessible toilet facilities
• Bark chip and rubber soft fall bases
• Climbing nets
• Slides
• Swings
• Rotating see-saw
• Spring rockers
• Tunnels
• Climbing wall
• Bike and walking paths
• Basketball court
• Petanque/boules playing field
• Asphalt BMX track
• Gas barbeques
• Shelters with picnic tables and bench seating
• Filtered water refilling stations
• Bike racks
• Large shady trees
• Grassy open space
• Street parking

Address: Station Street, just off Main Street in Samford Village

Read our full review of John Scott Park here.

Scarborough Beach Park, Redcliffe

Beachside – tick.  Fully fenced – tick. Train-themed – TICK!!  Scarborough Beach Park is one train-themed park that definitely ticks all the boxes when it comes to family-friendly playground that offer train-loads of fun for kids.  The ultimate playground destination for imaginative play, the playground features not only a train-themed area complete with play train but also a pirate-theme ship section and fairytale Cotton Tree forest (within the playground fencing too).  As if that isn’t enough, the playground is also located alongside Scarborough Beach, which means the kids can play, swim and play in the nearby park all in one visit!

Train Features: Stationary play train

Other Playground Features:

• Fenced playground with themed play areas
• Sand, rubber mat and chip bark base
• Accessible toilets
• Swings including a toddler swing
• Seesaw
• Balancing equipment
• Slides
• Sand play
• Climbing structures
• Jumping pillow (fully fenced)
• Basketball half-court
• Several shelters, picnic tables and electric barbecues
• Bins, taps and water fountains
• Overlooking the ocean
• Bike paths (part of the Moreton Bay Cycleway)
• Cafes and takeaway food options nearby
• On and off-street parking

Address: Landsborough Avenue at Scarborough

Read our full review of Scarborough Beach Park here.

Queens Park, Ipswich

Did you know that the incredible park and playground at Queens Park in Ipswich is also home to a pretty cool sunken play train?  Built to look as though it submerged beneath the soft fall base of the playground, the small attraction makes for some pretty interesting play scenarios for kids.  The playground itself is pretty impressive, spread generously over a sloping hill within the parklands.  The kids will love the water play area, while the whole family will be enthralled by park’s other attractions including the Queens Park Environmental Education Centre, Ipswich Nature Centre, Nerima Japanese Gardens and on-site cafe.

Train Features: Small sunken train

Other Playground Features:

• Toilets including disabled access (2 toilet blocks)
• Nappy changing facilities
• 4 Electric BBq’s
• Rubber base around equipment
• Lots of shade over the playground
• Cafe
• No fitness equipment
• You can walk dogs but there is no dog off-leash area
• Water nearby, including river stones 
• Water pumps where children can pump the water and watch it run down the little streams made.
• 2 carparks. Free parking and disabled parking.

Address: Queens Park, Merle Finimore Avenue, Ipswich

Read our full review of Queens Park Playground here.

Don’t let the fun stop at just the playground though!  Your little ones will also no doubt love these other train-themed activities in Brisbane:

Train attractions in Brisbane for kids

Dinosaur Themed Playgrounds

Riverdale Park, Meadowbrook

Riverdale Park is the place any budding palaeontologist would dream of playing in. Complete with an incredible climbing structure, high netted bridges and twisting slides, its the dinosaurs hidden within the play space that they will adore. Send your little ones on a journey of discovery as they climb over and within a sunken triceratops skeleton, scamper over dinosaur footprints, stand beside life-like dinosaur sculptures and search for the many smaller, hidden dinosaur elements too. 

Dinosaur Fun: Dinosaur footprints, dinosaur eggs, baby dinosaurs, life-like dinosaur sculptures, dinosaur skeletons, and dinosaur motifs.

Location: Armstrong Road, Meadowbrook

Read all about Riverdale Park.

Thornlands Community Park, Thornlands

There is no denying that Thornlands Community Park is a pretty impressive play space. Fully fenced and with all the amenities you need to spend a full, comfortable day here, the playground is generously spaced and filled with a range of diverse play equipment to keep children of all ages active, entertained and using their imagination.  A large rock-rimmed sandpit in the playground also contains a hidden treasure for any curious child keen to do a little digging. In fact, a resting dinosaur skeleton is just waiting to be unearthed here!

Dinosaur Fun: Dinosaur sand pit dig.

Location: 270-282 Cleveland Redland Bay Road, Thornlands

Read all about Thornlands Community Park.

UQ Playground, St Lucia

The University of Queensland is a state-of-art education facility in Brisbane, and so it is little wonder that its on-site playground fits that bill too. Connected by a series of meandering concrete pathways, this all-abilities and all-ages playground features a number of inspiring and engaging play spaces for kids to explore. These include a giant steel climbing structure, adaptive swing, flying fox and…you guessed it…dinosaur dig pit.

Dinosaur Fun: Dinosaur sand pit dig

Location: Sir William MacGregor Drive, St Lucia

Read all about UQ Playground.

Johnston Park, Rosewood

Image Credit: Discover Ipswich

In the mid to late 1900’s, dinosaur footprints were discovered during tunnel mining for coal in Rosewood, Ipswich. From these, scientists were able to determine the shape and size of what was soon to be known as the ‘Rosewood Swamp Trampers’.  These theropod dinosaurs were said to live in the area more than 165 million years ago and, just a few years ago, Ipswich Council decided to create reconstructions of the dinosaurs, their eggs and their footprints and place these around Johnston Park in Rosewood. A visit to the park and playground here will not only gift your children a delightful encounter with these creatures of the past, but also an educational insight into how they were lived and were discovered.

Dinosaur Fun: Reconstructions of dinosaurs, eggs and footprints from ones found in the area.

Location: 61 John Street Rosewood

Read all about Johnston Park.

Cloverside Park, Maudsland

Image Credit: City of Gold Coast

Cloverside Park in Maudsland is a small, nature-inspired playground that offers little ones plenty of imaginative play opportunities alongside various spectacular creatures.  They can walk along the back of a giant red-bellied back snake structure, slide down an impressive vertical slide, climb into the charming cubby or get dirty in the small dinosaur dig pit!

Dinosaur Fun: Dinosaur sand pit dig

Location: Green Court, Maudsland

Read all about Cloverside Park.

Hanover Drive Playground, Alexandra Hills

Hanover Drive Playground is better known for its multiage playground offerings but if you look a little closer you will also find a “dinosaur fossil” hidden in the sand. Imaginative play opportunities include attending the playground as an archaeologist, performing an excavation to discover the bones. After all the  hard work is done, there is a toddler fort and a larger net and slide for older kids to enjoy. We like that this playground is largely covered by shade sails, the way a Brisbane playground needs to be. 

Dinosaur Fun: Dinosaur sand pit dig

Location: 11-21 Hanover Drive, Alexandra Hills

Read all about Handover Drive Playground. 

Aura Dino Park, Nirimba

We can’t do an article on dinosaur-themed playgrounds and NOT mention Aura Dino Park. A little bit further north, this Sunshine Coast playground takes dinosaur themed to the next level, with its colossal dinosaur-shaped climbing structure being a stand out feature for visitors. Little ones can let their imaginations go wild as they climb up into the dinosaur month, traverse along its rope body and exit through its tunnel dinosaur tail!  The playground also has a dinosaur dig space complete with a “Caution: Archaeological Dig Site” sign and small dinosaur eggs scattered throughout the area to be discovered by mini palaeontologists!

Dinosaur Fun: Dinosaur-shaped main climbing structure, archaeological dig, miniature dinosaur eggs

Location: Terrence avenue, Nirimba

Read all about Aura Dino Park.

You can find more information on Where To Find everything Dinosaur in Brisbane (not just playgrounds).

Fairy Playground Features: Magical Forest

Other Playground Features:

• Climbing equipment galore!
• Rope nets
• Balance beams
• Cliff climbers
• Tunnels
• Ledges to climb and balance upon
• Tunnel slide
• Toddler’s wide slide
• Play base of rubber soft fall and bark
• Hand rings
• Unfenced playground
• Scooter track
• Covered and uncovered picnic tables
• BBQs
• Accessible toilets
• Concreted walking paths
• Basketball half-court
• Grassy areas
• Fenced dog park
• Car park and street parking

Address: Batten Street in Kedron

Please read our full review of Bradbury Park (The Magical Forest) here.

 

Garth Webb Park Playground, Camp Hill

Garth Webb Park – Photo Credit: Playscape Creations

The newly renovated Garth Webb Park Playground features all the usual play equipment children love to explore with a distinct fairytale theme running throughout.

A beautifully hand-carved fairy door is one of its central features, as are the delightful fairy stools.  Each stool is inlaid with a beautiful resin fairy scene.  To encourage discovery through the space, several hide and seek Animal-themed medallions have been concealed throughout the play items as well.

Fairy Playground Features: Hand-carved fairy doors and stools with fairy scenes.

Other Playground Features:

• Climbing towers 
• Slide
• Sensory panels
• Bark Base
• Fairy doors
• Stools
• Swing
• Seesaw
• Animal-themed medallions
• BBQs
• On-street parking
• Unfenced
• No toilets

Address: 127 Kennington Road, Camp Hill

Here is a review of Garth Webb Park.

Hidden World Playground, Fitzgibbon

The Hidden World Playground in Fitzgibbon may reside on a relatively unremarkable suburban road, but that is where the “boring” ends. This northside playground, filled with bright and colourful play equipment that features giant caterpillars, half-buried dragons, and other mystical creatures, is the perfect environment for would-be fairies to play.

We also recommend checking out the manhole cover and the mystery surrounding this spectacular space- the truth is out there! 

Fairy Playground Features: Fairy Castle-like fort, mystical creatures, gnome, buried dragon

Other Playground Features:

• Unfenced Playground
• Accessible toilets
• Sand-base (can get hot in the heat of the day)
• Multi-level wooden forts, swings (including standard, toddler and nest swing), slides
• Spinning bucket, 3-way springer, sway Fun (multi-user, all-inclusive glider)
• Wheelchair carousel, climbing structures, musical elements
• Sheltered picnic tables and BBQ facilities and rubbish bins
• Fenced dog off-leash park
• On and off-street parking

Address: Roghan Road, Fitzgibbon

Civosity Park

Not your usual playground set up, Civosity Park is an enchanting garden that offers plenty of nature and imaginative play opportunities for Brisbane kids. The play garden features a small creek, mini bridges, and plenty of enchanting decorations along the way, including giant mushrooms, fluttering butterflies and a playful platypus.

At night the garden transforms into an illuminated magical forest, lit by well-placed coloured fairy lights.

Enchanted Forest Playground, Ashgrove

The Enchanted Forest is a popular park for local families, boasting musical toadstools with slides, swings, climbing nets, and fort-style constructions. 

This park gives kids the backdrop to any imaginative play world they would like to enter. There is the fairytale castle climbing fort and a witch’s store complete with the cauldron, spider webs, pumpkins and more – perfect for creating their own spells and potions.  The magical toadstools and forested environment make this an ideal fairytale playground in Brisbane for birthday parties.

Like any tree dense playground in Brisbane, always bring some insect repellent. 

Apex Park, Ormiston

Apex Park has so many wonderful features that will inspire a child’s imagination.  The small Gumnut house area off to one side is perfect for little ones who want to pretend they live in a magical forest land of fairies and woodland creatures.  With giant ladybugs and dragonfly slides complete with a wooden log seat and letterbox, these whimsical offerings are rare in a suburban playground like this. The park is covered by shade sails and features flying fox, sandpit, nature play space, bike pump track, multi-sport half court and so much more!  

Bray Farm Park Playground

• No toilets
• Multistorey playground fort with slides
• swings and climbing net
• Covered picnic table 
• On street parking

Address: Riverbreeze Estate on Rivermint Street, Griffin

Please read our full review of Bray Farm Park

Funderwood Hollow

• Toilets
• A unique Spielart adventure playground
• Additional play features in the wider Underwood Park
• Shady
• Playground shelters and BBQs
• Off street parking
• Off leash dog park

Address: Underwood Park is located on Underwood Road in Priestdale.

Play spaces that spark imaginative play in children is something that our team at Brisbane Kids love. If you are looking for more playgrounds that we think foster this you may also be interested in:

Themed-Playgrounds

Urban Play’s Best Brisbane Playgrounds

Urban Play’s Best Inner Brisbane Playgrounds

Riverside Green

Riverside Green, Southbank

Ken Fletcher Park, Tennyson

Chalk Street Park (Vera Canale Park), Lutwyche

Fernwood Park, Taigum

Sir John Chandler Park, Indooroopilly

Urban Play’s Best South-West Brisbane and Ipswich Playgrounds

Ripley Adventure Park

Spring Mountain Lagoon Park, Spring Mountain

Flagstone Adventure Playground, Undullah

Tucker Family Park, Bellbird Park

Robelle Domain, Springfield

Orion, Springfield

Hilltop Adventure Park, Collingwood Park

Ripley Adventure Park, South Ripley

Urban Play’s Best South Brisbane Playgrounds

Calamvale District Park

Thrush Street Park, Inala

D.M. Henderson Park, MacGregor

Homestead Park, Shailer Park

O’Gorman Street Park, Alexandra Hills

Buxton Park, Yarrabilba

Yugarapul Park, Sunnybank

Alexander Clark Park, Loganholme

Hilltop Park, Ormeau Hills

Whites Hill Recreation Reserve, Whites Hill

Calamvale District Park, Calamvale

Urban Play’s Best North Brisbane Playground

Amity Park

Ridgeview Park, Narangba

Spinnaker Park, Newport

The Green, Carseldine

Summerstone, Morayfield

Amity Park, Narangba 

Lemke Park, Albany Creek

Along with Urban Play’s impressive list of best Brisbane playgrounds, you might also be interested in checking out our list of the Best Brisbane Playgrounds.

Who are Urban Play?

Flagstone Adventure Park

Urban Play has grown into one of the most reputable playground suppliers in the Australian market, completing over 8,000 play and fitness spaces. By no means your average playgrounds, the company’s designs are quite often mind-blowing to behold, with their themed elements, creative builds and towering constructions an easy marker.  

With a base in Brisbane, the company’s focus on play value, creativity, sustainability, inclusivity and innovation is clear to see, with their quality products developed to withstand our harsh Australian climate and create happy and healthy communities.

Urban Play – The best playground designers in Queensland?

Orion Playground

It’s a big call, but from a team who have reviewed A LOT of playgrounds over the years, it is one we are happy to make for us. Their list of awards may support this, but if you head to any of their playgrounds, you will know what we mean.  

Built from the ground up, the team states they relish the challenge of turning ideas into concepts and sketches into reality – and we believe them! The quality of their materials and equipment is unmistakable, and they take great pride in creating unique areas of play that not only spark imagination but offer challenging and adventurous play for all age groups.

Although many of their playgrounds feature elements like giant, twisting metal slides and sky-high netted rope bridges, safety is paramount and children can be challenged without concern. It’s not only these extensive features that we love, though. Their playgrounds are usually themed, and the adorable abstract constructions and characters woven into the space make imaginative play a big factor for the kids.

Tygum Park playground 

Tygum Park is a great location to picnic, play and explore whilst soaking up nature. 

The park has a large pirate ship, smaller boat and a big climbing net – all perfect for developing gross motor skills while having fun. Smaller Brisbane Kids will enjoy the lower-level sensory buttons to press and things to spin as well as the slides, steps and climbing frames to conquer.

There are also swings, moving stepping discs, skate ramps and a half basketball court for the bigger kids. Some of the play areas have shade cloth but some areas are not shaded so be sure to pack hats, sunscreen and water. 

Best of all, the open green space and big, beautiful trees provide shade for a rest, picnic or ball game. There is lots of seating scattered throughout the park which is ideal when little (or big) legs need a rest.  

A pathway around the perimeter of the lagoon is just over 1km long; it is an easy flat, accessible walk for bird and wildlife spotting. 

Imagination Factor at Tygum Park

Ahoy there, me hearties – from high up on the pirate ship you will be able to watch for other pirates, ships or mermaids approaching and keep your crew safe.

Perhaps bring some sand toys for little Brisbane Kids as there is plenty of soft sand for sensory play once they have enjoyed the lower-level climbers and swings.

Older Brisbane Kids will love the skate ramp, shooting some hoops on the basketball court or the open space to kick a ball. Riders and walkers will enjoy the flat paths and track around the lagoon.

Accessibility at Tygum Park

Tygum Park has accessible toilets and plenty of parking. There are lots of paths and flat walking tracks for wheelchairs, prams and riders. Beautiful large established trees provide shade, and plenty of seating makes this park a very accessible space for everyone. 

Tygum Park features 

• Unfenced playground 
• Accessible toilets 
• Sand base 
• Shade cloth in some areas 
• Big shady trees but some of the playground is still unshaded 
• Pirate ship and smaller boat play structures with steps, fortes, slides, climbers 
• Large rope climbing frame 
• Multiple swings 
• Moving balance steps 
• Lower-level interactive stations for smaller hands 
• Lagoon with walking path
• Fitness equipment stations 
• Fishing pontoon 
• Covered picnic shelters 
• Plenty of seating 
• Electric BBQs 
• Skate ramp
• Basketball half-court
• Bike and walking paths 
• Big, open grassy spaces 
• Dogs on-leash permitted
• Off-street parking 

Another awesome playground nearby is Eridani Park in Kingston. 

What We Thought of Tygum Park 

After a swing and play in the sand, we really enjoyed walking around the lagoon and bird watching. The pirate ship, boat and other play zones are great, but some areas are unshaded so can get very hot. 

How to Get to Tygum Park 

Tygum Park is located at 7 Park Road, Waterford West. 

More Photos of Tygum Park

Country Paradise Parklands Playground

At the heart of Country Paradise Parklands lies its stunning 11.5m windmill* centrepiece and 2-level slide, accessible via a water-tank tunnel and suspension bridge – drawing in families with the promise of playful adventures.

A comprehensive play area is offered, equipped with an assortment of play equipment which caters to various age groups, ensuring all kids, regardless of age, have an engaging experience.

One of the standout features that particularly caught our attention was the dedicated section for young toddlers. Thoughtfully designed, this space ensures the youngest visitors have an area tailored just for them.

Imagine a completely miniature-sized play environment where everything is reachable and navigable by tiny hands and feet. From tunnels and slides to climbing walls, swing bridges, and a play hut – it’s a haven for toddlers, giving them both a sense of independence and security in a space crafted to their size. 

Beyond the toddler zone, older kids are treated to a John Deere tractor-themed play area. This delightful space is accentuated with an enclosed curly slide, viewing bubbles, climbing rope, and wheels that beckon kids for an imaginative play. The farm animal spring rockers provide added fun, enhancing the rural charm of the playground.

A significant point for parents to note is the wooden suspension bridge leading to the windmill tower. While it undeniably adds to the adventurous allure of the park, the spacing of its steps may pose a challenge for younger children. The steps are relatively wide-set, therefore parents should closely supervise their kids, especially the little ones, when crossing this bridge.

The playground also incorporates a playful in-ground trampoline, merging the thrill of jumping with the safety of its ground-level design, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.  Meanwhile, the sandpit with log stepping stones and a log balance track beckons those looking for tactile play.

While the playground boasts a variety of features, the water play section was somewhat underwhelming. At first glance, the two water pumps and surrounding creek bed hint at interactive water fun, but the reality is a bit disappointing. The water play lacks the expected dynamic interaction, with water simply emptying out into a creek bed without much engagement. 

Note – at time of writing in September 2023, the top of the windmill was out for repair

Imagination Factor at Country Paradise Parklands

Country Paradise Parklands ignites children’s creativity, transporting them to scenes of rural life and farm adventures. The diverse play structures encourage tales of navigating creek beds, overseeing vast farmlands from the windmill tower, and lively farm activities such as riding in tractors and herding wildlife. It’s a setting where everyday play seamlessly morphs into imaginative farm life stories.

Accessibility at Country Paradise Parklands

While Country Paradise Parklands boasts a wealth of amenities, a slight inconvenience is the placement of the toilets—requiring a short trek across a road, albeit still within the Parklands, and about 100m from the playground.

However, compensating for this are ample designated parking spaces right by the playground. Additionally, the park offers numerous spots for group activities, from shaded picnic shelters to a spacious grassy oval, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors.

Country Paradise Parklands Features

• Unfenced playground
• Toilets
• Shade sails covering half of the playground
• Soft fall and sand base
• Suspension bridge
• Climbing wall and post
• In-ground trampoline
• Toddler play structures
• Slides
• Swings (flat, toddler and basket)
• Rollers and ramps for scooters
• Playing field
• Paved path network
• Shaded picnic shelters
• Green space
• Water fountain
• BBQs
• Parking

About Country Paradise Parklands

The parklands flourish under the dedicated care of the volunteer-driven Nerang Country Paradise Association, though the City of Gold Coast oversees the playground and toilets. Within these grounds, visitors can discover a community garden, the Men’s Shed, the Sheila Shack, and Healing Hooves —a heartwarming program that rehabilitates rescued horses, giving them a newfound life as therapy animals for both children and adults.

For those seeking a venue within the parklands, there are several rentable spaces tailored for private occasions which can be booked online. Notably, The Playhouse stands out as an ideal location for children’s birthday celebrations or other special events. With a rental rate of just $100 for 3 hours, it’s quite affordable! 

What We Thought of Country Paradise Parklands

Our experience at Country Paradise Parklands was a pleasant surprise. The harmony of Country Paradise Parklands’ rural ambiance amidst the Gold Coast hinterlands provided a refreshing contrast we didn’t realise we needed. It’s hard to say whether our favourite part of the visit was the roller slide off the water tank tunnel or getting to see the neighbouring horses and ponies up close. 

How to Get to Country Paradise Parklands

231 Beaudesert Nerang Rd, Nerang QLD 4211

Pay attention when turning off the main road, as the playground isn’t directly visible. Look for the small, wooden ‘Country Paradise Parklands’ sign at the entry.

Other Photos of Country Paradise Parklands

Things To Do at Northshore Riverside Park

Northshore Riverside Park is so much more than just a simple playground for kids to enjoy. Designed for the whole family, the space is also home to a small secluded beach, a café, a boardwalk, cycling and walking trails, grassy fields, art installations, picnic spaces, and more. 

Peaceful, relaxing, and with gorgeous riverside views to boot – below are just some of the things you can do when visiting Northside Riverside Park with your family.

Pirate-themed Playground

One of the first things you will see as you enter Northshore Riverside Park is the sweet little pirate-themed playground. Shaded by two generous shade sails, the playground is perfect for young children and toddlers.

A small ship-shaped climbing fort includes rope ladders, a climbing wall and a viewing platform. There is also a circular swing and a small whale structure submerged in the sandy base for kids to climb on.

We love this park for its simplicity and imaginative-play possibilities. Although it is not fenced, there are generous grassed spaces surrounding it for parents to sit on a picnic blanket and supervise the kids. 

As it is not a big park either, its size makes it easy for little ones to play safely and for parents to see where they are at all times. Young kids will love pretending they are pirates, sailing the open seas and encountering various whales and sea animals on their journey!

Northshore Riverside Beach

Only a few metres away from the playground is a little secluded stretch of beach that most families would not even know existed! Be sure to bring the kids’ swimmers, buckets, spades and towels too, as the wide and sandy beach is perfect for sand castle creations and sand digging.

A few art installations stand tall along the beach; their smooth frames and giant holes making perfect additional play structures that our Brisbane kids loved climbing over and through!

Although there are no actual shaded spots on the beach itself, the tree-filled park directly opposite it offers many places to set up if you don’t have a tent. Covered gazebos and picnic tables also overlook the beach area and can be used as a base for families moving between the parklands and beach for the day. 

Playscape

You will find the Playscape parkland at the end of the park and directly behind the northern end of the beach. A ‘playscape’ is a landscape that has been designed for you to play on and interact with. This interpretative nature playground includes a long, winding dry river creek bed and numerous art installations designed to be climbed on. 

Designed by indigenous artist, Fiona Foley, the playscape is inspired by mangrove habitats and created with the natural vegetation and ecosystem of the Hamilton shoreline in mind. 

Kids can discover giant seashells, mangrove pods, and humungous Pandanus seeds. Oh, and keep an eye out for the original wharf timber blocks that have been incorporated and displayed here too.

Northshore’s Picnic and BBQ Areas

Tucked into the playscape area are numerous covered seating areas and BBQs. A large, open field of flat grass, as well as the undulating grassy hills surrounding them, are perfect for both kicking a footy and also for setting up a picnic.

Northshore Cycleway

Meandering through Northshore Riverside Park are the wide open pathways that make up part of the Northshore Cycleway. The beautiful, tree-lined pathway runs for 14km alongside Remora Road, Macarthur Avenue and Hercules Street. This is Brisbane’s first integrated cycle track, making Northshore Hamilton a desirable destination for cyclists.  

Families can either ride along the cycleway, or the kids can pack in their scooters and/or bikes and ride along as the adults stroll along the promenade, which winds throughout the park and past all of the main attractions.

River Room Café

Another huge drawcard to Northshore Riverside Park is the on-site River Room Café. Centrally located within the park and directly opposite the CityCat terminal, this unique river and beach-side café proudly serves the freshest food available, prepared daily and sourced from local producers.

Enjoy stunning views of the Brisbane River as you perch up against the bi-folded windows, or grab a takeaway snack and coffee and sit outside in the parkland to soak it all in.

You can check out the café’s full breakfast and lunch menu here. Kids are also well catered for, with a choice of meals for $12.90 that all come with chips and veggie sticks too.

Other Northshore Attractions

Eat Street Markets

When most people hear the words Northshore Hamilton, one dining experience usually springs to mind first. The Eat Street Markets, hidden inside the vibrant shipping container city of Eat Street Northshore, is a foodie heaven filled with culinary delights from across the world and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. 

Coming to life with a mix of twinkling lights, enticing aromas and groovy music every weekend, the huge range of food and dessert trucks mean your entire family can be happily catered for here.

Situated south of Northshore Riverside Park on the Hamilton Shoreline, you can read our detailed review of the Eat Street Markets.

Northshore Traditional and Beach Tennis Centre

Just outside the entrance to Northshore Riverside Park is a long row of traditional and beach tennis courts. Beach Tennis Brisbane has transformed the Northshore Tennis Park into the official HQ for beach tennis in Brisbane. This exciting sport combines the thrill of beach volleyball, the finesse of tennis, and the agility of badminton, all in one enjoyable and energising game. 

Hercules Street Park Playground

Hercules Street Park Playground is an incredible design effort featuring a multi-level, industrial-themed container play structure with a four-metre-high tube-slide, as well as a traditional swing to cater to children of all ages and abilities.

A large grassy area separates the main playground from a ball game area. There is a bounce wall with a half-court basketball court, a wall with targets painted on wickets, and tennis markings. Next to the bounce wall is a table tennis table (BYO bats and balls) and exercise equipment. 

There is also an intelligent water play area with synchronised programs and lighting at night to create a family-friendly space. You can read our full review of Hercules Street Park Playground here.

Northshore Riverside Park features

• Unfenced playground
• Accessible toilets
• Some play equipment under shade sails
• Beach
• Promenade
• Bike and walking paths and boardwalks
• BBQs
• CityCat terminal (Northshore Hamilton)
• Car park, ferry terminal (Northshore Hamilton)
• Café/Kiosk
• Outdoor fitness/exercise station
• Picnic area/shelter
• Grassy spaces
• Riverbed

How to Get to Northshore Riverside Park

Northshore Riverside Park is located 305 Macarthur Avenue, Northshore, Hamilton.

Located only 6km from the city centre and on the Brisbane River, Northshore Riverside Park is probably one of the most well-connected and easy places to get to. 

With its own CityCat terminal (Northshore Hamilton) gifting you direct access from the water, the park also has a generous and free carpark that makes driving in with all your gear for the day a simple option too.

If you love to ride, a riverside bike path can take you from the Brisbane CBD to Northshore Brisbane.

More Photos of Northshore Riverside Park

Pelican Park playgrounds

The expansive park affords locals and visitors a great location to be outdoors, enjoying the fresh sea air and sunshine. Smooth, wide footpaths meander along the waterfront, linking two playgrounds that invite Brisbane Kids of all ages to play, offering them a seaside adventure.    

The vast grassy area between the playgrounds is the perfect canvas for flying a kite, it is also a quiet place to relax and unwind.

Pelican Park is an ideal location for a picnic or barbeque as it has ample facilities conveniently located close to the playgrounds including sheltered tables, electric barbeques and ample parking.  Nearby is a café and takeaway food options, along with a bait and tackle shop for added convenience.  

Beach Theme Playground

The older of the two playgrounds is of a beach theme, located next to the boat ramp. While simple in structure, it will have kids climbing, balancing and sliding. The curved monkey bars will test the agility of those who cross them.

Little ones will enjoy the pelican and dolphin spring rockers and bucket swing.

This playground is fully fenced and overhead a large shade sail provides plenty of shade.

Close by is a wheelchair-accessible Liberty Swing. In order to gain access, a key to unlock the fence can be obtained from Council. Without a doubt, this swing will bring a sense of freedom, and joy while soaring through the fresh sea air. The overhead sail provides shade to the swing and surrounding area.

Bike racks, ample sheltered picnic tables with water fountains and electric barbeques are next to the playground. Toilet facilities, including an accessible room with a nappy change table are close by as well. 

Pirate Ship Themed Playground

Take a walk (or ride), past the boat ramp, along the bay, to the pirate ship themed playground.  With a sand base, this partially fenced playground will bring much excitement to young buccaneers.

As kids step aboard the ship via the stairs, ladder or climbing nets, they will embark on a seaside adventure, discovering the many cannons, wheels, and binoculars. Below deck, are climbing ropes, mini hammocks, a bubble window and treasure box.

Two slides (regular and tunnel), along with two poles will make for a swift, speedy decent back to land.

Little kids will enjoy the offerings below deck, and with adult assistance will be able to board the pirate ship and look out to sea as well.

Continuing the seaside theme is a small sand station with a fixed scoop where little ones can enjoy sand play. A shark and dolphin seesaw will rock and rollick, unbalancing anyone who dares to stand on the middle plank.

A tipi carousel invites kids to lay, sit or stand and spin, while a trio of swings allow kids to sway back and forth, mirroring the gentle ebb and flow of the water. The large sail and nearby tree canopy provide shade to this play area.

Next to the playground are sheltered picnic tables with water fountain and electric barbeques. Two accessible car parking bays are located in the adjacent car park and toilets are located a short walk away.

Imagination Factor at Pelican Park

Limitless possibilities for open, imaginative play can result in fishing, pirates, mermaid and mermen embarking on a variety of seaside adventures. 

Brisbane Kids will love looking out for the ships offshore, while aboard their own ‘ship’ in one of the playgrounds. Brisbane Kids can also do some pretend or real fishing, and if you don’t catch anything, there’s a fish and chip shop nearby! It’s also a beautiful spot for shell collecting and hunting for pirate treasure!

Accessibility at Pelican Park

The layout and facilities of Pelican Park make it a location where families can relax and enjoy a seaside outing.

Ample parking (including accessible bays) is available at both playground locations. Smooth, wide footpaths link the playgrounds and surrounding areas and are suitable for prams, bikes, scooters and wheelchairs.

The Liberty Swing offers a serene location where inclusivity and the sea come together. The only accessible toilet is located next to the Beach themed Playground.

Check out our list of other Brisbane All Abilities Parks with Liberty Swings.

Pelican Park Features

• Two playgrounds
• Accessible toilet facilities with nappy change table
• Beach Theme Playground (Fully fenced)
  • Bark chip base
  • Large shade sail
  • Slides
  • Spring rockers
  • Monkey bars
  • Swings (seat and half-bucket)
  • Climbing nets
  • Slide

• Pirate Ship Themed Playground (Partially fenced)
  • Sand and rubber soft fall bases
  • Shade sail and established tree canopy provide some shade
  • Pirate ship play structure
  • Sand play area
  • Seesaw
  • Trio of swings (seat, bucket and nest)
  • Spring rocker
  • Tipi carousel
  • Slide

• Liberty Swing (key required from Council)
• Electric barbecues
• Sheltered picnic tables
• Water fountains
• Grassy open spaces
• Footpaths suitable for prams, wheelchairs, scooters and bikes
• Plenty of off-street parking including accessible parking bays
• Beach-side location suitable for fishing
• Boat ramp
• Rubbish bins

Some other great Brisbane playgrounds nearby are Suttons Beach Park and Rotary Park (Amity Playground).

What We Thought of Pelican Park

We think Brisbane Kids will enjoy a coastal adventure and find plenty to do here. The ample facilities and space make it easy to spend time here.  If children get bored of one play area it is easy to move onto another. 

How to Get to Pelican Park

Pelican Park is located on Hornibrook Esplanade in Clontarf.

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Bumble Bee Park Playground

Bumble Bee Park is a total delight. Its bright yellow and bumblebee theme make it very appealing. As you approach the playground, a yellow, spherical net climbing structure catches your eye. It’s a fun representation of a busy hive waiting to be explored by curious climbers.

Let’s talk about toddlers. This is a BEE-autiful location for our little Brisbane Kids. With two separate structures built at ground level, there is much to entertain little Brisbane kids, like musical elements and interactive game panels.

They can also use the ramp to get to one of the fort’s lower platforms and enjoy a trip down a small double-wave slide. A friendly bee spring rider is ready for bouncing fun, and there are swings, too.     

The central fort structures are double-level. Rope climbing nets guide children to an elevated tunnel on the highest level which connects the two forts. In the middle of the tunnel is a fish-eye viewing window, a super vantage point and hiding place during a chasing game. Large yellow slides are located at each end of the fort. A plank bridge connects the lower levels.

For older children and teens, there’s a grassed kick-about area with plenty of space to run around, play a game of tag or soccer, and a basketball half-court. Parents and caregivers may appreciate the covered picnic tables, bench seats or sandstone blocks on which to sit and watch the children play.

Unfortunately this park DOES NOT have toilet facilities. These often come at a later date, so if it is something you feel strongly about we suggest contacting your local council. 

Imagination Factor at Bumble Bee Park

There’s no better place than Bumble Bee Park to pretend you’re a busy bee working as part of the colony. Start at the hive and then run out into the gardens, seeking flowers for nectar and pollen before returning to the hive. Perform a waggle dance to instruct the rest of your bee community on where to find the best flowers. The big yellow slides look like flowing rivers of honey.

Another really cool bee-themed park is The Hills District All-Abilities Playground in Arana Hills. 

Accessibility at Bumble Bee Park

With bright colours and a message incorporating braille, this playground may suit children with low vision. There is ramp access to one part of the fort, but the ramp entry is not entirely at ground level, so children using a wheelchair may require assistance.

In the toddler section, several elements are accessible from the ground. Generous shade sails protect from the sun over the forts.

Bumble Bee Park Features

• Unfenced playground
• No toilets
• Shade sails
• Bark play base
• Slides
• Swings (nest, stand, you and me)
• Toddler play options
• Connected multi-level forts
• Tunnel
• Climbing sphere
• Spring rider
• Game panels
• Braille message
• Talking tubes
• Plank bridge
• Climbing net
• Kickabout space
• Basketball half-court
• Shaded picnic tables

Other awesome playgrounds in the area to explore are Faye Carr Park and Splash and Play Adventure Park.

What We Thought of Bumble Bee Park

We liked how this playground caters to little people who may have just started exploring independently. The developmental needs of toddlers have been carefully considered in the design of this space, so little kids have many options for play and discovery here.

Any families looking for a toddler-friendly park should consider visiting. Of course, we thought it was great that there were also options for older children, so a family of mixed ages would also enjoy this park.

If you love bees why don’t you check out Bee Facts for Kids or have a chuckle at our Bee Jokes for Kids. 

How to Get to Bumble Bee Park

Bumble Bee Park is on Sable Street in Ripley

More Photos of Bumble Bee Park