south coaster THE AUTUMN
Wollongong Botanic Garden
Play time! South Coast photographer Lara McCabe shares six of her favourite children's playgrounds – all good, free fun! My kids love the playground. Even our one-yearold understands words 'swing' and 'playground' – the effect is like saying 'walkies' to a dog! We really are spoilt for choice along the Illawarra's seaside suburbs. So if you and the kids need some playground sanity, here are our top six playgrounds – for everyone from toddlers to big kids.
1
Austinmer Beach Playground
Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Austinmer. Gets my top rating for toddlers because it's one of the only local fully fenced playgrounds. Your takeaway coffee is just a short stroll away, as is a walk on the beach for a play in the sand.
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2St James Park Playground
Cliff Street, Coledale. Beyond the soccer fields, this Coledale playground is my pick for a quiet and leafy spot. While not fenced, cars are a very long distance away. Take some snacks, toys and a picnic blanket to sit on.
3Stanwell Park Playground
Station Street, Stanwell Park. Fantastic for all ages, it's one of the largest playgrounds in the area. Adjacent to Stanwell Park Beach Reserve so take a ball to kick around. There are tables and chairs, plus benches, barbecues, toilets and a temporary kiosk that serves snacks. You may also be lucky enough to pick a day when the hang-gliders are landing on the beach.