Parks & Leisure 27.3

Page 1


& leisure parks

Parks, Gardens & Conservation

Expect Mor

Over the years, parks have evolved, and so have we. Today, we’re considered leaders in customised outdoor furniture, designed specifically for parks of the future. To reflect our continuing commitment to innovation and technology, we’ve evolved our name Grillex to GX Outdoors

Our new identity is just the beginning of many exciting developments we have in store, and as we embark on this new chapter, our focus remains steadfast on delivering exceptional solutions and experiences that bring people together. With GX Outdoors, you can expect more. More service, more innovation, more quality, more collaboration, more efficiency, more value, more sustainability, more products, more results.

re Ambition

PRODUCTION EDITOR

Nicole Mulloy nmulloy@umco.com.au

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

John Senior journal@parksleisure.com.au

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION

COORDINATOR

Taylah Britt DESIGNER

Samantha Stewart

SALES/ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Antonia Bewley (NSW, QLD & WA) 0418

CHAIRMAN/CEO

Prema Perera

PUBLISHER

Janice Williams

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Vicky Mahadeva

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Emma Perera

CIRCULATION BUSINESS

McTaggart

KRISTIN DAVIES

Welcome to the Spring edition of the Australasian Parks and Leisure Journal. As we relish in the sunset of another successful Olympics, I was reflecting on how the excitement and interest generated by this global event can be leveraged to create a lasting impact on sports participation and sector investment.

The Olympics is a time when the world comes together to celebrate the power of sports and athleticism. When people are inspired to try new sports, get active and push themselves to new heights. It also highlights the power of how sport can bring a nation together. As part of the parks, leisure, sports and recreation industry we have a unique opportunity to harness that energy and enthusiasm to drive lasting change in our communities.

While we have already taken advantage of the Olympic hype by offering special promotions and events tied to the Olympic Games, our efforts should not

FROM THE EDITORIAL DESK

We have a thought-provoking and diverse mixed bag of information for you in this edition of the Journal. Included are three reports on the PLA Regional Conferences, interesting updates on sports old and new (golf and pickleball), and a look at Australia’s Nature Roadmap from the Green Building Council. In addition, you’ll find the innovative development of Wadanggari Park, a highly complex project constructed over a busy Sydney railway line, and a feature on how a migrant volunteer has had a massive local impact in a Melbourne suburb.

From overseas there is an article on comparisons of cycling popularity between

Paris and London, from San Francisco the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy’s 2024 Report featuring climate resilience as a key tenet of the Conservancy’s 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, and then the is a piece on how parks are making diverse communities safe and welcome in Minnesota.

Finally, there is an update on how PLA’s Think Tank has been active in collaboration and advocacy, as well asthe usual indepth look into research literature.

FROM THE PLA PRESIDENT

stop there. It is crucial that we advocate for increased investment in sports and recreation infrastructure and work towards enhancing participation and community connection through improved programmes and services.

Let us seize the opportunity to inspire, engage and advocate for lasting change. Together we can create a legacy that will continue to benefit our industry long after the Olympic flame has gone out.

“Everyone has a place in sport, and no one is left behind in sport,” claims the vision-leading article by the Australian Sports Commission, Embracing the Play Well Strategy, which is featured in this edition. Alongside this is the news that I have joined the ASC Places to Play squad, representing Parks and Leisure Australia in the implementation of this important national strategy. We are committed to changing the way we experience, deliver and lead the sector to ensure that everyone has a place in sport as we work to develop Australia’s first infrastructure network and plan. I am honoured to be part of the initiative and working alongside incredible individuals from the sports, education and government sectors.

Later this month we will crown our national winners of the Parks and Leisure Australia Awards of Excellence at the 2024 National Conference in Brisbane. This is only made possible by a successful program of region conferences and award ceremonies throughout the year. These events showcased the incredible contributions within our parks and leisure industry and provided valuable opportunities for networking, learning and recognition. Congratulations to all

We thank our national sponsors and partners:

our national finalists for their outstanding work. I was thrilled by the number of projects and initiatives being recognised and celebrated for their cross-sector collaboration and integration.

Current placemaking processes reflect the needs, preferences and aspirations of the people who live, work and play in an area, but what if we ask ourselves what can we do as an industry to ensure we collectively understand the needs, preferences and aspirations of the people who plan, deliver and manage these places, spaces and services?

In the face of challenges such as funding constraints, population growth, aging infrastructure, climate change and changing expectations, it is crucial for the industry to come together to provide innovative solutions. By embracing out-of-the-box partnerships, integrated approaches, effective use of technology, co-design, community engagement and cross-sector collaboration, we can address these challenges effectively. This collaborative effort, along with capacity building, knowledge sharing and leveraging professional networks, will ultimately make us unstoppable in our mission to enhance our communities.

I challenge each of you to embrace curiosity, reach out to others, ask the “what if?” questions and work together for more integrated place-knowing, place-making, and place-management.

Kristin Davies PLA National President

As Co-Chairs, we had the privilege of attending this year’s Green Pavlova Conference in Ōtautahi (Christchurch) and supporting the Recreation Aotearoa team in hosting our largest delegation of parks, play, and open space professionals ever. Green Pavlova is a staple on the Recreation Aotearoa event calendar and offers an opportunity to showcase, celebrate and connect as a sector. With an outstanding programme, thriving trade show and great field trips, it was a memorable few days. A huge thank you to our partners, sponsors and supporters, as well as the fantastic programme and field trip committees — we couldn’t do it without you.

Our Mahi Ngātahi (working together as one)

Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou. Local government is the biggest enabler of recreation and physical activity in New Zealand. How and where councils invest in recreation makes a material difference to the physical activity levels of New Zealanders, and community wellbeing more broadly. Our members know this, and many of you are directly involved in developing, managing and delivering places and opportunities for councils across the country.

But its tough out there, and local government is feeling the pressure as much as any sector of New Zealand. A perfect storm of challenges has hit with climate change impacts, inflation and three-waters costs dominating this year’s long-term plan discussions. With many councils reaching their debt ceilings, they are looking for savings everywhere. All spending must be justified and deliver demonstrated, and preferably quantifiable, community benefits.

FROM THE RECREATION AOTEAROA CO-CHAIRS

journey has gained pace throughout 2024 and is an exciting time for the organisation. This review is all about bringing to life Recreation Aotearoa’s commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and honouring our shared heritage as New Zealanders. Ably guided by our Mahi Ngātahi Governance Review Working Group, we look forward to formally presenting our proposed constitutional changes to members at our November AGM. These changes will also ensure compliance with the new Incorporated Societies Act 2022. Look out for updates in our eNewsletters and on our website. Do get in touch if you have questions, comments or would like to understand more.

Next is a review of our strategic plan Te Whai Oranga. It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly five years since it was developed alongside our Māori Navigation Group Te Kāhui Kura Māori. Much has changed in that time and we’ve made great progress as an organisation and a sector; in particular, our efforts to weave together Māori and non-Māori approaches to

recreation, drive more equitable outcomes, and step up our climate action efforts.

We have much to be proud of, yet much more to do to bring our aspirational vision to life. There will be a range of ways for members to engage in the review and help shape the next period of our journey. Recreation Aotearoa is your organisation, and we want our future direction to reflect and respond to the needs and aspirations of our members.

Spring is a time of new beginnings, and with three elected member roles up for re-election at our November AGM, it will be something of a new beginning for our board. If you are interested in being part of our board or know someone who might be, then consider putting forward a nomination.

Kia tau ngā manaakitanga ki runga i ngā hapori katoa o te motu (Sending our best wishes to all communities across the country).

Bobby Clark-Heu & Michèle Frey Co-Chairs, Recreation Aotearoa

FROM THE RECREATION AOTEAROA CEO

For these reasons, we doubled down our advocacy efforts this round, providing written submissions on nearly forty plans and oral submissions in our larger cities. Our submissions spoke to the value of recreation and the critical importance of recreational infrastructure, be that parks and open spaces, built facilities or tree cover. We emphasised the need to ensure opportunities are accessible and available for everyone, and to take a broad view of recreation that considers Te Aō Māori approaches and the wider concept of Te Whai Oranga (the pursuit of wellbeing). We urged councils to step up their efforts to decarbonise and accelerate climate action.

On a personal level, it was great to be on the other side of the table supporting our members. My hope is that our efforts helped to shift thinking and secure ongoing support for the important mahi that you all do. A big mihi also to our Advocacy Manager Sam Newtown, for his tireless work delving into the detail of dozens of consultation documents and creating targeted responses.

Over the last four years we have been lucky enough to manage the Sport NZ funded He Puna Korikori (Outdoor Activity Fund). Over this period, He Puna Korikori has supported 76 organisations to engage underrepresented populations in outdoor activities. In other words, those young people who would

otherwise miss out on foundational experiences. Significantly, 50 percent of the fund has been allocated to kaupapa Māori organisation, a tangible demonstration of our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi in action.

Earlier this year we relaunched our professional accreditation programme ARPro. The new and improved ARPro includes three levels of accreditation and provides pathways for those starting out in their career, as well as those with a few more years on the clock. We’re also introducing a continuing professional development points system acknowledging the ongoing learning essential to maintaining professional standards. Check out our website for more information and find out how to get involved. A big thank you to Community Recreation Programme Manager Jenny Jordan and our Accreditation Committee for your leadership of the review.

Finally, this edition of the Journal includes a tribute to the wonderful Jamie Delich, who passed away earlier this year after a battle with cancer. Jamie was a true legend of our sector and one of the tallest tōtara in the forest. His contribution was immense and he will be deeply missed across Aotearoa. Moe rā e te rangatira. Mauri ora.

Sarah Murray CEO, Recreation Aotearoa

SARAH MURRAY

Pro-Knit

PICKLEBALL

THE FASTEST GROWING SPORT IN AUSTRALIA

WORDS BRENDAN LEE, EXECUTIVE OFFICER, PICKLEBALL AUSTRALIA

The sport of pickleball can no longer be considered “under the radar” thanks to its exponential growth and fastgrowing list of devoted followers in the US, Canada and India, as well as right here in Australia.

Pickleball can be likened to badminton, tennis, table tennis and squash. But what is so impressive about the sport of pickleball is the inclusive, social nature of the sport, and the ability for people to have success from the first moment they step on the court — without undertaking years of training.

For those of you with a competitive streak, competition is ripe across the nation with over 60 sanctioned tournaments a year on the Pickleball Australia Association (PAA) calendar, catering for all ages and all abilities. The most competitive and popular age bracket at competitions around Australia is men and women aged 60-69 years of age.

WHERE DID PICKLEBALL ORIGINATE?

According to USA Pickleball, after playing golf one Saturday during the summer, Joel Pritchard, congressman from Washington State and Bill Bell, successful businessman, returned to Pritchard’s home on Bainbridge Island in Washington state (near Seattle) to find their families sitting around with nothing to do. The property had an

5

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PICKLEBALL?

∞Pickleball improves cardiovascular health.

∞Pickleball enhances balance and coordination.

∞Pickleball reduces stress and improves mental health.

∞Pickleball is a low-impact sport that is easy on the joints.

∞Pickleball can improve flexibility and range of motion.

old badminton court so Pritchard and Bell looked for some badminton equipment and could not find a full set of rackets. They improvised and started playing with ping-pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball.

At first, they placed the net at badminton height of 60 inches and volleyed the ball over the net. As the weekend progressed, the players found that the ball bounced well on the asphalt surface and soon the net was lowered to 36 inches. The following weekend, Barney McCallum was introduced to the game at Pritchard’s home. Soon, the three men created rules, relying heavily on badminton. They kept in mind the original purpose, which was to provide a game that the whole family could play together.

HOW IS IT PLAYED?

To play the game, players take to the court in a group of four and pair up in a traditional doubles-style format. Players then establish who the serving and

returning team will be. The serve is an underarm serve and can be struck on the full or after a bounce. The serve must go diagonal and the receiving player must let the ball bounce before they return it over the net and into the opposite end of the court.

A unique rule of pickleball is the “twobounce rule”; the serving team must also let the first ball up their end after the serve bounce. After this, players can hit the ball on the full or after one bounce and rally out the point over the net, which measures 86 centimetres in height in the middle.

During the rally, all four players will try to make their way forward to the part of the court known as “the kitchen”. In this part of the court, the ball cannot be volleyed, so players stand behind this line, which is 7 feet (approx 2.13m) from the net and hit the ball soft and at times speed it up to try and win the point (this is where strategy comes into it!).

Placement, patience and precision will assist you greatly when constructing your point on the pickleball court. Matches are played first to 11 or 15, and can last anywhere between 15 and 30 minutes.

A BALANCE OF DIMENSIONS AND STRATEGY

A pickleball court measures 44 feet long (approx 13.6m) and 20 feet wide (approx 6.1m). For those badminton enthusiasts out there, you may think that those dimensions look familiar. They are. A pickleball court is the same size as a badminton court.

The kitchen or non-volley zone is 7 feet (approx 2.13m) from the net. This allows most people the ability to

keep balls lows and out of reach of the person trying to volley the ball. A wise strategy in pickleball.

A variety of strategies enable people from all walks of life to take to the court and impart their own unique blend of tactics and skills. Older individuals can use their wit and guile to compete with much younger, fitter and faster athletes. It also enables people of all abilities to be on the same match court at any one time and still have a competitive game. There aren’t many sports where you will see grandparents playing with their grandchildren and all involved using their different strengths and strategies in order to try to win the game. Pickleball is that sport.

WHERE IS IT PLAYED?

Pickleball can be played almost anywhere. We see pickleball played at sport and recreation facilities, tennis clubs, netball clubs, bowling clubs, fire stations, carparks and, importantly, at purpose-built pickleball facilities, which are starting to pop up across the nation including in public parks.

Recently, Brisbane City Council built three purpose-built pickleball courts, available to the public at any time, in Joachim Street Park, Holland Park. These courts are to ensure access for over 6000 pickleball enthusiasts in the local area. Council also has plans for additional public pickleball courts in Newmarket, Parkinson, Seventeen Mile Rocks and Wakerley.

PICKLEBALL IN AUSTRALIA

Why is pickleball in a great position to excel in Australia? In just four years, the PAA has built their membership from 0

FAST FACTS ABOUT PICKLEBALL IN AUSTRALIA

∞The average age of a PAA member is 57.

∞55% of PAA members identify as female.

∞Buderim, Torquay, Palm Beach, Manly and Dee Why are the most popular suburbs of residence for PAA members.

∞New South Wales is the largest state by total members with 4170 members. Queensland closely follows with 4150 members.

∞A third of all PAA members actively compete in tournaments and leagues.

∞The Australian Pickleball Championships are held on the Gold Coast

∞(2-7 October 2024).

∞World Pickleball Day is celebrated on 10 October.

to 12,000 official members and estimate that closer to 40,000 participants are playing pickleball casually across Australia. In the past 12 months, official membership grew from 4000 to 12,000 (as at June 2024).

These members and casual players are spread across 500 playing venues across the nation.

PAA works with state member associations and their affiliates (clubs and associations) to ensure the sport is played under their SPIRIT values, and that pickleball pathways exist for those seeking competitive pathways and for those that enjoy playing more casually. Also in place is the education and accompanying certification for referees, coaches and administrators.

PAA has partnered with like-minded organisations including Sport4All, Invictus Australia, PPA Tour Australia and National Pickleball League Australia to ensure that pickleball can thrive and continue on the growth trajectory they’ve experience over the last four years.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Find out more about pickleball in Australia from Pickleball Australia Association at pickleballaus.org

To learn about the rules and scoring of pickleball visit pickleballaus.org/ rules-and-scoring

THE CHANGING DEMOGRAPHICS OF GOLF

GOLF HAS TRANSFORMED INTO AN INCLUSIVE ACTIVITY THAT IS WELCOMING PARTICIPANTS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE

WORDS GOLF AUSTRALIA

Golf has become a dynamic activity that encourages everyone to participate. This evolution is driven by diverse formats that make the game accessible and enjoyable for everyone, national participation programs delivered across the whole golf ecosystem and pop-up activations in different council areas are bringing golf to the people.

Family-friendly shortened courses, innovative technology in entertainment driving ranges and indoor golf venues

are just a few examples of how golf is breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of community. For young and old, casual player to the aspiring professional, golf offers a welcoming environment that encourages participation and celebrates diversity.

Pigeon-holing golf as an elite game, for only a few, no longer tracks. The numbers across a range of metrics are a clear reflection of this. The people who decry golf — and unfortunately there are still a sizeable contingent of

them — point to big, wealthy private clubs with flash cars in the parking lot. These clubs reflect the echelons of our society, too, but they are only a small fraction of the venues across Australia hosting a sizeable number of kids and adults playing golf.

Golf Australia’s latest participation report revealed the number of golf club members at 434,000. The same report identified that 3.5 million adult Australians played golf in some form; meaning fewer than 15 percent of golfers are members of a club. The structure of sporting clubs remains important, from community to memberonly, people choose to belong through organised activity and connection. Growth in club membership is continuing year on year, with women and girls and multicultural communities a key focus for the industry.

To classify golf as elitist is to overlook the hundreds of thousands of Australians hitting balls on the driving range, golf simulators, the $30 public course, the honesty box country course, or those visiting the mini-golf facility in jeans and T-shirts, or wearing the coolest new golf fashion. Today, in Australia, there are more people playing off-course than on-course. For those who do play on-course, 37 percent of golfers are women and over 50 percent of golfers have an annual income of less than $100k.

GOLF IS FOR EVERYONE

Golf Australia’s attitude to inclusivity has crystalised in recent years. It is as simple as this: Golf truly is a game for anyone, any age, any ability, any background, and it is a sport for life.

Every day in Australia, from sunrise to sundown, and through nighttime hours, people play golf. Young people are paired to play golf with older generations. Spending hours together. This intergenerational social interaction provides experiences and education that is invaluable growing up, while simultaneously helping older generations understand how great our young people are.

Golf is a game for life. Not many other sports allow people who can be up to 90 years apart in age play together, let alone have a fair competition against one another, in all its formats. Golf can be played socially or competitively, actively or passively, alone or with friends. No one is waiting to tackle you, and you don’t need to rely on anyone to hit the ball back to you.

The world handicap system means anyone with a handicap, can go to golf courses and play in their competitions standing equal on the fi rst tee anywhere and on any day. The game has adapted, appealing to those who are time poor. Getting out for a few twilight holes has always been a popular outlet, as has hitting a bucket of balls at the driving range or hitting the simulators at all hours.

Golf does not discriminate. Using the same facilities and equipment, or adapted where needed, people with a disability can experience all the benefits of playing, learning, socialising and exercising together through golf. This can be done at all levels from grassroots to elite golf competitions. Play as much or as little as you want, on-course or off, with friends or without. All golf is golf, and all of us can be golfers.

The ecosystem of golf in Australia is rich with a variety of experiences and environments. There is a place for everyone to be connected in golf.

The Community Benefits of Golf in Australia report, commissioned by the Australian Golf Industry Council (AGIC), sheds light on the multitude of benefits golf has for communities. Of course, the over-arching $3.3 billion in total annual community benefits of golf is a sexy figure, and an important one, but

the broader community benefits of golf are far reaching.

THE HEALTH BENEFITS

The health benefits of golf cannot be understated, with more than 47 million rounds of golf played on courses every year. A singular round of golf exceeds the World Health Organisation’s guidelines for physical activity. On average, a player walks between 8.7 and 11.25 kilometres, nearing or surpassing the 10,000 steps per day target.

Meeting physical activity guidelines is the biggest modifiable, risk reduction factor for premature death and disease. For many, golf is their only source of physical activity. The physical benefits are evident, as is the positive impact on mental wellbeing, with Australian golfers reporting being 7.1 percent happier on subjective health and wellbeing indicators.

Golf provides an outlet to disconnect and destress, as a round of golf instantly replaces technology and life’s pressures with a natural environment, exercise and socialising. For older generations, the benefits are near endless. Golf reduces the risk of a life changing fall by 20-30 percent, with functional reach, flexibility and balance maintained and improved. The social aspect of golf can often be irreplaceable. Golf clubs provide a structured weekly routine and safe space, a connection to friends and a place they feel they belong.

The benefits golf provides to the community are broad and essential. Golf becomes an outlet, an escape, a daily exercise or social activity. In all its forms, golf provides all of those benefits to so many Australians.

OFF-COURSE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GOLF

The convergence of golf, leisure entertainment, food and beverage and golf-related technology is pushing huge growth in off-course experiences. Local golf facilities are changing, increasingly transforming themselves into popular community hubs where golf can be played the way people choose.

Swing City in Sydney is a prime example of what a golf facility can look like in today’s world. The winner of the Hills Shire Business Award for benefits to the community, Swing City is providing a service and a facility that speaks directly to what the local community want. Billed as an Entertainment Precinct, Swing City is home to a 40bay driving range, a mini-golf course and contemporary café facilities. The venue has welcomed more than 125,000 visitors in the seven months since it opened; over 6000 school students, more than 2000 birthday partygoers and 4000 corporate guests all engaged in differing ways.

The facility employs 90 people from the local area, has facilitated sponsorships with multiple junior sporting clubs, and supports school programs. Swing City reflects the community it is in and gives back accordingly.

On the other side of the country, Wembley Golf Course in Western Australia welcomes the entire community. Through weddings, corporate events, family celebrations or those simply meeting for coffee, lunch or dinner, more than 80 percent of the food and beverage turnover at Wembley is from customers not even playing golf. For the golfers, annually Wembley sees more than 180,000 rounds played on-course, 23 million balls hit on the range, and in excess of 60,000 mini-golf rounds.

Home to a purpose-built playground to ensure families with young children know they belong and are welcome, Wembley is a true community hub where golf happens to be played. Golf facilities are transforming to places that don’t care if you’re in jeans, if your socks aren’t white, how old you are, or how young for that matter. They don’t care what you do for work or if you’ve never picked up a golf club in your life. They want you to have fun and go play.

The game of golf in Australia is evolving and adapting and is thriving. It is an opportunity to create healthy and sustainable communities together through a sport for life, and it’s fun for all!

INCLUSIVE PL AY GUIDE

PROLUDIC’S UPDATED INCLUSIVE GUIDE MAKES IT EASIER TO DESIGN PLAYSPACES FOR ALL

The launch of the new edition of Proludic’s Inclusive Play Areas Guide underscores the company’s commitment to inclusive design in playspaces and outdoor fitness areas. We spoke to Madeleine Walding, landscape architect and Proludic Australia’s Commercial Manager, about the new guide and how the company is helping their clients create more inclusive playspaces.

Q. Proludic released the first edition of its Inclusive Play Areas Thematic Guide in 2015. What’s different about this latest edition?

A. When we first launched our inclusive play guide, it was groundbreaking. There really wasn’t a lot of information available on

designing truly inclusive playgrounds.

When the guide won the Australian Good Design Award Gold under the Social Impact category, we were thrilled. Not only did the award recognise our design expertise, it also acknowledged our efforts to meet a pressing social need for inclusion in playspaces and a genuine desire to improve people’s lives.

The award raised people’s awareness of the issues around inclusion and gave people confidence to work with us.

Like the earlier edition, the 2024 guide includes information about the different challenges children with disability face during play. We’ve included examples of Proludic playgrounds from around the world, showing how different solutions cater to different needs and communities.

We recognise that inclusion and inclusive design are complicated topics. In the new edition, we’ve presented our guidelines in ways that are even easier to understand. We’ve also made the process of equipment selection simpler, showing how different pieces of equipment work within a playground to support play for everyone.

Q. Going back to basics, what defines an inclusive playspace?

A. An inclusive playspace creates a feeling of belonging by providing social opportunities and play activities that are accessible to all.

Many people with disability still encounter barriers when accessing and enjoying public spaces. This includes children with disability as

well as parents who may have a disability and want to play with their children.

Inclusion is fundamental to our philosophy. We believe all children should have equal access to play. Regardless of their disability, they should be given opportunities to have fun, experience new things, to take on challenges, to connect with others, and to enjoy solitary play if that’s what they need.

Our play equipment is tailored to help with the development of mobility, fine motor skills and cognitive faculties, and provide sensory stimulation. It’s also designed to stimulate the imagination and creativity, creating a fun environment where children can socialise with others.

Proludic also offers a range of inclusive outdoor fitness equipment. Winner of an Australian Good Design Award in 2023, the ACTI’FUN Sport and Fitness ranges promote an active lifestyle, encouraging access to outdoor leisure activities, regardless of the user’s age, abilities, level and objectives.

There’s even an ACTI’FUN app, which offers a variety of exercises, allowing users to tailor a personalised training program based on their expertise level, physical condition, and goals.

Q. Tell us about the Proludic Observatory. How does it help Proludic design more inclusive play equipment?

A. The Proludic Observatory brings together specialists recognised for their work in creating inclusive play areas worldwide. Essentially, it’s a committee of inclusion experts; specialists in child development and inclusion, as well as playspace design. They convene regularly to share ideas, best practices, and innovate inclusive play equipment solutions. This expert committee played an important role in revising our guide and contributed substantially to its content.

Our designers also engage with people with disability and visit playgrounds to understand their needs and preferences. This helps us to create tailored products that ensure accessibility for all. We also engage with many associations to gather feedback and insights. This enables us to design suitable equipment and stay

Scan the QR code to get your free copy of the Inclusive Play Guide

informed about the latest advancements in inclusion.

Continuous improvement is important to us. Having resources like the Proludic Observatory means we continue to learn and develop our ideas in consultation with experts, users, and carers.

Q. Proludic has developed a diagnostic tool to help assess the inclusiveness of a playspace. How does that work?

A. Following universal design principles for play areas, we’ve developed a simple diagnostic tool. This tool helps us assess a play area and make recommendations about how our clients can improve the inclusiveness of their playground.

Some of these design aspects include ensuring easy access to a playground, fostering social interaction, and including play elements that stimulate the senses and support a child’s development.

Q. How else has Proludic included diversity in its own design and production processes?

A. Having a diversity of viewpoints is critical to improving and innovating in any endeavour. Considering accessibility from the initial idea through to maintenance and management, is crucial to our products’ success.

We recently had the opportunity to visit the Proludic factory and the ESAT Social Enterprise in France, where people with disability assemble some of our products and take part in numerous educational and experiential activities.

Q. How can people find out more about designing and building inclusive play areas?

A. The new edition of the Inclusive Play Areas guide is a good place to start. It’s an ideal resource for local councils, landscape architects, playspace designers and community

members interested in designing better playgrounds for their community.

The guide includes some great examples of our inclusive playspaces in Australia and worldwide. Projects like the Variety Livvi’s Place Lieutenant Cantello Reserve in Hammondville, New South Wales, and Port Macquarie Public School, New South Wales. Even more inclusive playspaces are illustrated on our website.

We also encourage people to draw on our extensive expertise in inclusion. With years of experience, Proludic provides customised solutions aligned with the specific aspects and objectives of each project.

Our expert team offers personalised support, including analysis of current spaces, onsite feasibility studies and the development of inclusive playground concepts. It’s a collaborative process where we support you through every phase of the project from design and manufacture to installation and maintenance.

People can also visit our website for more information, then contact us for advice on designing and selecting the best play and outdoor fitness equipment for their inclusive playspaces. proludic.com.au

HOW ONE WOMAN HELPED GROW A NATURE-LOVING COMMUNIT Y

In 2006, as a new arrival from India, Arjumand Khan was pushing a pram past a noticeboard on her daily walk when something on the noticeboard caught her attention. A flyer invited mothers of small children to join a local walking group. As Arjumand walked the streets of Fawkner in Melbourne, along Merri Creek, the walking group lingered in her mind. She was a new mother in a new country without a network to support her through early motherhood. Her walks in nature along Merri Creek gave her solace, but she yearned for community.

When Arjumand finally got up the courage to call the number on the flyer, she was told the group hadn’t got off the ground due to lack of a leader. “Would you like to take on organising this group?” the voice asked. Hesitant but determined, Arjumand took on the challenge of being a walking leader. Fifteen years later, Arjumand has connected hundreds of families and helped them to connect with nature and each other through what is now her business, STEM Catalyst. The walking group was just the beginning.

STEM Catalyst is an education provider that promotes and advocates for literacy in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in culturally and linguistically diverse communities, known as CALD communities. Arjumand has found Merri Creek to be the perfect setting for many of her activities.

Many CALD communities live along and near Merri Creek, particularly in the new suburbs emerging in Melbourne’s northern growth area, where Merri Creek Management Committee is working to ensure waterways and biodiversity are protected as development increases. Initially, Arjumand saw Merri Creek as a place of comfort during some challenging early days of her life in Fawkner. Her favourite spot was near the midstream of the creek between Jukes and Anderson Roads. “There’s a steep slope and as you walk down, the serene noise of that water flowing, or gushing, really hits you,” Arjumand explains. “It was a favourite place for me and my child because we used to stop by to listen to that water.”

Beyond her talents connecting the people of Merri Creek, Arjumand is a qualified environmental scientist. Like many migrants, she was facing barriers to employment in Australia. But with a deep passion for inspiring the next generation, Arjumand began volunteering at various organisations, including her own children’s school.

In 2017, the Royal Society of Victoria competitively selected Arjumand to deliver two newly introduced science curriculum components to Victorian schools. Arjumand undertook project management training and designed her science project with an aim to help break the stereotypical perceptions of STEM careers among young Australians. “I introduced naturebased STEM engagement activities, with an element of multicultural understanding,” Arjumand says. “Students were surprised to see a hijabi scientist.”

Initially, Arjumand and her band of volunteers spent a year working unpaid in a school, running a science club for kids at lunchtime. “I volunteered to support teachers and students

through the CSIRO STEM Professionals in Schools program. Other mothers within the community, many of whom had also taken a parental break and had tertiary degrees, were very willing to support the program. That’s how STEM Catalyst came into being,” Arjumand explains.

Julia Cirillo, environmental educator from Merri Creek Management Committee, explains that Arjumand has been a critical leader in this space, working with us on citizenscience education programs with her communities. Together, Julia and Arjumand have co-delivered waterbug and wetland discovery events, as well as frog walk-and-talk events.

“Arjumand is incredibly knowledgeable, skilled and passionate in the way she engages with people to care for Merri Creek,” Julia says. “She has inspired hundreds of others within her networks, which is essential

to keeping the landscape healthy and a place where people and our native flora and fauna can live healthy lives.”

Today, STEM Catalyst is supported by state government departments, local councils, community organisations and education facilities and aims to help children from culturally diverse and low socio-economic backgrounds to appreciate STEM. STEM Catalyst also delivers workshops as part of Merri Creek Management Committee’s Waterwatch program, teaching volunteers how to test water quality.

Arjumand’s next challenge was inspiring adults to get engaged in conservation and stewardship of their waterway. “In our countries, India, Pakistan, and other Asian countries, I see that nature is by itself and people are more inclined towards urbanising,” Arjumand says.

Arjumand explains that many people from multicultural communities have

EMBRACING THE PLAY WELL STRATEGY

been raised with negative emotions towards nature: that dirt contains dangerous microorganisms, or that grass may be too dirty to sit on. For many, the concept of caring for a natural space is new, even though the creek may be just beyond their back fence.

Attitudes are changing and Arjumand now has adults attending water monitoring sessions, learning about wild pollinators and even studying clouds in NASA-based citizen-science projects. For Arjumand, its incredibly gratifying to witness communities embracing nature, and her own children relishing their time in nature. “My son used to roll down the hill,” Arjumand laughs. “Every time he saw a steep thing, he would roll down it. I see that connection is huge because there’s nothing that could offer so much bounty like nature can.”

Sport in Australia is part of the fabric of who we are, however sport also needs to change. It needs to be more inclusive. We need to ensure that we are providing more opportunities for all Australians to be involved in sport, in whatever role they choose. This is at the core of the nation’s first codesigned national sport participation strategy — the Play Well Strategy. Launched in November 2023, the Strategy is a united approach with a vision that “everyone has a place in sport”. It aims to create great sporting environments and experiences, where individuals of all ages, backgrounds, genders and abilities can come together to access the benefits of sport.

The Play Well Strategy is the result of a collective effort of passionate people from across Australia who are all committed to making positive changes and transforming sport participation, into the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.

The Strategy’s call to Play Well complements Australia’s High Performance 2032+ Sport Strategy, which is built on creating environments where athletes and sports can Win Well.

A 14-person Play Well Leadership Group, which includes the founder of parkrun Australia and a fourtime Paralympian, will work closely with state/territory partners, local governments, sporting organisations and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) to bring the Strategy to life. A HOLISTIC APPROACH TOWARDS A MORE ACTIVE AND HEALTHIER AUSTRALIA THROUGH SPORT

WORDS AUSTRALIAN SPORTS COMMISSION

TOGETHER WE CAN CHANGE THE FACE OF SPORT AND HELP MORE AUSTRALIANS PLAY WELL

Similar to the Project Steering Group that led the development of the Strategy, the Play Well Leadership Group is made up of members that bring knowledge, expertise and insights from within and beyond the sport sector. The group is supported by another 54 industry leaders that have joined five Project Squads and will help deliver 34 priority activities identified in the Strategy. The Strategy provides a roadmap over four horizons, with the first three focused on aligning the sector and driving participation in sport.

Work is already underway to foster greater engagement and participation in sport through the ASC’s Play Well Participation Grants program announced in May. A total of 69 projects will share in $10.3 million to expand existing programs and welcome more people to sport: surfing, golf, badminton, table tennis, AFL Masters, rugby league, softball, orienteering and more. Twenty-nine councils will also receive funding up to $40,000 to run sporting events and come-and-try days, including skateboarding workshops in Victor Harbor in South Australia, Indigenous youth cricket programs in Casino and Coraki in New South Wales, and volleyball clinics in Queensland.

The Strategy and its call to play well is built around a range of core themes relevant to the parks and leisure industry:

Activating places and spaces | To ensure all Australians can be active, all of our places and spaces need to be welcoming, multipurpose, sustainable and accessible. A diverse and inclusive variety of green, blue, built and unstructured spaces are critical to

ensure that quality sport participation experiences can be provided for in local communities. It is important that all levels of government, sport and recreation work together to ensure equitable access is supported by good management and universal design. The Play Well Strategy recognises that parks and leisure spaces are more than just physical locations, they are living, breathing entities that have the power to shape our wellbeing, foster social cohesion and keep us all healthy, active and engaged for life. The activating places and spaces pillar will support all levels of government and sport to create, improve, activate and better manage places and spaces so everyone has a place in sport.

Driving lifelong involvement | One of the core pillars of the Play Well Strategy is the promotion of active lifestyles and fostering a sporting environment that enables positive lifelong involvement in sport. By designing parks and leisure spaces that encourage physical activity, we can combat the sedentary tendencies that have become increasingly prevalent in our modern society. Imagine vibrant sporting precincts that inspire families with kids to unleash their boundless energy together, or sporting activities that are designed to beckon the older Australian population to embrace organised sport amidst the precinct at the same time, supporting vibrant local communities and environments where all people feel they belong.

Fostering community connections | Parks and leisure spaces are not merely destinations, they are gathering places where communities can come together, forge lasting bonds and celebrate the

rich tapestry of our diverse culture. The Play Well Strategy recognises this vital role, emphasising the creation of inclusive spaces that cater to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. From mass community sporting events that bring neighbours together in a shared love for sport to outdoor sporting facilities and offerings, these spaces become the heartbeat of our communities.

Embracing sustainability | In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, the Play Well Strategy champions sustainability as a guiding principle. We are not only focused on environmental sustainability, we must also facilitate the sustainability of the support provided by millions of people who are the heart and soul of Australian sport. We must optimise our sport delivery methods to ensure the financial sustainability of the organisations that deliver sport. Finally, we must understand and value the impact the sporting community has and can have on broader social impact issues.

Celebrating local heritage and culture | Australia has a rich tapestry of diverse cultures and traditions, each with its own unique story to tell. The Play Well Strategy acknowledges the importance of preserving and celebrating this heritage. We are focused on changing the culture of sport in Australia to create an environment where everyone can access safe, inclusive, welcoming and fun experiences. Taking a person-centred approach, to ensure sport connects us to our roots, reflects the modern Australia and is a place where we all feel like we belong.

The success of the Play Well Strategy lies in the dedication and passion of the individuals and organisations across the sporting landscape to make change and futureproof sport for future generations. From volunteers, clubs, government organisations, carers, participants, urban planners and event organisers, each individual person plays a vital role in shaping the future of our sporting ecosystem in Australia.

As we look ahead, the Play Well Strategy serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that we can create great sporting environments and experiences that inspire, rejuvenate, and bring communities together in a shared appreciation for sport in Australia. To find out more visit playwell.gov.au

REMEMBERING JAMIE DELICH

A LIFETIME OF DEDICATION

Jamie’s career in recreation began in 1974, when he took a role as a lifeguard in Upper Hutt. By 1975, aged just 18 years, he had become the country’s youngest swimming pool manager — a testament to his early promise.

Over the next 11 years, Jamie progressed his career within the city of Upper Hutt, where he would eventually become Parks and Facilities Operations Manager. His passion for his work and his city was such that he was renowned for his acute memory of either planting or tending trees in most streets and parks in Upper Hutt. One notable project he was involved in was the revamped Maidstone Park. It is therefore fitting that he attended it’s official blessing earlier this year.

Jamie’s next career step would take him beyond Upper Hutt to Wellington Regional Council, when he took a role as a Senior Parks Ranger. This was a time when the region’s parks networks were still being acquired and established for community access. His contribution over this time was significant. Today, many of the sports and recreation opportunities within the greater Wellington Region are ones that Jamie was involved in, whether creating, shaping or delivering.

In 1987, Jamie moved into the world of aquatics. He took the role of Commissioning Manager for the Wellington Aquatic Centre, a cuttingedge facility at the time. This was a pivotal role in Jamie’s career. It was a time of economic reform in New Zealand; to deliver such a high-stakes projects required a track record of experience, leadership and unwavering commitment. Jamie proved he had all these qualities. The facility’s grand opening was a memorable event on a scale that perhaps hasn’t been seen since.

Jamie would spend 25 years at Wellington City Council across a variety of roles, where he was involved in delivering a range of recreation, sports and arts opportunities for the wider Wellington community. In 2014, Jamie joined Sport New Zealand Ihi Aotearoa as a Facilities Consultant, later becoming the Manager of Spaces and Places. Here, he used his knowledge and experience to influence sport and recreation on a national scale, developing regional spaces and places plans and advising on numerous projects. Jamie’s last major project involved advocating for the renewal of a high school gymnasium in Te Kuiti. Whatever the size or scale of the project, initiative

KUA HINGA HE TŌTARA I TE WAONUI A TĀNE.
(A TŌTARA HAS FALLEN IN THE FOREST OF TĀNE)

or programme, Jamie was passionate about recreation being accessible to everyone.

Jamie’s contributions to sport and recreation extend beyond his professional roles. He was deeply involved with the New Zealand Association of Swimming Pool Managers, and was instrumental in forming what was called the New Zealand Recreation Association, now known as Recreation Aotearoa. His dedication to professional development in the sector was recognised through various accolades and awards, including the Ian Galloway Memorial Cup and the Paul Stuart Memorial Award.

Underpinning all of Jamie’s work was community, whether that’s the community he worked for developing sports and recreation opportunities, or the recreation community he worked in. Jamie had a genuine interest in people. His knowledge, integrity and his humility made him a respected and beloved figure in the industry. It is perhaps, therefore, that his legacy is not in the facilities and programmes he developed, but in the countless careers he influenced and the communities he enriched. Jamie’s story is testament to the profound impact that one dedicated person can have on people, places and spaces over a lifetime of service.

Moe mai, moe mai, moe mai rā.

Recreation Aotearoa acknowledges the passing of Jamie Delich, a Recreation Aotearoa Fellow and Life Member. Jamie’s 50-year journey in the parks, sports and recreation sector has left an indelible mark on facilities, communities and people across Aotearoa.

BALANCING ADVENTURE AND CHALLENGE IN PL AY

MILES RAYNER, GENERAL MANAGER AT ACTIVITY PLAYGROUNDS, SHARES HIS INSIGHTS INTO TODAY’S PLAY LANDSCAPE

Activity Playgrounds has been manufacturing and supplying commercial playground equipment since 1991. Committed to innovative playground design, the company has developed a diverse range of play and recreational spaces throughout Victoria using play structures proudly made in Australia. Focused on providing children with the best opportunities to develop physically, mentally and socially through play, Activity Playgrounds has developed an array of play systems: Resilience, Fortitude, Instinctive and Perseverance, in addition to its Nature range.

We spoke to Miles Ranger, General Manager at Activity Playgrounds, to find out more.

Q. How did Activity Playgrounds first get started?

A. Activity Playgrounds was started back in 1991 by Richard Rayner, my father. He starting his working life building houses. After completing a working bee at the local kindergarten, he decided it would be fun and interesting to build playgrounds. Activity Playground grew from this. He starting the company working out of a small shed at the family property

before moving, in 2002, to our current workplace in Wandin.

Q. What is Activity’s Playgrounds design ethos?

A. Activity Playgrounds prides itself on designing playgrounds that children want to play on. This requires a balance of challenging equipment to encourage a sense of adventure and fun, but also incorporates inclusive and imaginative items so everyone can play.

Q. What does Activity Playgrounds offer to playspace development that makes it unique?

A. Activity Playgrounds provides a complete solution to playspaces. Everything is completed inhouse, from consultation and design, engineering, fabrication, playground preparation, installation and after sales care.

We pride ourselves on being a one-stop-shop for all playspace needs. This also includes our ability to design and construct custom pieces of play equipment for various councils, landscape architects, and landscape contractors.

Q. What measures is Activity Playgrounds currently taking, or will take in the future, to ensure environmental sustainability in its endeavours?

A. Activity Playgrounds takes environmental sustainability seriously. We are currently working on a “Our Road to Carbon Neutral by 2030” approach, with some great initiatives already in place.

Q. What are the biggest challenges your company faces right now, and how would you like to see Activity Playgrounds rise to overcome them in the next five years?

A. Our first current challenge is top quality material with good lead times. Over the past couple of years, we have seen most our material lead time double. This means it is crucial to maintain fantastic working relationships with our suppliers so when we need to get something a bit quicker, they generally help us out.

The other challenge is maintaining a great workforce. More recently we have seen a shift in finding the right people to fill the right jobs. This has been overcome by fostering good workers we currently have through good pay and conditions, and various opportunities for growth and development within Activity Playgrounds. Without the great staff we have, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. Find more at activityplaygrounds.com.au

BOLD LIVING CITIES

Ecosystem services are the “benefits obtained from the regulation of ecosystem processes” (Millenium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005). They are the goods and services we receive from our natural environment, which are essential to our economy, our health and afford a hospitable environment in which communities of different organisms, including humans, can thrive. These services are provided by healthy ecosystems and, although the precise mechanisms are not fully understood, biodiversity has a central role in the functioning, stability and health of our ecosystems and, therefore, the ecosystem services we receive (Albrecht et al, 2021; Xu et al, 2021). It is easy to imagine the abundant biodiversity found in our precious remnant, old growth habitats, perhaps our rivers and wetlands and our coastal environment. Imagining biodiversity within our urban areas is tricker, and for good reason. Biodiversity within our urban centres is under threat.

While, on the face of the matter, it may appear that we can retain biodiversity within our natural parks and allow our cities to be islands, relatively devoid of a range of species and habitats. This is not the case. Cities need integrated biodiversity to support the ecosystem services that maintain healthy communities, at the very least

we need parks to maintain our mental wellbeing as was highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown (MfE, Stats NZ, 2024). Additionally, it is estimated that our cities are the location of greatest population growth in the future and these areas rely heavily on the ecosystem services to ensure the wellbeing and safety of residents.

Although urban areas in Aotearoa are reported to be relatively greener than elsewhere in the world with access to larger parks and greenspaces, the urban environment faces a complex set of challenges regarding the altered ecological and environmental conditions on offer (Meurk, Blaschke & Simcock, 2013). These range from altered light levels, climate and soil conditions, pollution and pest incidence to the fact that urban habitats are more dynamic in terms of their disturbance regimes and pressures from multiple uses. However, these challenges alone are not thwarting the creation of biodiverse areas and research shows that urban ecological restoration projects have been steadily increasing internationally and can be seen in our cityscapes (Clarkson & Kirby, 2016).

An example of a successful urban restoration scheme is the Te Auaunga, Oakley Creek restoration project in Auckland (as described in MfE, Stats

REFERENCES

1. Albrecht, J, Peters, M K, Becker, J N, Behler, C, Classen, A, Ensslin, A, & Schleuning, M (2021). Species richness is more important for ecosystem functioning than species turnover along an elevational gradient. Nature ecology & evolution, 5(12), 1582-1593

2. Clarkson, B D, & Kirby, C L (2016).

Ecological restoration in urban environments in New Zealand. Ecological management & restoration, 17(3), 180-190

3. Meurk, C D, Blaschke, P M, & Simcock, R (2013). Ecosystem services in New Zealand cities. Ecosystem services in New Zealand: conditions and trends. Manaaki Whenua Press, Lincoln, 254-273

4. Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. (2005). Ecosystems and Human Well-being: Current State and Trends, Vol 1 (R. Hassan, R Scholes, & N Ash Eds.). Washington, United States of America: Island Press

5. Ministry for the Environment & Stats NZ (2024). New Zealand’s Environmental Reporting Series: Our land 2024. Available from environment. govt.nz and stats.govt.nz

6. Palmerston North City Council (2023). Green Corridors. Retrieved from pncc. govt.nz/Community/Community-projectsandprogrammes/Green-Corridors. April, 2023

7. Pollinator Paths. (2021). A Path to a Better Future. Retrieved from pollinatorpaths.com/ April, 2023

8. Shafique, M, Kim, R, & Rafiq, M (2018). Green roof benefits, opportunities and challenges–A review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 90, 757-773

9. Stewart, G H, Ignatieva, M E, Meurk, C D, Buckley, H, Horne, B, & Braddick, T. (2009). Urban biotopes of Aoteroa New Zealand (URBANZ) (I): Composition and diversity of temperate urban lawns in Christchurch. Urban Ecosystems, 12, 233–248

10. Xu, Q, Yang, X, Yan, Y, Wang, S, Loreau, M, & Jiang, L. (2021). Consistently positive effect of species diversity on ecosystem,but not population, temporal stability. Ecology Letters, 24(10), 2256-2266

NZ, 2024). This river was severely degraded and piped through urban areas. In 2015, a project was initiated to restore the waterway, removing the concrete structures and allowing it to regain its natural state. The ecosystem services gained from the river by local residents are numerous including water filtration, recreation, stormwater management and employment and training for local residents.

Projects like this one are evidence that we have the ability to create biodiverse areas so perhaps it is the will that we are lacking. Our urban environment is dominated by the

preference for exotic species and an abundance of grass lawns in tidy, manicured parcels within streetscapes and urban parks (Stewart et al., 2009). This is deemed detrimental to biodiversity by not providing sufficient habitat and resources for species residing in the cities, resulting in depleted populations. These manicured areas are also often fragmented throughout developed areas, not providing connectivity and flow for species through the developed areas to wild habitats outside the urban boundaries.

The challenge is for all communities to be bold. There is a need to view each non-impervious area within our urban areas as an opportunity to enhance our natural environment, increasing the biodiversity and ecosystem services provided. We can use the spatial heterogeneity and intermediate disturbance of urban areas to our advantage, enhancing the biodiversity of an area due to the ranger of habitats and niches available.

Green roofs and walls have started to be used in our cities and these will become even more important as densification occurs, removing private greenspaces for extra housing or car parking space (MfE, Stats NZ,

2024). Green roofs are successfully used around the world and there are examples in Aotearoa New Zealand, such as the Waitākere Civic Centre building. These roofs are more expensive to build but have multiple benefits not just for biodiversity; the roofs can increase building related energy efficiency and can manage rain runoff. In the face of a changing climate and the urban heat island effect, green roofs could be the ticket to reducing temperatures and keeping our urban areas liveable (Shafique et al., 2018).

At ground level, there are opportunities to replace our grass lawns with low growing native herbs which provide food and shelter for invertebrates and lizards. Our roadside verges could contain deadwood, bare earth, plants suitable for pollinator species such as nectar producing species for birds, invertebrates and lizards. In Auckland, Pollinator Paths, a registered charity, is helping people to take action to fill their streetscapes with habitat suitable for pollinators (Pollinator Paths, 2021). Similarly, Palmerston North City Council has a programme to enhance the green corridors around and through the city to ensure wildlife is thriving (Palmerston North City Council, 2023).

Alongside these projects, and similar to our management of natural reserves, increasing biodiversity is also about managing pests and predators so that efforts are not wasted. The benefit of urban areas is that we have a large number of people willing to get stuck in and help the cause. Pest control and trapping groups are set up in many cities across Aotearoa New Zealand. An example is Predator Free Wellington, an organisation which is engaging the local community in various sectors from individuals to organisations to eradicate predators and protect their biodiversity (Predator Free Wellington, 2023). Initiatives such as these may allow cities to become biodiverse sanctuaries in their own right.

Finally, we can bolster the visibility of indigenous biodiversity through use of our landscaping and city artwork. This has been done very well in parts of Ōtautahi Christchurch where we get to see native species on the side of buildings, reminding us of the biodiversity we can bring into the city with some forethought, planning and boldness.

So, let’s dream big and green the corners of our grey cities into lush, biodiverse wonderlands.

Let our team from Parkequip create an exciting outdoor space for you!

WADANGGARI PARK

A UNIQUE OPEN SPACE BUILT OVER A RAIL LINE WORDS DAMIAN HOLMES

The result of innovative thinking and a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach, Wadanggari Park is a highly complex project constructed over a busy Sydney railway line, adjacent to the Pacific Highway at St Leonards in New South Wales, where available land is limited. Quite possibly the only park built over a railway line in Australia, Wadanggari Park delivers much-needed public open space to St Leonards, supporting the new residential and commercial communities moving into the suburb.

As increasing numbers of residents and tenants move into the suburb of St Leonards, Wadanggari Park will be a resilient and responsive landscape that reflects and enhances the local character and identity of St Leonards, while meeting the demands of urban growth. Arcadia’s landscape concept for this project is based on extending the green corridors of bushland, which connect the CBD of St Leonards to Sydney Harbour. The public plaza provides the community with an array of amenities, including retail activation, passive recreation space, community lawn, play area and alfresco dining space.

Research and detailed analysis of the site’s potential for programming and circulation underpin the creation of this new precinct for the St Leonards community. Wadanggari Park provides accessibility through site connections and access to the renovated subterranean link below

the Pacific Highway, connecting the residents of the 2,000 future dwellings of the St Leonards residential zone south of the Pacific Highway, with St Leonards train station, Royal North Shore Hospital and commercial and residential zones to the north. Adjoining the 88 Christie commercial and residential development, which includes the St Leonards Library, the park will provide easy access to new and existing precincts to the east, including Friedlander Place and Crows Nest, and the soon-to-open Metro station.

The design narrative is influenced by the Wadanggari (Banksia), a quintessential Australian flower known to have been here for 60 million years, which is an integral part of the Lane Cove area ecological communities and has high significance in First Nations culture. With three towers that reflect the stages of growth of the Wadanggari (Banksia) flower, the playspace at Wadanggari Park is a major attraction for the area, designed for use by all age groups.

Play Zone | The multilevel playspaces include a pod climber, a net tower and an art structure. With steppers, infant pods, bridges, climbing nets, viewing decks, swings and slide, all elements have been chosen to suit the palette of the Banksia. Lighting highlights the design concept of the play area, showcasing the towers, underscoring the bridge and emphasising the facade texture. A selection of seating is provided for parents and carers to watch children

in the playground, with vantage points for train enthusiasts to watch the railway line in use.

Community Recreation | Seating nooks set within curving walkways and raised fern gardens allow for various uses and user groups. Enclosed within the lush planting, these nooks make ideal meeting spots for commercial workers, residents and visitors to the park, playground and retail precinct, allowing them to enjoy a moment in the sun or share a meal.

Passive Nook | Elevated from the Pacific Highway frontage, the passive nook features a mix of seating typologies surrounded by raised planters full of Indigenous planting and mounds of lawn. Focus trees are underlit to emphasise trunks and foliage. At the same time, a functional lighting strategy ensures safety and accessibility from the highway frontage throughout the site, including the main connection passages and stairs to adjoining streets.

Art & Wayfinding | Arcadia developed an art and wayfinding strategy that celebrates and acknowledges the Gamaraigal/Cammeraygal people, working closely with Gaimariagal Elder Uncle Dennis Foley and Yuin artist and landscape architect Kaylie Salvatori of Cola Studio. The narrative is based on the lifecycle of the banksia and its symbolism for growth and renewal due to its regeneration through fire and smoke.

A mural on the wall fronting Canberra Avenue and a wall in the entrance from the tunnel are the work of Cola Studio, with the narrative woven through paving inlays and patterning, interpretive shade sculptures, and the sculptural playspace. Lighting, wayfinding and paving will enhance navigation and safety and create a distinct identity for Wadanggari Place.

The Great Lawn | With a timber stage, a large expanse of turf and sloping lawns to the rear, the Great Lawn space can be used in a range of ways by the community, from weekend picnics to lounging in the lunchtime sun and community events. A native buffer of planting screens the great lawn from the train line and St Leonards South precinct.

MARKET-LEADING SHADE FABRIC

FOR COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL APPLICATIONS BOCHINI®

Where innovation meets elegance.

Ideal for lightweight tensioned structures, & tents.

UV

UV Stabilised

Fire Retardant

Waterproof

Fungicide Treated & Mildew Resistant

Full 10-Year

Commercial shade cloth engineered to last.

Ideal for shade sails, shade structures & tensioned structures.

High UVR Protection

Mould & Mildew Resistant

Heat Set

AUSTRALIA’S NATURE ROADMAP

A NATURE ROADMAP FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

WORDS GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA

Over half of the global economy depends on nature. In Australia, about half of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) depends on it directly (49%, valued at $896 Billion). Indirectly, every dollar in the Australian economy is dependent on healthy ecosystem and nature, with the construction industry identified as a highly dependent industry. As we see our urban landscapes grow, the built environment is directly and indirectly impacting habitat, ecosystems, species and water quality and availability. This is happening through consumption, fragmentation and replacement of natural cover with impermeable surfaces.

The built environment has a critical role to play in supporting the regeneration of nature through direct development but also through its supply chain. To protect our source of life, and ensure our long-term prosperity, we must protect nature. The COP 15 conference’s goal, which the Australian Government signed on to, that set out to protect a third of our planet by 2030, is a step forward, but national policies must be more ambitious. Given its far-reaching impacts, including altering the water cycle, this sector urgently requires robust government policies, collective action that is proactive and bold, alongside a detailed sector roadmap to guide this essential transition

Accordingly, The Green Building Council of Australia has been seeking industry input on its upcoming Nature Roadmap, which will shape the future of environmental management and nature regeneration in and around our buildings and communities.

GBCA CEO, Davina Rooney said the Nature Roadmap, which is due for release in early 2025, will set ambitious environmental benchmarks, aligning with broader conservation efforts to transform our buildings and communities. “The Nature Roadmap will be a significant step towards ensuring as an industry we are creating spaces that

actively contribute to the enhancement of nature and biodiversity,” she said. “Our buildings and communities have direct and indirect impacts on our habitat, ecosystems and water quality. As a sector, we must work together to protect existing nature and biodiversity and to support the renewal of nature in our cities.”

Ms Rooney explained that the pressing issues we face, like climate change and biodiversity loss, call for a fresh perspective. “We need to embrace a new approach—one that honours and integrates the knowledge and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples alongside Western knowledge and science. We need to ensure the resilience of Australia’s landscapes for generations to come. It’s about valuing and celebrating diverse perspectives to tackle the complexity of our challenges head-on,”

Ms Rooney said there is also financial imperative to get it right, with over half of the global economy dependent on nature. “In Australia, almost half of our GDP ($896 billion) depends directly on nature, while indirectly every dollar spent in the Australian economy depends on a healthy ecosystem and nature.”

Boards are expected to integrate nature-related considerations as part of their fiduciary duties, covering risks, dependencies, and opportunities. This comes following the release of the Taskforce for Nature-Related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) framework in September 2023.

The GPT Group supports GBCA’s work on nature as our Nature Principal Partner. GPT’s Head of Sustainability, Steve Ford said that understanding your impacts and dependency on nature is important for a property company. “GPT recognises the built environment displaces natural environments and draws upon natural resources from all over the world. We have a responsibility to better understand these impacts and act to reduce them, both to minimise our impact on the environment and

to ensure the resilience of our assets and deliver long term value creation for our stakeholders. We also look for opportunities to invest in nature restoration, contributing to a resilient future for our business and for the generations to come,” Mr Ford said.

To initiate feedback from industry, GBCA in March 2024 released a discussion paper on Nature which has been shaped by the development of last year’s Building with Nature 2.0 paper. The discussion paper evaluates environmental risks and opportunities, explores innovative concepts for nature regeneration, and underscores the collaborative roles required between governments and different parts of our industry for success. Key highlights of the discussion paper include:

• A primer on international drivers and national legislation relevant to nature.

• Results from workshops held nationally with industry, government, practitioners, and experts on nature.

• Emphasis on the importance of First Nations engagement and integration of their knowledge to improve nature outcomes.

• Proposal and feedback solicitation on guiding principles for roadmap development.

• Discussion on key issues arising from the application of principles and anticipated legislative changes in the future.

• Case studies from GPT and Investa highlighting examples of protection and restoration of biodiversity around project sites.

View the full report, Industry to Shape Australia’s Nature Roadmap, at Green Building Council of Australia, gbca.org.au

REGIONS AT WORK

A BRIEF HIGHLIGHT OF THE PLA REGIONAL CONFERENCES ACROSS AUSTRALIA IN 2024 … SO FAR

The following summaries reflect the happenings at this year’s regional conferences for QLD, NSW/ACT and VIC/TAS. To find out more or view photos from these successful events, visit the PLA website at parksleisure.com.au

QUEENSLAND REGIONAL CONFERENCE

WORDS SALLY JARVIS, EO QLD RC

The Sunshine Coast lived up to expectations with 118 delegates taking part in the annual PLA QLD Regional Conference on 29-30 May, enjoying all the Mooloolaba foreshore has to offer. The conference program included one conference stream, a casual awards celebration, an intimate breakfast with a keynote “in conversation” speaker, and two technical tours.

DAY ONE

Attendees came from all over the Sunshine State. The event kicked off with an engaging Greetings to Country by Udjee Tais, an Undumbi Family Elder within the Kabi Kabi nation.

Dr Simone Natalu, Director of Equity and Communities at Health and Wellbeing QLD, delivered an insightful keynote speech about how we think of place and why place it is so important, challenging attendees to think about

the places that have influenced each one of us and why these places are so important to recognise and value.

Professor Catherine Pickering showcased research and data on mountain biking and the challenges of balancing conservation in national parks with mountain bike trails. This was followed by Rowan Lamont from Blue Sky Trails, who supported Catherine’s message about minimising impacts on the environment and the importance of creating the right trail in the right place for the right reasons. Rowan also highlighted the opportunities mountain biking provides to connect people with nature and provide great all-round family health and active recreation benefits.

Toni-Lea Hardy represented Sunshine Coast Council and delivered a presentation on the complexities and opportunities of ensuring the open space network is valued, protected and expanded.

Luke Bates and Nicole Reeve from Golf Australia continued this thread detailing the importance of managing golf courses, which are often critical open spaces for a community. Nigel Gibson, Manager of Maroochydore Gold Club showcased what the club offers and how it is providing a great space to be healthy and active in a way that suits people individually.

We were treated to an overview by Michael Bradbery of the incredible technology Syngenta have to manage turf through remote sensing and how this technology can assist in sustainable decision making.

Adam Cheyne from Urbankind and Jarrod Hill from SportENG delved into the proliferation of new sports such as pickleball and flag football and what this growth means for how we adapt our facilities to meet the demands of the community.

The final sessions of the day revolved around Aquatic Centres. Michelle Nolland from LARCAN showed us how Aquatic centres can be optimised to thrive, particularly in regional communities. Michelle highlighted the importance of indepth community consultation, instead of being treated as a tick-box exercise.

Shane Vardy from Atlantis Liquid Dynamics delivered a great presentation on the future of the

50-metre pool and how so many pools are coming to the end of their life cycle, and included examples of how council collaborations can maximise community use of aquatic centres.

Rob Woodhouse, CEO Swimming Australia rounded the conference out with his thoughts on what he wants to see for Australians: an ongoing love for swimming. From learn-to-swim to Olympic and Paralympic champions there are so many ways to participate in the sport. Woodhouse reiterated the message from Shane about the importance of community consultation, collaboration and innovation.

AWARDS EVENT

Ryley Batt, Australian wheelchair rugby legend and local Sunshine Coast resident, was the guest speaker at the awards event that rounded up day one. Ryley gave a behind-the-scenes look at competing in one of the most brutal sports in the world, wheelchair rugby, as he approaches his sixth Paralympic Games.

DAY TWO

Green by Nature sponsored the delegate breakfast on day two. As attendees got stuck into some hearty post-awards breaky, we heard from Sarah Chalkley from Sunshine Coast Council. Showcasing what Sunshine Coast Council have delivered with their yellow design book, it was a fascinating insight into the opportunities to deliver something similar in other councils across Australia and the benefits of designing for place.

Next stop for the day was the Mooloolaba Foreshore, where Sasha Tieleman from Play Design Group led the technical tour. Many of the most iconic spaces along the foreshore are at a point where they needed redevelopment. What was so great to hear was the learnings that have been taken from observing how locals use the spaces. Thoughtful decisions such as conserving turtle activity through clever lighting and decreasing vehicles in key locations were fascinating ideas for the area.

The last stop was to the Sunshine Coast Stadium where Grantley Switzer, program lead for Brisbane 2032, presented on the current plans and opportunities around the upcoming 2032 Olympics. Simon Ball, Venue Manager for the Sunshine Coast Stadium, also took the group on a tour, providing background on why it was designed and some of the decisions that have made it perfect for visiting high performance teams

NSW/ACT REGIONAL CONFERENCE

WORDS ALEXA SPRINGALL, PLA NSW/ACT OFFICE TEAM

The Parks and Leisure

Australia NSW/ACT Regional Conference was recently held in Campbelltown, Sydney. The event, which spanned three days from 4 to 6 June 2024, was attended by over 200 delegates.

The opening day was a brilliant masterclass, All About Trees, hosted by the Australian Botanic Gardens at Mount Annan, and sponsored by Andreasens Green and Botanic Gardens of Sydney. This masterclass provided information from research data that translates through to best practice in arboriculture. It was a focused learning event which brought all aspects, activities and tools together that arborists rely on which created an effective and specialised learning opportunity for all.

The official welcome reception, held on the first day at the Australian Botanic Gardens Mount Annan, set the tone for the rest of the conference with a calm, relaxed evening featuring live music and a chance to connect with fellow delegates. PLA NSW/ACT President Simon James, Executive Officer Michelle Nolland and Treasurer John Siemon all welcomed delegates.

Keynote speakers across the next two days included Costa Georgiadis and Jerry Coleby-Williams. With Welcome to Country and mayoral welcomes from both Campbelltown and Camden, delegates were well and truly felt welcomed. The rest of the days were full, containing the trade booth exhibition, which had over 25 suppliers,

and three separate professional development speaking streams:

• Parks + Gardens

• Sports + Leisure + Aquatics

• Social + Play + Wellbeing

In this format, delegates had the chance to hear from a wide variety of speakers and topics, choosing the one that best applied to them, their industry and their interests.

The conference was concluded on Thursday with technical tours in each of the stream spaces:

• Parks + Gardens | Greenspaces and Creative Places. Exploring art and outdoor recreation in Campbelltown, delegates visited Koshigaya Park, Campbelltown Arts Centre and Japanese Garden and Sculpture Garden, and finished at the newly opened Billabong Parklands.

• Sports + Leisure + Aquatics | Camden Council Sport and Recreation Facilities. Delegates visited the BMX and Pump Track at Kirkham Park and the Narellan Sports Hub.

• Social + Play + Wellbeing | Wollondilly Shire Council’s Social, Play and Wellbeing. Delegates visited the Old Menagle School and the Picton Botanic Gardens playspace and amenities project.

It was an exciting and packed three days at the PLA NSW/ACT Regional Conference. We can’t wait to see you at next year’s conference.

VIC/TAS REGIONAL CONFERENCE

We were back bigger and better than ever in 2024 as we headed to the heart of Melbourne and Marvel Stadium for the VIC/TAS Regional Conference and Awards of Excellence on 20-22 May, where delegates enjoyed a few days of networking, knowledge sharing, and exploring the best our industry has to offer.

We like to thank everyone involved in the delivery of this fantastic event, which was attended by a record number of more than 500 delegates. A good time was had by all as the industry came together to celebrate the PEOPLE behind the PLACES, at the only sector conference brought to you by local government for local government and its supporters.

PLA VIC/TAS kicked things off with a behind the scenes tour of Marvel Stadium and A welcome reception, followed by two full days and 12+ hours of content across three diverse streams — not to mention the social event of the year as we celebrated the best of the best at the Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner.

It takes a collective effort to deliver this exciting event and we thank all of the PLA partners, sponsors and trade exhibitors who helped make this event happen, including our conference partners:

• SPORTENG and Green By Nature (program and content partners)

• Syngenta (GOLD sponsor)

• Golf Australia (PLA industry partner)

• Brand Architects (lanyard supplier)

• Play Matta (coffee cart sponsor)

• Green Life Group (MC Sponsor)

We were thrilled to have Brett Phillips as our host for the 2024 Conference and Awards of Excellence. Brett is a leading tennis commentator and long-time supporter of PLA. He hosts a dedicated two-hour weekly radio show covering the world of tennis, along with television coverage for Channel 9 across the French Open, Wimbledon, US Open, Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup, and is the host for Tennis Australia at the Australian Open.

DAY 1: STADIUM TOUR + WELCOME RECEPTION

Delegates were taken on a behind the scenes tour into the inner sanctum

of the game day change rooms at Marvel Stadium. They walked up the players race to the boundary line, took questions in the media centre and explored some of the areas being upgraded as part of the $225m redevelopment, followed by networking drinks with industry colleagues during early access to the trade expo area.

TRADE EXHIBITORS

We were thrilled to have a sold-out trade exhibition area this year, allowing delegates to find all the information needed on the latest and greatest innovations from our industry suppliers.

A big thank you goes out to all the exhibitors for choosing to be a part of this great event.

DAY 2 & 3: CONFERENCE PROGRAM

Over the next couple of days, more than 500 delegates were immersed in over 12+ hours of content across three diverse streams:

• Places + Spaces

• Parks + Projects

• People + Planning

OPENING MINISTER’S ADDRESS

To kick things off, we were joined by the Honourable Steve Dimopoulos, Member for Oakleigh, Minister for Environment, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, and Minister for Outdoor Recreation, to formally open the conference. Steve spoke

about the value of our PLA members as “the people behind the places”, and the opportunity for partnerships with State Government to achieve positive community outcomes.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

We were then lucky to have Alicia McKay join us as our keynote speaker. Alicia is a leading authority on strategy, change and leadership, empowering government, business and community leaders to make better decisions, challenge unhelpful norms, and turn good intentions into meaningful action.

Alicia is an expert facilitator and strategist who cuts through corporate jargon to get real about what it takes to change our lives, work and leadership. Her first book, From Strategy to Action: A Guide to Getting Shit Done in the Public Sector, made waves across New Zealand and Australia. Her next book, You Don’t Need An MBA: Leadership Lessons that Cut through the Crap, likewise busts common myths for leaders in all sectors around what it takes to manage through uncertainty and challenge.

THE GREAT DEBATE: SPORT VS ACTIVE RECREATION

We closed out the final day of the conference program with The Great Debate. Facilitated by Alicia McKay, our expert panel delved into the trending topic of Sport vs Active Recreation. Delegates were also treated to a copy of Alicia’s book You Don’t Need an MBA. Panel speakers included:

• Sue McGill, Director Participation Growth, Australian Sports Commission

• Stefan Hajkowicz, Chief Research Consultant, CSIRO

• Sofia De Lesantis, Regional Director, Parks Victoria

• Chris Arnett, Director Community Infrastructure and Place, Sport and Recreation Victoria

Keynote Alicia McKay
Stadium tour

MAXIMISING EFFICIENCY IN OPEN SPACE WEED CONTROL

BARRICADE ® TECHNOLOGY

WORDS SYNGENTA

Open greenspaces are increasingly crucial to our communities, promoting wellbeing and serving as essential areas in high-density environments. These spaces are now regarded as everyone’s backyard, with stakeholders expecting high standards and minimal weed presence yearround. Despite this, budgets often remain stagnant or even decrease, posing a challenge for maintaining these areas.

THE CHALLENGE OF WEED MANAGEMENT

Labour costs are the largest factor involved in weed management. Scientific research indicates that prevention is the most effective method for dealing with weeds. However, current ground-level practices predominantly use nonselective, post-emergent herbicides, particularly glyphosate. While glyphosate controls a wide range of weeds and some grasses, it is applied after weeds have already established themselves, requiring significant resources to manage their spread. Post-emergent treatments often necessitate follow-up applications, leading to a resourceintensive cycle of manual labour.

A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO WEED MANAGEMENT

An innovative solution that addresses both effectiveness and cost is the use of pre-emergent herbicides, such as Syngenta’s BARRICADE® Herbicide. This product offers a cost-effective method for controlling many broadleaf and grassy weeds, including Summer Grass, Crab Grass, Crowsfoot Grass and Winter Grass. Unlike post-emergent herbicides, pre-emergent products prevent weeds from establishing themselves, saving both time and money. When BARRICADE® Herbicide is applied to turf or garden surfaces, it reduces the number of annual weeds and the need for subsequent applications. This is due to its impact on the weed seed bank, decreasing the number of seeds that will germinate in future years. BARRICADE® Herbicide can be applied once per season, compared to

monthly applications of post-emergent herbicides, significantly reducing time, labour and costs without compromising the quality of greenspaces.

LONG-LASTING CONTROL AND FLEXIBILITY

BARRICADE® offers industry-leading longevity, providing control for up to six months in turf and garden beds under mulch. Initially used in fine turf markets such as sports fields and golf courses, its application has been extended to garden beds, public open spaces, and residential or commercial gardens.

One significant advantage of BARRICADE® is its ability to be tankmixed with glyphosate for garden beds. This combination controls existing weeds while offering six-month preemergent control, reducing overall chemical use, including glyphosate. This approach minimises exposure to chemicals for staff, the environment and the community.

PUBLIC PERCEPTION AND SAFETY

Public perception of chemical spraying is generally unfavorable. The more frequently public spaces are sprayed, the higher the likelihood of complaints. By using a pre-emergent herbicide like BARRICADE®, which requires fewer applications, the visibility of spraying is reduced. Additionally, BARRICADE® has a high soil-binding capacity, creating a barrier to weeds in the soil’s top layer, ensuring effective control of germinating weeds. This product requires minimal personal protective equipment (PPE), with re-entry allowed once the product is dry on the leaf, offering flexibility in application.

HOW BARRICADE® WORKS

BARRICADE® provides unmatched residual weed control, surpassing other liquid or granular products. It inhibits germinating weed root tips, preventing cell division and resulting in rapid weed death. Its high soil-binding capacity ensures that an even spray application, followed by a light watering, sets BARRICADE® in place, creating an effective weed control barrier.

BARRICADE®’s mode of action

does not involve damaging green tissue. Instead, it works on root tips, usually only after setting a barrier that weed seeds germinate into. Extensive testing has shown no concerns around sensitive species, though new cultivars in ornamental plants should always be considered for potential sensitivity.

STRATEGIC APPLICATION

For optimal results, pre-emergent weed control should be planned and executed in autumn and spring before weeds start germinating. BARRICADE® is designed for early application, providing up to six months of preventative control. This allows professionals to act strategically, ensuring that the product is applied correctly for maximum effectiveness.

BARRICADE® can be applied using high-pressure multinozzle booms or single nozzle wands. Assessing foliar canopies and surrounding obstacles is crucial to ensure safe and effective application. The product’s formulation allows it to be sprayed over desirable plants without phytotoxicity, adding to its ease of use and flexibility.

PRODUCTIVITY AND STEWARDSHIP

Choosing products that enhance productivity is essential for continuous improvement in open space maintenance, especially when time and resources are limited. BARRICADE® provides up to 12 months of control with two applications, significantly reducing the need for post-emergent herbicide applications and manual weeding. Its strong soil-binding capability creates a preventative barrier that allows established plants to grow normally while controlling weeds.

BARRICADE®’s formulation ensures no plant phytotoxicity and is nonstaining with low odor, making it suitable for public spaces. By reducing the total herbicide usage through its preventative nature, BARRICADE® minimises the establishment of weeds, decreasing the need for additional control measures, including postemergent products like glyphosate.

Find out more at syngentaturf.co.nz

Create

SANDY POINT DOMAIN

DEVELOPING A 50 YEAR MASTERPLAN

Located a short distance from central Invercargill, near the Oreti River, Sandy Point Domain spans over 2000 hectares, making it a significant part of the city’s network of parks and reserves. A hub of formal and informal recreation, sport and adventure activities, Sandy Point Domain is valued by both the local community and visitors alike. Home to numerous sports clubs, including the Teretonga Park Raceway, several lease agreements with the Invercargill City Council (ICC) further solidify its importance.

organisation representing Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku tangata whenua for resource management and local government purposes, and with iwi and whānau to describe values associated with Sandy Point Domain and aspirations for the future.

Their document, Ngā Hua o Āpiti Hono Tātai Hono ki Te Aputa was created for the masterplan project.

With a view on long-term management of Sandy Point Domain, the Invercargill City Council (ICC) commissioned Boffa Miskell to develop a comprehensive 50-year masterplan to provide a vision for future use, asset renewal and development. Working collaboratively with the ICC’s Parks and Recreation department, Boffa Mishell have created a staged management process, which builds to an overarching caretaking strategy for the next half century.

The Masterplan offers a roadmap and a way forward, which considers the long-term anticipated impact of climate change, projected changes in land use, and evolving public needs and expectations around recreational offerings. The 10-, 25- and 50-year vision intervals articulate key moves that can be made to implement the masterplan in stages.

An intergenerational document like a 50-year plan was a new approach for Council. Caroline Rain, Invercargill City Council’s Manager of Parks and Recreation explains, “It certainly challenged us, at first, to have discussions and make decisions about where we wanted to be in 50 years.

“The timeline of most local government initiatives typically responds to election cycles, and the expectation to see results in three to five years. The masterplan isn’t a legislative document. It’s a long-term vision and guide. So, understandably, there needed to be a shift in our thinking.”

Mark Brown, a Landscape Architect and Associate Partner in Boffa Miskell’s Dunedin office, discusses the move towards longer-term planning.

“Many local and regional councils are undertaking this sort of long-term strategic visioning for their most important assets,” he claims.

“It’s about embedding the values and aspirations of the community into an agreed-to document that sits above the cycles of local government and helps guide shorter-term decision-making.”

DEVELOPING A MASTERPLAN

Building a comprehensive understanding of the physical site and its context was the first step. Indepth analysis of physical characteristics, site use, environmental features, planning and zoning context, history and infrastructure at Sandy Point Domain and surrounding areas underpinned the masterplan and enabled the team to assess and understand the relevance of current scientific climate change and sea level rise modelling.

Boffa Miskell worked in partnership with Waihōpai Rūnaka, Te Ao Marama Incorporated, a non-profit

An earlier southland-wide cultural landscape assessment study, Āpiti Hono Tātai Hono: Nga Whenua o Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku, prepared by Te Ao Marama Incorporated in partnership with Environment Southland, Southland District Council, Gore District Council and Invercargill City Council, also informed the masterplan. Engagement workshops were held, including sessions with councillors, various agency and organisation representatives, recreation and sports clubs and leaseholders. Wider public feedback was sought using drop-in sessions and surveys.

KEY THEMES

Outside of monitoring for pathogen development, a number of cultural approaches will also assist in the overall management of natural turf fields during winter.

In addition to underscoring how highly valued Sandy Point domain is to Invercargill locals and visitors, and its potential to increase the area’s regional and national value, other themes emerged.

• A desire to see the space become more family friendly and accessible.

• Despite existing infrastructure being seen as tired, concerns were raised about noticeable impacts of flooding and erosion on those facilities and assets.

• Uncertainty around climate change and potential sea level rise saw a desire for Council to work with other agencies to implement mitigation strategies, along with the potential for improved ecological outcomes: increased native biodiversity and plantings, and pest species management.

As Caroline Rain notes, “The question of whether we can all work together came through, particularly as management of Sandy Point

Sandy Point Domain located in Invercargill
A visual representation of the Sandy Point Domain Masterplan

MICROBIAL

ROCK MINERAL

SOIL CONDITIONERS & FERTILISERS

• Replaces gypsum, lime and dolomite

• Reduces watering, spraying and wear and tear

THE NEW BEST PRACTICE

• Improve soil structure, plant establishment and plant health

• Recommended for all soils, safe for all plants and turf

• Used by professional landscapers, councils, turf farms, wholesale growers and industry experts

“We have found that our gardens require less water, and the plants take up the natural nutrients in the soil much quicker, giving us better colour and foliage in all our plants. We strongly recommend using EarthLife products as Best Practice in all our projects, and highly recommend adding it to your next landscaping project list.”

Domain had taken a piecemeal approach in the past. The community indicated a desire for a cross-agency and mana whenua governance group structure to be put in place.

CHALLENGES AND MITIGATIONS

Through the analysis and consultation period, three main challenges of the Sandy Point Domain Masterplan were identified:

• Remaining relevant to the future population demographics predicted for the city, and changes in recreational trends.

• The quality and appropriateness of existing facilities, assets, and land uses.

• Climate change and sea level rise, with the potential impact of inundation, coastal retreat, and coastal erosion on existing infrastructure within the domain.

The final masterplan responds to those challenges with three overarching goals:

1. Enhancing recreation offerings

2. Promoting a unique visitor experience

3. Building environmental resilience

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Going forward, the intention is to remove, or not replace, unneeded facilities and structures, consolidate similar activities and clubs into shared facilities and explore development of a multiuse recreation opportunities area at under-utilised sites.

Development of an eco-park area at the southern end of the domain, and an eco-adventure area adjacent to Fosbender Park at the northern end, is planned. Both areas will be extended throughout the 10-year period.

A clear main entry to Sandy Point Domain will reduce and manage access onto Ōreti Beach.

A new visitor hub will include improved signage, wayfinding and interpretation signage displaying the domain’s history. A sealed road loop around the recreation hub will be completed. A crossing point across the Ōreti River, via punt/flat bottom vessel, will be added.

Slash, broom and forestry areas at the southern end of the domain will be replanted with suitable indigenous shrub and forest species, and coverage of commercial forestry will be reduced. Existing wetland edges will be enhanced with suitable indigenous planting, with further planting planned to support the development of the eco-adventure area.

If population and recreational trends continue as forecasted, the long-term outlook for the Sandy Point Domain could include:

• discontinuing commercial exotic forestry in the eco-park area.

• connecting planted areas between wetlands to create contiguous areas of lowland and wetland planting.

• replacing exotic forestry with indigenous shrub and trees.

To help manage climate change and sea level rise, riparian bufferplanting along the edges of the Ōreti River is likely. Additionally, the areas designated as Significant Ecological Areas may be expanded to include the southern and western parts of the domain.

The Masterplan was endorsed by Invercargill City Councillors in September 2023 and will play a critical role in informing ICC’s overall future management, planning and funding for Sandy Point Domain.

Rachael Eaton summarises key benefits of developing the masterplan before the management plan is taken forward: “The Sandy Point Domain Masterplan is innovative in the sense that it has been developed and endorsed prior to the ICC starting work on the Reserve Management Plan,” she states.

“In contrast to the management plan, which takes a 10-year view, the masterplan will guide the 10-, 25- and 50-year horizons of the Domain. Indepth research and engagement informed the masterplan and provided information including physical, historic, social, recreation, ecology and environmental site context, while also considering the impact of climate change. Taking this long-term approach enabled everyone involved to get beyond dealing with the day-to-day reactive issues and think big. It is a great example of planning for long-term outcomes and using those to ensure an astute sense of guardianship for this special place.”

Caroline Park shares insights from a Council perspective: “The 10-year management plans, and the budgets attached to them, are the tangible steps that Council will put in place to achieve the agreed-to goals of the masterplan. The benefit for the community is that we have a clear long-term direction, informed by their values, desires and concerns, so that Sandy Point Domain continues to be a place that the people of Invercargill and Southland use and enjoy.”

Blueprint of the Sandy Point redevelopment
The Sandy Point Domain Masterplan process
Future Sandy Point Domain

REVOLUTIONISING L ANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE

KRESS MISSION RTKn ROBOTIC MOWERS

In the world of parks, leisure, sports and facilities, the demand for efficient, sustainable and innovative solutions is paramount. One such solution that has been creating a stir in the industry is the Kress RTKn unmanned robotic mowers. These cutting-edge mowers deliver hassle-free, centimetre-level precision without the need for additional hardware. No boundary wires, no beacons, and no on-site antenna required*.

Guided by satellites and engineered with state-of-the-art technology, these autonomous mowers can navigate complex landscapes with ease, ensuring every blade of grass is perfectly trimmed. Their systematic cutting enables a single mower to manage up to 36,000 square metres**. And if that’s not enough, Kress robotic mowers are also designed to operate in fleets. They come equipped with advanced technology and sensors enabling them to avoid obstacles and adapt to varying terrain.

Kress Mission RTKn mowers can effortlessly navigate driveways and pathways, effectively maintaining multiple zones. They excel on a variety of terrains from level lawns to rolling slopes, learning optimal routes that result in consistent and efficient cutting.

All Mission models connect to the 4G cellular network, allowing for adjustable cutting lengths, software updates, remote operation, theft prevention and weather-adaptive scheduling.

These machines operate so quietly that they blend seamlessly into the background, reshaping your facility’s soundscape. In contrast, traditional petrol-powered lawnmowers have been identified as significant polluters, contributing to environmental degradation. The introduction of robotic lawnmowers has brought about positive change by eliminating emissions and fostering greener and more enjoyable living and working environments.

Kress Mission RTKn mowers stand as a cost-effective solution, delivering significant operational savings. Their autonomous operation frees up valuable time and resources, allowing landscaping teams to focus on other aspects of park management and development. In addition to operational savings, these mowers are energy-efficient, resulting in a negligible impact on your energy bill and minimal maintenance expense compared to petrol mowers. Furthermore, the precision and consistency of the mowers ensure

immaculate landscapes that enhance the visual appeal of parks and greenspaces.

Kress Mission RTKn marks a new era in landscape maintenance, where efficiency, sustainability and technology meet to create spaces of beauty and tranquillity. To explore the range visit kress.com/en-au

*The Kress exclusive antenna network covers any number of lawns within an up to 60 km radius area. Check with your Kress Dealer for network availability.

**Refers Mission Mega RTKn KR236E.1 – Max. Area performance (72 h) 36,000m2

ABOUT KRESS

As a part of the well-established Positec family of leading brands, Kress has built a reputation for advanced German engineering and has been recognised for designing and manufacturing electric motors for 93 years. Today, Kress is committed to ensure the commercial landscape maintenance industry a zero-emission future. Its unique CyberSystem™ battery technology makes the transition from petrol to battery powered OPE sustainable, with benefits for the environment and the users’ profitability as well.

The future of unmanned mowing

Jump into the unmanned mowing era

Cut unneeded costs whilst improving the quality of your pitch and helping the planet. Kress RTKn technology ensures centimetre-level accuracy with no need for a local fixed antenna

Did you know?

zero labour cost

zero fossil fuel cost

zero maintenance cost

zero turf damage

zero air pollution

Unlike robot mowers, heavy mowing machines compress the soil, preventing water, air and nutrients from nourishing the grass. This results in heavy cost for aeration, topdressing and, eventually, replacement of the turf.

Discover more at

The New French Revolution
Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
Successful City Parks

GOLDEN GATE NATIONAL PARKS CONSERVANCY

2024 REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

WORDS GOLDEN GATE NATIONAL PARKS CONSERVANCY

Sometimes it takes a storm to appreciate the brighter days on the other side. We’ve kicked off the past two years with storms that caused park staff to assess the damage to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), and regroup on the other side. Spring always follows with a bursting array of wonderful wildflowers. But we know there’s work to be done to ensure these critical ecosystems can last through the climate challenges to come.

Climate resilience is a key tenet of the Parks Conservancy’s 20232027 Strategic Plan, which we began implementing over the last year. You’ll see updates on the plan throughout the Annual Report and Gateways Magazine, including items about social justice, partnerships that lead to positive outcomes for parks and people, and special initiatives that will make a lasting impact on the parks.

The plan is already in motion. At Muir Woods, you can spot new “woody debris” creating pools and pockets for endangered coho salmon to thrive. In San Mateo County, you’ll find community groups making new connections with their national parks. On Alcatraz, you’ll see visitors nodding as they make new connections between the island’s history and today’s issues.

Here’s a sampling of all we accomplished together in 2023 across more than 82,000 acres, from San Mateo County to San Francisco and Marin County:

Access to parks and community engagement China Beach | With our partners at the National Park Service (NPS), we’re helping improve access to a hidden gem of San Francisco. In 2023, we kicked off a project to rehabilitate this site and restore the bathhouse facility, including restrooms and visitor amenities.

Presidio Tunnel Tops | We’re delivering on the promise of this park site, hosting events like Access to Adventure Day and community groups including the Tenderloin Neighbourhood Development Corporation, Asian Americans for Civil Rights and Equality, Brown Girls Surf, and more.

Youth leadership and career pathways growing at Crissy Field Centre | In 2023, we expanded our popular Inspiring Young Emerging Leaders (I-YEL) program into Marin, strengthened partnerships with local middle schools, and brought back programs like Park Hop, which explores Black history and resilience in our parks. We are continuing to expand career pathways in the parks industry, offering a new paid internship opportunity for high school youth and continuing the successful Adventure Guide program at Presidio Tunnel Tops.

Social justice and climate resilience inclusion in parks | In June, Partnership for the Presidio partners helped put on a Fantastic Field Day and a celebration of inclusive sports. The Parks Conservancy also launched the colourful Parks For All collection in our Park Stores.

Planning for climate resilience | We’ve started working on a climate vulnerability assessment framework with our park partners, and, in 2023, the partners of One Tam released the Marin Regional Forest Health Strategy to monitor and improve the health of Marin’s forests.

CONNECTIONS BETWEEN ANGEL ISLAND AND ALCATRAZ

Angel Island was almost part of the GGNRA. In a 1972 study establishing the park’s boundaries, Alcatraz made it, while Governor Jerry Brown requested Angel Island remain a state park. Here’s more intersecting history:

• The Coast Miwok camped seasonally at what is now Angel Island. According to the NPS, after the arrival of Spanish colonisers, some Indigenous people stayed on Alcatraz to escape the Mission system. When the military fort at Alcatraz was constructed in 1854, most of the sandstone came from a quarry on the east side of Angel Island.

• In 1861, the soil for the first gardens on Alcatraz came from Angel Island. The soil was originally brought over to hold cannons in place, but military families living on the island grabbed some for use in their own garden plots.

• In the 1910s, the US Immigration Station on Angel Island was almost moved to Alcatraz. The Angel Island station would process 175,000 Chinese immigrants over 30 years, many of whom were detained and brutally interrogated there. Alcatraz City Cruises is bringing back its Angel Island Alcatraz Combo Tour, where you can visit both islands in one day, including the awardwinning Cellhouse Audio Tour for more Alcatraz history.

ALCATRAZ

HISTORIC

GARDENS

For more than a century, gardens were an important part of everyday

life for offi cers, families and prisoners confi ned to Alcatraz by sentence or duty. Many of the plants selected by these unheralded gardeners proved to be excellent choices for the harsh and barren environment, flourishing through the four decades of neglect that followed the prison’s closing.

Alcatraz’s current visitors experience an island that is alive with colourful plants gathered decades ago from around the world, complemented by newly introduced plants. These historic gardens not only illustrate the importance of gardens to the human spirit but also the ecological benefits and aesthetic possibilities of sustainable gardening.

Through the Alcatraz Historic Gardens Project, partner organisations preserve, rebuild and maintain the gardens created by those who lived on the island during its military and prison eras, and interpret their history, horticulture and cultural signifi cance for visitors.

PEREGRINE FALCONS

We’re so excited to have front-row seats to watch mother Lawrencium (aka Larry), who hatched in 2018 on

UC Berkeley’s Campanile and arrived on the island in 2020, care for her four fl edging chicks within a natural cave on the island.

Starting last year, National Park Service (NPS) biologists on Alcatraz have been closely monitoring her nest and have worked hard to bring this incredible livestream project to fruition. It’s amazing to watch these fuzzy creatures in real time. It’s even more amazing that Peregrine Falcons are nesting on The Rock i n the fi rst place! The species was nearly extirpated from California by 1970 due to the widespread use of pesticides like DDT. Now, breeding pairs like Larry’s are evidence of a tremendous conservation success story.

We’re proud to contribute to this legacy of conservation through our ongoing, multidecade research efforts at the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory and our collaboration with NPS to launch this new livestream. Thanks to the generous support of Parks Conservancy members, we’re able to host and maintain this exciting window into the lives of raptors on Alcatraz.

ABOUT GGNPC

The Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy is the nonprofit membership organisation created to preserve the Golden Gate national parks, enhance the experiences of park visitors and build a community dedicated to conserving the parks for the future.

rainbowshade.com.au (07) 5580 5366 | email@rainbowshade.com.au

PREMIUM SHADE FABRICS

THE NEW FRENCH REVOLUTION

2024 REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

Official measurements have found that Paris is rapidly becoming a city of transportation cyclists. The survey of how people now move in Paris was conducted with GPS trackers by academics from L’Institut Paris Région, the largest urban planning and environmental agency in Europe.

The Institute’s transportation report, published earlier this year, found that the way Parisians are now traveling from the suburbs to the city centre, especially during peak periods, has undergone a revolution, thanks in part to the building of many miles of cycleways.

The cyclists now on the streets and roads of central Paris are not Spandex-clad professionals, as seen on the Tour de France, but everyday transportation cyclists.

L’Institut Paris Région carried out the survey for a consortium of fourteen public and private partners, including local government and rail companies. Reporting on the Institute’s survey, French TV channel 20 Minutes told viewers that the “capital’s cycle paths are always full.”

Between October 2022 and April 2023, 3,337 Parisians aged 16 to 80 years old were equipped with GPS trackers to record their journeys for seven consecutive days. In the suburbs, where public transit is less dense, transport by car was found to be the main form of mobility. However, for journeys from the outskirts of Paris to the centre, the number of cyclists far exceeds the number of motorists — a huge change from just five years ago. Most of the journeys recorded were commuter trips.

The city’s socialist mayor Anne Hidalgo has pushed through a great many antimotoring measures during her two administrations, including reducing the number of parking places, restricting access by SUVs, and closing some major roads to motorists. The latest survey will be validation for her policies, none of which have caused the kind of protests that the French capital has long been famous for.

In short, culling cars has been far more popular than her petrolhead critics predicted, with Paris becoming cleaner and healthier to boot. Notably,

Paris is also putting into practice the homegrown concept of the “15-minute city”, creating urban areas where access to amenities is close and therefore creates less need to drive.

THE 15-MINUTE CITY

So why has the 15-minute city taken off in Paris but become a controversial idea in the UK? Helena Horton, environment reportion for The Guardian, shared urbanist Carol Moreno’s views on how his concept is transforming French life and what is hindering change across the Channel.

The 15-minute city has become a toxic phrase in the UK, so controversial that the city of Oxford has stopped using it and the transport minister has spread discredited conspiracy theories about the urban planning scheme.

A jovial and owlish professor at the Sorbonne University, Carlos Moreno came up with the phrase “15-minute cities” and has been quietly getting on setting them up in Paris. Moreno has been working with the Paris mayor, Anne Hidalgo, to make its arrondissements more prosperous and pleasurable to live

in. He says there are 50 15-minute cities up and running, with more to come.

“We have an outstanding mayor, who is committed to tackling climate change. She said the 15-minute city will be the backbone for creating a new urban plan. The last time Paris had a new urban plan was in 2000, so this road map will be relevant for the next decade or so,” stated Moreno. “I said to Hidalgo, the 15-minute city is not an urban traffic plan. The 15-minute city is a radical change of our life.”

Moreno has written a new book, The 15-Minute City, about his theory, which is being implemented in cities from Milan to Buenos Aires. In it he explains when many modern cities were designed, they were for men to work in. Their wives and family stayed in the suburbs, while the workers drove in. They were therefore designed around the car and segmented into different districts: the financial district and the cultural areas of London and then the suburbs. They have also often been segmented into wealthier and poorer areas; in the less prosperous area to the north-east of Paris, Moreno

says up to 40 percent of homes are social housing. In the wealthier west of Paris, this drops below 5 percent.

The city has also been regenerating the Clichy-Batignolles district in the less prosperous north-west of Paris to have a green, village-like feel. About a quarter is taken up by greenspace and a new park. “As a 15-minute district, it is incredible,” says Moreno. “It is beautiful, it has proximity, social mixing, 50 percent of the inhabitants live in social housing, 25 percent in middle class and 25 percent own their homes.”

Hidalgo inevitably faced a large backlash from the motorist lobby.

Stroll down the banks of the Seine today in the new protected parks and outdoor bars and it is hard to imagine that it was recently a traffic-choked highway. But with the guidance of Moreno, this has become a reality.

By contrast, in London, there has been a furore around the expansion of the ultra-low emissions zone in London, and attempts to pedestrianise Oxford Street, the city’s busiest shopping district, have failed!

More often than not, the city you live in will significantly shape the way you view the world. Depending on where you live, a 25-minute walk to a restaurant, for instance, is either an effortless stroll that hardly warrants public transport, or a treacherous journey reminiscent of a JRR Tolkien adventure.

Tokyoites identify with the former, thanks to our city’s optimal walkability factor. In fact, Tokyo is regarded as one of the world’s most walkable cities, and now we’ve got the data to prove it.

Insurance company Compare the Market AU recently released a ranking of major cities that are the best (and worst) for getting around without a car. Tokyo was placed at number six. The capital was also the only non-European city to make the top ten (listed below).

1. Munich, Germany

2. Milan, Italy

3. Warsaw, Poland

4. Helsinki, Finland

5. Paris, France

6. Tokyo, Japan

7. Madrid, Spain

8. Oslo, Norway

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

10. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Eight factors were considered for this ranking, including an overall safety score, average rainfall, car-free places and the cost and quality of public transport. The study also factored in the number of walking trails each city had, the distance of cycling paths and lanes, and the percentage of residents who live within one kilometre of their nearest healthcare or education facility.

SUCCESSFUL PARKS MAKE DIVERSE COMMUNITIES

FEEL SAFE AND WELCOME

THIS MINNESOTA PARK IS

AN EXAMPLE OF HOW A CITY PARK CAN MAKE VISITORS FEEL SAFE AND WELCOME

WORDS DAN TRUDEAU, PROFESSOR OF GEOGRAPHY, MACALESTER COLLEGE, MINNESOTA, USA

What makes a city a good place to live? Practical features are important, such as well-maintained streets, good public transit and reliable trash collection. So are amenities that make cities attractive and interesting, such as museums and public parks. Access to greenspace is especially valuable for residents who may not be able to travel easily beyond city limits.

On 22 May 2024, the nonprofit Trust for Public Land released its annual , which ranks US cities based on the quality of their parks. Beyond tallying how many parks a city has, the rankings also consider the share of residents who live within 10 minutes’ walk of a park. This recognizes that in the US and other wealthy countries, affluent white neighbourhoods often have more parks than low-income areas and communities of colour.

Access is important, but I believe making people feel included and welcome is equally important. If parks do this well, people will be more willing to use them.

I am an urban geographer and study how parks affect social interaction in diverse communities. My students and I are examining how people interact with the built environment of Phalen Regional Park in St Paul, Minnesota, to understand what leads people to experience this park as a welcoming and inclusive space. I believe Phalen Park offers useful strategies that other cities can emulate.

Phalen Park is among St Paul’s largest parks, covering 494 acres (two square kilometres), which is three times

the size of Disneyland. It includes a 198acre lake encircled by a trail, watercraft rentals, scenic views, a golf course, an amphitheatre, sculptures, a playground and two pavilions for picnics, performances and other gatherings.

One important feature is St Paul’s sole public beach with lifeguard services. Many low-income households around the park don’t have access to places where they can swim for free. Providing a safe place to swim helps reduce this inequity.

People in the Twin Cities use parks in a variety of ways. For example, Asian American park visitors are 2.5 times more likely than others to attend family events in parks, while Black park visitors are 1.75 times more likely than others to go fishing there. In surveys and interviews I have conducted, people from many social groups report that they use Phalen Park because there are so many things to do there and there are diverse groups of people in the park.

Community organisations use the park’s greenspaces and shoreline for year-round public events and festivals. The park hosts cultural performances, community gatherings such as movie screenings, and regional events such as freshwater stewardship activities and dragon boat races.

These free events cater to many different age groups, attract diverse crowds and promote cultural learning and positive interracial encounters. Phalen Park is one of the most-visited parks in the Twin Cities, with an estimated 1.1 million visits in 2021.

There are many practical reasons for cities to invest in public parks. Studies

have found that visiting greenspaces reduces stress and that people who live within half a mile of a public park tend to get more exercise than those who lack access to safe places for walking, biking and recreation. Public parks provide spaces where people can gather for free, or sometimes for a nominal permit fee.

However, it’s important for visitors to feel safe and welcome. Due to a legacy of racial segregation, and to uneven investment in parks, that doesn’t always happen.

In Chicago, for example, white and Hispanic groups have clashed over using certain segments of The 606, an elevated park that follows the path of an old rail line. These encounters have led some Hispanic visitors to avoid using parts of the park. In turn, white visitors say this distancing makes them feel suspicious of groups of Hispanic people in the park.

The Twin Cities typically perform well in ParkScore ratings, but there is still room to improve. In 2024, Minneapolis ranks second among US cities, followed by Saint Paul. The Trust for Public Land has identified significant differences in park access between people of colour and white residents in Minneapolis and St Paul. Neighbourhoods in St Paul where people of colour are the predominant group have access to 24 percent less park space per person than the city’s average neighbourhood.

St Paul has a diverse population that measures 54.3 percent white, 18.3 percent Asian, 15.6 percent Black and 8.6 percent Hispanic, according to 2023 census estimates. Neighbourhoods

within a mile of Lake Phalen Park are comparably mixed, with 34.8 percent white residents, 34.4 percent Asian residents, 14 percent Black residents and 11.2 percent identifying as Hispanic.

Data from StreetLightData.com was analysed, utilising mobile phone user data to study visitor demographics at Phalen Park from 2019 to 2021. During that time, 54.8 percent of visitors were white, 23.9 percent were Asian, 11.8 percent were Black and 8.9 percent identified as Hispanic. These findings show that the park attracts a mix of people that mirrors St Paul’s demographics.

What else would increase the park’s appeal as a place for diverse

communities to gather? Visitors say they want more restroom facilities in the park and want them to be cleaner. Restroom availability affects how long people will stay at a park or whether they will even come. Perceptions that a park’s restrooms are dirty threaten visitors’ sense of safety and welcome.

People also want clearer guidance about park amenities, such as signs explaining public art and offering multilingual directions for using the beach, boat ramps and trails. Addressing these concerns can help reduce uncertainty and foster a sense of safety and belonging.

Expanding or improving paved trails can reduce conflicts over

common spaces, such as clashes between cyclists and pedestrians. The masterplan for Phalen Regional Park calls for widening the park’s trails and separating walking from biking. These changes have occurred in a few locations but not throughout the park.

Parks are like a city’s living room. Designing, building and managing them well makes people more likely to go there and stay a while. Investing resources to make parks attractive to different groups and inviting for everyone is a sure way to boost inclusion. As city leaders digest this year’s ParkScore ratings, Phalen Park offers a model for other diverse urban communities.

RESEARCH CONNECTIONS

This edition of Research Connections provides eight articles that have been assessed as being of value for the delivery of park and leisure experiences. There are two articles, one Australian and one international, that explore issues related to the role of informal sport. There are also some less academic articles, one from The Conversation and one from Play the Game that raise issues that may help guide PLA member initiatives or are just good for work-related reflection.

AUSTRALIA

EXPERIENCES OF OLDER ADULTS LEISURE-TIME PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN AQUATIC AND LEISURE FACILITIES (2024)

Authors Butson, M; Jeanes, R & O’Connor, J

Abstract For older adults, being physically active is positively associated with various health benefits. Despite the positive benefits of leisure-time physical activity, most older adults within Australia do not participate in physical activity at a level to generate health benefits. Aquatic and leisure facilities are important infrastructure for supporting leisure-time physical activity with local governments in Australia investing significant public funds into their development and re-development. Little is currently known regarding the experiences of older adults in these facilities. Guided by a socio-ecological approach and drawing on a qualitative methodology, this study aimed to explore the experiences of older adults (n=20, M=73 years of age) using aquatic and leisure facilities to better understand how this setting might be more effectively utilised to support older adult leisure-time physical activity. Multilayered analysis revealed that the social cultural environment including social networks and the behaviour setting including location and having multiple leisure-time physical activity options, assisted in supporting participation. While social norms in the perceived environment detracted from older adult’s experience. Among other recommendations, aquatic and leisure facilities could consider implementing

a comprehensive word of mouth strategy into the marketing framework and generate awareness of the broad social opportunities available.

Published World Leisure Journal, 1–21. Download doi.org/10.1080/16078055.

2024.2351077

Cost FREE

A MIXED-METHOD ANALYSIS OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF INFORMAL SPORT TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN AUSTRALIA (2024)

Authors Jeanes, R; O’Connor, Penney, D; Spaaij, R; Magee, J; O’Hara, E & Lymbery, LA

Abstract Informal sport is a growth area of sport participation but there has been limited examination of how informal and unstructured forms of participation may contribute to health outcomes that are important for public health. This article aims to address the current lack of data examining the health outcomes associated with informal sport participation and consider the potential role of informal sport within efforts to promote healthier communities through sport. The article seeks to broaden understanding of how informal sport participation can contribute to health outcomes, particularly with regard to increasing physical activity and enhancing mental health and social connection. The article discusses the fi ndings of an Australian mixed-method study that draws on observation, survey, interview and focus group data to examine the prospective health and social benefi ts of informal sport participation for adults. The fi ndings demonstrate that informal sport participation can contribute to physical and mental health outcomes and facilitate social connection. Analysis of the observation data enabled an examination of the economic value of informal sport in relation to the health benefi ts it affords. The study provides valuable evidence of the value of informal sport for enhancing community health and broadens understanding of how sport can be utilised as a health promotion resource. The article concludes by suggesting that through leveraging

existing infrastructure and the selforganising aspects of informal sport, local government and health stakeholders can harness its potential to improve public health outcomes and address health inequities.

Published Health Promotion

International. Vol 39 Issue 3

Download doi.org/10.1093/heapro/ daae048

Cost FREE

WHY

‘TEAM AUSTRALIA’ NEEDS A NEW SPORTS DIPLOMACY GAME PLAN AS OTHER COUNTRIES GAIN AN EDGE (2024)

Author Stuart Murray

Abstract Writing of the unique place of sport in Australian society, the celebrated US travel writer Bill Bryson once wrote “truly, never has there been a more sporting nation … it is a wonder in such a vigorous and active society that there is anyone left to form an audience”. Sport is a vital part of who we are, how others see us, and, these days, a low-risk, low-cost and high-profi le diplomatic tool in an increasingly divisive geopolitical landscape. Countries such as China, Saudi Arabia and Russia are investing in the sports diplomacy game and, arguably, Australia’s edge in this niche area of international relations has dulled a little. Earlier this week, however, Australia’s foreign and sports ministers announced it was time to sharpen that edge, freshen up the team and make Australia stronger and more infl uential through sport.

Published The Conversation.

5 June 2024

Download theconversation.com/whyteam-australia-needs-a-new-sportsdiplomacy-game-plan-as-othercountries-gain-an-edge-231494

Cost FREE

INTERNATIONAL

EUROPEAN SPORT: ONE OR SEVERAL SPORTING REALITIES?

Author Play the Game

Abstract New study challenges European Model of Sport as EU ministers move to support selforganised sport. The Belgian EU

presidency has opened a new avenue in European sports politics by recognising the need to support self-organised sport. This happens as a new study by Play the Game confirms that Europeans largely organise their physical activity outside the competitive sports settings. Published Play the Game, 11 June 2024. playthegame.org/news/newstudy-challenges-european-modelof-sport-as-eu-ministers-move-tosupport-self-organised-sport/ Cost FREE

CONSENSUS ON A SOCIAL RETURN

ON INVESTMENT MODEL OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND SPORT: A DELPHI STUDY PROTOCOL (2024)

Authors Nieto, I; Mayo, X; Davies, L; Reece, L; Strafford B & Jimenez, A

Abstract Background Physical activity and sport (PAS) have been related to many health outcomes and social benefits. The main aim of this research is to build a Social Return on Investment (SROI) model of PAS based on experts’ opinion to clarify the domains of impact and how to measure and value them. Methods and analysis A Delphi method will be employed with a systematic review on the SROI framework applied to PAS and initial interviews with experts informing the design of the Delphi survey statements. Three iterative rounds of communication with the expert panel will be carried out. Participants will indicate their level of agreement with each statement on a fi ve-point Likert scale. During the second and third iterative rounds, experts will reappraise the statements and will be provided with a summary of the group responses from the panel. A statement will have reached consensus if ≥70% of the panel agree/strongly agree or disagree/strongly disagree after round 3. Finally, group meetings (3–4 experts) will be conducted to ask about the measurement and valuation methods for each domain. Discussion The final goal of this project will result in the design of a toolkit for organisations, professionals, and policymakers on how to measure the social benefits of PAS.

Published Frontiers in Sport and Active Living. April 2024.

Download frontiersin.org/ articles/10.3389/fspor.2024.1334

805/full

Cost FREE

PARENTAL INFLUENCE ON URBAN ADOLESCENTS’ PHYSICAL ACTIVITY EXPERIENCE (2021)

Authors Xie, H; Scott, JL & Caldwell, LL

Abstract As important socialising agents of adolescents, parents may substantially influence adolescents’ physical activity but their roles in adolescents’ physical activity experience have not been suffi ciently studied. Furthermore, there is a dearth of research on potential mechanisms through which parents may promote adolescents’ positive physical activity experience. Using a longitudinal sample of 464 urban and primarily Hispanic and African American adolescents, this study examined the impact of parental support on adolescents’ physical activity experience. Results of structural equation modelling showed that after controlling for adolescents’ gender, body mass index, and perceived overall health, parental support positively affected adolescents’ restructuring ability (ie ability to construct meaningful and satisfying activities during unpleasant experiences) and intrinsic motivation (ie activity participation driven by inherent interest and enjoyment) in physical activity, which in turn positively affected adolescents’ physical activity experience. No signifi cant gender differences were found in these relationships. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Published Leisure Sciences, 46(4), 425–441

Download doi.org/10.1080/01490400. 2021.1986180

Cost $53 (USD)

TASK AND SOCIAL FRUSTRATION OF GRASSROOTS SPORT VOLUNTEERS (2024)

Authors Thormann, T F; Scharfenkamp, K; Wicker, P & Davies, L E

Abstract Volunteers are critical for the

delivery of grassroots sport including grassroots football. However, sport volunteering might not only yield positive outcomes, but also task and social frustration. Based on previous qualitative findings, the purpose of this study is to identify and quantify which voluntary roles yield task and social frustration. The research context is European grassroots football where problems regarding the retention of volunteers in clubs are particularly severe. Data were collected using an online questionnaire that targeted adult football volunteers in seven European countries (n=17,729). These were England, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, and Switzerland. The results of confirmatory factor analysis reveal reliable and valid scales for task and social frustration consisting of four and six items, respectively. The regression results show that administrative and operational roles yield task frustration, while sportrelated roles score low on task frustration. Only operational roles signifi cantly increase social frustration. The findings on social and task frustration will help policy makers and club managers in designing measures and initiatives to promote and retain volunteers in grassroots football clubs.

Published Leisure Studies, 1–16

Download doi.org/10.1080/02614367.2 024.2358978

Cost $53 (USD)

CALL FOR ARTICLE ABSTRACTS AND REPORTS

Abstracts of research projects and reports of interest to PLA members are always welcome. Please forward material or enquiries to PLA Advisory Research research@parksleisure.com.au

Have you completed a report that may be of interest to your Australian parks and leisure colleagues? You can share it via PLA’s PaRC platform at parksleisure.com. au/library/. For more information contact PLA Advisory Research at research@ parksleisure.com.au

This edition was compiled by John Tower of PLA Advisory.

UPCOMING COURSES & EVENTS

AUSTRALIA

2024 AUSFITNESS EXPO SYDNEY

11-13 October 2024

ICC Sydney, Sydney, NSW ausfitnessexpo.com.au

BEYOND ACTIV ASIA-PACIFIC FESTIVAL 2024

2-4 December 2024

Sofitel Wentworth, Sydney, NSW beyondactiv.com/events/apac

NEW ZEALAND

2024 RECREATION AOTEAROA NATIONAL CONFERENCE

13-15 November 2024

Due Drop Events Centre, Auckland, NZ nzrecreationconference.com

INTERNATIONAL

FUTURE GREEN CITY WORLD CONGRESS, WORLD URBAN PARKS

23-26 September 2024

Utrecht (Netherlands) fgc2024.com/

NPRA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

8-10 October 2024

Atlanta conference.nrpa.org

PLA EVENTS

PLA NATIONAL CONFERENCE

13-16 October 2024

BCEC, Brisbane, QLD parksleisure.com.au

PLA WA STATE CONFERENCE

19-20 November 2024

Pan Pacific, Perth, WA parksleisure.com.au/events

Tools to improve sports field durability

With the increased use of sports fields, turf managers are being challenged to do more with less. Seasonal challenges like pests and weeds limit the quality, resilience and subsequently the durability of sports fields.

BARRICADE® pre-emergent herbicide and ACELEPRYN® insecticide provide seasonlong control of weeds and pests, which will help increase sports field durability.

PLA ADVISORY

PLA Advisory continues to pursue a range of activities in our role as PLA’s committee to explore critical issues, initiate research and explore professional development opportunities for our members. Although this column will not be published until Spring 2024, this update provides mid-year insights into our activities and issues for PLA members.

ADVOCACY

Members should be aware that the Australian Sports Commission Act Review was undertaken in June 2024. Advisory had a very active role to guide PLA’s submission to the review. A key focus of our input was to encourage the Act’s review to include better recognition of informal sport (have a look at Research Connections in this edition for two articles about the importance of informal sport) and the role local government infrastructure fulfills to encourage greater physical activity participation.

Advisory has also been active in providing the six commentaries about the Adelaide Statement Pledges: Foster collaboration, promote sustainability, advocate for equity, embrace innovation, health and wellbeing and community engagement. The Adelaide Statement commentaries are available from parksleisure.com. au/?s=Adelaide+Statement

COLLABORATION

Advisory’s shift of focus for 2024 has more engagement with all the PLA operations via the national board, national office, regional councils and Generate. This shift in Advisory’s expectations was made clear in May 2024, when Advisory members contributed to a PLA WA initiative to explore the value of green urban spaces. This project remains in a development stage, with Advisory members contributing their expertise to help guide the research.

Advisory members have also been involved at the Vic/Tas and NSW/ACT conferences where we conducted sessions about the Parks & Leisure and University collaboration project and the Adelaide Statement initiatives. We have used these sessions to share information about the projects and to listen to local

members to better understand how these projects can respond to members’ needs.

PARKS & LEISURE AND UNIVERSITY COLLABORATION

The big initiative under the collaboration theme continues via the Parks & Leisure and University collaboration project. This has been one of those passion projects everyone agrees warrants attention, but more urgent issues keep postponing the project’s progress. Perhaps it is a function of pursuing an important issue via a working group of talented and extra busy colleagues.

The direction for this project is designed to facilitate better collaboration at individual, local, state and national levels. The working group representatives from local government and universities continue to guide the project. Initiatives for future collaboration include improved opportunities for student placements in government and non-government organisations, parks and leisure staff contributing to university courses and collaborative research. We look forward to sharing information about this project at the 2024 National Conference.

PLA MEMBERS SURVEY

Members may also remember the request to complete the member survey earlier in 2024. Advisory members contributed to the survey design and encouraged promotion of the survey to receive nearly twice as many respondents as the 2023 survey. The sample of 148 members is not a resounding success, but it does provide more valid insights than some of the previous surveys. Here are a few of the survey respondent’s highlights:

• Overall satisfaction with PLA membership value has a mode score (most frequent rating) of 8 on a 1-10 Likert scale. This indicates that most respondents valued their PLA membership.

• PLA services and programs such as the conferences and events, event discounts and access to the Journal were rated highly (mode score of 4 on a 1–5 Likert scale). These services and programmes are among the most important initiatives from PLA, so it is satisfying to know that they are valued by members.

• PLA services and programmes that had low ratings were PaRC and the PLA Jobs Board (mode scores of 2 and 3 respectively on a 1–5 Likert scale). There is scope for members to make more use of PaRC and the Jobs Board.

• PLA communication remains the most favoured approach (mode score of 4 on a 1-5 Likert scale) for member communication. PLA members can plan to continue to get key information via direct emails and the monthly e-newsletters.

• Increase in construction costs was the highest rating industry issue (mode score of 5 on a 1–5 Likert scale) impacting on PLA members. PLA Advisory plans to explore this issue at the Advisory Workshop at the National Conference in Brisbane.

We acknowledge the sensitivity of drawing too many conclusions with a member survey sample of only 148 respondents. However, the sample does provide some useful insights that will help guide PLA initiatives in the future.

PARK AND RECREATION COLLECTION (PaRC)

It is disappointing to note the PaRC library had the lowest rating of PLA services. The PaRC library has hundreds of reports and documents covering the range of issues that PLA members are likely to address in their operations. We encourage PLA members (and the rest of the world, as PaRC is freely available) to check PaRC for relevant information that may inform and guide park and leisure issues and responsibilities.

Seeing how other colleagues and organisations have dealt with different parks and leisure issues can often be a good starting point for local initiatives. Getting copies of others’ reports, policy documents and case studies can help PLA members to be better informed.

Reviewing the PaRC documents can help PLA members to prepare reports, guide program development and the range of park and leisure initiatives. The link to PaRC is parksleisure.com.au/library

PLA Advisory welcomes feedback from members. Please contact us to share your comments, questions or issues that are important to you at research@parksleisure.com.au

FACEBOOK

Join our Facebook community to:

• Get the best bits of the quarterly Australasian Parks & Leisure journal

• See photos of regional and national award winners and guests

• Read about topical industry news

• Stay abreast of national conference activity before, during and after the conference

• Discover what seminars and events are going on in your area

TWITTER

Follow

@ParksLeisureAus to:

• Receive news and live updates from official PLA events

• Access quick, up-to-the-minute conference news

• Speak one-on-one to managers in your PLA community about your organisation’s projects

• Discover and network with like-minded people in your industry

• Unearth industry seminars and events going on in your area

• Read hand-picked articles from the quarterly Australasian Parks & Leisure journal that matter to you, your organisation and your industry

WillPlay stands at the forefront of innovation, transforming public spaces into hubs of joy, activity, and community connection through our exceptional range. Our commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability drives us to use cutting-edge materials and designs that ensure durability and minimal environmental impact.

As a trusted Australian brand, we’re dedicated to delivering solutions that cater to the evolving needs of councils, schools, and public spaces, setting new standards in the industry for both craftsmanship and ecological responsibility.

Our approach is rooted in creating not just play areas, but lasting memories and robust communities. Through our meticulous attention to detail and a passion for fostering active, inclusive environments, WillPlay paves the way for future generations to thrive in outdoor spaces.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.