Popular park gets $500,000 upgrade

A flagship all abilities playground in Moreton Bay has opened with $500,000 of new space for those with low or no vision.

The new area connects with the existing award-winning playground at Leslie Patrick Park, in Olearia St West, Arana Hills, which opened in 2019.

Additions to The Hills District All Ages, All Abilities Playground include a braille trail, pavement art, a beehive cubby, sensory hangout, vibration post, overhead optic sensory panels, gardens with sensory plants and a picnic shelter.

It follows extensive consultation with residents, park users with lived experience and experts from Vision Australia, speech pathologists and occupational therapists.

A free community event to celebrate the opening of the latest stage of the play space will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 from 10am to noon.

“This upgrade reaffirms our commitment that this important play space in the heart of The Hills District is accessible to everyone in the community,” Mayor Flannery said.

“The popular All Abilities playground at Leslie Patrick Park was the first of its kind in South East Queensland when it opened and we’ve invested in making it even better.

“This upgrade incorporates the latest elements to make it easier for those with low or no vision to navigate and enjoy the play space.

“The changes also provide communication and education opportunities as well as sensory play elements and quiet spaces.”

Councillor Matt Constance (Div 10) said the feedback was “invaluable in planning this latest stage of the playground and ensuring local needs were met”.

“I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of the many practitioners, therapists and advocates who provided valuable insight that will influence the way we deliver new parks across City of Moreton Bay.”