Sherwood Arboretum Opens Nature-Inspired Playground

As Sherwood Arboretum approaches its centenary, a new chapter unfolds with the opening of its nature-inspired playground. After weeks of anticipation and careful work, the reimagined play space is now ready to welcome young adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.


Read: Sherwood Arboretum: A Look Back at Brisbane’s Living Heritage


A Playground Rooted in Nature

Photo credit: BCC/Facebook

The newly designed playground is more than just swings and slides; it’s an immersive experience that brings the arboretum’s rich botanical heritage to life. Children can now:

  • Hop along whimsical mushroom steppers
  • Wander a winding boardwalk
  • Listen to the melodies of local birds on an interactive sound panel
  • Gaze up at the canopy from a net, spotting wildlife among the branches
  • Test their balance on a challenging log maze
  • Scale a spider-inspired climbing net

Each element has been carefully chosen to encourage exploration and foster a connection with the natural world that surrounds it.

Accessibility and Enrichment at the Core

Nature-Inspired Playground
Photo credit: BCC/Facebook

The playground’s redesign focused on creating an enriched and more accessible play environment. Improvements include replacement of existing decking, installation of new equipment and furniture, and addition of a second pathway to enhance accessibility

These upgrades ensure that children of all abilities can enjoy the wonders of outdoor play in this unique setting.

Brisbane partnered with two local businesses to bring this suburban oasis to life. The collaboration has resulted in a play space that reflects the character of the area and the values of its residents.

Sherwood Arboretum: A Century of Growth

Nature-Inspired Playground
Photo credit: BCC/Facebook

As the playground opens its gates, it marks the beginning of celebrations leading up to Sherwood Arboretum’s centenary in 2025. Established on World Forestry Day in 1925, the arboretum has flourished from a modest collection of native Australian trees into a diverse 15-hectare sanctuary.

Today, the arboretum boasts:

  • Approximately 1,100 trees
  • 250 distinct species
  • Various botanical collections including riverine, dry rainforest, dry sclerophyll, and freshwater wetland areas
  • A grand avenue of 72 kauri pines, considered the crown jewel of the park

Looking to the Future

With the centenary on the horizon, the Friends of Sherwood Arboretum are preparing for a year filled with celebrations and activities. The new playground is just the beginning of a series of upgrades aimed at revitalising this beloved space.


Read: The Beginnings of Collins Estate, the ‘Most Cheerful’ Address in Annerley


As Sherwood Arboretum enters its second century, it does so with renewed vigour. The enhanced facilities and nature-inspired playground ensure that future generations will continue to find relaxation, discovery, and a deep appreciation for conservation within its leafy bounds.

Published 19-September-2024