Project Case Study
Forest Park West
District-Level Recreation Park
A Space for Climbing, Challenge and Canopy Views
Set among mature trees in the heart of Sippy Downs, Forest Park West is a new district-level recreation park designed to serve the growing needs of the local community. Surrounded by the local university, business precinct and residential neighbourhoods, the park provides a high-impact outdoor destination that’s built for children, families and future growth.
Details
Location: Sippy Downs, QLD
Client: Sunshine Coast Council
Project Type: District-Level Recreation Park
Scope: Community Park Development
Equipment Budget: $289k
Project Overview
Identified as a key site in Sunshine Coast Council’s Open Space Network Plan, Forest Park West addresses a significant shortfall in recreation space across the region. With its close proximity to the University of the Sunshine Coast and growing residential areas, the park was designed to provide something lasting, versatile and connected to nature.
PARX was engaged to deliver a play space that would feel elevated—literally! The design focused on creating a sense of being in the trees, with lookout points, vertical movement and seamless integration into the mature landscape. Shade and natural connection were critical, with play elements placed under the existing tree canopy to support sun-smart, all-day use.
“The tower gives kids a bird-like feeling of being high among the trees, gazing over the forest park from their perch.”
— Christian Dickson, Sunshine Coast Council Division 6 Councillor
The Finished Space
The centrepiece of the park is the Kuranda Rainforest Tower, an angled, multi-level play structure that encourages climbing at every stage. Each platform adds challenge and height, ultimately rewarding climbers with a 4.5m enclosed slide descent from the tower’s “nest” at the top. With open lines of sight and sturdy design, the structure ticks CPTED and accessibility boxes while delivering a unique treetop play experience.
A double-bay swing supports multi-user, inclusive play, while the net climber adds variety with four suspended bridge challenges, CGL panels and sculptural clamps that mirror star constellations, adding movement, wonder and risky play opportunities.
Throughout the park, soft landscaping and natural materials ground the space in its setting, while wide circulation paths and informal gathering areas make it easy to use and welcoming to all ages.
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