Project Case Study

John French Memorial Park

Neighbourhood Playground

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All Aboard for Big Little Adventures

Tucked into a leafy pocket of Brisbane’s western suburbs, John French Memorial Park has been revitalised as a playful community retreat where local kids can climb, swing and set sail on new adventures. The upgrade replaces ageing infrastructure with a vibrant, low-maintenance play space designed to respect the natural beauty of the site while sparking imagination and movement.

Details

Location: Brisbane, QLD

Client: Brisbane City Council (West)

Project Type: Neighbourhood Playground

Scope: Local Park Upgrade

Equipment Budget: $35k

Project Overview

As part of a commitment to community investment, Brisbane City Council earmarked this suburban park for a much-needed transformation. The challenge? Delivering a high-impact upgrade without disturbing the surrounding fig trees and their protected root zones.

The result is a small but mighty space—cleverly designed, full of character and ready to spark imagination. At its heart sits the Play Galleon: a brightly coloured, pirate-themed structure that invites younger children (aged 2–5) to climb, explore and let their imaginations run wild. Sensory panels, lookout points and tactile surfaces offer a rich play experience, while durable aluminium posts, CGL panels and nylon ropes keep maintenance to a minimum.

The Finished Space

Surrounding the ship, active elements like a team swing and vortex spinner encourage group play, physical coordination and vestibular development. Rubber wear pads at key access points offer durability and accessibility, while bark softfall completes the natural look and feel of the site.

The result is a play space that feels right at home tucked beneath the trees, full of energy and ready for all manner of swashbuckling adventures.