In January 2021, the Town of Cottesloe initiated a tender to develop the area along the railway line in East Cottesloe. The aim was to connect two small play areas, creating a nature play pathway suitable for various age groups.

Following an extensive consultation process, construction commenced in June 2023. The design prioritizes both community needs and the preservation of the natural ecosystem, integrating seamlessly with the existing vegetation.

At one end, a fenced toddler section features a large sandpit with stump clambering opportunities, carved fossils to discover, a rocky lookout, and cubby spaces.

A bike skills track, partially funded by the Public Transport Authority, is designed to teach younger children road rules while providing an enjoyable and confidence-building experience.

It links naturally to the Principal Shared Path adjacent, a 4M wide bike track running between Fremantle and Perth city.

Adjacent to this area, visitors can find a basket swing and a fairy bridge spanning a natural drainage oasis designed to collect water during winter. The winding pathway continues, offering a variety of balance and jumping obstacles, along with stunning climbable fig trees.

Underneath the large trees, a series of sensory totems enable smaller children to explore sound, touch, and natural textures.

The centerpiece of the playground is the “Timbersaurus” climbing structure, reminiscent of the original Purple Dinosaur playground. It features a slide and rope swinging and climbing challenges, all shaded by sails.

At the far end of the pathway, timber giants strung with repurposed wharf rope loops provide a balancing challenge and a hangout spot for older children and teens.

To enhance the environment, over 1700 new plantings have been added to complement the existing 50 established trees, creating a vibrant green space for the entire community to enjoy.

See a short video of the project below: