The Children's Forest is the newest of three playgrounds inside Fagan Park, opened April 2024 as only the second nature playground of its kind in Australia. Built around timber discovery pods, a stepping-stone pond, hidden animal sculptures and a Yarning Circle, it's a "play and learn" space designed in consultation with kids from five local schools — closer to a forest classroom than a standard playground.

Why We Love It

• Nature play, not plastic equipment — fallen tree trunks for climbing, wooden balance blocks, a stepping-stone pond and "floor is lava" obstacles built into the landscape, so kids invent the game rather than queue for a slide.

• Hidden animal sculptures tucked through the forest — koalas, echidnas and timber critters that turn the visit into a treasure hunt for pre-schoolers who lose interest in equipment quickly.

• Discovery pods and Yarning Circle teach forest ecosystems, Aboriginal cultural stories and how termites and light work — actual learning, not lip-service educational signage.

• Fully fenced with accessible pathways so wheelchairs and prams roll right through and runners can't bolt out the gate. A rare combo in nature playgrounds.

• Three playgrounds in one park — pair the Children's Forest with the big Main Playground (slides, climbing frames, coffee cart) and the Eco Garden walk for an easy half-day.

• Surrounded by 55 hectares of Fagan Park — formal gardens, rolling lawns and a BBQ area mean you can pack a picnic and stay until close.