Published on Monday, 3 November 2025 at 3:30:00 PM
At the Ordinary Council Meeting held in July 2025, Council received the BalingUpcycle Playground Project Proposal, acknowledging support for the initiative in principle. Council also resolved to seek the community’s views on the proposal prior to providing full approval for the project.
Background Information
The BalingUpcycle Playground Project is a community-led initiative proposing the development of a new, inclusive play space on the Balingup Village Green. The project aims to upgrade the existing toddler-focused playground to better serve children aged 7 and up, including teenagers, while maintaining accessibility and safety for all. The proposed playground is designed to:
- Encourage outdoor play and reduce screen time
- Promote social interaction among children, teens, and families
- Support physical and mental well-being through active and sensory play
- Enhance Balingup’s appeal to visiting families and tourists
The concept plan by Nature Play Solutions includes accessible pathways, seating for caregivers, and integration with existing natural elements. Additional features include a flying fox, rope walk, crow’s nest, pommel walk, and nest perches, among other considerations based on user age groups:
- For ages 7-9: Swings, slides, climbing structures, and sensory zones.
- For ages 10-12: Adventure courses, zip lines, and interactive panels.
- For teenagers: Fitness stations, multi-sport courts, and chill-out areas.
The applicant has advised that the BalingUpcycle Playground Project is backed by the Balingup Progress Association (BPA) and Townscape Committee, having received letters of support from both groups. Input has also been gathered from Balingup Primary School Grade 6 students, who have contributed ideas and expressed strong enthusiasm in support of the project.
Funding & Maintenance
The project – including the estimated equipment cost of $195,374 and overall development – is proposed to be funded through grants and community contributions, with BalingUpcycle to cover maintenance for the first three (3) years. Council has acknowledged that if successful, the playground would become an additional Council asset (or increased value of the current playground) with potential maintenance costs after the initial 3-year funding, and the ongoing maintenance and management will become the Shire’s responsibility.
The BalingUpcycle Playground Project Proposal and accompanying documents may be inspected at, or obtained from, the Shire’s Administration Office and the Shire’s website. Comments may be made to the Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Donnybrook Balingup, via any of the following methods. Submissions are due by 4:00pm (AWST) on Friday 28 November 2025.
- Online: Leave a comment on the Consultation item or use our Contact Us form
- Email: shire@donnybrook.wa.gov.au
- Post: PO Box 94, Donnybrook, WA 6239
- In Person: 1 Bentley St, Donnybrook, WA 6239
Nicholas O’Connor, Chief Executive Officer
View Open Consultations
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