Amberley District State School
WHERE
37 Deebing Creek Road, Yamanto
Amberley District State School needed to transform an unusable and overgrown sloping section of the school which was a haven for snakes and an eye sore for teachers, parents and students. The large space had so much potential but because of the terrain it was difficult for the school’s maintenance team to keep the area in good order. The school wanted a playground that could be used by all primary aged children with easy supervision points for teachers on-duty.
The Challenge
The steep slope was by far the biggest challenge of this project. The team was working against gravity for the whole project!
The Solution
Everything Outside transported three tonnes of giant boulders from Tamborine Mountain and installed sandstone blocks to act as retaining walls and make way for a tiered dry river bed. Once the dry river bed was established a shelter pod was installed with a working water pump to create the full nature play effect.
The school wanted a focal point in the playground to give its mascot, “Flash” a nest. Landscapers levelled out a section for a team of carpenters to build an activity tower with a slide to exit.
A giant spider web and rope climb was placed to make use of some of the sloping section, with stilt poles at the top to create an extra physical element.
New landscaping was created around established trees to beautify the area and make use of the much needed shade. Artificial grass was used to ensure the new play space is low maintenance and no longer a place for snakes to dwell.
Transformational Outcome
The school has new street appeal with a large and popular play area for all students. The large tiered dry river bed is a place to stimulate imagination and nature play, whilst the activity tower, spider web, rope climb and stilt poles allows children to test themselves physically. The artificial grass slope has also become an unexpected attraction for students who want to “penguin slide” under teacher supervision.
The project was supported by the Queensland government through the Queensland Department of Education’s Tuckshop and Playground upgrade scheme.
Gaining new play space.
“We love the new playground – it has become a wonderful focal point that draws people in. Everything Outside worked closely with Amberley District State School to create a bespoke play space that our children absolutely adore. Transforming a large sloped garden into an engaging and safe space for children was no small challenge, but the team more than delivered. It has been an absolute joy seeing our students play, and the playground has enhanced the natural beauty and features of our school grounds. Andrew and his team truly listen, delivering projects that not only meet a school’s needs but also surpass expectations. “
Kelli Harvey
Principal