McDowall and Sandgate Among Final Suburbs to Receive New Playground Shade Sails

Brisbane’s playgrounds are set to become even more sun-safe as the final stage of the Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program rolls out. The three-year initiative, launched in 2022, aims to install shade sails at 150 playgrounds across the city, ensuring children can play outdoors while being protected from the harsh Queensland sun.


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Among the latest sites to receive upgrades are Perkins Street Playground at Nell Jones OAM Park in Sandgate, Gum Nut Nook Playground and Laurina Crescent Playground in McDowall. These installations mark the final stretch of the project, with completion expected by June 2025.

Enhancing Play Spaces for Brisbane Families

Shade sails
Photo credit: Google Street View

Since its launch, the program has successfully delivered shade to 116 playgrounds, helping to make outdoor spaces more comfortable and accessible. The shade sails are specifically designed to cover and cool playground footprints, allowing children to enjoy their playtime during the hottest parts of the day.

With McDowall and Sandgate among the suburbs benefiting from these upgrades, local families can expect safer and more enjoyable park visits. These new shade structures align with Brisbane’s ongoing commitment to enhancing green spaces and improving community amenities.

A Cool and Comfortable Future

Shade sails
Photo credit: BCC/Facebook

Playgrounds serve as vital hubs for recreation and social interaction, and providing shade is an essential part of ensuring they remain safe and inviting. Council has emphasised that the project is not just about comfort but also about long-term health benefits, reducing exposure to harmful UV rays.

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As Brisbane continues to experience hot summers, these improvements will help children and families make the most of outdoor play without the worry of excessive sun exposure. With more upgrades scheduled for the coming months, the Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program is shaping Brisbane into a cooler, more family-friendly city.

Published 5-February-2025