PrintAMazing Space
A key part of the design of Maroondah Federation Estate was to incorporate, aid and involve the community. A further extension of this concept was to build a play space suitable ‘for people of all ages and abilities to come together in learning, play and friendship.’
Designed by Ric McConaghy, AMazing Space was opened on the 4 July 2005, as part of Diversity Discovery Day. The play space includes exciting and innovative equipment and designs, providing an opportunity to involve the human senses in the play experience.
AMazing Space is themed around the four earth elements of fire, wind, water and earth. As you wander through and explore each element, you can discover the many interesting and stimulating objects and designs.
Another exciting feature of AMazing Space is its accessibility, with features that ensure everyone can use the play space:
- A continuous accessible path of travel both from the car park and through the play space.
- A wheelchair accessible sand pit.
- Play equipment involving the senses of touch, vision, sound and smell.
- Bright colours, attractive gardens and accessible seating – a place for all ages to enjoy.
- Six accessible car parks.
- An accessible toilet available throughout business hours.
In 2005 AMazing Space won the National Playspace Accessibility Design Award at the Parks and Leisure Australia Conference. This announcement was followed closely by being named a finalist in the Sport and Recreation Victoria Go For Your Life Awards in the Community Facility Design Award, which recognises innovative design.
Maroondah City Council is committed to providing interesting and educational playground facilities, and Maroondah Federation Estate’s ‘AMazing Space’ is no exception. This play space has also adopted Council’s ‘Non use of Chemicals’ policy, where alternate methods and practices for weed control in areas surrounding playgrounds are implemented.
A complementary Sensory Trail has been developed around this Arts Precinct with tree carvings, historic gardens and interpretations of the unique architecture of the Centre.