Howard Dawson Reserve

This is one of the exceptionally fabulous, new breed of playgrounds that the City of Boroondara has been constructing over the last couple of years. This amazing structure has high decking that runs between five roofed 'castles', each of which has some sort of challenging apparatus for kids to climb up, as well as a ramp and steps. There is a climbing wall, pommel walk, slides, ladders, spring riders, fireman's pole, spiral climbers and so much more.

There is a separate structure for toddlers, plus swings and a carousel. A small concrete area and basketball hoop are just across the grass.

The playground is a blaze of colour in an otherwise rather bleak environment, due, I think, to the absence of any large trees nearby. There are several chairs and tables dotted about, but they don't look very welcoming as they are so exposed. The park could do with some native plantings to pretty it up as well as a barbecue and toilets to really make it worth travelling for.

2011 Update: Seven years on and the playground looks terrific. There is now a barbecue, huge shade sails and plenty of trees that are growing quickly.