Bayside Council loved the original whelk shell concept created by Jeavons. However, as is often the case with bespoke play structures, achieving it in the real world was far from straightforward.

The design was absolutely unique, never done before, requiring our design team to explore numerous detailing options, before identifying the most effective way to safely achieved the tower design in full accordance with AS 4685. The ultimate result? A soaring new play experience, as structurally sound as it is inspiring.

Precision detailing was required during the manufacturing stages to ensure the tower’s complex design would be accurately realised on-site. Brimming with unique embellishments and external connection points, every element was meticulously checked (and double-checked) during pre-assembly to ensure a safe and seamless fit. To minimise site time, each of the tower’s timber decks were also pre-assembled off site and transported complete.

The busy nature of Sir Joseph Banks Park also presented its share of logistical challenges during the final installation stages, requiring careful co-ordination with the principial contractor and Council’s other contractors.

Inclusion was a big part of our design brief. Accordingly, the tower design features an accessible sway bridge and play deck with an innovative wheelchair circulation space. This ensures less abled children have just as much opportunity to enjoy the play structure as everyone else!

• 8.76 metre multi-level ‘whelk shell’ play tower
• 5.5 metre tube slide
• 2.6 metre open double slide
• Accessible sway bridge and play deck with wheelchair circulation space
• 2 x net rope climbs
• Rope net hammock
• Talking tubes
• Timber log climb
• Bongo drums, xylophone and telescopes

• Painted structural steel
• Steel reinforced rope climbing tunnels and nets
• Class 1 Australian Hardwood balusters and decking
• Stainless tensile mesh netting fall protection and anti-climb

Safety is paramount in the creation of every Fleetwood play structure, especially one that has children soaring up to 9-metres above the ground! All elements of the play tower were designed and delivered in accordance with AS 4685 (Playground Equipment & Surfacing). Specialist play auditors, Kico Playground Inspection Services, were engaged throughout the project, conducting multiple design and quality checks, before overseeing the final site inspection prior to handover.

Appropriate materials and finishes were specified for all elements of the play tower, in keeping with the bayside location. This included a 3-coat epoxy marine-grade paint finish to extend the lifespan and time to first maintenance of the structural steel elements, with 316-grade stainless components chosen for their superior corrosion resistance. All timbers were sustainably-sourced Class 1 Australian hardwood.