Free family fun to celebrate opening of innovative lakefront playground at Stockland Newport

A free action-packed afternoon of family entertainment will help launch a new state-of-the-art waterfront park that will open up Stockland Newport’s new $90 million centrepiece lake for public recreational activities on and off the water.

Children will get to meet Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants as he wanders through the crowd for the official opening of the nautically-themed Spinnaker Park, take part in an exciting treasure hunt, touch live sea creatures at a special display as well as ride paddleboards and kayaks in a fun-filled celebration from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday, 11 May.

Spinnaker Park incorporates a launch area for non-motorised water craft such as boards and kayaks, as well as an innovative playground designed in collaboration with the Touched By Olivia Foundation to ensure children of all abilities can play together, including those with physical disabilities and spectrum disorders such as autism.

David Laner, Queensland General Manager for Residential Communities at Stockland, said the park was set to become a destination for families throughout the region.

“The park, complete with a landmark three-storey high sail tower in the playground offering outstanding views over the Bay, is positioned to take full advantage of Newport’s idyllic location. We are proud to be setting a benchmark for inclusive, imaginative outdoor play in southeast Queensland,’’ Mr Laner said.

“The playground has been designed around a nautical theme and will encourage children’s imaginations to run wild with a play ship, a coconut rope swing, climbing nets, slides as well as sand and water play activities.

“We are also excited to be opening up the lake for everyone to enjoy and we are looking forward to Spinnaker Park becoming a recreational hub for the region, reflecting Stockland’s commitment to creating healthy, active communities.’’

The park also incorporates a central plaza showcasing public art pieces as well as interactive water features which will be illuminated at night to create a spectacular display.

The new park, on Lakeview Promenade, is also adjacent to Stockland’s Newport Retirement Living project, which is preparing to welcome its first residents this spring, with construction progressing swiftly.

The exciting new resort-style project sets a new benchmark across 125 low-maintenance apartments, with stunning views of the lake and bay, central tropical gardens, bar, gym and poolside entertainment area set in the heart of the vibrant Newport community.

Ben Urban, Managing Director of Urban Play, which constructed the playground, said the design drew on the park’s coastal location.

“We wanted to design a playground that celebrates the beach lifestyle that Australian families know and love,’’ Mr Urban said.

“An intergenerational design approach was taken to design a play environment which caters to all ages with equipment offering a wide variety of play activities that develop and challenge children’s physical, social and cognitive development.’’

Newport occupies a prime position in Brisbane’s thriving northern growth corridor on the Redcliffe Peninsula and is located 36 kilometres from Brisbane CBD.

The community will be home to more than 5,000 residents upon completion with almost 2,000 dwellings and a future town centre.

Newport will also feature proposed waterside dining, leafy foreshore parks, kilometres of cycling and walking paths, and easy access to schools, shops, health facilities, public transport and beaches.

To find out more about Newport, visit the Sales and Information Centre on the corner of Griffith Road and Boardman Road, Newport, or go to www.stockland.com.au/newport. You can also become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/newportwaterside