You might not notice the subtle aspects that make our all-abilities play space truly inclusive.

Hays Paddock playground was built in 1998 after 2 local mothers of children with disability advocated for a public playground where children of all abilities could play together.  

Now the second-generation Hays Paddock playground is open, with new features and better accessibility in the same beautiful parkland setting. 

‘Everyone knows it as the OG, the original,’ says Karen Overall, principal of the specialist Ashwood School in Burwood.  

'It's always been the best'

‘People come from afar because they know it’s always been the best of inclusive playgrounds. Now they’re able to visit [the new one] and know the research and commitment to support our children and adults with disabilities makes it even more impressive.’ 

During the early stages of consultation in 2021, Karen advised the team redesigning the playground in her former role as principal of Belmore School in Balwyn. It’s a specialist school for students with physical disabilities, health impairments, intellectual disabilities, visual impairments, autism spectrum disorder and complex communication needs.  

Just as many disabilities aren’t visible, key aspects of the playground may not be obvious. They include tucked-away spots in the main timber play structure, and features like the bird ‘hide’ over the billabong with lookouts at different heights. 

'Those little nooks are important'

‘Children with autism might want their own little space, so those little nooks they can go and sit in are important,’ explains Karen. ‘They might not want to be running around jumping and playing, but like to sit quietly and connect in a sensory way. 

‘Another thing for our students – who are often inside for safety – is connecting with the environment in that lovely natural space. They can sit and watch and look and learn. They’re out and about and safe as well.’ 

The new compic boards – with pictures of different playground elements – help non-verbal visitors choose what they want to play with. They also build familiarity, independence and confidence. 

And the goodwill among playground visitors is another invisible asset.  

‘Most parents would know if you come to that playground you might have a disability or you might not,’ says Karen. ‘But it’s fair and equitable for everybody to engage with [what’s on offer], while being mindful of and respecting everyone’s ability. 

Inclusive features at Hays Paddock playground include: 

• ramp access into and throughout the main timber play unit for those who use wheelchairs or walking frames 
• an accessible adult swing seat and high-backed toddler swing seat 
• a new accessible carousel 
• sand and water play features for children with mobility challenges 
• compic graphic communication boards for non-verbal users 
• better access throughout the whole playground.  

Find out more about the renewed playground at our Hays Paddock playground page.