Stage 2 of the new McDonald Park playground at Albion Park Rail is now open and ready for use, just in time for the summer holidays. It includes a brand new ninja exercise station, pump track and learn to ride area. 

The completion of the new play and exercise facilities marks a significant milestone for the master plan, adopted by Council in 2019. The master plan provides a framework for the future development of the park. 

Council contributed $55K and received $250K in funding from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund to develop the $305K project.

The new ninja course features a range of obstacles for teams and individuals to challenge themselves or compete against one another. They include large stopwatch, hand rings, monkey bars with swing rope, bars, slalom poles, a combination challenge structure and dual warped wall. 

The learn-to-ride area comprises various elements designed for different ages and abilities, including a range of surface textures, signs and different structures to mimic real-life riding experiences. 

Adventurous riders can also try out the beginners pump track, a looping asphalt track including of a series of berms and rollers for bicycling without the rider pedaling.

Works to improve footpath connections throughout the park to link with Station Road, as well as seating and landscaping works have also been undertaken. 

Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said that the unique new features would recognise McDonald Park as a sport and play destination for the region. 

“I thank the Member for Kiama Gareth Ward and the NSW Government for the Stronger Country Communities funding that supported this project,” Cr Saliba said.

“I also thank the community for their ideas and feedback during the consultation, particularly the Southlake Illawarra BMX Club for their invaluable input into the design.

“McDonald Park has something for everyone to enjoy! It is a fantastic meeting place for friends and families to connect, have fun, play and get active. 

“The completion of the new facilities comes in perfect time for these summer school holidays. Children and families will be able to spend hours here learning and letting their imagination run wild.

“The new ninja course comes after the overwhelming success of a similar ninja-themed exercise facility at Reddall Reserve, Lake Illawarra,” she said.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward said “I am really pleased to see first-hand yet another great project funded by the NSW Government right here in Albion Park Rail – the bypass is storming ahead and today’s opening of stage two of this new McDonald Park playground is the perfect timing for local school children on holidays with their parents, caregivers and grandparents,” he said.

“It will provide some entertainment and fun for the kids with different activities to keep them both active and amused for hours with their siblings and friends alike.

“As your local MP, I love securing funding for local projects like this one today which make a real difference in local communities like Albion Park Rail,” Mr Ward said.

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