On Wednesday 5 October 2022, Mayor Filomena Piffaretti will delight children across Perth when she turns on the taps at the City of Bayswater’s $4.4 million renovation of the much-loved Maylands Waterland.
All new waterplay features will come alive at the historic water park, including a giant motorbike frog water sculpture, waterfall, splash pad, wading pool, tipping bucket and water creek.
Mayor Filomena Piffaretti said all community members were invited to celebrate the launch of the waterplay elements at a family fun day.
“I’m so proud the City of Bayswater has been able to save Maylands Waterland for future generations. This facility is very close to the hearts of many people in our community, who can now continue to enjoy it for years to come,” she said.
Turning on the water elements completes stage one of the upgrade, after the parkland’s dry areas were launched in winter. These include an artist-created play spider, timber tunnel with climbing wall, accessible basket swing, junior and main playgrounds, viewing deck, accessible toilets and changerooms, picnic facilities, and mobile food bay. The destination playground will prove popular for events and gatherings, with a bookable upper area complete with benches, barbecues and a kitchenette.
In a nod to its heritage, the 150-year commemorative swan mosaic has been retained from the original facility. A special plaque will also be unveiled at the event to mark the occasion.
The City joined with landscape architectural practice, Josh Byrne and Associates, to design stage one of the upgrade, which was inspired by local Elders and celebrates native flora and fauna. The design incorporates links to the foreshore to highlight the facility’s unique location along the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River), and includes Whadjuk Noongar and European heritage design features.
Construction began in June 2021 after the site was blessed with a traditional smoking ceremony in recognition of the cultural significance of the area.
The Maylands Waterland project was jointly funded by the City of Bayswater and the Australian Government. Australian Government funding of $442,000 was provided through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program. This program supports local councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects across Australia, supporting jobs and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I’m very pleased we’ve had the opportunity to contribute to the redevelopment of this beautiful facility,” Hon Patrick Gorman MP said.
“With its distinct location by the river and unique links to nature, this facility will provide families from around Perth with an inclusive playspace to enjoy all year round.”
Stage two of the redevelopment plans to incorporate a deep-water pool and additional play equipment, and is subject to future funding.