Central Gardens playground features
The playground design adopts a space exploration theme, based around the iconic climbing rocket. New and upgraded features include:
- a fully restored climbing rocket with ladder access, new slides, repaired footings, new rubber surfaces, wider openings and fresh paint
- new ‘traditional’ equipment like monkey bars
- a combination play unit combined with a partly accessible ‘mission control centre’
- ‘Mars landing terrain exploration’ with mounds, tunnels, rocks and craters for balancing, clambering and hopping challenges for all ages
- water play zone
- a variety of swings for different ages
- clear paths and paved play surfaces suitable for people with limited mobility
- more shade canopies
- new drinking fountain.
Rocket restoration
Relive the rocket’s restoration journey in the photo gallery and video below.
More information
- Central Gardens playground is at 30 Henry Street, Hawthorn. It's classified as a district playground. Find out more about playground categories.
- The playground's design was shaped by community feedback in 2021. The rocket's restoration was informed by external auditors and independent consultants.
- Learn about when and why we upgrade playgrounds.