On the way to Phillip Island, we found another free, brand new playground to stop at, and the first thing that grabbed us was the giant yellow-tailed black cockatoo play tower!
Zanda Park in Clyde North is huge, around 7,000 square metres, and it’s recently opened, so everything is still shiny and new. There’s also a spinning swing, and it’s a really fun stop for kids, so here’s what’s in the park and who I’d recommend it for.
The cockatoo tower
You can’t miss it. The climbing tower is designed to look like a yellow-tailed black cockatoo, and it’s the star of the park, so it’s the first thing the kids run towards. Next to it there’s a swing that spins around, which I think is very popular with the kids.
What else is in the park
There’s climbing and adventure play, a sensory and imagination play zone, and an art garden designed with local students, so it’s a lot more than just one tower. There’s also a ping pong table, BBQs, sheltered picnic tables with a rest area, and toilets, so you can easily stay for a picnic.
Coffee across the road
Humble Merchant at Smiths Lane is just across the road, so you can grab a coffee and a toastie while the kids play. It’s open until 2pm, so don’t leave it too late in the day.
Things to know before you go
The playground isn’t fenced, so keep an eye on the little ones. There’s not much shade either, the tower and the BBQ areas give a small amount, but a lot of the park is in direct sun, so bring sunscreen and hats on a nice day. The developer, Mirvac, has said newly planted trees will provide more shade in the years to come.
Is it worth a special trip?
If you don’t live in the south-east, I wouldn’t make a special trip just for this playground, it’s a fair way from the CBD. But as a stop on the way to Phillip Island, it’s great. Let the kids run around and burn off some energy before you get back in the car for the long drive.
Add Banjo Park if you have time
Banjo Park, also in the Smiths Lane estate, has water play, so if you have time you can do both playgrounds in the one stop. Banjo Park is designed around a flowing pebbled creek with water play stations, and it also has an adventure play area and a half basketball court.
Where it is
Zanda Park is at 209S Alexander Boulevard, Clyde North, and it’s free.
Is it worth it
Yes, as a stop on the way to Phillip Island or if you live nearby. It’s free, it’s big, and the cockatoo tower is something your kids will remember. Take a hat, sunscreen and a coffee.
For more free playgrounds around Melbourne, have a look through our playground reviews, and check the Victorian school holidays and term dates when you’re planning your next trip.