Waterplay® Australia is celebrating another major win as the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct has been named Community Facility of the Year at the 2025 Parks and Leisure Australia National Awards of Excellence.
Waterplay's expertise to transform recreational spaces
Central to this achievement is the Waterplay-designed multi-zone splash pad, which has become a key attraction since its opening in August 2024. The award adds to the precinct's growing portfolio of recognitions, including the Outdoor Sport and Leisure Facility Design Award and the Liveable Cities Award.
Chris Bowser, General Manager of Waterplay Australia, commented: "The Waterplay area at Gipps Street demonstrates how thoughtful design can combine visual appeal with outstanding play experiences."
The award recognises facilities that deliver exceptional community impact, sustainability, and design excellence--qualities fully embodied by the Gipps Street project. Transformed from a 32-hectare former waste site into a vibrant recreational hub, the precinct now features sports fields, youth and nature play areas, and the Waterplay splash pad as the centerpiece of the children's play space.
The inclusive splash pad offers interactive experiences for children of all ages and abilities, fostering imaginative, social, and sensory-rich play. Waterplay partnered with Fiona Robbé Landscape Architect, Parkequip Pty Ltd., and Glascott Landscape and Civil to ensure a safe, durable, and sustainable design. Additionally, Waterplay provided technical guidance throughout installation, reinforcing its commitment to long-term community value and sustainable recreational infrastructure.
