Arana Hills is now home to a groundbreaking half-million-dollar sensory playground at Leslie Patrick Park, giving children and adults with low or no vision a completely custom-built environment to explore safely.
The City of Moreton Bay has expanded its popular inclusive recreation area with a new section dedicated entirely to tactile and auditory experiences. The community is invited to celebrate the completion of the project during a free event on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon.
The fresh addition connects seamlessly to the original award-winning play area that was completed in late 2019, creating a massive, unified space for the region.
Rather than guessing what families needed, planners went straight to the experts. The council worked closely with Vision Australia, local residents who have lived experience with vision loss, and clinical specialists such as speech pathologists and occupational therapists.
This team effort resulted in highly specialised equipment designed for easy navigation and sensory feedback. The new layout features a braille trail that guides visitors between play areas, a vibration post, and overhead optic sensory panels. Visitors can also enjoy a beehive cubby, pavement art, quiet hangout zones, and gardens filled with fragrant, sensory plants.
Local leaders view the project as a major practical step toward making the region the most accessible city in Queensland. Mayor Peter Flannery noted that the upgrades deliver on a commitment to inclusive community spaces, adding that the new elements provide valuable education and communication opportunities alongside quiet spaces.
Councillor Matt Constance also expressed gratitude to the advocates and therapists who shaped the design, pointing out that their practical feedback will influence how the city builds future parks. The latest improvements ensure the park remains a central place where friends and families of all ages and abilities can connect and enjoy the outdoors.
Published Date 30-June-2026
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