Petition launched to change new Eastern Foreshore playground due to safety concerns

An online petition to improve Mandurah's new nature-based Eastern Foreshore playground is gaining traction.

Over 260 people have already signed the petition started by a concerned Mandurah mother last week.

"As a parent who has personally watched my children and others suffer injuries at the new Mandurah foreshore playground (along Mandurah terrace), I know how critical this issue is," Jennifer Gamble wrote on the petition.

"In its present form, the playground is blighted by hazardous limestone rocks, metal, and concrete, which pose a threat not only to children's fun but, more importantly, to their safety."

Ms Gamble claims multiple children have suffered injuries at the new playground, some so severe they required "first aid or ambulance services". 

The petition calls for the removal of the limestone rocks, a barrier at the toddler slide, soft fall surfacing throughout, covering or removing exposed metal latches/bolts, and removing a beam that sticks out near the metal climb frame.

Mandurah Mayor Caroline Knight said while feedback on the new playground has been mostly positive, she acknowledges there are some concerns about safety, size, and accessibility.

"It’s important to note that there is a growing body of best-practice thinking in Australia around the value of managed risk in play," she said in a Facebook post.

"Allowing children to experience age-appropriate challenge in a safe environment helps build important life skills like resilience, confidence, and decision-making.

"Risk doesn’t mean danger — it means giving children the opportunity to test their abilities in ways that support healthy development. This approach is supported by national safety standards and is part of the broader shift in contemporary playground design."

Mayor Knight said the playground meets the Australian playground safety standards but they will continue to review how the space is used and what might be needed in the future.