Tarpeena Playground Upgrade

Share your thoughts on concept designs for the Tarpeena Playground upgrades.

Background

In 2024, Council engaged Spiire (formerly Outerspace Studios) to undertake an assessment of existing playgrounds across the district and to develop a strategic roadmap for Council to effectively plan and manage its play assets.

Spiire’s report identified the playground at the Tarpeena Recreation Reserve as a priority project. At the Ordinary Council Meeting on 17 August 2026, Council endorsed a design for public consultation.

The design includes two play structures, swings, and ground-level elements as well as all-ages exercise equipment. Barbecue facilities and ample seating are also included, connected by accessible pathways.

Please note, Council has also applied for external funding for an additional piece of accessible play equipment to be installed in the upgraded Tarpeena playground, however due to the high volume of applications to the funding program it is not guaranteed that Council will be successful.

Strategic Context

This project is informed by and works towards Council’s strategic priorities outlined in:

• Inner Townships Masterplan
• Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2026-2030

Seeking Your Feedback

The plans have been designed to Council's budget. While all community feedback will be considered, it's important to note that major changes or additions will be outside the scope and budget of the project.

When viewing the plans, it can be helpful to keep these questions in mind as a starting point:

• What is successful about the design?
• Is it welcoming, accessible and inclusive?
• What could be added or altered to improve how the community uses the playground?

Get Involved

Review the Tarpeena Playground Upgrades and share your feedback by:

• Completing the Feedback Form below
• Emailing your submission to info@slcc.sa.gov.au
• Submitting a hard-copy feedback form or letter to:
  • Council's Principal Office, 324 Commercial Street West Mount Gambier
  • Port MacDonnell Community Complex, 5-7 Charles Street Port MacDonnell
  • PO Box 724, Mount Gambier SA 5290

A drop-in session will also take place at the Tarpeena Playground for interested community members to view the plans in person and learn more about the project:

• Location: Tarpeena Recreation Reserve, Riddoch Highway Tarpeena
• Date: Tuesday 25 August 2026
• Time: 3:30pm

Consultation closes 5pm Tuesday 8 September 2026.

Next Steps

All feedback will be shared with the project team and playground designers once consultation has closed. Reviewed designs will be presented back to Council for approval and the works will be scheduled.

Project updates will continue to be posted to this page and shared with Your Say email subscribers. Project milestones will be reported through media release and social media posts.