A GIANT blue-tongue lizard, tree-top climbing tower and water-play zone will form part of a major new all-abilities playground at Capalaba’s IndigiScapes.
Construction on the play space was due to begin on Tuesday, marking the first stage of Redland City Council’s planned 14.5-hectare Redlands Coast Eco Precinct.
The precinct will bring together IndigiScapes, Myhorizon and RSPCA Queensland’s proposed wildlife hospital, creating a destination focused on environmental education, nature-based recreation and wildlife care.
The new playground will be inspired by local flora and fauna, with a large blue-tongue lizard and a climbing tower modelled on one of IndigiScapes’ iconic Tallowwood trees among its standout features.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said the renewed space would give children of all ages and abilities more opportunities to play and explore outdoors.
“The new play area will also include a flying fox, adventure climbing system, basket swing, small water play area, sandpit, embankment slide, hammock, and rock scramble,” Cr Talty said.
“Children will be able to climb through the tower to a tree-top nest, explore nature-study spaces and nets, or return to ground level by slide, while younger children enjoy their own toddler cubby.”
An accessible path from the nearby car park will improve access to the playground and amenities.
Cr Talty said the project would strengthen IndigiScapes as a family destination while helping visitors connect with the natural environment.
“The play space is the first step in creating the 14.5-hectare Redlands Coast Eco Precinct at Capalaba, where people will be able to learn about the environment, connect with nature and support the care of local wildlife,” she said.
Division 7 Councillor Rowanne McKenzie said the new playground was expected to open by mid-2027, subject to weather and site conditions.
“This will be a place where families can play, explore and spend time in nature,” Cr McKenzie said.
“The Tallowwood Tree play tower will be a special feature for families, with spaces for toddlers and a design inspired by the ancient tree in the IndigiScapes grounds.”
The existing playground and some nearby pathways will close during construction. The Fairy Wren walking track and nearby toilets will also be unavailable.
Families can still visit the IndigiScapes Discovery Centre during the works, including its interactive learning areas, microscopes, touch screens and bushland outlook.
