Dunnell Park

Dunnell Park is a great little neighbourhood Playground that really ticks the boxes for younger kids and families looking for a shaded, low‑mess place to play. Tucked within a residential area, it feels safe, contained and very family-friendly, making it a handy option for a quick play after school or a relaxed weekend visit.

One of the standout features is the excellent shade. Large shade sails cover the main play structure, helping to keep equipment cool and protecting little ones from the harsh sun. The entire Playground sits on soft-fall rubber rather than sand, which is a big plus if you’re bringing a pram or you simply prefer to avoid sandy shoes and clothes. It’s cleaner, more accessible and ideal for quick drop-ins when you don’t want a full outfit change afterwards.

The play equipment offers a good mix of climbing, spinning and imaginative play, with plenty to keep younger children entertained. There’s a nest swing alongside a traditional child swing, so siblings can swing together.

The main structure features two small side-by-side slides that younger kids love racing down, and these can be reached in a few different ways: via stepping stones with ropes, climbing web ropes, or easy-access stairs for less confident climbers.

More adventurous kids will enjoy the extra climbing challenges, including climbing nets, a small rock-climbing wall and a fireman’s pole.

For quieter moments, there are noughts and crosses and maze activity panels set at child-friendly heights, inviting kids to stop and play cooperatively or independently.

Ground-level options include a rocking seat and a low spinning turntable designed close to the ground, which helps reduce the chance of big tumbles.

Underneath the slide platform you’ll find a cute mini kitchen setup that’s perfect for imaginative play, with extra maze puzzles and sliding pieces to explore. The whole layout is open and easy to scan at a glance, making it simple for parents and carers to supervise children of different ages at the same time. Overall, the equipment is best suited to toddlers through to children up to around 8 years old.

The surrounding facilities are simple but thoughtfully laid out. The Playground itself is bordered by wooden poles, helping to define the play area and create a sense of separation from the road. Inside this zone you’ll find a picnic table with a solid shade structure, providing a comfortable spot for snacks or a casual picnic while still being able to see the whole Playground. Bench seating wraps around the play area, so you can choose any side and still keep an eye on the kids. There’s also a water fountain with an easy-to-use bottle refill tap and a dog bowl at the base, handy if you’re visiting with both kids and a four-legged friend. A rubbish bin is provided, and just beyond the play space there’s a larger grassed area that’s great for kicking a ball, running around or spreading out a picnic rug.

Parking is one of the few drawbacks. There are no dedicated car bays or formal parking areas; visitors need to use verge parking around the park, which can be a little tight at busier times. It’s also worth noting that there are no toilets on-site and no BBQ facilities, so this park is better suited to shorter visits rather than full half-day gatherings. Packing your own snacks and planning toilet stops elsewhere is a good idea.

Overall, Dunnell Park is a lovely, shaded local Playground with a well-designed layout and a good variety of equipment for younger children. The combination of shade sails, soft-fall surfaces and easy visibility makes it especially appealing to parents, and its sand-free design is ideal if you prefer a low-mess outing. While the lack of toilets, BBQs and formal parking may limit how long you stay, it’s an excellent option for a relaxed play session, particularly if you’re keen to avoid both sand and too much sun.

Best for: Toddlers and kids aged under 8.
Good to know: Verge parking only, no toilets on-site and no BBQ facilities.

Dunnell Park

Address: Dunnell Street, Maddington