Dubbo’s relieving school education director enjoyed an active childhood and as the years progressed participated in golf, tennis and rugby league.

Mr Loxley believes it’s healthy for children to get outdoors to have some fun but in today’s litigious society more and more restrictions are being put in place.

He’s puzzled by a ban on children performing cartwheels and handstands in the playground at Belgian Gardens State School in Townsville and wouldn’t like to see Dubbo district schools following suit.

“I hope they aren’t throwing the baby out with the bathwater,’’ Mr Loxley said.

“There’s a risk in everything people do. A ban on gymnastics activities seems extreme. What will be next? A ban on sporting equipment or playing rugby league?

“Schools need to ensure students are safe but there’s also a need to let them experience life and do the sorts of things children have always done.

“Parents and other adults shouldn’t constantly hover - they need to step back and let kids discover and enjoy life for themselves.’’

Mr Loxley said schools had rules, like not running on concrete, to stop children hurting themselves.

However, he can see no reason why cartwheels can’t be safely performed in an appropriate area.

“Classrooms or crowded playground areas are not the right location but there’s nothing wrong with having some fun in an open grassed area.’’

Queensland education minister Rod Welford is calling for a review of the cartwheel ban at Belgian Gardens State School following community backlash.

heather.crosby@rualpress.com