The plan will aim to provide shade at 10 parks around Dubbo.

Mayor of the Dubbo Region Ben Shields said the improved shade access would enable people to make more use of playgrounds during the summer months.

“We are currently sweltering through a succession of 40-degree days which can make it harder for parents to take their children to our great parks. Adding additional shade will make it possible to use the equipment more often during the warmer months,” Cr Shields said. 

“We want Dubbo to be an excellent place for people to raise a family and making our parks and playgrounds more user-friendly is an essential part of that.”

Hayley, a Dubbo mother who has campaigned for safer playgrounds, supports the plan.

“This is a good move from the council, ” she said.

“I have noticed the council changed the swing at the park where my daughter got burnt which is also good.

“The shade is really needed and I am happy the council is putting it in place.”

Whilst supporting the council’s plans, Hayley is worried vandals may ruin the good work of the council.

“I hope the shade is permanent because I fear if this work gets vandalised it won't be replaced and then we will be right back to where we started with no shade,” she said.

“I hope the community do appreciate the shade and that the council has a plan B if vandals do get to it.

“It would be a shame for our children to have to suffer because of poor behaviour from some.

“I am sure having more shade will encourage more families to get out and about and enjoy our parks.”

Cr Shields said it was important that Dubbo had the right facilities to support families.

“Council is committed to listening to the community about their needs and we have heard the need for more shade,” he said.

“We still need parents to determine it is safe before allowing their children to use play equipment on hot days, but hopefully by having more shade, it will extend the hours during summer that these playgrounds are usable.”

The program is due to start next month, with quotes for the installation of a shade structure over the playground at Elston Park being sought, with advanced trees also planted in April for additional sun protection.

Similar works will then occur at Muller Park, Theresa Maliphant Park, Spears Drive, Rosewood Grove, and Powter Park between March and June.

Provision of an enlarged playground with more shade at Lions Park will be carried out from June, along with a new playground, irrigation and shade at Delroy Parklands (South). Many of the works will also include an accessible path.

In 2021/2022 additional shade and equipment will be incorporated into a new playground at Victoria Park.

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