Whyalla’s Splash + Play Plaza Ready for Construction
Construction on Whyalla’s new Splash and Play Plaza is ready to start, with lead contractor Outside Ideas breaking ground on the project this morning.
Mayor Phill Stone said the foreshore would be his second home for the coming months as he eagerly watches the project come to life.
“This is the news the community’s been waiting for since we received Australian Government funding for this project last year,” Mayor Stone said.
“Seeing the huge slides and other play equipment going up should put a smile on the faces of local families, especially those who helped shape the final design.
“We’re thrilled to be delivering such an exciting project that will further activate our foreshore and hopefully attract new families and visitors to our city.”
The project has been made possible by $3.14 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program (Round 2).
Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain said the project was a great example of the Australian Government backing local communities.
“In communities across Australia like Whyalla, we are investing in locally driven infrastructure projects for all Australians,” Minister McBain said.
“The new Splash and Play Plaza will bring even more life and joy to the heart of Whyalla.”
Senator for South Australia Karen Grogan said the project would provide a destination for all ages and abilities, boosting community cohesion and providing a valuable amenity for locals and tourists alike.
“This project will support local jobs and provide close to $1.2 million in visitor spending to the local economy when complete,” Senator Grogan said.
“It’s extremely rewarding to assist local priority projects to become a reality, and we look forward to seeing the significant benefits this funding will provide for the Whyalla community.”
Adelaide-based Outside Ideas were chosen to lead the project due to their extensive project experience, including landscaping / concreting / paving at Henley Square, Adelaide Oval and the Whyalla Secondary College; constructing the playground at City of Playford’s Mofflin Reserve; as well as completing the Adelaide Airport plaza and the racing strip at ‘The Bend’.
Director of Outside Ideas Aaron Superina said his company “is excited to bring this design to life on such a beautiful stretch of foreshore.”
“Our team has a strong track record of delivering high-quality public spaces across South Australia, and we're committed to building a plaza that's fun for kids and adults of all abilities to enjoy for years to come,” Mr Superina said.
“We're looking forward to working closely with council and the community throughout construction, which will include engaging as many local contractors and suppliers as possible to maximise the benefits for the Whyalla economy.”
Dani Bentley – one of the parents who contributed suggestions for the final designs – said it was great to be part of the planning and “to see our ideas included.”
“We can’t wait for the plaza to be completed and to see our children and other local families enjoying such an exciting play space.”
Some of the key features of the play space include:
- Water-play features (water bucket, sprays and water curtain)
- Five-metre-high slide, complete with a ‘Skywalk’ from the main play area
- Play tower with spiral stairs / spiral slide
- Flying fox
- Rock-climbing wall / climbing nets
- Play tunnel with swings
- In-ground trampolines and merry-go-round for all abilities
- Half-court basketball court
- Large undercover play area, as well as extensive shade and seating for parents
- Wave lawn with bike / scooter track
- New fencing / landscaping
- A ‘uniquely Whyalla’ look, replicating various elements of the Whyalla Steelworks
There will be preliminary work over the next few weeks before the project site is fenced off to the public and major construction begins.
The project will be part of other foreshore developments to be delivered in stages, including a new Foreshore Centre Building (incorporating Surf Life Saving / café) and other plaza design elements. Council will continue to work closely with community groups to shape these later stages.
Construction is expected to be completed in June 2027 – we’ll be providing regular updates throughout the project, so keep an eye on our website, email updates and socials.
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