Winning parks and playgrounds revealed at Australia’s National Landscape Architects Awards

Australia’s outstanding parks and playgrounds were honoured at the recent 2024 Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) National Awards in Melbourne. The winning projects highlighted the vital role of landscape architecture in enhancing community well-being and creating sustainable environments. 

In 2008, a community-led initiative set out to transform an abandoned primary school site in Romsey, Victoria. Today, the result is the award-winning Romsey Ecotherapy Park, a testament to their efforts. 

Designed by ACLA Consultants, the park earned an Award of Excellence in the Parks and Open Space category, and a Regional Achievement Award. 

As a nature-based space for healing and well-being, the park incorporates therapeutic gardens, water features, artistic and cultural elements. A customised play area with picnic facilities caters to all ages, along with spaces for outdoor performances and community events. The jury noted that the park is “both water-sensitive and economically stimulating.”

“The project is a stunning example of the profound impact that collaborative design and community agency can have in crafting spaces that resonate with social and environmental values,” the jury added. 

They praised the landscape architect’s leadership, stating it has, “cultivated an informed client, capable of securing support and driving the project to fruition.”

Nature Play Reimagined: Embracing Adventure at Glenthorne National Park

South Australia’s Glenthorne National Park-Ityamaiitpinna Yarta Nature Playground, designed by T.C.L in collaboration with Karl Winda Telfer and Tikana Telfer, has earned an Award of Excellence for Play Spaces. This immersive Nature Play Precinct engages the senses and inspires imaginative learning through exploration of the creek bed, rock escarpments, and a striking ‘Tree Tower.’

Inclusive for children of all ages and abilities, the playground enables visitors to interact with conservation, history and culture through interactive play. The park features six Kuri Kurru figures walking on Country, engaging in conversation with the creek, expressing community connection and cultural appreciation through traditional storytelling.

The jury commended the project as representing, “a significant step forward for environmental restoration and cultural education, making it a unique asset for Southern Adelaide.”