When it comes to protecting children from the harsh summer sun, Sutherland Shire Council is leaving many places in the shade.
The council has spent $115,000 installing five new shade structures for improved sun protection at shire playgrounds and more are planned.
The shade structures have recently been installed at Engadine Town Park playground, Old Bush Road playground, Yarrawarrah, Oyster Bay Oval playground, Anzac Oval playground in Engadine and Castelnau Street playground in Caringbah South.
The shade structures have been constructed from breathable fabrics that allow cool air to circulate beneath the shelter, providing comfortable, safe and practical outdoor play areas.
“Australia is the skin cancer capital of the world, so it’s vital that we protect our children,” Sutherland Shire mayor Carmelo Pesce said.
“UV radiation can also be high even on cool and overcast days, so these shade structures will provide protection all year round,” he said.
“We’ve had great feedback from the community about the new shade structures at these playgrounds, and we hope to provide several more at other busy Shire playgrounds in the next financial year.
The project was funded from Council’s general revenue as part of the 2016/17 Playground Renewals and Shade Structures Program. Shade is provided at a number of council playgrounds across the shire:
A Ward
Don Lucas Reserve, Cronulla;
Roger Summers Reserve, Bundeena;
Greenhills Skate Park, Greenhills (new).
B Ward
Sutherland Shire Centenary Park, Miranda;
Castelnau Street Reserve, Caringbah South (new);
Gymea Community Playground, Gymea.
C Ward
Old School Park, Gymea;
Hawkesbury Park, Sylvania Waters.
D Ward
Forum Drive playground, Heathcote;
Cooper Street liberty swing, Engadine;
Old Bush Road, Engadine (new);
Engadine Town Park, Engadine (new);
Anzac Oval, Engadine (new).
E Ward
Len Waters Reserve, Barden Ridge;
Parc Menai Liberty Swing, Menai;
Lakewood City Reserve, Bonnet Bay (new).
