By Ngaire from Brisbane Kids
Hidden World Playground (HWP)is a play area in Brisbane shrouded in mysterious codes and whispers of hidden underground tunnels. For the innocent visitor, the playground is simply an impressive creation by artist Russell Anderson. It is a colourful and inspiring playground, open-plan and a welcome sight for active children on an otherwise unassuming suburban road. Throw in free WiFi for relaxed parents and this spot is near perfection.
Setting the scene for kids
The playground is hidden away in a corner of the Bill Brown Sports Reserve at the end of Roghan Road, Fitzgibbon. You won’t the playground on Google Maps and, if not for the sign at the end of the street and reviews like this one, you would never even know it existed.Constructed on a sand base, it provides a foundation of play that sees parents regularly arriving with sand play items and trucks for toddlers. The playground itself is constructed over a huge flat area with numerous slides, bridges, platforms, poles, swings and climbing walls. It has tunneled slides, bouncing spring animals and netting swings, as well as big chairs that spin around. It is the ultimate destination for a good game of tiggy, and is equally impressive because of the numerous bike paths that provide yet another level of play for active kids.
Play all day
HWP is an all-day destination playground, thanks to its numerous gazebos, BBQs and bathroom facilities. The only downside is how hot is gets in the midday summer sun, and, like most playgrounds in Brisbane, is best avoided during this time.
Why is it a hidden place?
HWP has a secret that began long before the building of the playground. Clues to its history are given in the form of fantastical sandworms that have been carefully designed by Anderson and constructed for climbing. The odd colourful huts that give the playground its adventure feel add another layer of mystery. Delve a little further and kids can locate mysterious codes on the play equipment—reported to be written in the language of sentient marsupial mice.
And, if you find that strange…
THEN there are the manholes.
There are 2 manholes located at HWP, each inscribed with an imagined historical narrative… but then again, is it really imaginary or simply a careful cover up?It allegedly all began in 1988, when school students allegedly uncovered a sinkhole at the site where the playground is now built. Rotting bodies of mysterious underground creatures were discovered and scientists and the CSIRO located several underground tunnels that contained a world that had evolved an entirely new species of flora and fauna that subsisted entirely on methane gases.
Tales told of mutated animals and sentient mice were threatening enough to have scientists cap the cavern permanently and the playground was then built above it; inspired by the world located below. Children will delight in the tales and the speculation that surrounds this playground, making truly a hidden treasure for kids. You can read more about the mystery of Hidden World here.
Don’t you think artists should design ALL children’s places?
Vanessa says
I have a secret playground (which seems unused by kids – I’ve never seen a kid there) that has THE most comfortable swing in the world. I love going there and basically napping on it!
Maxabella says
I’ve got a feeling you’re not gonna want to share that one, Vanessa!!! What a find! x
Sam Stone says
Looks like a great place. If only I was heading to Brisbane soon.
Maxabella says
I know, right!? I’m just going to have to keep this until we’re ready to go! x
Tumble Tastics says
Wow what a playground! Love the mysterious codes within the playground. I think a special trip to Fitzgibbon is in order for my 2 active kids.
Maxabella says
Sounds like a plan! You are lucky to live close enough to go. It will be a destination for us when next we are in Brissy. x
Jim says
Just visited this last week – there are in fact 3 manholes, giving the full mouse alphabet. I only found one secret message to decipher (A Braveness Recipe) but I’m looking forwards to taking the kids back to look for more!
One of the best parks I think I’ve ever come across!
Play Poles says
I was at New Farm over the weekend and it was amazing but I must check this one out too!