Project description

We’ve upgraded the playground located at Ron Andrews Park in Pakenham, as part of Cardinia Shire’s 2025-26 Playground Renewals program.   

Located between Sandalwood Drive and Clifford Drive, Ron Andrews Park is a popular spot for local families.  

The original timber playground was installed back in 2004 and is now in need of an upgrade.  

As part of our works, we replaced the ageing timber playground with a modern and exciting combination play structure designed to spark imagination, support active play and cater to children of diverse ages and abilities.  

Upgrades will include: 

• Popular existing equipment such as the pod swing, combination swings and rotating climber, which has been retained and integrated into the new space.  
• A brand-new combination play unit offering exciting, challenging and imaginative play opportunities 
• New rubber safety surfacing 
• Better path connections 
• Natural landscaping 
• Improved drainage 
• Popular existing equipment such as the pod swing, combination swings and rotating climber, which has been retained and integrated into the new space.  

Community consultation and feedback gathered in 2025 has played a key role in shaping the final plans.

View final plans for Ron Andrews Park playground

Why was this playground chosen for an upgrade?
The former timber play unit had a structural failure and needed to be removed for safety reasons. The base of the structure had deteriorated due to ongoing drainage and wet‑soil issues at the site, which caused the timber to rot more quickly than expected. Some elements of the play space were still in good condition, so we’ve kept those as part of the upgrade to avoid unnecessary replacement.

Why isn’t the new design made from timber?

During the consultation process, Council presented several design options for the community to consider. The preferred design received overwhelming support, with 85% of respondents selecting the non‑timber option. 

Although a timber‑finish play structure was included as one of the choices, it has not performed well at this site in the past. In the past, the wet ground conditions have caused timber equipment to deteriorate more quickly, resulting in higher maintenance needs to keep it safe, durable, and functional. 

Choosing materials that last longer means a safer, more reliable play space for children, and fewer disruptions caused by maintenance. 

We also worked closely with Pakenham Hills Primary School during the design process to help ensure the chosen option reflected local preferences and provided the best play value for children in the area. 

Funding

The Ron Andrews Park playground renewal was funded and delivered by Cardinia Shire Council.

Progress update

Upgrades works were completed from February to June 2026. 

We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we worked to deliver these upgrades. 

Ron Andrews Park playground has now been reopened.