Casuarina Park

As the first neighbourhood park delivered under the Woodbury Master Plan, Casuarina Park embodies a deep understanding of local needs and environmental character. The design was shaped by a collaborative engagement process, where the community called for elevated, nature-based play and inclusive spaces for all ages. Despite a compact footprint and planning constraints, the park delivers robust, context-responsive play experience.

The design leverages the site’s existing topography—including a former dam batter and natural level changes—to embed climbing, discovery and agility-based activities within the landscape, minimising the need for intrusive structures. Reclaimed site materials, such as logs and sandstone, have been creatively repurposed to extend play value and reduce environmental impact. Bands of over 8,000 native plants help to frame pathways and restore ecological character.

Cultural and environmental narratives are embedded throughout. The treehouse structure draws inspiration from the casuarina pod and aligns with the direction of Mount Cotton. Its form and filtered timber detailing evoke the surrounding casuarina groves and the presence of the local black cockatoo, which feeds on the trees' seeds.

Casuarina Park is a testament to landscape-led planning. By retaining existing vegetation, minimising earthworks and integrating local materials, the design team has created a playspace that is both sustainable and deeply rooted in place. The result is a highly valued community asset—one that demonstrates how simple, well-considered design can deliver rich and varied play experiences within a natural setting.