Baby 2.0 has inherited his father’s bolter genes which means I’m on an everlasting hunt for a playground with a fence. You’d be surprised how few and far between a good fenced playground can be in Melbourne!
One of our local gated playgrounds is at Shorten Reserve, next to the oval for the West Footscray Roosters.
The large playground is more suitable for toddlers than older kids although students from nearby Footscray West Primary School often hang out there after school.
The main structure is a traditional metal/plastic playhouse with climbing frames, two double slides (not too high), steering wheel, binoculars (too high for Lady AB) and a music panel.
There are two swings – one with a safety belt, one without – plus a netted ring (bird’s nest) swing which the kids loved sharing.
Find Hotels and Airbnbs near Shorten Reserve Footscray
There is also a small sandpit area with one lonely scoop and stepping stones in the garden.
The biggest drawcard of Shorten Reserve, (other than the fence!) is the tractor. You can steer it, shake it and ride it. Brmm Brmm!
Features:- suitable for toddlers;
- sandpit with equipment;
- fully fenced;
- toilets (West Footscray Football Club clubhouse, not open all the time);
- some natural shade;
- BBQ, picnic table, taps; and
- seating.
