Name Revealed For New All-Abilities Playground At WACA Ground

The Lotterywest Karda Playspace will take pride of place within the Ground’s new northern community precinct, reinforcing WA Cricket’s vision to transform the iconic venue into a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Karda - the Nyoongar word for goanna - was chosen through consultation with Lotterywest and the WA Aboriginal Cricket and Culture Advisory Committee. Reflecting its name, the playspace has been designed in the form of a goanna, with its winding body featuring sensory tunnels, interactive panels and play elements, and its head culminating in a slide that represents the tongue.

Currently under construction in Bibra Lake, it was designed by local play equipment supplier Art+Play which collaborates with local artists from all career levels and disciplines to create original and inspired children’s playground equipment.

Inclusive by design, the playspace will feature:

• A fully accessible ramped path for people of all ages and abilities, including wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
• A surrounding sensory garden encouraging tactile and imaginative play through natural textures and materials.
• Interactive features that engage colour, texture, sound, shadow, and music.

The Lotterywest Karda Playspace is made possible by a $5.85 million grant from major supporter Lotterywest, which is funding a range of accessible and inclusive elements at the redeveloped WACA Ground, including:

• Changing Places facilities designed for people with disability and carers.
• Calming and sensory rooms.
• Braille signage and audio loops.
• Interactive elements within the new WACA Ground Museum.
• Public art installations, cultural signage, and displays connecting visitors to the Ground’s social, cultural, and Aboriginal history.

The WACA Ground Improvement Project is funded in partnership with the Western Australian Government, Australian Government, City of Perth, WA Cricket, and Cricket Australia, transforming East Perth into a vibrant, accessible, and inclusive precinct for the community to enjoy year-round.

Quotes attributable to WA Cricket General Manager Customer Experience – Kerry O’Sullivan:

“The Lotterywest Karda Playspace is more than a playground - it’s a place where children of all ages and abilities can come together, play and connect.

“We’re proud to have worked with major supporter Lotterywest and the WA Aboriginal Cricket and Culture Advisory Committee to create a space that celebrates inclusivity and honours the cultural significance of the Nyoongar word Karda.

“Thanks to Lotterywest’s support, the redeveloped WACA Ground will be a place where community, culture and cricket come together.”

Quotes attributable to Lotterywest General Manager Lotteries – Shawn Holloway:

“The Lotterywest Karda Playspace is a vibrant and inclusive space that reflects our commitment to community and culture.

“It’s one of several freely available recreational and cultural facilities made possible through our $5.85 million funding, supporting accessibility and participation at the redeveloped WACA Ground.

“Lotterywest is proud to help create a place where everyone feels welcome and inspired to play, explore and connect.”