Push for play fencing

The sprawling playground at Yorkdale Estate is a children’s kingdom among an array of neatly stacked houses. However at least one parent, who did not wish to be named, expressed concerns about the proximity of a nearby waterway to the playground. 

The parent suggested a fence would help ease stress for parents who were concerned their child could run down the hill into water. The parent said it was staggering given the harsh restrictions around pool fences. 

However, council maintains it has no plans to build a fence around the playground. In a written statement General Manager City Services Terry Demeo referred to the water way as a drainage basin. 

“The drainage basin is a low-level basin and has appropriate batters to minimise risk to children and others. There is thus no requirement to fence the drainage basin.”

He did not elaborate on the barriers installed to minimise any risk. Caz Filmer from the Facebook group Ballarat For Families said she supported the idea of fencing around the playground. 

“The playground in Yorkdale estate is sprawling – it is a fabulous playground and we support the idea of fencing,” Ms Filmer said.

“We love the idea of parents being able to relax as much as the kids during time at our local playgrounds.

“Fencing is also particularly important when consider equality of access for children with a disability.”

Former Courier journalist and mother of two young boys Dellaram Vreeland praised council for developing such a great community playground near the area – but questioned the suitability of the equipment for children of all ages.

“I've only used the space twice because even though my four year old is okay playing there, it's more difficult for my toddler to climb or use the slides without the risk of getting hurt,” Ms Vreeland said. “I'm not too concerned about the dam. As parents we have a responsibility and always need to be vigilant when we take our children out.”