Council seeks feedback on proposed kids’ playground under fig tree at Rex Smeal Park

Concept designs have been released by council for an exciting new ‘green ants’ kids adventure playground in Rex Smeal Park.

The playground would be built entirely in the area under the fig tree, making full use of the shade the popular tree provides.

Douglas Shire Council officers have worked with Landplan director Simon Maher – the man behind the popular Centenary Lakes Nature Play and Fig Tree Adventure Playground in Cairns.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said Council wanted to build a special playground that would attract families from neighbouring regions to Port Douglas.

“We want to get feedback on this exciting concept which features rope bridges, plenty of climbing and slides to keep the children entertained for hours,” Kerr said.

“We don’t want just any playground at Rex Smeal Park, we want something eye-catching that celebrates our region, and anyone who has spent time in Far North Queensland knows about green ants.

“Like children, green ants love climbing so we feel paying homage to this iconic ant is a creative way to encourage more visitors to enjoy our wonderful area.”

It would feature an enchanted forest where children will discover larger than life creatures such as dragon flies, butterflies and cicadas; hidden tunnels and a lookout atop the larger-than-life green ant’s nest five metres in the air.

For more information, to view the plans or to provide feedback head to the Douglas Shire Council website.