SHANE Rattenbury says work has been completed on new shade structures at the Pod Playground at the National Arboretum Canberra.

“The Pod Playground is very popular with families that visit the Arboretum and extra shade structures above the seating around the playground is a great addition to help make these rest areas more pleasant for carers at all times of the day, particularly during the warmer summer months,” Shane said.

“The shade structures also protect the seating itself from sun exposure which can increase its lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.

“The new shade structures are designed to match the style of the existing playground structures. They were constructed in the shape of a leaf from a light steel frame installed above the current seating.

“The playground was created by a team of artists, designers, horticulturalists and landscapers who drew inspiration from the natural environment to provide the Canberra community with a one-of-a-kind play area that would feature something different to the slides, swings and seesaws we see at most playgrounds.

“There is no doubt the Arboretum has developed into one of Canberra’s major attractions and these new shade structures will make it even easier for visitors to enjoy what is surely one of Australia’s most unique playgrounds.

“Children who visit the Pod Playground are often entertained for hours as they climb, slide and hide amongst the acorns and banksia pods. Now, with the new shade structures, parents and children will be able to enjoy the playground with added protection from the sun.

“This work follows on from the installation of gates at the playground in March as well as a drinking refill station in April, which has provided extra safety and access to fresh drinking water for those using the playground.”