Kent backs Menzies nature playground pitch in State election commitment

The latest election promise from Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent could bring a nature playground in Menzies one step closer to reality. If she is re-elected in the upcoming State election, Ms Kent has promised to provide $40,000 in funding for the playground in the Goldfields town 130km north of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. It comes a month after the Shire of Menzies public consultation for the nature-based playground, which shire president Paul Warner said received positive feedback. Cr Warner said the town’s current playground was faded, “way out of date” and in need of replacement. “It’s not really user-friendly anymore so that’s why we decided we’ll come up with the new one where there’s a lot more activities going on. “(Children) are going to be climbing and jumping around so it’s good for their health and fitness and wellbeing.” Cr Warner said he hoped a new nature playground would encourage travellers heading to and from the northern Goldfields to stop and explore Menzies. Ms Kent said outdoor play was known to be important for the physical and mental development of children. “This nature playground will not only give kids in Menzies a place to connect with nature but also provide a community hub for families to enjoy,” she said. “This $40,000 investment will benefit the Menzies community as well as families from other towns, who travel to and from Kalgoorlie-Boulder. “It will be a great spot to be able to stop and let the kids play.” The nature-based playground would include organic elements such as wood, sand and plants, offering a play environment designed to connect children with the natural world and encourage exploration.