New playground unveiled following volunteer fundraising efforts
October 2019
A A new playground has been unveiled at the Joan Kirner Women's and Children's for the thousands of sick children and their families who will visit each year.
It was made possible through the collective fundraising efforts of volunteers from the Sunshine Hospital Auxiliary and Sunshine Hospital Opportunity Shop, who together raised $280,000 towards the project.
The new playground, which wraps around the bottom floor of the building, features a range of fun and interactive activities for kids including climbing fames, a slippery slide, mini trampoline and a cubby-house, as well as seating for parents, all within a safe and secure natural setting that encourages kids to explore.
Director of the Western Health Foundation, Julia White, said the playground was an important addition to the new facility.
"Part of the planning for the Joan Kirner Women's and Children's was to include a space where kids can relax and be themselves in a non-clinical environment," says Julia.
"When volunteers from the Sunshine Hospital Auxiliary and Hospital Opportunity Shop approached us for a project they could support, we thought the playground was a natural fit as many of the volunteers interact closely with families between appointments.
"It's so rewarding to see the fundraising efforts of our volunteers contributing at such an impactful level. The playground will have a huge impact on children visiting the hospital providing fresh air, exercise and creative stimulation while they wait for treatment."
The playground was officially unveiled by the President of the Sunshine Hospital Auxiliary Judith Dickson and Sunshine Hospital Opportunity Shop volunteer, Rae Gibson on Monday October 7.
"We're absolutely blown away with the new playground – it's surpassed all of our expectations," says Judith. "We are so grateful to the community who have supported our fundraising efforts over the last 12-months."
"We're so pleased that the new playground is finally open for our patients and their families to enjoy."
