Akuna Street Park in Kenmore will get new shade covers in 2023 through Brisbane’s new Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program.
Read: Locals Want to Replace Bellbowrie Shopping Plaza With a Health Services Precinct
Works for Akuna Street Park are expected to be done over the next six months. Akuna Street Park will be one of the first 41 playgrounds to be retrofitted with shade covers under the Council’s three-year program, which has a total funding of up to $10 million.
The Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program aims to put shading in every playground in Brisbane, to help protect parents, carers and children and potentially save lives.
“Brisbane has an enviable lifestyle as well as a network of more than 2000 fantastic parks that make for great free fun for families,” he said.
“However, we also live in a state that’s known as one of the world’s skin cancer capitals.”
Based on the latest skin cancer statistics of World Cancer Research Fund, Australia has the highest rate of melanoma in the world, with 16,171 cases.
Cancer Council Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mr Andrew Donne supports the Brisbane City Council Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program as a great step in reducing skin damage and risk of skin cancer for Brisbane kids.
Council estimates that around 150 playgrounds throughout the city will eventually be upgraded with shade covers under the new program.
“It is well known that Australia has the highest rate of melanoma in the world, and without sun protection skin damage can occur in as little as 15 minutes,” Mr Donne said.
“What I must convey however, is that skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.
“You can do your part as well to improve your sun safety, and slip on protective clothing, slop on SPF 30+ sunscreen, slap on a broad-brimmed hat, seek shade and slide on wraparound sunglasses,” Mr Donne said.
For the program, Council has engaged three local suppliers and manufacturers to make and install shade sails at the first package of playgrounds.
About Akuna Street Park
The park is located at 56 Akuna St, Kenmore. Current facilities include barbecue, picnic area/shelter, playground, shared pathway, outdoor fitness/exercise station and water (bubbler/tap).
Read: Kenmore Roundabout Upgrade Project Scrapped in Favour of Moggill Road Bikeway
Akuna Street Park is a dog-friendly park with nice spots for picnics. It also has a nice walking path used by many locals every day.