Play area destroyed by fire to open next week

After an agonizingly long wait, children across Hedland will finally be able to enjoy a new Marapikurrinya Park playground as the Town of Port Hedland prepare for the grand opening.

With the month-long construction phase coming to an end, a ribbon cutting ceremony has been planned for June 10.

The park was reduced to rubble in October 2015 after flames tore through the favourite community spot, with an estimated damage of more than $250,000.

Town Mayor Camilo Blanco said he was excited to finally see the playground ready to be enjoyed by all.

“The new playground is not only a fun and exciting activation of the space, but it is also accessible which will allow all of our children to be able to enjoy it,” he said.

“I encourage everyone in the community to bring your kids down to the reopening event next Saturday for what is sure to be a fun family event.”

Highlights at the playground include a new permanent shade structure, accessibility ramps, a new accessibility-friendly carousel, a larger playground footprint, a play tower and a sunken timber-boat bow for junior pirates.

The lunchtime opening event will begin at 11pm and include a free sausage sizzle.