Waterfall work completed at new park


Work on the waterfall and stream feature at the Tamworth Regional Playground has been completed and soon construction is expected start on the new café/restaurant.

A 40 metre long natural-looking stream has been created by Waterscapes Australia and Tamworth Regional Council staff, starting with a series of five waterfalls and three pooling areas set into the existing embankment at Bicentennial Park.

Tamworth Regional Playground Project Manager Grant Reeckman said the water feature is designed to create a break between play zones while creating an appealing visual landscape feature.

“Water brings a landscape to life, with motion and sound, and will be a feature of the playground,” he said. “A seat will be placed near the head of the waterfall for people can sit and enjoy the calming and mesmerising effect of running water.” The stream winds its way through the centre of the children's park and passes under two bridges - a brightly coloured sway bridge and a more rigid timber bridge for general pedestrian traffic.

At the end of the stream a 6000 litre reservoir is hidden beneath a seemingly dried out creek bed from which the water is then recirculated to the top waterfall to start again.

The waterfall and stream feature has been planted out with drought tolerant native shrubs and grasses, weeping wattles, flowering ground covers and flashes of coloured foliage. It is a waterwise low maintenance garden.

Mr Reeckmann said about 60 tonnes of basalt boulders and 12 cubic metres of river pebbles in various sizes, the 'stream' feature is designed as it own ecosystem.

“The use of natural materials and aquatic plants quickly establish filtration and good bacteria to keep the water clean and balanced, and also provide a beautiful space for frogs, birds and insects to thrive,” he said.

“Though the water is obliviously recirculating, occasionally topping up is needed due to evaporation, so a top up system has been installed using the parks bore water supply.

“The sound and movement of the water makes the perfect backdrop for picnics in the park and the interactive ecosystem is both fun and educational for children and adults alike.” Work is on schedule for the project to be completed by October 31.

Tamworth Regional Playground is funded by a $1.1 million NSW Government ClubsGrant along with the same amount from Council. Council's share of the cost comprises $340,000 in Section 94 funds to the project ($200,000 for the playground and $140,000 for the Family Social Function Area) plus $760,000 from the sale of Prince Of Wales Park.

For more information visit Tamworth Regional Council