Frankston City leading the way in shade for healthier play

Published on 11 September 2025

leading-the-way-in-shade

Frankston City Council is setting the benchmark for shade provision in play spaces and reserves.

Its Frankston Play Strategy was recently recognised for excellence in designing healthier, more comfortable and inclusive outdoor spaces, picking up the 2025 Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) VIC Award for Shadesmart and becoming a finalist in the upcoming national awards.  

Judges commended Frankston City’s leadership, noting its clear requirements for natural and structural shade and its contribution to both community wellbeing and Council’s urban canopy targets.

In addition, Council has doubled funding for new shade sails, allocating $400,000 over the next four years as part of its Annual Budget. This builds on funding for the existing Shade Retrofit Program and the Play Strategy, which cover both play equipment and associated facilities such as picnic tables and seating.

Cr David Asker, who put forward the motion to increase funding earlier this year, said shade is no longer just a ‘nice to have’ — it’s essential for health and wellbeing.

“Shade helps protect children and families from UV exposure, creates more comfortable spaces and encourages longer, healthier and more inclusive play,” he said.

“Our community has told us this is a priority, and Council is proud to be leading the way in delivering it.”

Recent shade retrofits have been completed at Polaris Reserve (Carrum Downs), John Monash Reserve (Skye), R F Miles Reserve (Seaford), Wingham Park (Karingal), Orwil  Reserve(Frankston), Lady Emily Reserve (Skye), William Hovell Reserve (Frankston), Wattlewoods Reserve(Carrum Downs), Witternberg Reserve (Frankston),  Whistlestop Reserve (Frankston) Sandfield Reserve (Carrum Downs) and Heysen Reserve (Skye), Carrum Downs Recreation Reserve (Carrum Downs), Bruce Park (Frankston) and George Pentland Botanic Gardens (Frankston).

Looking ahead, high-priority sites identified for upcoming shade retrofits include:

  • Southgateway Reserve, Langwarrin (December 2025)
  • Bayport Reserve, Langwarrin (December 2025
  • Lindrum Reserve, Frankston (December 2025)
  • Monique Reserve, Langwarrin (December 2025)
  • Ferndale Reserve, Frankston (May 2026)
  • Heritage Reserve, Carrum Downs (May 2026)

“By combining structural and natural shade from trees, we’re making sure our reserves are designed to be safely enjoyed by residents and visitors now and into the future,” Cr Asker said.

Find out more about Council’s Play Strategy: 2021 Play Frankston Play Strategy

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