Blacktown Aquatic Centre
Blacktown, NSW, Australia
Project Details
Location: Blacktown, NSW, Australia
Application: Aquatic Centre
Year of Installation: 2022
Main Features:
- Sky Soaker
- Splash Blasters
- Spiral Tunnel
- Sneaky Soaker 2
- Fun-Brella
- Water Leaf
- Ground Sprays
Big goals deserve bold play!
Waterplay partnered with Blacktown City Council to bring a splash pad vision to life that was simple in idea but ambitious in impact: a space where everyone could play, connect, and cool off. Positioned between the toddler pool and the Michele De Vries clubhouse, the finished splash pad delivers layered water play experiences grounded in powerful cultural storytelling.
The Challenge
Blacktown City Council wasn’t just looking to add another water feature to the facility; they needed a splash pad that could hold its own within a busy aquatic centre, appeal to multiple age groups, and remain safe, accessible, and easy to operate. The scope quickly expanded beyond the splash pad itself, requiring major coordination across the site including relocating a volleyball court, integrating new pathways and landscaping, adding shade structures, and building a dedicated water plant room to support the water management system.
Cultural storytelling was equally central to the challenge. The splash pad needed to celebrate Dharug culture in a way that felt genuine and intentional, while still delivering an engaging, high performance play space for the community.
The Solution
Guided by Waterplay’s Play Zones, the splash pad was intentionally designed to cater to users of all ages and abilities. The Discovery zone introduces users to water play with gentle features like the Fun-Brella and ground sprays, while the Exploration zone adds movement and curiosity through features such as the Spiral Tunnel and Water Leaf. For those wanting thrilling splashes and high-energy play, the Adventure zone is anchored by a Sky Soaker, which was added later in the design process to really maximize the splash pad’s play value. A centralized activator post encourages interactive play and supports clear supervision, while also allowing features to be sequenced to manage water use more efficiently and support responsible operation.
Cultural expression is woven directly into the splash pad itself. Aboriginal inspired artwork by Dharug artist Leanne Watson was integrated into the Oncrete (a composite building material) surfacing using custom stencils, making it a permanent part of the play space. Her designs reflect the deep connection of the Dharug people to local waterways, featuring imagery of native aquatic fauna and meeting places. These elements create a strong visual language that honours Dharug heritage and gives the splash pad a distinct sense of place.
The Implementation
Designed to feel like a natural extension of the outdoor aquatic centre, the splash pad makes smart use of the available space. The play zones support independent exploration and age-appropriate play, while zero depth access ensures all users can participate safely and comfortably.
The project wrapped up with a smoking ceremony and official opening attended by the Mayor and Council members, acknowledging both the completion of the splash pad and its cultural importance to the community.
The Outcome
The impact of the Blacktown splash pad was immediate. Families flocked to the space, and the splash pad became a standout feature supporting the Council’s “More Active, More Often” goals. By combining inclusive play, engaging water features, and cultural storytelling, the splash pad has evolved into a vibrant place for connection, movement, and community.
With a splash pad expansion already in talks, the project reinforces the value of designing splash pads with the future in mind. The Blacktown Aquatic Centre splash pad shows what is possible when thoughtful design, cultural respect, and full-service delivery come together. Through close collaboration with the Blacktown City Council, Waterplay helped create a splash pad that supports inclusive play today and is ready to grow with the community in the future.
Project Partners:
- Leanne Watson (Dharug artist)
- Blacktown City Council
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