Murray Bridge Council announces The Pondi Play Space at Sturt Reserve Precinct, as government pledges $4.85m

A local community has announced an exciting new play precinct in a popular reserve east of Adelaide, creating a haven for children and families.

A new play precinct is on the horizon for the Murray Bridge community, with the Council revealing the first look as the federal government pledges nearly $5m to bring it to life, if re-elected.

The Sturt Reserve Precinct will be transformed into the Pondi Play Space, creating a haven for children and families within the community to play and relax outdoors.

It’s set to feature an outdoor classroom, a soundscape area, shade structures, barbecue and picnic facilities – making it the ideal spot for family outings and celebrations.

A captivating sensory structure, Pondi the Murray Cod, will not only be a symbol for the local community but also help children’s physical development through outdoor play.

Plans revealed for a new $4.85 million redevelopment of the Sturt Reserve Precinct in Murray Bridge.

Artistic impression of Sturt Reserve Play Space by design company Sproutt. Picture: Supplied

The centrepiece is set to become the heart of the Pondi Play Space.

Mayor Wayne Thorley said the reserve had become an “important tourism drawcard” with the play precinct set to benefit the “region for generations to come”.

“The new Play Precinct will attract families and visitors from far and wide, delivering on our vision to make this a vibrant destination for everyone,” Mayor Thorley said.

“This is more than just a playground – it’s a space that brings people together, celebrates culture, and strengthens community.”

Plans revealed for a new $4.85 million redevelopment of the Sturt Reserve Precinct in Murray Bridge.

Each feature in the space was designed to cultivate learning, connecting to nature and the community, the imagination and discovery in an inclusive and accessible recreational environment.

Traditional land owners, the Ngarrindjeri Nation, helped Council design the space and brought a blend of storytelling and cultural interpretations to features such as rocks and plants, so the local community could develop a deeper connection with the Indigenous community.

Design companies Sproutt, Wax Design and Exhibition Studios also helped plan the space – which was significantly impacted in the recent floods.

If the Federal Government is re-elected, they will put $4.85 million towards the project, which forms part of the wider redevelopment of the Sturt Reserve Precinct.

Originally published as Murray Bridge Council announces The Pondi Play Space at Sturt Reserve Precinct, as government pledges $4.85m