Lyne Park Playground in Rose Bay has claimed top honours at the 2026 Parks and Leisure Australia NSW/ACT Awards of Excellence, taking out the award for Best New Playground and earning a place in the national finals later this year.
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The recognition celebrates the redeveloped harbourfront playground, which is popular with local families. The annual Awards of Excellence recognise outstanding parks, recreation spaces and community projects that deliver social, environmental and economic benefits.
In announcing the win, Woollahra said that while local parents already knew Lyne Park Playground was a winner, it was pleasing to receive official recognition from the industry. The organisation also thanked the project team behind the redevelopment and said the playground was designed for children of different ages and abilities.
A Playground Inspired By Rose Bay’s History
Set on the Sydney Harbour foreshore, Lyne Park offers a diverse range of recreation opportunities for the community. Alongside open lawns, sporting facilities, picnic areas and waterfront access, the upgraded playground has become a popular destination for families.
Its centrepiece is a large flying boat play structure, created as a tribute to Rose Bay’s aviation history. The aircraft-themed feature acknowledges the site’s past as the former Rose Bay International Airport for flying boats while providing opportunities for climbing, imaginative play and exploration.
The playground offers a variety of play experiences beyond the flying boat. Children can race along a double flying fox, cool off in the water play zone, explore the sensory walkway or enjoy the nature play area designed for older children. There is also a bike track, inclusive play equipment and an intergenerational activity trail designed for people of different ages.
The playground is fully fenced and includes inclusive play elements. It also features natural and sail shade, organic and rubber softfall surfaces, picnic seating and nearby amenities, making it a comfortable place for families to spend time outdoors.
Recognition On The National Stage
The Parks and Leisure Australia Awards of Excellence recognise projects and professionals that create meaningful social, environmental and economic benefits through parks, leisure and recreation.
According to Parks and Leisure Australia, the awards celebrate outstanding initiatives and innovative public spaces that contribute to healthy and inclusive communities. Regional winners automatically progress to the national stage, where they compete against projects from across Australia.
Lyne Park’s win means it will represent the NSW/ACT region at the national Awards of Excellence later this year.
More Than A Playground
Beyond the award-winning playground, Lyne Park offers a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities. The foreshore park includes large grassed areas, shady trees, basketball and tennis courts, sporting fields, picnic facilities and a café. Visitors also have access to the Rose Bay boat ramp, public and commercial ferry services, a commercial seaplane base and launching facilities for non-motorised watercraft beside Woollahra Sailing Club.
With its combination of waterfront scenery, recreation facilities and inclusive play opportunities, Lyne Park continues to serve as a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
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Now recognised as the NSW/ACT’s best new playground, Lyne Park will head to the national Awards of Excellence in November, where it will compete for the title of Australia’s best new playground.
Published 31-July-2026
