What’s multicoloured, looks like an obstacle course, and sprays water without warning?

It’s the splash park at DRLC!

The opening of the splash park in October of 2023 was just in time for the centre's 10th birthday celebration. It uses surprise elements of play with sprays, cannons and dump buckets to send water in every direction and keep the kids entertained and cool.

Randwick Mayor Philipa Veitch said the completion of the area’s first-ever splash park means the kids will be able to cool off easily over what is predicted to be a hot summer.

“It’s part of our continued effort to deliver upgraded open space facilities for our community,” said Mayor Veitch.

The design includes shaded seating areas for parents and carers and prioritises saving water, with up to 95% of used water being recovered.

The splash park is one of many activities on offer at DRLC, which encourages locals to lead healthy and active lives.

The DRLC team has been welcoming locals for decades - teaching kids to swim across generations, providing childcare so parents can fit in some exercise and offering a gym program for teens. There’s even a Coffee Club, a group of early-morning swimmers who meet for a coffee and a chat.

Downtime for parents

Crèche Team Leader, local grandmum and 31-year veteran of the centre, Nicole Johnstone, said simple things like a vege patch for the kids to learn to grow food and the worm farm, makes the place feel like home.

“It’s not just the service they get; it’s the experience that keeps people coming back for more. In fact, we find the kids are crying when they are going home!

“It’s the love and care we give each child that comes through our door, whether it's their first or one-hundredth visit. Each time they’re made to feel welcome and given as much attention as they need.

“We’re all mums and grandmas, and we all love our jobs. We love these kids as much as the parents do,” said Nicole.

Nicole said the crèche offered parents peace of mind their kids were well looked after while they took some downtime, which didn’t have to involve exercise.

“You don’t even have to use the gym to use the crèche; you can just lay in the sun.”

Something for everyone

Another of the many dedicated employees at the centre, swim instructor Dale Roberts, said the wide range of activities across age groups creates a welcoming feel.

“The gym classes cater for a wide range of people; you don't have to walk into a gym and think, ‘I hope I look my best this morning’,” said Dale, whose two sons also work at the centre.

“It’s very much a local community.”

Dale said the splash park was a great addition to the centre, encouraging play for play’s sake.

“I really like it. The pool is often all about learning to swim, so it's nice to see something the kids can do purely for aqua play.”

While admitting she did not eat the chips often, Dale agreed they were part of the unique pulling power of the centre.

“You didn't hear this from me, but I know some parents will do anything to get their kids to swim,” she joked. The hot chips at DRLC have a reputation that precedes them, with many adamant they’re the best hot chips for miles!

“As well as the dome pool, the splash park is now another great reason to come to the pool.” Pick up some hot chips while
you’re there!

Where is it?

Des Renford Leisure Centre
126-146R Robey Street, Maroubra

Visit the DRLC page for more information.

This article was originally published in the Summer 2023-2024 issue of Randwick Scene Magazine.