Ash Barty serves up new Springfield playground.
Ipswich-born former tennis world number one, Ash Barty AO, has opened a new playground named in her honour in Springfield today.
The Ash Barty Playground was co-designed with the three-time Grand Slam singles winner, and funded by the Queensland Government and Ipswich City Council.
It includes a halfcourt and rebound wall, complete with a painted-on tennis net so children can practice like the tennis legend did when she was growing up nearby.
Other features include extending the existing playground with a dry creek bed and nature play equipment, a looped pathway with stories at each pine tree along the way, new shades, seating and greenery, and plants to create a welcoming atmosphere.
From above, the looped, connecting pathways resemble a giant tennis ball.
Ms Barty said she was pleased to be able to give something back to her community.
“I have always loved my home and being part of the Springfield community,” Ms Barty said.
“Being able to work with the Queensland Government and other project partners to create a park and playground for local families to enjoy is special and I want to thank the Government for giving me this opportunity.
“Encouraging children to be active and play is a passion of mine, and I can’t wait for local families, including my own, to visit this beautiful new space.”
Queensland Minister for Sport, Tim Mander joined Ms Barty and Ipswich Mayor, Teresa Harding for today’s official opening.
Mayor Harding said the playground will continue Ms Barty’s legacy of inspiring Ipswich kids to take up sport and be active.
“Ipswich has produced many world-class athletes, and Ash Barty is right at the top of the list,” she said.
“This park will be the perfect recognition of her achievements, and no doubt she will be putting it to good use as a young mum and member of our community.”
“We are very excited to be able to open this playground in honour of an Ipswich sporting legend and we can’t wait to see our residents enjoying the brand new facilities,” said Mayor Harding.
“This playground will be a fitting acknowledgement of an outstanding sporting career, and more importantly, an outstanding Queenslander,” Minister Mander said.
“As a professional athlete, Ash Barty was always remarkably humble and never lost sight of where she came from.
“When offered a tribute to her accomplishments, Ash requested something that can be valued and appreciated by children, families, and her community for many years to come, rather than a statue.
“Ash may be retired, but because of the extraordinary impact she made during her time as a professional, she continues to inspire Queenslanders to be active,” he said.