Then & Now: The Improvements of FJ Machon Reserve’s Old Playground at Allambie Heights

FJ Machon Reserve’s playground may be small compared to other children’s recreation site at Allambie Heights, but its facilities have been a big benefit to the community.

Before the Northern Beaches Council decided to set aside a budget to improve the reserve as a recreational facility, the FJ Machon Reserve playground did not use to have anything substantial to offer aside from the greenery.



Five years ago, the FJ Machon Reserve playground had but a two-seater swing. There was nothing else for kids to play at the reserve but this equipment, which was set close to a tree for shade.

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council/Facebook

In 2014, the Council proposed to upgrade the FJ Machon Reserve playground and the project was completed before the end of that year. Five years later, families living near the reserve are still enjoying the playground facilities designed and built by Forpark Australia.

Among the features of the FJ Machon Reserve playground are a children’s swing with strapped seats for toddlers to use and a play structure with rope climbers, double slides, and play panels. These playground sets cater to children of different ages and physical abilities.

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council

Right beside the children’s playground is a table with benches. Parents sit down this area to have snacks while they watch their children. Not far off is a fitness equipment area where older kids, teenagers, and even adults could use for their whole body workout.



After school hours, this place does get busy with children playing and parents mingling with each other. The playground upgrades did not just improve the use of the area but it also promoted community building.

The FJ Machon Reserve playground is on Anzio Avenue.

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