A large and impressive new play park is the new feature at Lismore’s Heritage Park.

Designed by a team at Lismore City Council, they wanted something not seen before in the Northern Rivers, giving it a point of difference and another thing to do when the family comes into the city!

As the name suggests, it is dome-like in shape, and the dome provides shelter for participants below. There is a wide range of things to climb, swing and balance on, as well as towers and rock walls to defeat.

The look and colour scheme is in keeping with the park, and it looks like a lot of fun to take on.

MP Janelle Saffin opened the park by talking about its development and providing appreciation where it was due, “It's been much anticipated, and it was made possible firstly, through the brilliant engineering and design of Lismore City Council, who did it in-house with value for money. 

“It cost $798,121 through a state government grant for Stronger Community, Stronger Countries.” Ms Saffin spoke of her grandson, with whom she enjoys visiting the park to spend some time and enjoy the facilities.

Despite the drizzle, kids from the Living School were playing on it in the background, and Councillor (Cr) Gordon got a laugh when he likened the Gigadome to the Thunderdome! He praises the fact that the Gigadome provides a much-needed pastime for families.

The allure of the new playground saw bigger kids who couldn't help but have a play... Ms Saffin and Mr Gibbons were happy to test out some of the features!

Jon Gibbons, Lismore City Council General Manager, was impressed at how many children were content to play on the new structure despite the rain, “I can only imagine how many children they'll be here on a nice, sunny day. It's great to see.”

Brian Gray couldn’t be happier with the way the park has developed, “The Gigadome cements the park as being Lismore’s number one park, and possibly also the Northern Rivers. With all the upgrades that have happened in the last four years, it has made this park awesome.”

Tony Duffy and his team designed the park. Tony said, “We wanted balanced motor skill ability, but we also wanted to offer something that was unique to Lismore. 

“So we've created a piece of equipment that is challenging to keep the kid's interest.”

Cr Dalton Earls reflected on being at the park and his fondness for it - the new addition being another thing for kids to get excited about.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg praised the new playground additions, highlighting how important this investment is to the community. 

"What sets the Gigadome apart is the uniqueness of the play structures. The design was carefully chosen to offer something truly special for our community. This is a space where children can challenge themselves, have fun and create lasting memories."

Brian is very happy with the addition. After being at the park for 30 years and seeing all kinds of developments, this one is a big one. 

School holidays start this Thursday, and Brian will be operating the trains 6 days a week (not on Mondays); he is looking forward to seeing the difference the Gigadome will make.

The new playpark has seen all the original features replaced, now, Brian mentions.

“The big central fig tree originally came from Dalley Street. There used to be two.”  

The towering tree provides a beautiful, cool centre to the park. Adjacent to it is a train carriage.

“The plan for that will probably be the next change to the park. Council are looking at turning it into a venue to hire for parties.” But that may be some way off yet. Meanwhile, Heritage Park will be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike over the festive holidays.