Kids riding over bridge and bike path at Kookaburra Park-West.

Kookaburra Park – West in the leafy, riverside suburb of Karana Downs has long been a favourite destination for local families. Now, with the addition of a brand new bike riding track, it is attracting a fresh wave of visitors. There’s also a variety of climbing and bouncing playground equipment sprinkled throughout the expansive parklands, great picnic facilities and direct access to the Brisbane River.

Kookaburra Park – West Bike Track

A new, 200 metre long bike track was officially opened in July 2023 and has been placed in a flood resilient part of the parklands.

The gentle rising and falling of the concrete track follows the natural curves of the landscape and is mild enough for beginner riders on all types of non-motorised wheels including bikes, scooters, rollerblades and skateboards.

Upping the thrill factor is an elevated deck and ramp which allows more experienced riders to enter the track at a higher speed as it loops around the hillside before connecting onto the main track. There’s also road signs and markings to educate riders on road safety while also helping to direct the flow of traffic.

Kookaburra Park – West Playground

The playground at Kookaburra Park – West is spread out across the generously sized upper section of the parklands. The playground contains all your playground staples like swings, springy seesaw, spinning poles and plenty of opportunities to use climbing skills.

The most unique piece is a big, geometric climbing structure consisting of a series of cubes which can be scaled using rock climbing hand and foot holds.

Next to this is a ninja warrior style climbing course with curved monkey bars and wonky ladders that are sure to test the skills of older kids.

The playground mostly covered by shade sails and also enjoys the sun protection provided by the park’s magnificent collection of gum trees. There’s a number of picnic tables and shelters located directly next to the playground and some closer to the river plus modern, electric BBQs for your sausage sizzling needs.

Imagination Factor at Kookaburra Park – West

Kookaburra Park’s appeal when it comes to imagination factor is the sheer size of the area which invites Brisbane Kids to really immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Spider web like netting and the tall, abstract shaped climbing cubes allow children to view their environment from a different perspective while also introducing an element of controlled risk.

The bike track also opens up opportunities for pretend play with the realistic road conditions and encourages riders to explore the serene natural surroundings.

Accessibility at Kookaburra Park – West

A flat, concrete path network links the upper car park to the accessible toilets, playground and new bike riding track. You can also access the lower section of the parklands via a path which leads down a rather steep hill to the river below.

Unfortunately there is no adaptive play equipment in this playground.

As there is no barricade along the river, you will need to be mindful of water safety and the supervision of young children.

Kookaburra Park – West Features

Unfenced playground
Accessible toilets
Bark chip base
200m long bike riding track with elevated ramp
Climbing playground
Geometric, cubed climbing structure
Swing set including toddler and tyre swings
Bouncers and see saws
Spinning pole
Picnic shelters
Electric BBQs
Boat ramp access
Popular fishing spot
Wide, open green spaces
Ample off street parking

What We Thought of Kookaburra Park – West

We think there’s a lot to like about this humble, suburban playground and its peaceful riverside backdrop.

The playground is large enough to entertain the kids for a while but the real star attraction would have to be the epic bike riding track and especially its neat elevated deck.

If riding’s not your jam then bring along your fishing rods, kayaks or maybe even just do some rock skimming to squeeze a little more adventure into your weekend.