WA Cricket has officially revealed the name of its new all-abilities playground at the redeveloped WACA Ground — the Lotterywest Karda Playspace — located within the venue’s northern community precinct.
The name ‘Karda’, meaning goanna in the Nyoongar language, was chosen in consultation with Lotterywest and the WA Aboriginal Cricket and Culture Advisory Committee. The playspace design reflects this name, taking the form of a goanna with a winding body and slide for a tongue.
The inclusive playspace is part of WA Cricket’s broader commitment to making the WACA Ground an accessible and welcoming venue for people of all backgrounds and abilities, supported by a $5.85 million grant from Lotterywest.
Designed for play, inclusion, and culture
Currently under construction by local supplier Art+Play in Bibra Lake, the Lotterywest Karda Playspace has been designed with inclusivity and creativity at its core.
Key inclusive features:
- Fully accessible ramped path for children and adults, including wheelchair users
- Interactive features involving colour, sound, texture, music, and shadow
- Sensory tunnels and panels designed to engage children of all abilities
- Surrounding sensory garden made with natural textures and materials
The playspace is part of a wider accessibility initiative at the redeveloped WACA Ground, which includes:
- Changing Places facilities for people with disability and carers
- Calming and sensory rooms
- Braille signage and audio loops
- Interactive museum elements and inclusive cultural storytelling
Quotes from WA Cricket and Lotterywest
Kerry O’Sullivan, General Manager Customer Experience – WA Cricket:
“The Lotterywest Karda Playspace is more than a playground — it’s a place where children of all ages and abilities can come together, play and connect.
“We’re proud to have worked with Lotterywest and the WA Aboriginal Cricket and Culture Advisory Committee to create a space that celebrates inclusivity and honours the cultural significance of the Nyoongar word ‘Karda’.”
Shawn Holloway, General Manager Lotteries – Lotterywest:
“The Karda Playspace reflects our commitment to community and culture. It’s one of several accessible facilities we’re funding to ensure the WACA Ground is a space for all.”
Part of the WACA Ground Improvement Project
The WACA Ground Improvement Project is a multi-agency effort supported by the Western Australian Government, Australian Government, City of Perth, WA Cricket, and Cricket Australia. The initiative is transforming East Perth into a vibrant, inclusive community hub blending sport, culture, and public engagement.
The Lotterywest Karda Playspace will officially open alongside other redevelopment milestones in the coming months.
