New Playground Slide Closed After Injuries, Days After Politician's Approval

A new slide at Toggerai Park in Appin, on the outskirts of Sydney, has been temporarily closed to the public after multiple reports of injuries, just days after New South Wales Development, Housing and Infrastructure Minister Paul Scully shared a video of himself testing it. The park officially opened earlier in July, coinciding with school holidays.

The NSW government, in partnership with Wollondilly Shire Council, developed the 17-hectare site, transforming former pastureland into a community space featuring nature-based play areas, walking trails, and playground equipment. Prior to the community opening, Scully posted a video of himself dismounting the slide, stating, "Delivered, tested and approved. Appin has a new park for all ages to enjoy."

However, within three days of the community opening, ambulances were called to the park. Paramedics treated a man in his 40s for a leg injury sustained on the slide before transporting him to a local hospital.

The incident has prompted discussions among local residents on social media. Some users have expressed safety concerns, with one individual reporting a severe foot injury sustained on the slide, stating, "You go down way too fast and come flying out the end of them." Others have called for modifications to the slide to prevent further injuries, with one resident commenting on Scully's video, "The slide needs to be extended to prevent further broken bones."

Conversely, some social media users have suggested that parental supervision and common sense are key. "Simple, don't let your kids on them. #problemsolved," one user wrote.

A spokesperson for the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure confirmed the slide has been cordoned off as a precautionary measure while the contractor conducts further assessments. "The slide was designed, constructed and certified in accordance with the relevant Australian standards for playground equipment," the spokeswoman stated. "As a precaution, the slide has been temporarily cordoned off while the contractor undertakes further assessments. The safety of children and families is our highest priority, and the slide will remain closed until those assessments are complete."

The duration of the closure is not yet known. The park is a collaboration between the NSW government and Wollondilly Shire Council.