I lucked into the playground industry in the 80’s, fumbling around with cca logs, old tyres and chains. Then in the 90’s I met Barb Champion, then CEO of PRAV (which became Play Australia), at a Standards meeting in Wellington. My understanding of just what and why we were doing building playgrounds grew from there. Play is nature’s fundamental learning process; so much of the basic knowledge and skills we need to flourish in human society are seeded and honed in play.

Under the championship of Barb, and more recently supercharged by Robyn, Play Australia has become a real force for promoting the value of play, empowering those who work and live with it, and nudging the echelons towards embracing its importance.

My 30 years involvement has been long but minor measured against the contributions of many I’ve seen along the way, but its value to me has been immense. So many insightful and full-hearted people have fuelled my understanding and brought meaning and joy to my work.

If play is a part of your life, be part of Play Australia – I can strongly recommend it!

As I step down from the Play Australia Board, I reflect on a journey into play that began unexpectedly in 2002, after seeing a small advertisement in The West Australian for a Playground Advisor with PlaySafe.  That role has evolved to a lasting professional passion.  Although my career later moved across the non‑profit and government sectors, safe‑enough, meaningful play provision has always remained central to my work.

Through PlaySafe I was introduced to PRAV (now Play Australia) and had the enormous privilege of meeting the legendary Barbara Champion.  Barb and I remained connected for many years, catching up for playground tours of Perth, at conferences, and having many long conversations about play.  I was deeply honoured when she surprised me with a Life Membership, a moment that affirmed the value of quiet, conversation‑by‑conversation work.

During my time at Kidsafe WA, I also had the privilege of working alongside the wonderfully talented Wendy Seymour.  When Wendy passed, Barb’s understanding and support meant a great deal to me.

It was a true honour to join the Play Australia Board as its first Western Australian member.  Over the years, I’ve been inspired by the generosity, expertise and passion of so many people committed to championing play.  Following Barb’s retirement, I’m delighted to see the organisation in the capable hands of our CEO, Robyn Monro‑Miller, whose passion, wisdom and strategic leadership continue to strengthen Play Australia.

I now step away from my Board role to pursue more Nanna‑related activities and prepare for actual retirement, with immense gratitude for the friendships, shared purpose and many meaningful play conversations along the way.

Thank you for the privilege of being part of this remarkable community.