Gates open today at Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park

• Rio Tinto Naturescape at Kings Park re-opens today at 9am
• Open 9am to 4pm, Tuesday to Sunday
• Park entry is free  

Environment Minister Stephen Dawson has today officially opened Stage 2 of the Rio Tinto Naturescape at Kings Park and Botanic Garden.

Following a 12-month closure, the upgrade offers new opportunities for children to explore in the heart of Perth.

The upgrade includes two aerial walkways named 'The Python' and 'The Bungarra'; a waterhole to wade in; a cubby-building area; and a web of climbing ropes called 'The Tangle'. The precinct covers six hectares and is surrounded by Kings Park bushland.

The Stage 2 development was completed by local WA businesses including Plan E landscape architects and MG Construction. This $3 million, Stage 2 project was supported by Rio Tinto, which has been the major partner in the project since it was first proposed in 2008.

The park is open from 9am to 4pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

To plan a visit, go to http://www.bgpa.wa.gov.au

Comments attributed to Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:

"This Stage 2 upgrade is a fantastic addition to what was already a unique area of Kings Park.

"Since Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park opened six years ago, it has led the way in shaping community attitudes about the value of connecting children with nature.

"The aim of the park is to give children a hands-on experience of WA's beautiful natural environment and inspire them to contribute to conservation. Opportunities to balance on logs, paddle in a creek, or climb on rocks are also an important part of a healthy childhood.

"This project is a good example of some of my priorities in action - environmental education, conservation, and universal accessibility for all children."

Minister's office - 6552 5800