Set along Haberfield’s Hawthorne Parade, Richard Murden Reserve is now open—and it’s one to put on your radar! This leafy riverside park spans around 16 hectares and is sure to become a new favourite for local families. With tennis and netball courts, walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and now a fantastic new inclusive playground, there’s something for everyone. See our Instagram reel here.
Thoughtfully designed with accessibility, safety, and fun in mind, this community-led playspace includes sensory and social play zones, modern amenities, and beautiful surroundings. It was delivered in partnership with Touched by Olivia, using the NSW “Everyone Can Play” guidelines, and backed by a $1.9 million investment from Inner West Council—ensuring children of all abilities can benefit from inclusive play. It’s already become one of the Inner West’s go-to spots for a family day out.
Key Features
- Inclusive play zones for individuals and groups—with equipment like slides, climbing towers, swings, and in-ground trampolines that encourage both solo exploration and social play
- A sensory walkway and quiet zones designed for children who benefit from calm, low-stimulation spaces
- A fully fenced perimeter for safety and toddler-parent peace of mind
- Accessible toilets, bike racks, picnic tables, BBQ facilities, seating, and generous shade—so everyone can stay comfortable and included
Other Reserve Perks
The playground is nestled within a beautiful, expansive green space featuring sports courts, bushland, walking/cycling trails, fitness stations with exercise equipment, and riverside scenery. It’s a versatile spot that suits families, walkers and sociable play-dates.
The new playspace also adds to broader recent upgrades around the reserve, including new lighting and improved paths delivered through the $57 million GreenWay project—an ambitious active transport and green corridor connecting the Cooks River to Iron Cove.
Why We Love It
- Thoughtfully designed to welcome children of all abilities with equal access and purpose-built spaces
- A standout destination for morning or afternoon meet-ups—bring a picnic rug, scoop up that coffee, and let the kids play safely
- Perfect for siblings of mixed ages or abilities—everyone finds something fun to do
Design & Consultation
This new inclusive playground forms the second flagship project in Inner West Council’s inclusive playspace initiative, following King George Park Rozelle in September 2024. Between April and June 2024, residents and community groups were invited to help design the concept, which was finalised in December 2024 using feedback and in collaboration with Touched By Olivia and the “Everyone Can Play” framework. Construction began in March 2025 and wrapped up around June, aligning with Council’s timeline.
Getting There
Richard Murden Reserve is located on Hawhorn Parade, Haberfield. The playground has dedicated parking on Hawthorn Parade.
RDM Rating
Age Range: 2 – 12 years
Coffee close by – 0
Shade sails – 1 (and plenty of shade from mature trees)
Bike/scooter track – 1
Noteworthy feature/s – 1 (massive and all-abilities)
Can host a party (bbq, tables, toilets) – 1 (BBQ, lots of cabanas and seating plus a toilet block)
Gated/safe – 1 (fully fenced)
TOTAL: 5 / 6
Check out more park spotlights here!