With school holidays well underway it's fantastic to have two new playgrounds open for action.

Brick Pit Reserve at Frenchs Forest has been pumping since the fences came down late last week with hundreds of families trying out the new playground, boardwalk and picnic facilities.

This vibrant new space not only offers quality playtime but also pays tribute to the site's rich history. The park sits on the site of a once-thriving brickworks factory that operated from the late 1800s until World War I. Run by William Hews – the first permanent resident of Frenchs Forest – the factory produced bricks using clay sourced directly from the site, transporting them by horse and dray to Manly, Narrabeen and across the Spit, where they were loaded onto a punt and shipped to Mosman and the city.

Thanks to the NSW Government for funding this great new public open space which will serve generations to come as the Frenchs Forest Town Centre comes to fruition in the years ahead.

The Michaela Howie playground on Dee Why Beach has also had a makeover with new swing sets, play structures, climbing frames and boat. It was lovely to spend time at the launch this week with some of the family of Michaela, only 15 months old when she tragically lost her life in 2004. It was heartening to hear her family reflect on the comfort they find in seeing children laughing and playing in a space that honours her memory more than 20 years on.

If you’ve explored the two new playgrounds and are still looking for more to keep the kids entertained – check out the school holiday survival guide. You'll find workshops, shows, craft, marine adventures and even giant inflatables at the aquatic centres.

Have a great weekend,

Mayor Sue Heins