The Hinterland Adventure Playground in Cooroy is an all-abilities, nature-based playground designed by Robinson Architects, with Urbis as landscape architect, for Noosa Shire Council. Built on the site of Cooroy’s historic timber mill, the design draws on the region’s agricultural and manufacturing history and creates a physical and metaphorical link between Cooroy’s main street and the historic lower mill precinct.

The project has been widely recognised, winning numerous awards including:

  • 2026 QLD CHAPTER AWARD The Hayes & Scott Award for Small Project Architecture
  • 2026 QLD CHAPTER AWARD. Regional Project of the Year Prize
  • 2026 Australian Institute of Architects Sunshine Coast Commendation
  • 2026 Australian Institute of Architects Sunshine Coast Regional Project of the Year
  • Excellence for Play Spaces at 2023 AILA State Awards

The architecture integrates custom play structures, including a 10-metre play tower and an inclusive double flying fox, within the natural contours of the landscape, balancing built form with the surrounding hinterland environment. The playground itself is made up of a series of play zones ranging from quiet, low-activity spaces to highly active adventure areas.

More than a playground, the site is a community gathering place, with shaded picnic areas, public barbecues, and seating that connects visitors to the surrounding hinterland landscape and encourages exploration, inclusion, and connection to nature.