Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park is a big project that required years of planning and significant funding to deliver. However, the same principles can be applied to creating a nature space for children of any scale. Here are the steps we took to create Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park.

The big picture

Decide what you are aiming for. Why are you doing it and what are your objectives? Identify any regulations and standards you must adhere to.

Gather your team

Develop a working group which includes representatives from all your key stakeholders. Everyone should have clear tasks and understand The Big Picture.

Know your budget

Determine your available funding. What are the capital costs and what resources are needed for ongoing maintenance? Set aside a contingency for unplanned expenses. Consider grants, sponsorship or pooling resources with another organisation if appropriate.

Produce a brief

After establishing your working group and determining your budget, you will need to produce a detailed brief of the project to seek any contracted services required.

Select the location

Choose your site carefully. Use the existing landscape (including trees and other vegetation) to your advantage if possible.

Respond to risk

Assess all risks and develop an agreed way to manage them. Involve your insurer in the process. Instigate a system of regular, documented safety checks. We use daily, monthly, quarterly and annual checklists.

Detailed design

Engage a professional to complete the detailed design in close consultation with you. All decisions about the design should be made against The Brief and The Big Picture. Every element of the design must help you reach the original goals and meet safety requirements. Get to know your insurer and seek their advice.

Let everyone know

Communicate that it’s going ahead to everyone who is affected. Get them excited and involved.

Build it

Check your costs and budget one last time before you start construction. Does the design meet relevant Australian Standards and/or local building codes? Reassess your risk analysis. Use a Project Plan to keep up with milestones and timelines.

Choose plants wisely

Seek good advice to help you select hardy, native Western Australian plants that are suited to your location and purpose. The vegetation will make the space, especially in the long term. Use any existing vegetation to your advantage. Mature trees are highly preferable to (and much cheaper than) shade sails.

Celebrate

Have an official opening. Celebrate your success. Keep communicating with the people who are connected to the project.

Keep going

Test, monitor, maintain and keep enhancing this amazing new space. Look after the plants and they will reward you.