Andy's playground factory: Hunter innovation and Harry's Climb - ABC Online

Jill took Mornings on the road to Hoddle's business; where in a hidden in a Thornton industrial shed he weaves specially made rope into playgrounds.

You might have seen his work at Speers Point Park, Blackbutt Reserve, Islington Park, and local primary schools - they're huge structures that dare you to climb right to the top.

As a former civil engineer Hoddle has always had "an eye for design, engineering and creativity."

A native of the UK, he stumbled into making playgrounds after visiting Perth council in Scotland. Hoddle discovered that despite the huge numbers of them being built, most playground manufacturing was done in Scandinavia.

"Playgrounds are an invisible industry... the product that we have is so unique, there's nobody else in Australia who does this particular thing," he said.

After many of Australia's more elaborate and dangerous playgrounds were removed due to safety concerns, there has been a recent resurgence to provide kids with structures that are safe, engaging and fun.

"There is a discussion now about cotton-wooling children ... you want to make things as safe as they need to be not as safe as possible," said Dr Richard Fletcher from the University of Newcastle's Family Action Centre.

Hoddle also has been involved in creating a memorial playground for nine-year-old Harry Dunn, who was killed after a bus crash in Singleton last September.

Harry's parents Sarah and Dean Dunn have been working tirelessly on "Harry's Climb," which will utilise Hoddle's Kaebel Leisure rope and designs.

"Not long after Harry's accident we thought 'we have to do something to remember Harry by," said Mrs Dunn.

"We both had the same idea that it had to be climbing equipment, he was brilliant at climbing and that's what gave him joy."

With his close-knit eight person team, Hoddle has been quietly flying the Hunter flag of innovation. Now the secret is out.

Stayed tuned to ABC Newcastle to find out where Jill will take "Live from Your Place" next - it could be your business, community group, or even your living room.