Past its use by date

Eight years ago when we returned to Brisbane from the USA we brought back a trampoline. The children had enjoyed the one they had in Salt Lake City and very soon began enjoying their new one, which we erected in the garden.

Over the past 8 years they have had many hours of fun and exercise, but during the past 12 months, our poor trampline has been looking a little sad.

Today Ivan and Matthew dismantled it and I am so glad that they did.  What appeared to be minor rust on the surface turned out to be dangerous and if they had used it, serious injury could have occured. So farewell to another stage in our children's lives.

The net came down fairly easily using scissors and a knife

then it was time to separate the springs from the mat - Matthew had a great idea to cut the mat which released the pressure

Trying to separate rusted parts

And underneath one of the main struts - oops - not safe

Tree roots versus 18-year-old boy

All done - time to rest

Now what can I plant in this big open space????