#MissionControl - commence countdown to Rocket Re-entry

A new generation will be able to enjoy the dream of outer space with Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) launching work to rebuild the landmark Picnic Point Rocket. 

TRC’s Environment and Community portfolio leader Cr Joe Ramia said that Council’s ‘Mission Control’ is keen for the rocket to take off with a new generation of space cadets.

“The iconic rockets mission was mothballed during the mid-1990s due to safety concerns, but the current works will rebuild the Rocket.

“The history of the rocket dates back to the mid-1960s before mankind kicked the moon when landscape architect Arne Fink developed a plan for the area which included the famed rocket ship, Cr Ramia said.

“Around the 1970s the rocket was built to become the iconic playground feature that it has been until today.

“As part of the overhaul, the Rocket will be removed until the end of April and when completed will return as a play item for all ages that complies with Australian Standards.

“The revamped rocket will come complete with a slide, steps to get inside the rocket, new ladders and larger openings to get to each level, new footings, rubber soft fall material and even a fresh paint job!

“The upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of May or early June, weather permitting.

“Aspiring astronauts will be able to climb the rocket and dream of travelling into the final frontier, space.”

For more information about Lions Park and other parks around the Region, visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/parkslocator