Woolgoolga Beach Reserve Upgrade Creates More Community Space

Following the completion of the new playground at the Woolgoolga Beach Reserve, work is continuing behind the scenes on other new features that will eventually create an attractive and welcoming public space that enhances the relaxed seaside character of this popular destination.

“The new playground on the reserve has had rave reviews from visitors of all ages,” said Mick Raby, Council’s Director Sustainable Infrastructure. “The upgrade as a whole is a very exciting project and the reserve is an important landmark, attracting visitors and locals to Woolgoolga and contributing hugely to the local economy. So it’s very good to have such a positive response so far.”

As part of the upgrade works the informal parking area for the old Surf Lifesaving Club building is to be fenced off from 1 February. Visitors will still be able to park in the adjacent public parking area in Hofmeier Close.

Under the Masterplan for the reserve, the public carpark will eventually be renewed to include formalised spaces including designated spaces for people with disabilities. A turning area is part of the design to improve traffic flow, plus a bike path for safe and easy cycling access to the beach and reserve.

The closure of the informal parking area relates to the demolition of the old Woolgoolga Surf Lifesaving Club building, which the Club’s contractors will start pulling down on 1 February. The demolition – which includes removal of asbestos by specialist contractors – will take about three weeks.

Following the demolition of the old building, the area will be graded and turfed to create an open community lawn area. Once funding becomes available, the community will be given the opportunity to help further develop the final design for the northern end of the reserve.

Lifesavers will use a portable observation post until funds are available to construct a planned covered viewing deck, which will also be available for use by the general public.

The current Beach Reserve Masterplan contains concept designs – created from the community consultation previously undertaken in the development of the Masterplan – that show lawns with shade trees, paths and beach access points for people of all abilities and space for temporary events, leisure activities and play.

For more information on the Woolgoolga Beach Reserve upgrade, take a look at the Masterplan.

Pictured is the current Masterplan concept design for the northern section of Woolgoolga Beach Reserve. Further community input will be sought on the detailed design when funding is available.