Popular island park receives $1.1 million upgrade

A popular park on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) is receiving a $1.1 million upgrade.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the works at Headland Park, Point Lookout, included the renewal and relocation of playground equipment and concreting an unsealed carpark.

“Headland Park is popular with both island residents and visitors as it provides access to the stunning Gorge Walk,” she said.

“The upgrade will ensure this naturally wonderful space continues to meet the needs of a growing population into the future.

“Council has undertaken community consultation on Headland Park at various times during the past 10 years, which has resulted in the development of a park master plan and concept plan.

“The current upgrade has taken into consideration safety and accessibility requirements as well as the park’s unique natural setting.”

The Headland Park upgrade forms part of Council’s $13.8 million commitment to improve popular community parks and sports fields this financial year.

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the old play equipment would be removed from its current location near the bus stop and a new playground would be installed at the eastern end of the park.

“This new, larger playground will provide a safe area for children to play, with improved access and connection to existing facilities,” Cr Mitchell said.

“It will include marine-inspired equipment including whale and turtle play structures, a dolphin spring toy and a cone shell cubby. There will also be a wheelchair-accessible carousel.

“The unsealed carpark will be concreted to reduce ongoing maintenance and environmental issues relating to material being washed into the reserve during heavy rain or being blown about in windy conditions.

“The upgrade also includes picnic facilities, a new drinking fountain and water tap, a relocated waste and recycling bin enclosure, and installation of a swinging park gate, safety barrier fencing and handrails to stairs.”

The upgrade is expected to be completed by late August, weather permitting, with work being undertaken Monday to Friday 7am to 6pm.

The park will be closed for the duration of the project, but the main carpark, toilets, and nursery will all remain open.