Council completes fourth upgrade to Thornlands Community Park

There are even more reasons to visit Thornlands Community Park with the Stage 2b upgrade introducing new exercise equipment, extra agricultural-themed play elements and recognition of the local area’s historical links.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the upgrades complemented previous works to create a flourishing vibrant outdoor space for local families and visitors.

“Right from the beginning, when Council bought this block of land, our aim has been to create a new and stimulating park to meet the needs of the growing Thornlands community,” she said.

“This is a true community park which has been heavily influenced by community feedback and I’m hoping our residents are as excited as we are about being part of this process to develop a major new park from scratch.

“Council has invested about $4.7 million to create the park over four stages since 2018, with a plaza area, carpark, picnic facilities and barbecue, footpaths, seating, landscaping, and a fully-fenced all-abilities playground.

“The park also includes Redland Coast’s first Changing Places Public Amenities which are designed to meet the needs of people with complex disabilities and their carers.

“There really is something for everyone and I’m confident our residents will be enjoying this park in this special part of Redlands Coast for generations to come, with the kids of today bringing their own children to play.”

Cr Williams said Stage 2b had been completed as part of Council’s $13.8 million investment in upgrading parks and open spaces this financial year.

Division 3 Councillor Paul Golle said the latest additions to the park helped to improve liveability and amenity in Thornlands.

“Residents looking to get fit and healthy will appreciate the new fitness equipment, with a large multi-function unit, exercise bike, cross trainer, and chest and shoulder presses,” Cr Golle said.

“Our younger residents have already been spoilt for choice at this wonderful park, and the new play elements will provide even further opportunities for climbing, balancing and sliding.

“Local families will appreciate how the agricultural theme of the play area celebrates our heritage, with small and large tractor tyres for climbing, a leaf play climbing structure and embankment climbing rope and slide.

“There is also an additional barbecue and drinking fountain, extra seating, shade and a bike rack near the park entrance.”

Cr Golle supported the installation of an anvil and interpretive sign about Walter Percy Mitchell, known as Wally the Blacksmith, at the park as part of the Community Infrastructure Program budget.

Wally used to service the tools of Council road gangs at his smithy which was previously located on the park site.

“Remembering Wally, an iconic Redlands Coast figure, and the part he played in our history is important, and it will be wonderful to see him honoured in this new community park in his beloved Thornlands,” Cr Golle said.