Lion-sized improvements for island park

An exciting upgrade is about to start at Russell Island’s Lions Boulevard Park.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said renewed recreation and new visitor facilities would soon make the foreshore park more accessible and attractive to residents, fishers, campers and visitors.

“This park is located between Sandy Beach and a boat launching area, making it ideal for recreational fishing and boating activities with access to Moreton Bay,” Cr Williams said.

“The approximate $400,000 upgrade will improve the marketability and utilisation of the park and campground, bringing increased visitation to the island communities, and supporting local businesses.

“Council contractors will be installing exciting new play equipment, complete with a basket swing, springer toy and a slide.

“There will also be themed elements that encourage children to use all their senses, a pirate ship play unit and a crow’s nest climber to make it a fun space for families.”

The improvements have been partially funded by a $95,400 grant from the State Department of Agriculture and Fisheries’ Fishing Infrastructure Grants Program.

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said work was expected to start at the end of August and continue throughout September, subject to weather conditions and contractor resourcing.

“All going well, the new features will all be ready for local kids to try out in the beautiful spring weather that comes in October,” Cr Edwards said.

“This will be a great spot to enjoy a short camp or family day out, with the upgrade also including connecting paths to the key facilities, sandstone block seating, two new shelters with table settings, water bubbler and an equal access double barbecue.

“The existing dog-off leash areas will be better defined with bollards and sign.”

Existing play equipment and park furniture which is in very poor condition will be removed.

Lions Boulevard Park has a bookable waterfront camping area of two flat, turfed sites located toward its northern end which are suitable for camping in tents only. The park is the only Council-run camping facility on Redlands Coast and can be booked through redland.qld.gov.au.