Refurbished Riverside Re-opened

Published on 26 August 2022

Rockhampton’s riverside boardwalk has had a mini makeover with brand new decking and fresh paint on the existing boardwalk furniture, ready for the community to enjoy once again.

The refurbishments are thanks to a joint project between the State Government’s Works for Queensland program and Rockhampton Regional Council.

Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government was proud to support the refurbishment of the boardwalk with $1.6 million in Works for Queensland funding.

“The Works for Queensland program supports regional councils with job-creating infrastructure projects,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“The boardwalk is an important place for the Rockhampton community to connect as well as be active, and this refurbishment will ensure Rockhampton can show off its world-class lifestyle and be enjoyed by the community and visitors for many years more.

“Works for Queensland projects have already supported or created 855 local jobs, with more to come, which is a fantastic result for the local economy and for local families.”

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the replacement of the decking on the boardwalk will have it looking in great shape, just in time for the Riverfestival in October.

“We scheduled the refurbishment to take place in between two of our biggest events on the Riverbank - Rockynats and Riverfestival - to limit disruption to the community as best we can,” Mayor Williams said.

“What better way than with an event to showcase this newly refurbished area.

“I’m looking forward to the community using the boardwalk once again for the Riverfestival as well as for smaller scale events and everyday activities like walking the dog or taking in the view while enjoying lunch.

Infrastructure Councillor Ellen Smith said the work needed to be done to extend the life of the boardwalk.

“The refurbishment involved replacing around 800 square metres of timber decking with innovative composite decking,” Cr Smith said.

“Loftus Contracting, the contractor who completed the project, used a composite decking product as it is more durable and requires less ongoing maintenance than timber.

“This is a popular area of the riverbank, and we want to make sure it continues to serve the community for many years to come.

“By replacing the decking now, the structural integrity of the boardwalk is able to be maintained for another 20 or so years which means many more events to be held and more memories to be made.”