Mackay’s historic Queens Park to be revitalised after impact of cyclone Debbie

An $8.86 million legacy upgrade of Mackay’s historic Queens Park is now underway as part of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie recovery efforts to revitalise this key recreational and tourism drawcard.

Queensland Assistant Minister for State Development Julieanne Gilbert said the revitalisation of Queens Park demonstrated the state’s long-term commitment to rebuild and strengthen communities impacted by disaster.

Minister Gilbert advised “the rejuvenation of Queens Park further highlights the commitment the Palaszczuk Government made to support Mackay in its recovery from the devastating impacts of Cyclone Debbie in 2017.

“As Australia’s most disaster impacted state, we know that community recovery from large-scale disasters requires more than just roads and bridges – it requires the restoration of places, assets and resources. It’s about helping communities unite.

“That’s why our government is investing $8.8 million in the rebirth of Queens Park, to enable Mackay Regional Council to revitalise this key recreational and tourism drawcard for our region.

“As part of the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area, the Queens Park improvement works will also enhance the PDA, which will result in a more attractive and liveable Mackay.

“Queens Park holds a special place in the hearts of Mackay residents and visitors. It’s a real centrepiece for the city. So to be able to improve the park’s facilities and create more jobs while doing so is a great outcome for the community.”

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said while early restoration works had been completed, incorporating the feedback received on the project’s draft master plan in late 2018 was fundamental to getting the project right and breathing new life into the parkland, adding "this revitalisation project will reinvigorate the park to reflect its iconic position in Mackay and turn it into a modern urban parkland."

Features of the design include:

• Renovation of existing cricket change rooms to allow multipurpose uses
• Addition of public toilets near the new adventure playground
• Improved carpark facilities for the park
• Protection and enhancement of the historical Arboretum and Palmetum gardens
• Pedestrian and bikeway connectivity
• Lighting to improve public safety
• Yarning circle with cultural heritage design elements
• A dog park, additional picnic shelters, barbecues and bench seating

Click here for more information on the Queens Park revitalisation project and view concept design plans.