Recreation facilities at dams and lakes in regional Queensland to receive significant makeover

As part of a five-year, $24.5 million upgrade program, popular community recreation facilities at several dams, weirs and lakes in regional Queensland are in line for a makeover.

The upgrades will ensure recreation areas meet community expectations, safety standards and accessibility requirements.

The program of work will involve upgrading and maintaining lookouts, camping and toilet facilities, boat ramps for public use, playgrounds, barbeques, picnic shelters, sprinkler systems and access roads.

Queensland Water Minister Glenn Butcher said the funding will allow for a range of improvements to significantly enhance a number of recreation areas across the state.

Minister Butcher advised “our dams, weirs and lakes aren’t just to provide water supply, they’re centrepieces of tourism in many of these wonderful Queensland communities” adding that the upgrades “will also help to generate long-lasting economic and tourism benefits for local businesses.

“Whether camping or caravanning, boating or fishing, or having a family picnic, we want to make sure these facilities are in top condition for Queenslanders as well as a drawcard for travellers.”

Upgrades will be undertaken at dams and weirs owned and operated by Sunwater, from St George in the state’s south, to Atherton in the far north.

The funding will initially allow Sunwater to complete necessary site investigation and planning works, before works can commence on the ground.

Sunwater Chief Executive Glenn Stockton said the upgrades demonstrated the organisation’s commitment to protecting and enhancing the communities in which they operate.

“We understand the importance of local recreation and tourism in regional Queensland,” he said.

“Our dams and weirs store and supply water to keep industry moving, irrigate crops and provide drinking water for towns - but they are also highly valued community assets.

“We will ensure these upgrades improve recreation opportunities at our dams while ensuring they continue to provide critical water security for our irrigation, industry and urban customers.”