Upgraded water access and recreational facilities opened for Tweed Shire

Revitalised facilities at Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads, which were officially opened today, have enhanced access to swimming, water-based recreation and waterfront connectivity

The facilities were opened by Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry and offer improved water access and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to the Tweed’s premier public park.

The upgrade has been made possible via a $748,000 grant from the NSW Government as part of its Places to Swim program which aims to better connect people to natural waterways and support the wellbeing of the community.

 The $748,000 upgrade includes:

• replacement of existing timber decking with tiered composite decking

• steps and handrails for improved access into the water

• installation of shade structures and umbrellas for sun protection

• accessible picnic facilities and seating

• improved landscaping and additional tree planting

• pathway connections

• bike racks

• plantings reflecting Aboriginal cultural connections.

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully welcomed the creation of a new high-quality, inclusive place to swim that the entire Tweed Heads community can enjoy.

Minister Scully enthused “we’re excited to officially open this much anticipated upgrade to the central swimming area at Jack Evans Boat Harbour as it has been a high priority for the local region.

“Delivering projects like this at Jack Evans Boat Harbour are crucial for the growth of regional communities like Tweed Heads.”

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry added "Jack Evans Boat Harbour is a much-loved spot for swimming, water-based recreation, social gatherings and tourism. Enhancing this area to be more accessible and appealing to everyone is a significant win for the Tweed, including our local businesses.

"The addition of new recreational facilities along our waterways not only provides a place of respite for the community but also serves as a vital refuge during the summer months."

The project was designed in consultation with Council’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee and Equal Access Advisory Committee as well as people with lived experience who provided feedback on the ongoing challenges of the site, including the inevitable movement of sand and debris, access and the variety of users who use the site.

Some solutions are still being investigated and implemented such as improved site maintenance, fit for purpose water buoys and the potential for an accessible wheelchair on site.

This initiative is part of Council’s dedication to preserving and enhancing the quality of public open spaces in the Tweed, ensuring improved access to natural waterways and enriching the region as a vibrant hub for residents, visitors and local businesses.

Over the past two years, the Jack Evans Boat Harbour precinct has undergone several significant revitalisation projects, including an inclusive play space, new barbecue facilities, picnic areas with shelters, shade umbrellas, enhanced landscaping, and a dedicated youth recreation space featuring skateboard and basketball facilities. Council will also improve landscaping and features surrounding the park’s public toilet to complete and connect all the upgrades.

The upgrades are informed by the Jack Evans Boat Harbour (JEBH) Plan of Management, developed in consultation with the community, which guides current and future planning and management of the precinct.

As occurred prior to the upgrade, safety in and out of the surrounding water remains the responsibility of the user. Always supervise children around water. For water safety tips and resources please see Royal Life Saving Society - Australia https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/

To find out more about the project visit yoursaytweed.com.au/goorimahbah https://www.yoursaytweed.com.au/goorimahbah

Find out more about the NSW Government’s Places to Swim program at planning.nsw.gov.au/ places-to-swim https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/policy-and-legislation/open-space/open-spaces-program/places-to-swim

Image top: Local friends enjoy a refreshing swim at the newly upgraded swimming area in Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Tweed Heads; image centre: New beach seating area at Jack Evans Boat Harbour; image below: An aerial view of the newly upgraded beach and swimming area