Published Saturday, 08 December, 2007 at 10:15 AM
JOINT STATEMENT
Minister for Public Works, Housing and Information and Communication Technology
The Honourable Robert Schwarten
Premier
The Honourable Anna Bligh
Rocky's New Look River Bank Officially Opened
Central Queensland locals and tourists alike now have unprecedented access to the Fitzroy River near Rockhampton’s central business district thanks to a $16.5 million State Government riverbank redevelopment which was officially opened today.
Premier Anna Bligh said the two-year project focused on the area between the North Rockhampton Bowls Club and the Alexandra Rail Bridge, and on the southside between Hall Street, Victoria Park, and the Alexandra Rail Bridge.
"The mighty Fitzroy River has always been one of Rockhampton's greatest assets and this project has made the river even more attractive on both banks," Ms Bligh said.
“The redevelopment includes; a walking and cycling loop, revegetation, stabilised tracks to the river, fishing piers, shelter lookouts, seating, barbecue and play areas, amenities blocks and car parking.
“Rockhampton has always been a great place to live, work and raise a family and this project has enhanced the lifestyle enjoyed by locals and provided another great destination for visitors to the area.”
“The Fitzroy might physically divide Rocky, but this redevelopment unites the city.”
She said that the project demonstrated her Government’s commitment to the regions
Work on the redevelopment was officially launched in October 2005 by then Premier Peter Beattie and Member for Rockhampton and Minister for Public Works Robert Schwarten. Stage two works started in October 2007.
A $1 million upgrade of the adjoining Hegvold Stadium, on the River’s southside, and installation of a boat ramp and pontoon will be completed in the New Year.
Mr Schwarten said Rockhampton owed its history to the Fitzroy River.
“It is the river which has sustained the region from the time of the traditional owners, the Darumbal people, to today and this redevelopment has opened up the river to all forms of entertainment and activity.
“It is the first time in the river’s history that it is able to be accessed by all peoples regardless of age or ability.”
Mr Schwarten congratulated the residents of Rockhampton for their enthusiasm for the project which resulted in many people coming forward with ideas and participating in community consultation in the lead up to the start of work.
“The results of the consultation process can be seen, for example, in the public artworks on both sides of the river,” he said.
“Nine artworks by a total of seven artists, including three Central Queensland artists, reflect the character of the Rockhampton community.
“The artwork ranges from Indigenous meeting place designs to colourful representations of native flora and fauna, seating shaped like fig trees and flowers, and signs providing details of local history and the environment.”
Media contacts: Premier’s Office: 3224 4500
Minister’s Office: Scott Chandler (07) 3237 1832 or 0488 096 204
Premier Anna Bligh said the two-year project focused on the area between the North Rockhampton Bowls Club and the Alexandra Rail Bridge, and on the southside between Hall Street, Victoria Park, and the Alexandra Rail Bridge.
"The mighty Fitzroy River has always been one of Rockhampton's greatest assets and this project has made the river even more attractive on both banks," Ms Bligh said.
“The redevelopment includes; a walking and cycling loop, revegetation, stabilised tracks to the river, fishing piers, shelter lookouts, seating, barbecue and play areas, amenities blocks and car parking.
“Rockhampton has always been a great place to live, work and raise a family and this project has enhanced the lifestyle enjoyed by locals and provided another great destination for visitors to the area.”
“The Fitzroy might physically divide Rocky, but this redevelopment unites the city.”
She said that the project demonstrated her Government’s commitment to the regions
Work on the redevelopment was officially launched in October 2005 by then Premier Peter Beattie and Member for Rockhampton and Minister for Public Works Robert Schwarten. Stage two works started in October 2007.
A $1 million upgrade of the adjoining Hegvold Stadium, on the River’s southside, and installation of a boat ramp and pontoon will be completed in the New Year.
Mr Schwarten said Rockhampton owed its history to the Fitzroy River.
“It is the river which has sustained the region from the time of the traditional owners, the Darumbal people, to today and this redevelopment has opened up the river to all forms of entertainment and activity.
“It is the first time in the river’s history that it is able to be accessed by all peoples regardless of age or ability.”
Mr Schwarten congratulated the residents of Rockhampton for their enthusiasm for the project which resulted in many people coming forward with ideas and participating in community consultation in the lead up to the start of work.
“The results of the consultation process can be seen, for example, in the public artworks on both sides of the river,” he said.
“Nine artworks by a total of seven artists, including three Central Queensland artists, reflect the character of the Rockhampton community.
“The artwork ranges from Indigenous meeting place designs to colourful representations of native flora and fauna, seating shaped like fig trees and flowers, and signs providing details of local history and the environment.”
Media contacts: Premier’s Office: 3224 4500
Minister’s Office: Scott Chandler (07) 3237 1832 or 0488 096 204