Published Thursday, 20 December, 2007 at 08:30 AM
Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation
The Honourable Andrew McNamara
Eli Creek boardwalk reopens ahead of schedule
Fraser Island’s iconic Eli Creek boardwalk reopens today following a major redevelopment of recreation facilities in the area.
Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Andrew McNamara said the $520,000 upgrade to one of Fraser Island’s most popular sites had been completed ahead of schedule in time for the busy Christmas/New Year holiday period.
“The improvements to the existing recreational facilities include a section of the boardwalk, replacement of the bridge and steps that provide access to existing toilet facilities,” Mr McNamara said.
“Local QPWS staff working under the supervision of a contracted builder started the re-development project in late September. Work has finished early allowing the boardwalk to reopen today giving summer holiday visitors access to the southern side of the creek and the toilet block.
“Funding to remove and replace this failing infrastructure was provided after QPWS identified some hazards associated with the old timber boardwalk.
“The new design and method of construction gives visitors an opportunity to see the creek and its surroundings from an elevated platform while reducing impacts from visitors to the area on the natural environment. Visitors can also access the creek via two sets of steps.
“The project has also given QPWS rangers involved in the construction of the boardwalk the opportunity to gain additional skills in the construction and maintenance of boardwalks, bridges and similar works.”
Mr McNamara said Eli Creek is the largest freshwater creek on Fraser Island’s eastern beach and an environmentally and culturally significant site with a rich variety of plant and aquatic life.
“The creek and associated recreation facilities across a two hectare area are a popular site used by commercial tour operators, backpacker groups and independent travellers.
A maintenance schedule is being developed in order to maximise the longevity of this asset. This maintenance will potentially involve short closures, two to three times a year.
Media contact: Emma Parnell 3336 8002
Media Note: Photographs are available from the EPA Media Unit 3227 8452
Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Andrew McNamara said the $520,000 upgrade to one of Fraser Island’s most popular sites had been completed ahead of schedule in time for the busy Christmas/New Year holiday period.
“The improvements to the existing recreational facilities include a section of the boardwalk, replacement of the bridge and steps that provide access to existing toilet facilities,” Mr McNamara said.
“Local QPWS staff working under the supervision of a contracted builder started the re-development project in late September. Work has finished early allowing the boardwalk to reopen today giving summer holiday visitors access to the southern side of the creek and the toilet block.
“Funding to remove and replace this failing infrastructure was provided after QPWS identified some hazards associated with the old timber boardwalk.
“The new design and method of construction gives visitors an opportunity to see the creek and its surroundings from an elevated platform while reducing impacts from visitors to the area on the natural environment. Visitors can also access the creek via two sets of steps.
“The project has also given QPWS rangers involved in the construction of the boardwalk the opportunity to gain additional skills in the construction and maintenance of boardwalks, bridges and similar works.”
Mr McNamara said Eli Creek is the largest freshwater creek on Fraser Island’s eastern beach and an environmentally and culturally significant site with a rich variety of plant and aquatic life.
“The creek and associated recreation facilities across a two hectare area are a popular site used by commercial tour operators, backpacker groups and independent travellers.
A maintenance schedule is being developed in order to maximise the longevity of this asset. This maintenance will potentially involve short closures, two to three times a year.
Media contact: Emma Parnell 3336 8002
Media Note: Photographs are available from the EPA Media Unit 3227 8452