Bligh Government turns Jabiru Island sand mine into a community reserve

A former Jabiru Island sand mine will become a new community park after the Gold Coast site was registered with the State Government as a reserve, Natural Resources and Water Minister Craig Wallace announced today.

Mr Wallace said the new 1.3 hectare reserve will provide more open space for the local community and will complement the existing 18 hectare Phil Hill Environmental Park on the island in the Coomera River near Paradise Point.

The state-owned site was previously leased for sand mining but is now registered as a reserve, with the Gold Coast City Council as the trustee.

“Jabiru Island has high conservation and community values,” Mr Wallace said.

“It is a popular recreation spot, which attracts many anglers and families looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

“Member for Broadwater, Peta Kaye-Croft has championed calls from Gold Coast residents to preserve the area for the community, and I am pleased to announce we are delivering on this request.

“Grass and turf are being replanted at the site and what was previously off-limits and unusable land for visitors will be transformed into an ideal recreation spot – a real natural community asset for future generations to enjoy.

“The Bligh Government knows that as Queensland’s population grows it is important we set aside parks and reserves in our built-up areas to secure outdoor escapes for residents.

“That is why we have set a goal of preserving more green spaces for the community, as part of our Toward Q2 vision for Queensland’s future.

“Our state has some of the most beautiful areas right under our noses in the suburbs and I am very pleased we have been able to reclaim this area on Jabiru Island for the people of Queensland.”

Ms Kaye-Croft welcomed the announcement, which will deliver more open space for her local community.

“Most of Jabiru island remains in its natural state and the addition of this reserve will give visitors a family-friendly grassed area for picnics or a fun game of cricket,” Ms Kaye-Croft said.

“By providing our community with open spaces like this, we can encourage more people to get outdoors with friends and family and enjoy the wonderful environment sitting right on our doorstep.

“I know the local residents, as well as visitors to the area, will make the most of this new community asset.”

Mr Wallace said the land transfer involved complex and lengthy negotiations which included the surrender of land and water leases.

“I congratulate all parties for their spirit of co-operation to reach agreement over this portion of land which will now be available for everyone to enjoy,” he said.

Media contacts: Minister Wallace’s office – 3896 3689