Multi-million dollar Christmas gift to the Gold Coast
Christmas has arrived early for Gold Coast residents, with the official opening of the Doug Jennings Park following the Palaszczuk Government’s multi-million dollar makeover.
Minister Mark Bailey officially opened the park today with newly elected Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon, and said that enjoying summer days on our waterways has never been easier.
“As someone who spent my early years on the Gold Coast I have terrific memories of summer days at the spit, so it’s fantastic to officially open this significant upgrade to Doug Jennings Park,” Mr Bailey said.
“We want to encourage more people to enjoy our incredible parks and waterways and Doug Jennings Park is the perfect place to spend time with family and friends during the holiday season.
“This $2 million upgrade is consistent with local needs and expectations, as described during the Palaszczuk Government’s Spit Parklands community consultation.”
Member for Gaven and Assistant Minister for Tourism Industry Development Meaghan Scanlon said that the upgrade has vastly improved one of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful and popular destinations for the benefit of all local residents and visitors.
“We now have 150 new native trees, 6 new beach showers, 5 picnic tables, 4 bin enclosures, 3 drinking bubblers, 2 park benches, more car park spaces and an additional Emergency Access Stairs,” Ms Scanlon said.
“The upgrade also includes an improved ring road and a new footpath running the length of the Seaway, ideal for a sunset stroll or cycle.”
Gold Coast Waterways Authority CEO Hal Morris thanked the community for its patience during construction works.
“We’re very pleased with the finished product. What a great gift to the community just in time for Christmas,” Mr Morris said.
“The Gold Coast Waterways Authority looks forward to continuing to upgrade the park with more minor improvement works planned.”
The total investment for the makeover of Doug Jennings Park, which is managed by the Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA), is $4.55 million.
For more information about improvements at Doug Jennings Park visit the GCWA website: www.gcwa.qld.gov.au
Consultation on the Southport Spit Master Plan is ongoing, with information and updates available at https://planning.dilgp.qld.gov.au/planning/better-planning/projects/southport-spit-master-plan
Media Contacts:
Gold Coast Waterways Authority – Hal Morris, CEO – 0419 374 134
Minister Bailey – Chris Vernon – 0416 800 004
