Queensland Senator Mark Furner, Redland City Deputy Mayor Cr Alan Beard and Divisional Councillor for North Stradbroke Island Cr Craig Ogilvie officially opened Stage 2 of the upgraded Point Lookout Gorge Walk on North Stradbroke Island today.
The site has changed over its history from a small track to a world-first boardwalk, and now it’s time to discover it for yourself.
The upgraded 1.2km boardwalk offers countless opportunities to view local flora and fauna against the stunning backdrop of the headlands and Pacific Ocean.
The most recently completed stage of the renovated boardwalk (Stage 2) was co-funded by Redland City Council and the Australian Government through its Regional and Local Community Infrastructure grant program (RLCIP).
The total project cost for Stage 2 was $1.10 million, with Council contributing $748,000 and the remaining $352,000 financed through RLCIP funding.
Works included replacing the boardwalks and viewing platforms, and installation of new decks, handrails and seating in hardwood timbers.
The boardwalk is a world-first, using Queensland-developed composite material, in combination with hardwood rails and decking, to create environmentally sustainable infrastructure that is cost effective and has less environmental and social impacts.
Deputy Mayor Alan Beard said the finished boardwalk was an outstanding achievement that created new tourism opportunities for North Stradbroke Island.
“The Point Lookout Gorge Walk has always been a ‘must-do’ when you some to Straddie, but now it is safer and more accessible than ever before,” Cr Beard said.
“This project is a wonderful example of governments working together to achieve a positive outcome for a local community, and I thank the Australian Government for its financial contribution and support.”
Cr Craig Ogilvie said the boardwalk was one of Queensland iconic scenic spots and had been well used since stage 2 works were finished.
“Council is committed to seeking out and improving sustainable tourism opportunities for North Stradbroke Island and I am sure the improved boardwalk will continue to be a major drawcard for tourists visiting the Redlands,” Cr Ogilvie said.
“Whale watching from the boardwalk offers some of the finest viewing platforms in Australia and outside whale season, there are dolphins, rays, fish and turtles to be spotted.”
The Australian Government’s RLCIP funding is offered to assist council in projects aimed at supporting local jobs and providing long-term benefits to communities by renewing and upgrading local infrastructure.
The boardwalk renovation proj
Development Australia; Redland City Deputy Mayor Alan Beard; Queensland Senator
Mark Furner; and Redland City Division 2 Cr Craig Ogilvie.
Beard Redland City Division 2 Cr Craig Ogilvie
Development Australia; Redland City Deputy Mayor Alan Beard; Queensland Senator
Mark Furner; and Redland City Division 2 Cr Craig Ogilvie.
ect began in 2008, with the Stage 2 works completed late last year.
