Things to do at Riverway
Swim in the lagoons, walk the shaded boardwalk and pathways along the river, visit Pinnacles Gallery, have a meal at the restaurant, cook a meal on the gas barbecues provided, or catch a show at the Riverway Arts Centre. Riverway is a place for everyone to relax, enjoy, and learn.
Riverway’s lagoons, boardwalks, and grassed shady areas are all free for public use. Pinnacles Gallery is also open each day, free to the public. Many of the shows in the performance space of the Riverway Arts Centre will require tickets, which can be purchased from TicketShop or online.
Access and parking
Access: Riverway is accessible from Riverway Drive, by turning into Village Boulevard at the traffic lights (the intersection of Riverway Drive, High Range Drive and Village Boulevard).
Parking: Car parking is available on site, with over 400 parks available for public use. During special events, additional car parking is opened to accommodate the large volume of patrons.
Public Transport: Sunbus runs regular services along Riverway Drive and Ross River Road, and bus pickup is also available from Willows Shoppingtown. For details, check their website at www.sunbus.com.au. Taxis are available on demand and there is a designated taxi area and drop off/pick up point at the end of Village Boulevard.
Security and restrictions
Security: Many safety measures including lighting, stable pathways, closed-circuit television cameras and on-ground security are in place at Riverway.
Alcohol: Alcohol is restricted to the licensed area at the restaurant, the Riverway Arts Centre foyer during shows, and will be confined to restricted areas during festivals and major events.
Lifeguards: Lifeguards patrol the Riverway Lagoons and their hours are clearly marked on lagoon signage. As with any swimming facility, parental supervision is extremely important around the lagoon and river’s edge.
Animals: All animals brought into Riverway must remain restrained on a leash.
Disability access
Riverway is an environment that can be enjoyed by everyone.
- The pathways within Pioneer Park are wide and unobstructed. They are signposted, well illuminated and bounded by symbolic barriers.
- The pathways are accessible for people with all abilities as they are connected by accessible ramps.
- All buildings are easily accessible with well defined entrances, and are constructed of durable materials maintaining a vibrant and beautiful environment for all to use.
- Tactile indicator tiles are provided at defined locations.
- There are disabled ramps that provide access to the swimming lagoons.
- The Riverway amphitheatre includes an viewing platform that is accessible by people with a disability.
- The platform provides easy access and uninterrupted views towards the stage.
- Hand rails are provided in appropriate places throughout the area.
- Picnic tables and drinking fountains have been selected with accessibility in mind.
- The performance space includes a infrared hearing assistance system.
Rules
Considering that thousands of people visit Riverway every year, there are a few rules in place to ensure it remains a safe and healthy place to visit. Please consider others in your enjoyment of the area.
Dogs
Riverway is a dog-friendly place. To help keep the attraction friendly for everyone, please take regard of the following:
Doggy rules:
- Must be on a leash (not more than 2m) at all times
- Not permitted on the beach, in the swimming lagoon area, in fountains, shower areas or waterways
- Not permitted in any eating areas within the parks
- Must be well behaved
- Must abide by the Thuringowa City Council's Animal Local Law
- Dangerous dogs/breeds are not permitted in the parks.
Carer rules:
- Must be with your dog at all times
- Must ensure that your dog is not a nuisance - you may be asked to remove your dog from the parks
- Must clean up your doggy doo immediately and place in designated bins
- Report any incidences to the Riverway Arts Centre facility admin
- Download a map outlining doggy "no go" areas and doggy bins.
Smoking
Queensland laws about smoking in public areas mean that no smoking is permitted at the swimming lagoons, Riverway Arts Centre or within 10m of any of the children's playgrounds.
Alcohol
Consumption of alcohol in licensed premises is allowed during the hours permitted by the individual businesses permit.
Bikes and rollerblades
Please ride where signed. Skateboarding is not allowed.
Some other rules:
- Properly supervise children, particularly around waterways. Please obey the signage and directions of the lifeguards
- Please do not litter
- Swimming is only allowed in swimming lagoons
- No fishing or swimming in the river or fountains
- Exercise due consideration for others
- No distribution of leaflets, soliciting, conducting surveys, selling goods, filming, or professional photography without written approval from Townsville City Council.