$350k redevelopment provides a ride down memory lane
Date published: 31 July 2020
Townsville City Council is giving residents a chance to relive their childhood and create new memories with their kids at Kevin Schreiber Rotary Park in Currajong.
Council has recreated the popular bike-friendly circuit that was part of the Traffic Training Centre when it first opened in 1975.
The new concrete track, which opens this weekend, includes stop signs, line markings and other road signs so children can learn the road rules while they’re riding their bike or scooter.
Council Infrastructure Services Committee chairperson Mark Molachino said the revamped circuit would bring back some fond memories.
“A lot of people learned the road rules at the old Traffic Training Centre and they can now come back to the venue with their kids,” Cr Molachino said.
“Townsville streets are a lot busier now, so this is a great place for kids to gain a better understanding of the road rules and improve their riding skills in a safe environment.
“It also gives parents another way to keep their children active - it will be an interactive experience that takes kids and teenagers away from their computer games and phones.”
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the redevelopment of the park was funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program.
“Since 2019, Townsville City Council has received close to $70 million in funding through Works for Queensland to undertake 96 projects across the city, just like this redevelopment of Kevin Schreiber Park,” Mr Stewart said.
“These projects have helped support 1582 jobs for local residents.
“Recently, the Queensland Government announced its COVID Works for Queensland program and I am thrilled that Townsville will receive a further $13.5 million to undertake further works that are estimated to support more than 80 jobs locally.”
Local councillor Liam Mooney said he had fond memories of his trips to the Traffic Training Centre in the 1990s.
“It is great to see this wonderful facility restored – I had a lot of fun there with my family and friends,” Cr Mooney said.
“It was a great day out, but we also learned the road rules, so it gave us a bit of a head start when we started driving lessons.
“I’m excited about this project, as it means I can take my kids down to learn and play at the same venue. I think it will be a great experience as a parent.
“Council committed $120,000 to this upgrade and the Queensland Government contributed $230,000 through its Works for Queensland program, so I’d like to thank them for making this possible.”
