Garbutt’s Magpies Park set for makeover
Date published: 23 September 2021
A major renewal to Magpies Park in Garbutt will begin next month after community consultation and feedback was received for proposed enhancements to the space.
The $459,000 project is funded by the Australian Government provided through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the enhancement of Magpies Park would revitalise the space for families in the area.
“Council is investing $86 million to enhance and maintain parks and open spaces right across the city to improve the recreational opportunities for locals and make the best use of all our city has to offer,” Cr Hill said.
“We met with residents and held consultation for the Magpies Park renewal last year, and we received so much great feedback for this project that we’re thrilled to be able to deliver this enhancement for the community.
“Activating these parks and playgrounds is a great way to add to the liveability of our city and create safe spaces for families to meet and play.”
Federal Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson said investing in local infrastructure was a priority.
“We’re always looking at ways to not only make Townsville a better place to live and work, but also create jobs, and that’s what the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program is all about,” Mr Thompson said.
“This is one of several projects we’re supporting with a total of $4.46 million allocated to Townsville City Council this financial year.”
The enhancement of the park will include the installation of a brand new playground, the construction of a yarning circle, lighting around the picnic shelter and throughout the park, irrigation upgrades, new fences and the planting of trees and gardens.
Infrastructure Services Committee chairperson Kurt Rehbein said the park enhancement would include improved lighting, a yarning circle and new signage to encourage positive use of the space.
“A lot of the feedback Council received for this park was enhancements to better activate the area and improve lighting and safety for park goers,” Cr Rehbein said.
“That’s why we’ve prioritised the automated lighting in the picnic shelter and improved the low lighting throughout the park, while also including a yarning circle to encourage positive communication and connections for those using the area.
“We’re also emphasising the namesake of the park – the Garbutt Magpies Australian Football League – by incorporating the existing mural into the design of the park.
“This project commences on 4 October, and it is expected to be complete by 11 November.”
