Sk8ers drop-in on new skatepark
Date published: 8 October 2024
Townsville skaters are shredding up the newly completed skatepark at Garbutt after construction of the $2.1 million skatepark was completed.
Divisional Councillor, Ann-Maree Greaney said the project had been in the works for years, alongside the redevelopment of Harold Phillips Park.
“The community had been calling for an upgrade at Harold Phillips Park for years so it’s terrific to finally be able to deliver and activate this amazing space for our community,” Cr Greaney said.
“We built this park directly off the back of feedback from our community, it’s a terrific example of our community shaping the city’s infrastructure and public spaces.”
Councillor Greaney said the redevelopment not only included the $2.1 million skatepark, but the replacement of the old AFL field which included more than 22,000m2 of freshly laid turf.
“Harold Phillips Park is looking sensational and I’m so proud that thanks to joint funding from the State Government we’ve been able to deliver such a community-centric project,” she said.
“Activating spaces has proven to reduce anti-social behaviour and create engaged and connected communities. Now with Community Gro, Garbutt Magpies, Townsville Little Theatre and Aqua Jets occupying the space it’s set to be a real community hub.
“Not only do we have an amazing new skatepark, but the AFL field has been re-orientated and received our boulder-protection treatment to limit any potential vehicle damage.”
Councillor Greaney said with success of Australian skateboarder Arisa Trew taking out gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics she was excited to see what the future of skateboarding looked like for Townsville.
“We know that skateboarding is a growing sport and is such a great way of getting out and active without a huge investment, so it’s been great to work with our skateboarding community to mould the park into what we see today,” she said.
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the Queensland Government provided $1 million to Townsville City Council to upgrade Harold Phillips Park to enable more Queenslanders to participate in sport and recreation activities.
“We know how beneficial it is to get young kids active and outdoors which is why this project was so important,” he said.
“This was an election commitment I made to the community in 2020 so it’s fantastic to have delivered on that and see work completed, the park open and people excited to give it a crack.
“I know there was substantial community consultation done by Council on this project too so this a momentous day for the community.
“Projects like this not only create jobs but provide more options for young people and those disengaged with the community which is why I backed this project from the beginning.”
Council will host an official opening this Saturday 12 October at the Harold Phillips Park skatepark from 10am-12pm.
