Work has commenced on the Mitchell Memorial Park expansion

Over the last 12 months, Council has been working with the community in planning an expansion to the Mitchell Memorial Park – starting initially with the development of a site master plan. 

Site works have commenced, with the first stage to be delivered by late-June (weather permitting).  

This project, which was funded under the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, is set to bring new life to the park with an upgrade to the existing playground area, new footpaths, a new shelter and BBQ area, as well as new shading for the skatepark.

Mayor Tyson Golder said the park is a valued space within the Mitchell community and this project is a great opportunity to bring new life to the Mitchell Memorial Park.

“This is an exciting time for our Mitchell community, this project will provide new equipment and a space for families and visitors to come together and enjoy the elements this park will have to offer,” Cr Golder said.

“This will also give community groups a place to meet and hold events.”

Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the LRCI funding for the park expansion reflected Maranoa Regional Council’s top priorities and would ensure the needs of the local community were met.

“This project will provide a vital boost for the local community, backing local jobs and economic growth while delivering lasting upgrades that will benefit residents for years to come,” Mr Littleproud said.

“We also get councils to use local businesses and workforces to deliver these projects as much as possible, ensuring this stimulus flows directly into the hands of hard-working Aussies, their families, their businesses and their communities.”

The project will be completed in a staged approach, due to the availability of specialised playground equipment.

The first stage will predominately be delivered by KHB Constructions. Completion is expected by the end of June 2022 and includes:

• Installation of a new shared 2.5m footpath loop on the western side of the site, including a direct link to the Mitchell General Hospital.
• Installation of shelters including the following:
  • cantilever shelter at the skate park area; and
  • large family shelter to the eastern side of the playground
• A large 24-seater picnic style table, and double barbeque facilities at the family shelter.
• New power connections points in the garden north of the rotunda to make powering events at the park easier and safer; and
• Additional seating and lighting improvements around the park.

The second stage will see the delivery of an improved playground at the site, with the existing playground to be relocated and reinstated at the Mitchell Weir area.

Maranoa Regional Council has partnered with award-winning playground designers Urban Play, to develop an area that is a bespoke adventure playground and will draw families from far and wide.

“We wanted to provide a destination that provided thrilling play opportunities for all ages and abilities,” said Kate Heise-Seabrook, Playground Designer from Urban Play. 

“My favourite play element is the custom Sky Cabins that stand at over 7m tall and offer exciting climbing opportunities with elevated views over the surrounding parkland.”

Other playground elements include mountaineer features specific for toddler play, a tipi carousel, net twister and two bay swing including birds nest seat, standard seat and baby seat.

Works on the playground upgrade are due to commence in August, with a planned completion of the end of September 2022.

Works have been coordinated to minimise interruption to the overall park, however elements may need to be temporarily closed while construction works are underway in the area.

Council would like to thank the community for their involvement to date in the development of this important project for the Mitchell and greater Maranoa Region and look forward to opening the new facility to the community later in the year.

This project has been jointly funded through the Australian Government and Maranoa Regional Council. Australian Government funding of $210,000 was provided through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program. This program supports local Councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects across Australia, supporting jobs and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

  For any enquiries, please contact Councils Customer Service Team on 1300 007 662.