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A vibrant new youth recreation area at Jack Evans Boat Harbour was officially opened today, unveiling a thrilling haven for active pursuits and community connection in Tweed Heads.
Much to the approval of local youth and families, work was completed on the new Tweed Regional Inclusive Parklands - Stage 2 at Jack Evans Boat Harbour last December, delivering exciting new outdoor activities for them to enjoy in the area.
The project includes:
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small-scale skate elements
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a basketball key
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s-shape seating
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additional pathways
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shade umbrellas
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informal seating
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a drinking fountain
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tree planting
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facilities for picnicking
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landscaping improvements.
The new facility also features work by well-known local Bundjalung artist Christine Slabb who collaborated with artist Shmick to create inspiring public art within the youth recreation area, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the precinct.
Assistant Minister for Social Services Justine Elliot MP and Deputy Mayor of Tweed Shire Meredith Dennis were thrilled to officially cut the ribbon at the new recreation space today.
Mrs Elliot, whose electorate includes the Tweed Shire, said the Australian Government was proud to support local youth in the area.
“I congratulate Tweed Shire Council on the completion of Goorimahbah Park, which offers a vibrant and open recreation space for young people and local families alike,” Mrs Elliot said.
“This important funding of more than $400,000 from the Federal Government in partnership with Tweed Shire Council and the NSW Government has delivered a wonderful community facility with improved shade, seating and picnic facilities for all to enjoy.”
Cr Dennis said the space was testament to Council’s commitment to providing the Tweed’s younger residents with vibrant and inclusive spaces to thrive and have fun.
"Investing in our youth is an investment in the Tweed’s future. This recreation area is more than just a skate facility, it's a place for our young people to discover their passions, build resilience and forge lasting friendships,” Cr Dennis said.
"As a community, we recognise the importance of providing recreational spaces that cater for diverse interests. This new facility is a result of collaboration, dedication and the shared belief that our youth deserve the best opportunities to thrive."
The upgrade of Jack Evans Boat Harbour started with the opening last year of Livvi’s Place at Goorimahbah Place of Stories – a spectacular inclusive playground – and is part of Council’s plans to revitalise the Tweed CBD.
Stage 2 of this project was delivered thanks to $435,000 from the Australian Government with a matching contribution of $435,000 provided by Tweed Shire Council.
The NSW Government contributed $100,000 through its Stronger Country Communities Fund – Round 4 to fund elements of the youth precinct including the basketball key and the flying fox located within the nearby play space at Goorimahbah – Place of Stories.
This project is part of Council’s commitment to improve the quality of the Tweed's public open spaces in accordance with the Open Space Strategy (2019–2029). It is also one way Council is providing the community with more opportunities to be active and healthy and even more reasons to love the Tweed.
Council has secured a further $748,000 in funding through the NSW Government’s Places to Swim grant program to support the enhancement of Jack Evans Boat Harbour for water-based recreation (Stage 3). Work on Stage 3 is expected to start at the end of April 2024 to create a more accessible swimming area for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
For more information about all stages of the Jack Evans Boat Harbour project, visit yoursaytweed.com.au/goorimahbah.
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