Council continues to clear, salvage and make safe
Published on 04 June 2015
Twenty-eight hectares of fallen trees cleared, 6500 cubic metres of greenwaste stockpiled, 160 sites tested and we’re still scratching the surface of the complex issues TC Marcia left behind at Kershaw Gardens.
Kershaw Gardens was opened in 1988 and built on the City’s former landfill site. The devastation has now returned the impressive gardens to a landfill site again.
Rockhampton Regional Council’s cleaning, salvaging and making safe actions at Kershaw Gardens are well under way, but it’s only the start in what will be a lengthy and ongoing process according to Councillor Cherie Rutherford, Committee Chair for Parks and Recreation.
“To date, we’ve removed fallen trees and plant debris across 75% of the park, and stockpiled 3500 cubic metres of mulch to be redistributed back across the gardens when the time is right,” Cr Rutherford said.
“From the outside the Gardens are taking shape again, however its visual appearance doesn’t tell the whole story. Unfortunately, it’s what we can’t see under the ground that’s of most concern.
“Environmental consultants, CQG Consulting, have tested 160 different locations across the gardens to establish the breadth of the rubbish, and we’re currently waiting on those results.
“The testing will help to locate where the waste is, the type and the depth. This information will help us to determine what parts of the gardens may be reopened and how we might go about remediating any affected areas.”
Cr Rutherford said she was mindful the community wanted their gardens back, but was encouraging everyone to continue to be patient while work was being carried out.
“I understand how important these Gardens are to our community - they are a significant landmark offering wonderful recreational opportunities, so I thank everyone for their patience.
“We’re working as quickly as possible, ensuring the health and welfare of our community and workforce is our number one priority.
“I’m reminding everyone that the Gardens remain closed and that it’s still dangerous so please do not enter. The fence and signage is there for your protection.”
Fast Facts
- Waterfall has opened
- 160 sites tested by Environmental Consultants
- 3000 cubic metres of mulch ready for use across the gardens
- 3500 cubic metres of branches and sticks stockpiled ready for processing
- 85% of the fallen and dangerous trees cleared (excluding the Southern Rainforest)
- Perimeter Fencing hire approximately $4,500 for four months