Mayor welcomes community back to Kershaw Gardens

Published on 21 December 2015

Kershaw Gardens’ northern and central sections have been reopened to the public in a major milestone sure to delight the local community and visitors alike.

To celebrate, Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow welcomed the community back to Rocky’s big backyard with a Family Fun Day, where kids enjoyed free amusement rides and a sausage sizzle.

As the re-opening coincides with school holidays, Mayor Strelow said the road to recovery leading up to today had been long and complex.

“This has been a mammoth mission since Cyclone Marcia decimated Kershaw Gardens, so I’m very proud of everyone’s efforts to reopen the northern and central areas for our community to enjoy during the holiday period,” Mayor Strelow said.

“It’s wonderful to see the grass greening up across the gardens, the garden beds coming back to life and the pathways restored and accessible once again.

“I thank the community for their understanding and patience and I’m delighted they can now use these magnificent gardens for social and family outings, walking the dogs or simply taking some time out, once again.”

Mayor Strelow said the recent $3m funding from the Federal and State governments will considerably progress the remediation next year and see Rocky’s big backyard transformed in line with community views.

“While the northern section from High Street to Knight Street has now reopened, there is still further work to be undertaken in the New Year,” Mayor Strelow said.

“It will be an exciting period next year as we watch this transformation.

“The funding boost along with our recent community consultation of the draft Concept Master Plan will certainly ensure Kershaw Gardens is once again the place to go.”

Early next year Council will be presented with further concept plans based on the overwhelming and positive feedback that Council received from the community.