Community
30 January, 2025
Popular spots to be fixed up
TWO popular recreational destinations significantly damaged during Cyclone Jasper and the unprecedented flooding have been earmarked for government disaster funding.

Ivan Evans walking track at Bayview Heights and School Park at Machans Beach require substantial rectification works.
Cr Cathy Zeiger, whose division 3 includes the walking track, told last month’s council meeting that she was “very excited” that the council was applying for funds to restore the track.
She said the grant was critical for the repairs
“So much was washed out with erosion and it’s a bit dangerous,” Cr Zeiger said.
Last week on January 15 she went for a walk on the track and noticed more storm damage.
“Ivan Evans walk is currently blocked about one third of the way in from the Toogood Rd entry,” she posted on Facebook.
Two big trees and a heap of vines have come down blocking the track. I’ll put in a work order this morning to get it cleared asap. If you’re after a decent walk, start from the Ellen Close entry.”
A council report said an audit of the 2.1km track found 24 hazards and 10 high-priority concerns, including erosion, structural wear and potential safety risks.
“It has also been recommended the trail be reclassified from grade 3 to a grade 4 to reflect some of the challenging track sections,” it said.
“Improvements required include the addition of prefabricated steps, handrails, as well as better water crossings, installation of updated trail signage.”
The report said repair costs were projected to be more than at $231,000, with high-priority repairs alone estimated at $119,630.
It said facilities at School Park at Machans Beach sustained significant damage as a result of the extreme weather event, with an estimated $134,500 in repairs required.
“This includes the resurfacing of the tennis and basketball courts, repairs to fencing, retaining walls, and electrics, new seat installation and extension of playground edging,” it said.
The council will make a submission to the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grant, a rolling program funded jointly by the Australian and Queensland governments under category D of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).