The Strand waterpark is receiving a new splash of life, with the much-loved asset undergoing significant maintenance as part of a month-long shutdown.
Mayor Troy Thompson said the waterpark had been undergoing a refurbishment, including a fresh coat of paint, mechanical overhaul and recertification.
“The waterpark sees more than 150,000 visitors annually, so as you can imagine there were parts of the park that were in need of a bit of love,” Cr Thompson said.
“Considering how well-utilised the waterpark is, it was important that we timed the project correctly, which is why we waited till the cooler winter months when usage typically drops just after school holidays.
“The closure of just over a month includes the waterpark’s famous bucket, alongside any other moving part receiving a mechanical overhaul, as part of the project’s total cost of around $100,000.
“We have been able to save significantly by using our in-house teams like our fitters to overhaul the water cannons, which would be around $15,000 each to replace.
“The park is getting a new splash of colour by local business The Brilliant Group who are bringing the original colours back to life with new 2-pack paint.”
The Brilliant Group’s Project Manager Manford Reed said it was terrific to work alongside Council on the iconic Townsville waterpark.
“The crew has been hard at work to bring the waterpark back to life, it is such an iconic Townsville feature that holds so many good memories throughout the community, so it’s great to see Council investing in its refurbishment,” Reed said.
“As a proud, locally-owned Indigenous business we’re really pleased to be working on the waterpark’s refurbishment.
“There’s not too many workplaces that provide a better view, especially at this time of year.”
Mayor Thompson said the Strand was a beloved community asset that required significant ongoing maintenance, and after 9 years since its last refurbishment, it was time for the waterpark to get a new lease on life.
“Council prides itself on the services we provide to the community, which includes maintaining our assets, but with 150,000 sets of feet running around every year, it is inevitable things will break and wear over time.” Cr Thompson said.
“During the waterpark’s recertification by the company that refurbished it around 9 years ago, they expressed their admiration for its maintenance and current condition, especially considering its heavy use and seaside location.
“It costs more than $6 million to maintain the Strand annually, so this $100,000 project provides exceptional value to ratepayers.”
