More trees, more wildlife, more pathways, a new bridge and plenty more to explore, that’s what’s on the way for Bundaberg South as the final stage of the Washpool Creek Naturalisation Project begins.
Stage three will transform the section of Washpool Creek between Hargreaves Street and Baldwin Swamp Environmental Park, replacing what is left of an existing and outdated concrete drainage channel with a greener, more natural creek environment.
When finalised in June 2027 stage 3 will feature approximately 90,000 native trees, shrubs and groundcovers across the broader project.
These plants will create new homes and food sources for local wildlife and help connect Washpool Creek with Baldwin Swamp.
These new works will also complete a three-metre-wide walking and cycling pathway from Walker Street to Lake Ellen Playground.
Other features include:
- open grassed areas
- shaded spaces to sit and relax
- informal walking trails
- stepping stone creek crossings
- nesting boxes for birds and other wildlife
- microbat boxes to provide safe places for bats to roost
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the next stage of the Washpool Creek naturalisation would deliver a lasting benefit for both the environment and the community.
“This is about turning an ageing piece of infrastructure into something the whole community can benefit from,” she said.
“Instead of simply replacing a concrete drain, we’re creating a greener creek environment with thousands of native plants, new habitat for wildlife and inviting spaces for people to enjoy.
“It is already a wonderful place to spend time outdoors and the works in stage three will build on that, creating an even more welcoming space for the community to enjoy for years to come.”
Roads and Infrastructure (urban) portfolio spokesperson Cr Larine Statham-Blair said the new pathway and bridge would provide an important link for the local community.
“This new infrastructure will make it easier for people to walk and ride between the surrounding neighbourhoods and Baldwin Swamp Environmental Park,” she said.
“Whether people are walking to the playground, riding through the area or simply exploring the new natural space, stage three will make it easier for the community to enjoy everything Washpool Creek has to offer.”
Project history
The Washpool Creek corridor sits between Ford Street and Bundaberg Creek.
The existing concrete channel was nearing the end of its life and needed to be replaced so, rather than simply putting in another concrete channel, Council created a natural creek environment that will provide benefits for years to come.
Stages one and two have been completed and include an open area, accessible by pathway, which twists through the corridor from Ford Street and across Hargreaves Street before reaching a new playground at Lathouras Court.
With stage three set to begin soon, the continuation of this project will bring together nature, recreation and better connections for the community.
These works are jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Urban Rivers and Catchments Program.
