WetSide boardwalk demolition begins

Demolition of the damaged boardwalk overlooking the ocean at WetSide has now begun.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Director of Strategy, Community, and Development Gerard Carlyon said the boardwalk was deemed unsafe due to erosion caused by big seas and storms over the last ten years.

“WetSide is a much-loved, award-winning water park where people can come together to beat the heat and have fun on the waterslides, splash around in the water play area, and test their skills on the Aqua Ninja course, the first of its kind in Australia,” he said.

“That’s why we must ensure this important community facility is safe now and into the future.

“Unfortunately, erosion has exposed the foundations for the boardwalk.

“As the boardwalk is located within a coastal management area and part of it is below the high tide, Council has worked with the Queensland Government to obtain the necessary approvals to demolish it safely.

“This will include removing 36 pylons below the high tide along with the substructure and decking attached to pylons above the high tide.

“The works are occurring now during WetSide’s winter shutdown to minimise disruption to staff and the community.

“In addition to the boardwalk removal, electrical and other maintenance works will be carried out in the TotSide section of the facility to ensure all of WetSide is ready to go when it reopens in mid-September for the 2024/25 season.”

Mr Carlyon said no final decisions had been made on the long-term future of the boardwalk area, with the immediate focus on carrying out the works to ensure its safety.