Have your say: Nielson Park upgrade planned

Nielson Park has been identified for an upgrade as part of Bundaberg Regional Council’s Parks and Open Space Strategy 2019-2026.

One of the region’s most popular coastal recreation spaces is set to be rejuvenated and the community is being invited to have a say on how Nielson Park, Bargara should be utilised into the future.

A well-loved area by locals and visitors alike, Nielson Park has been identified as a space to be revitalised as part of Bundaberg Regional Council’s Parks Capital Works Program 2021 – 2022.

The first stage of the upgrade project will see Council gather information and ideas from the community through surveys and consultation sessions, which will help to shape the concept design for the space.

Parks and Gardens portfolio spokesperson Cr Wayne Honor said the project aimed to improve on the current offering of the idyllic beachside area for all to enjoy.

“Nielson Park has always been a very popular spot for locals and visitors alike and people have been enjoying this spot for many, many years,” he said.

“In fact, it has played host to many community events, including the popular Railway Picnic from the 1920s onwards.

“This event saw thousands of people enjoying the beach and park area each year and even became the number one spot for the iconic Siren of the Surf competitions, which were a main component of the picnic until 1972.”

Cr Honor said with large stretches of green space perfectly complementing the beautiful nearby beach, there was plenty of room for the area to be revitalised into a modern, inclusive and functional park to be enjoyed for many more years to come.

“The popular destination park is not only a hit with beachgoers and holiday-makers, but it is also home to the Bundaberg Surf Life Saving Club, Bargara Park Run and many other community groups,” Cr Honor said.

“It is not often that one of our major parks is subject to such extensive revitalisation and so we are looking for as much feedback as possible from these groups and residents about what should come out of this significant project.

“By enhancing Nielson Park, we hope to ensure the community can continue to enjoy this beautiful natural area into the future.”

The public is invited to have a say by attending a community consultation session at Nielson Park on Saturday 15 January 2022 between 9am and noon.

“This is an opportunity to meet the project team and provide your feedback on how you use the park, and what facilities you believe would be beneficial to the community,” Cr Honor said.

“If you are unable to attend this event you can still contribute by completing the online survey.”

The survey is open to the public until Sunday, 23 January and can be completed by visiting the website here.

The concept design will be finalised by the end of June 2022.

You can stay up to date with this project, and complete the survey online, via the Our Bundaberg Region website.

You can contact the parks team with any questions by emailing parksadministration@bundaberg.qld.gov.au.

See the full Bundaberg Now story here.