Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment

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PROJECT UPDATE:
The Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment is now open. The hours of operation for the water play area are 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week.

Some finishing touches to the initial works are still required. We wish to advise that the Changing Places facility is not yet in use and is awaiting accreditation from Changing Places.

Council thanks you for your patience and apologises for any inconvenience during this time.


The idyllic 5.77ha Seaforth Esplanade Reserve boasts beautiful ocean views and open spaces. It is a sought-after destination for residents of Seaforth and surrounding areas, along with visitors from within the Mackay region and beyond.

In partnership with the community, our aim has been to transform the Seaforth Esplanade into a vibrant recreational asset to better service the needs of residents, as well as those lucky enough to be staying at the popular camping grounds or visiting the regular weekend markets held onsite.


This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

Stay updated on this project by subscribing to its project update emails. Click the Stay Informed button on the right of this page. You will receive an email afterwards asking you to confirm your subscription.

PROJECT UPDATE:
The Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment is now open. The hours of operation for the water play area are 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week.

Some finishing touches to the initial works are still required. We wish to advise that the Changing Places facility is not yet in use and is awaiting accreditation from Changing Places.

Council thanks you for your patience and apologises for any inconvenience during this time.


The idyllic 5.77ha Seaforth Esplanade Reserve boasts beautiful ocean views and open spaces. It is a sought-after destination for residents of Seaforth and surrounding areas, along with visitors from within the Mackay region and beyond.

In partnership with the community, our aim has been to transform the Seaforth Esplanade into a vibrant recreational asset to better service the needs of residents, as well as those lucky enough to be staying at the popular camping grounds or visiting the regular weekend markets held onsite.


This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

Stay updated on this project by subscribing to its project update emails. Click the Stay Informed button on the right of this page. You will receive an email afterwards asking you to confirm your subscription.

  • Project update: November 14, 2023

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    Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment splash pad maintenance

    The Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment splash pad will be closed for maintenance in late November.

    Contractors will be completing work to improve the functionality of the splash pad and high traffic areas at the park.

    As a result, the splash pad will be intermittently closed on Tuesday, November 21, and Wednesday, November 22, weather permitting.

    A full splash pad closure will then take place from Monday, November 27, to Friday, December 1.

    The area will be fenced off for the work, and will involve concreting, joint sealing and other minor maintenance work.

    The work has been scheduled to be completed prior to the school holidays to minimise the inconvenience to residents as much as possible.

    The new playgrounds, barbecue facilities and toilets will remain open while the splash pad is closed for maintenance.

  • Project update: September 4, 2023

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    The smiles say it all - Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment Official Opening

    The official opening of the Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment was a huge success on the weekend with the local community and families from across the region coming along to enjoy the new beachside facilities and free entertainment as part of the celebrations.

    The new colourful waterplay area and playground equipment proved to be a big hit with kids of all ages.

    If you haven’t already checked out Seaforth Esplanade, make sure you add it to your to-do list, especially with the school holidays just around the corner.

    This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

    Above: Member for Mackay Mrs Julieanne Gilbert MP and Mayor Greg Williamson officially open the new Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment.
















    To learn more about this project visit www.connectingmackay.com.au/seaforth-esplanade.

  • Project update: August 8, 2023

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    Come along to the official opening of the Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment on Saturday, September 2, from 9.30am to noon.

    Be one of the first to try the new playground and waterplay area and enjoy the free entertainment on offer including:

    • Live music.
    • Free face painting and glitter tattoos.
    • Seaforth mini markets.
    • Free fishing clinic thanks to Mackay Recreational Fishers Alliance. Bring your own rod or reel. Places are limited, bookings are essential > book here.
    • Plus more…

    Don’t forget to bring your togs and towel and help us celebrate the grand opening of this exciting new facility.

    The official opening will be held from 9.30am to 10am and the free entertainment will kick off from 10am to noon.

    This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.


  • Project update: August 24, 2023

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    Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment set to be unveiled next weekend

    Make a splash at Seaforth Esplanade next weekend!

    Council will be officially opening the new Seaforth Esplanade Redevelopment on Saturday, September 2, from 9.30am to noon.

    Mayor Greg Williamson said council was looking forward to officially opening the new facility to the public.

    “We’ve received so much positive feedback about this project in the community,” Mayor Williamson said.

    “The new recreation hub features exciting new playground facilities that cater to a variety of age groups and an aquatic themed all-abilities splashpad has replaced the old wading pool,” he said.

    “This is complemented by a new Changing Places facility, which disabled adults can use to get dressed, as well as wheelchair and ambulant toilet facilities.

    “A new barbecue and picnic area overlooks the popular swimming enclosure and will provide residents and visitors with the opportunity to relax and take in the scenery from sun lounges.

    “We’re inviting everyone in the community to the grand opening where they can be one of the first to try the new facilities.

    “There will be live music, free face painting and glitter tattoos and a Seaforth mini market will commence at 10am, following the official opening proceedings.”

    Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Palaszczuk Government was delivering for the Mackay region.

    “Mackay’s a great place to live and to visit, we’re delivering significant investment in the entire region to make it even better,” Ms Gilbert said.

    “The Seaforth Esplanade will be a major drawcard for the region, unlocking the waterfront and improving our already world-class lifestyle.

    “The new play area, barbecue and picnic areas will be a great spot for locals and tourists alike to bring their families.

    “This investment will deliver jobs for locals in the construction phase as well as ongoing benefits in the tourism sector.”

    For more details about the official opening, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/seaforthopening

    This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

  • Project update: June 27, 2023

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    Work at Seaforth Esplanade is progressing nicely, and we are on track to open in September, weather permitting.

    The progress so far includes:

    • Shade structures and the installation of new barbecues and furniture is now complete.
    • Construction of the waterplay area is taking shape.
    • Construction of amenities is well under way with only the interior fit out to be finalised and decorative screens to be fitted.
    • Playground equipment for the senior playground is in place.
    • The junior playground is about to have its equipment fitted before the softfall is installed; and
    • Landscaping is under way.

    To learn more about this project visit www.connectingmackay.com.au/seaforth-esplanade.

    This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

  • Project update: March 21, 2023

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    Construction of the new splash pad, play areas and picnic shelters are under way.

    Council will then concentrate on the installation of sun lounges, barbecues and new play equipment.

    The public will be able to enjoy all these exciting additions to the esplanade once the project is completed in September, weather permitting. To learn more about this project visit www.connectingmackay.com.au/seaforth-esplanade.

    This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

  • Project update: February 28, 2023

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    Seaforth Esplanade redevelopment hits a milestone

    We have checked off our first milestone in the Seaforth Esplanade redevelopment. The coastal walk, which includes new footpaths, boardwalks and beach accesses along the esplanade is now complete.

    We will now move onto the construction of the new splash pad, before focussing on the installation of sun lounges, barbecues and the new play equipment. The public will be able to enjoy all these new additions to the esplanade once the project is completed in September 2023, weather permitting.

    To learn more about this project visit www.connectingmackay.com.au/seaforth-esplanade.

    This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.





  • Project update: August 10, 2022

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    Construction at Seaforth Esplanade starting soon

    Council has awarded local contractor Vassallo Constructions the tender to complete the highly anticipated upgrades to Seaforth Esplanade.

    Mayor Greg Williamson said current market conditions meant the cost of the project came in higher than expected, but it was important that it went ahead.

    “The total cost of the project is valued at $8.6 million, which was $4.5 million more than anticipated,” Mayor Williamson said.

    “I think everyone is aware of the impact that inflation and supply chain constraints are having on the construction industry at the moment,” he said.

    “It is affecting all of our projects and we have had to reschedule some of the projects we had planned to do this year because it is not feasible to complete them within this year’s budget due to price increases.

    “However, this project is a key priority for council, as it will help improve the liveability and livelihood of our region and will drive tourism to our region due to its location next to the popular Seaforth camping ground.

    “This is why it is important this project goes ahead despite the shortfall in the budget.”

    Mayor Williamson said council was excited to see this project take shape.

    “We’ve received so much positive feedback about this project in the community,” he said.

    “The new recreation hub, featuring new playground facilities that cater to a variety of age groups, will be located within a short walk to Seaforth’s swimming enclosure.

    “A new barbecue and picnic area will overlook the swimming enclosure and will provide visitors with the opportunity to relax and take in the scenery from sun lounges.

    “We will also be installing a new all-abilities water play area to replace the old wading pool as part of the recreation hub.

    “This new attraction incorporates a splash pad area with various water jets and sprays modelled on local marine life and corals, as well as a 15-to-28-centimetre shallow pool that will mimic the ocean’s tidal movements.”

    Work will begin in September, weather permitting.

    This project is expected to take 12 months to complete.

    Above: Senior play zone and flying fox areaAbove: Water play

    Above: Junior play zone
    * Images are for illustrative purposes only

    Click here to learn more and view the master plan.

    This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

  • Project update: June 13, 2022

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    Tenders being sought for Seaforth Esplanade

    Council is currently seeking tenders for the construction of a new recreation hub on Seaforth’s esplanade.

    The detailed design is now complete, and tenderers are being asked to submit their formal applications to help transform Seaforth Esplanade Reserve into one of the region’s most exciting leisure destinations.

    Mayor Greg Williamson said plans for an all-abilities water play area and new play spaces that cater for a range of ages were just some of the highlights of the detailed design.

    “Council has been working closely with the Hibiscus Coast Progress and Sports Association to develop a plan that will transform the Seaforth Esplanade Reserve into an area where residents can create cherished memories with their families,” he said.

    “The new recreation hub will showcase Seaforth’s swimming enclosure as its centrepiece.

    “A new barbecue and picnic area will overlook the swimming enclosure and will provide visitors with the opportunity to relax and take in the scenery from sun lounges.

    “On the foreshore we will install new playground facilities that appeal to a wide range of ages, a coastal walk linking Elizabeth Street to Poinciana Street, CCTV cameras, and new and improved amenities with adjoining path connections.

    “One of the most exciting new aspects of the project is the plan to create an all-abilities water play area to replace the old wading pool.

    “This new attraction incorporates an oversized splash pad area with various water jets and sprays modelled on local marine life and corals, as well as a 15cm shallow pool that will mimic the ocean’s tidal movements.”

    Mayor Greg Williamson said the focus on inclusivity would not be limited to the water play area.

    “We will also be installing Changing Places facilities, which disabled adults can use to get dressed, as well as wheelchair and ambulant toilet facilities in addition to general male and female changing rooms,” he said.

    “There will be all-abilities ramped access to the beachfront and new disabled parking as part of a larger extension to the existing car park area.”

    The Esplanade’s mango trees will be protected along with the magnificent Karri Pines as iconic features of the reserve.

    Tenders for this project can be submitted through the QTenders website, and applications will close on June 21, 2022.

    Construction is expected to commence mid-year, weather permitting.

    Above: Water play

    Above: Junior play zone

    Above: Senior play zone and flying fox area
    * Images are for illustrative purposes only

    Click here to learn more and view the master plan.

    This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

  • Project update # 5: June 4, 2021

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    Funding boost for Seaforth Esplanade redevelopment

    A redevelopment of Seaforth Esplanade and stage one of Woodlands District Park, including a pump track, at Andergrove have been given a funding boost thanks to the State Government’s Works For Queensland program.

    Deputy Premier Steven Miles announced in Mackay yesterday that council had been successful in securing $9.9 million in the latest round of Works For Queensland (W4Q) Funding for 2021-2024.

    The amount included about $2.3 million for the Seaforth Esplanade upgrade and about $2 million for stage one of Woodlands District Park.

    It was part of $15.42 million announced for the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region.

    Mr Miles said W4Q projects would have a positive impact across regional Queensland.

    “The enormously successful Works for Queensland program is designed to help our regional councils deliver infrastructure that will not only create jobs, but will also improve liveability in towns and cities outside the south east corner,” Mr Miles said.

    “This latest round of $200 million is funding projects that tick those boxes right across our regions.

    “The 65 regional councils are best placed to understand the specific needs of their communities, and we have listened to our councils.

    “This round of Works for Queensland will help deliver 333 projects, which the councils estimate will create or support more than 3600 jobs where they are needed most.

    “This is part of Queensland’s plan for economic recovery.”

    Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the State Government’s Works for Queensland program had been an excellent initiative for regional local governments.

    “We’ve been able to complete a range of job-creating projects aimed at improving liveability for residents in the Mackay region through this funding program,’’ Mayor Williamson said.

    “Works for Queensland helps deliver smaller but important projects that provide benefits for our community.’’

    Mayor Williamson was delighted key projects like Seaforth Esplanade and Woodlands District Park had received funding boosts under the program.

    Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the funding would support the region’s economy and create jobs.

    “This is great news for Mackay and for our region’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mrs Gilbert said.

    “So far 1471 jobs have been created through the Works for Queensland projects across the region.

    “This round of $15.42 million being invested across Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday council areas will support 210 local jobs.

    “I congratulate the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday councils for putting forward some great projects that will make a real difference in these communities.”

Page last updated: 04 Dec 2023, 09:20 AM