A popular Palm Beach boardwalk that underwent $4 million in renewal works to strengthen resilience and improve accessibility has been reopened and has already proven to be successful.
The Beree-Badalla Reserve Boardwalk renewal project widened the path to three metres and installed public amenities such as fishing platforms, seating areas, launch ramp and shower facilities.
The renewed boardwalk and new public amenities were part of the Community and Recreational Asset Recovery and Resilience Program and jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Minister Ann Leahy said the boardwalk's reopening highlighted the value of government investment in disaster affected community assets.
"The Gold Coast is no stranger to natural disasters, but this project is a showpiece to what can be delivered for Queenslanders when all levels of government work together to help communities recover and rebuild," Minister Leahy said.
"This project is a prime example of the Crisafulli Government's commitment to build back better, delivering renewed infrastructure that will last for generations and withstand future severe weather events."
"The renewed Beree-Badalla boardwalk will help increase resilience against storm surge, the natural marine environment," Gold Coast Division 13 councillor Josh Martin said.
"In fact, the newly constructed boardwalk has already proven its resilience, withstanding recent storm surges," Cr Martin added.
The 640 metres of upgraded pathway also ensures it is safe and fully accessible for the thousands of Gold Coasters and visitors who use it each year.
The renewal will allow for improved active transport access and new recreational facilities for residents and visitors and will host NaturallyGC workshops that will showcase the local marine environment.
The boardwalk has been rebuilt with fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP), which is a sustainable material ideal for corrosive wet areas that provides better grip and longer life.
This material also reducing the impact the new boardwalk will have on local wildlife and vegetation. It does not rust, break down or require continual coatings, making it ideal for saltwater and exposed marine environments like Beree-Badalla Reserve.
