Work is ramping up on the revitalisation of one of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular beaches.
Construction has escalated along the Mooloolaba foreshore, where there will be a new seawall, parkland, footpaths and amenities.
A project update outlined the works which have been carried out in recent weeks.
Notably, construction of a key stretch of seawall in front of the Mooloolaba Surf Club reached ‘finished level’, giving beachgoers a glimpse of what it will look like.
Planter sections have also started in the wall, preparatory works have been undertaken for a footpath in front of the club, and underground services have been installed in the area.
The project update stated that works in front of the club would continue through May, with more footpath works, electrical works, seawall surface works including vapour blasting and sealing, more seawall planter works, landscaping and irrigation installation.
Works also include ongoing shaping and preparation of embankment for more terraced seawall, ongoing construction of a new pedestrian access ramp and new section of terraced seawall in front of the existing playground and barbecue area, underground services installation, and foundation construction of new public amenities.
Local councillor Joe Natoli reminded people of the importance of the project.
“Works are continuing on Stage Two of the Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation, transforming the foreshore into a safer, more accessible and vibrant coastal destination for our community and visitors,” he said via social media.
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There were mixed reactions from some people.
“Hopefully, there will be shady trees to sit under,” Peter Bjorseth said.
“Delusional,” Phil McGinley said.
“Beautiful work, thank you,” Clare Cox said.
The video above shows the seawall’s more refined shape and the progress made since footage was captured in March.
Sunshine Coast News asked Sunshine Coast Council for comments on the progress of the works and was referred to the project webpage.
It states that a new seawall and amenities are “urgently required”.
“The current seawall was built in the 1960s and is no longer adequate to protect the foreshore for the next 50-plus years, particularly if impacted by multiple extreme weather events.
“The replacement seawall will see the old vertical rock-pitched seawall replaced with a light-coloured concrete seawall, which predominately features wide terraced steps that will double as community seating.
“The design connects our community from ‘beach to business’ by reducing physical and visual barriers and includes enhanced access with an all-abilities access ramp for people using wheelchairs, prams or mobility devices.
“The replacement seawall will also include an ocean viewing deck and attractive landscaping, including areas with seats and shade trees, along with revegetation of the adjacent dunal areas.
“The terraced steps/seats of the seawall will be the perfect place to watch the waves or attend exciting and future major events in Mooloolaba such as New Year’s Eve celebrations, festivals, the ANZAC Day service and beach sports like volleyball and rugby.
“Replacing the seawall now is the first critical step required to protect community infrastructure like our parklands, paths, roads and underground services (such as power, telecommunications and water supply) from climate change impacts.”
“The ageing Loo with a View has served the community in the past but is now in very poor condition and does not meet community need.”
The new amenities block will include 12 toilets, 8 showers, 2 family rooms, a facility for people with disabilities and a Changing Places facility for people with high support needs.
Stage 2 of the foreshore revitalisation is for an area to be known as the Central Meeting Place. Stage 1, the Northern Parkland, is already complete, while future stages, including the Southern Parkland and Central Parkland are still to come.
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