A once-hidden jewel of the Sunshine Coast hinterland that has become a popular tourist destination is set for a major redevelopment.
More people will soon be able to enjoy one of the region’s most popular camping areas, including those with a disability, thanks to a multimillion-dollar upgrade.
Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon has revealed a contract was recently awarded to local construction company Be! Building Group Pty Ltd for the $2.1 million upgrade of Conondale National Park’s Booloumba Creek 1 camping area.
“Conondale National Park is renowned for its lush rainforest, tall eucalypt forest, cascading waterfalls, boulder-strewn creek and spectacular scenery,” Ms Scanlon said.
“Booloumba Creek 1 camping area is a relatively secluded campsite set amongst the rainforest on the banks of Booloumba Creek.”
Work on the upgrade was to start this week and is due to be completed by the end of June, weather permitting.
“Upgrades will include the construction of two day-visitor parking areas, a new persons-with-disability campsite and a new amenities block,” Ms Scanlon said.
“Three new trailer/campervan/caravan camping sites will also be constructed, which will increase the overall visitor capacity of the site to 150 people.
“Access to the camping area will be closed during construction but visitors will still be able to enjoy Booloumba Creek 3 and 4 camping areas, or the nearby Charlie Moreland camping area in Imbil State Forest.”
Campers who have a booking for this closure period are eligible for a refund.
David Salmon from Be! Building Group said about 60 personnel would be involved in the delivery of the Booloumba Creek redevelopment throughout the project.
“This will consist of Be! Building Group staff, consultants and site-based subcontractors,” Mr Salmon said.
“Whilst we are still finalising some procurement, we anticipate most of these personnel will be based locally on the Sunshine Coast and hinterland area.
“We are also working with local companies where possible for material supply and logistics, which we estimate will include an additional 20 to 25 local businesses.”
Ms Scanlon said the Queensland Government was committed to maintaining and improving its national parks and state forests.
“We know our national parks contribute $2.7 billion to Queensland’s economy and are an important part of Queensland’s great lifestyle,” Ms Scanlon said.
“These capital works will ensure visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience in our parks, and that our protected areas are well preserved for generations to come.”
More information on Conondale National Park and the Booloumba Creek camping areas is available here.
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