The popular Wallum Reserve rest area off the Isis Highway is expected to reopen in about two weeks after repairs following bushfire damage in December.
Bundaberg Regional Council workers are undertaking repairs on behalf of the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Council’s Engineering Services Supervisor Robert Ward said Council crews were carrying out a broad scope of works which included vegetation management to ensure unsafe trees were removed and mulched.
“Extensive signage is required because of fire damage and changes to some of the permitted practices in the park.
“The existing fire pits will be removed, with fires now prohibited in the park area. Signage will also be installed to reinforce the requirement that a maximum stay of 20 hours is permitted.”
According to Rob, significant plumbing work is also required following the unlawful removal of the rainwater tank from the site.
“A new tank will be installed, and connections made to various tap outlets. Signage will also warn that the water is non potable.”
While vegetation surrounding the rest area was devastated, the buildings including toilet block and shelter shed escaped intact.
A number of bollards, posts and rails were destroyed and will be replaced.
Rob said vegetation rehabilitation areas had also been identified and star pickets and barrier mesh will be installed to protect these areas.
Roads within the Wallum Reserve rest area will also be resealed.
Wallum Reserve is very popular with caravanners and features prominently on many caravan and RV social media sites.
Transport and Main Roads will make the decision when to reopen the rest area once all works have been inspected and approved.