The Woodgate and District Residents Association has welcomed news the amenities at its busy community hall are set for an upgrade and increased accessibility.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey said Council was set to provide funding for a refresh of two Woodgate Beach amenity blocks as part of the 2021-22 budget.
He said the upgrades centred around the community hall had been championed by the resident’s association.
“Woodgate residents have been advocating for an upgrade of the public toilets and more access to other amenity blocks for visitors and locals alike to utilise,” he said.
“As part of our commitment to the community, Council is proposing $275,000 to enhance the facilities at Woodgate Hall to be available to everyone in the region.
“The upgrade will not only service the needs of visitors but also plenty of local groups including members of the nearby tennis centre and other auxiliary sport and recreation organisations in the region.”
Mayor Dempsey said funding had also been proposed to upgrade the toilet block on the Woodgate esplanade.
“This main amenities block, which is visible just as you turn on to Second Avenue, is well-utilised by beach-goers throughout the year,” he said.
“It is currently in need of a refurbishment including painting and the replacement of deteriorated amenities, fittings and fixtures to ensure it meets modern standards for residents and services the many thousands of visitors who enjoy the beach area year on year.”
John Trevor, President of the Woodgate Residents Association, said both projects would be welcomed by the community if adopted by Council as part of its June 29 budget meeting.
“The Woodgate Hall is used pretty much every day of the week by many people, from exercise groups to card ladies to different meetings from organisations throughout town,” he said.
“The hall is probably more than 30 years old and the toilets have reached their use by date.”
John said the upgrade would be a huge advantage to the ever-growing, popular town and would address disability access issues and more.
“With the increased number of people we now have living in the town and also, the amount of visitors we get here, these projects will greatly benefit our region,” he said.
Divisional representative Cr Bill Trevor said the funding came at a time when more people were wanting to get outdoors and explore the region.
“After a year of lockdowns and restrictions due to COVID, we’re seeing an influx of Queensland and interstate visitors keen to explore our wonderful region,” he said.
