Port Douglas splash park on the way

In May this year, Newsport reported that Douglas Shire Council approved a larger design for the long-anticipated Port Douglas splash park, acknowledging a significant $1.55 million budget shortfall. Now, council has officially confirmed the design, with construction set to begin this November and completion anticipated by mid-2025.

The splash park, to be built in Jalunbu Park, Port Douglas, will cost a total of nearly $2.8m. Operating costs come in at around $280,000 per annum.

This project follows on from the Douglas Shire’s first splash park which opened in Mossman in March this year.

The Mossman project, which was subject to significant delays, cost $550,000 – less than one fifth of the price of its Port Douglas counterpart.

The nearly $2.8m Port Douglas project, which will feature landscaping, picnic areas, barbeques, and shelters, was approved by the Douglas Shire Council in May.

Presented with two concepts, Council unanimously voted for the more expensive option.

According to the meeting minutes, the “larger, more complex designed splash park would be multidimensional and have many more inclusions and attractions for all to enjoy. With more landscaping and footpaths, themes that tie into local Indigenous culture, rainforests, beaches and Mossman Gorge, it could be an iconic destination for tourists and residents to frequent.”

The minutes also note a budgetary shortfall of $1.55m which will require Council to, “pursue additional funding opportunities,” to cover the costs of the project.  

Funds have already begun to flow with a recent order by Council of $550,000 worth of pool equipment including a giant jellyfish, crabs, fish blasters and a waterwheel, all due for delivery early next year.