Auckland Hill Stage 1 ready for Christmas

LOCALS are in a for a special Christmas treat with Stage 1 of the Auckland Hill project set to open to the public this December, thanks to the Australian, Queensland and local governments working together with Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) to bring the entire project to life.

This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government under the Regional Recovery Partnerships ($5 million), and Gladstone Ports Corporation on behalf of the Queensland Government ($5 million). This project supports existing plans and priorities within the regions, while seeking to broker connections between all levels of government to increase information flow, share technical expertise and strengthen regional development outcomes.

Stage 1 includes two viewing platforms as well as four electric barbeques and three water bubblers. Work is on track with completion of Stage 1 expected by Christmas.

The public will be able to access Stage 1 via the stairway from East Shores until the road is re-opened when Stage 2 is completed.

GPC has been working around-the-clock on Stage 2 since July including bulk earthworks, pouring the slab on the kiosk and decommissioning of the old viewing platform.

With extensive geo technical foundations to be laid, Stage 2 is on track for completion mid-2024.

Once complete, the revamped Auckland Hill will feature a modern viewing lookout, increased accessibility and walkways, landscaped community spaces, revitalised infrastructure and facilities for the community, and additional car parking.

GPC’s CEO Craig Haymes said the Auckland Hill project is an important part of the Port’s sustainability strategy in diversifying and integrating a world-class operating port.

“Within just four months, the area has transformed with the foundation laid for Stage 2, it is really exciting seeing it coming to life,” Mr Haymes said.

“This is an enormous project that GPC has been working together with the Australian, Queensland and local governments,” he said.

“The redevelopment will not only create a popular tourism location to attract visitors but will instil pride in our community and the social infrastructure we have to offer.”

Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm said the project will improve accessibility and enhance the overall infrastructure of Auckland Hill.

“We’re proud to collaborate with the GPC and the State and Local governments to redevelop this iconic Gladstone tourist attraction, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the region’s tourism industry,” Mr Chisholm said.

“This project will improve accessibility and enhance the overall infrastructure of Auckland Hill, improving the visitor experience while also ensuring more people can access the beautiful lookout and other facilities,” he said.

“I’m proud to be part of a government making region-shaping projects like this a reality, and I look forward to seeing the project reach completion so that locals and visitors alike can enjoy the revitalised Auckland Hill.”

Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing and Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher said as Gladstone continues to grow, it’s great to see the liveability of our city expanding with it.

“The East Shores development has been a game changer and now this upgrade to Auckland Hill will add the next step in our amazing foreshore development,” Minister Butcher said.

Gladstone Regional Council Mayor, Matt Burnett said the redevelopment of Auckland Hill will be another fantastic addition to the East Shores precinct.

“The East Shores precinct has undergone rapid transformation since 2014, winning awards and putting us on the map for some of the best waterfront parklands in the region,” Councillor Burnett said.

“We are looking forward to the official opening this Christmas which we know will be a welcome addition to the many parklands and community spaces across the Gladstone Region.”