| Sunday 3 March 2013 saw hundreds of people head to Geoffrey Bay to celebrate the official opening of Gabul Way, Magnetic Island’s newest scenic walkway.
The occasion marked the end of a 15 year campaign from the Magnetic Island Community to improve the safety of pedestrians as they move between Nelly and Geoffrey Bays.
Locals and visitors enjoyed the festivities of the day which included market stalls, face painters, prize giveaways, a jumping castle, a sausage sizzle, a cake and ribbon cutting ceremony and speeches from The Hon. Simon Crean MP and Mayor Jenny Hill.
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What and where is Gabul Way?
The 710m walkway is adjacent to Arcadia Road and is made up of 2 sections:
1. Geoffrey Bay towards Nelly Bay - this section is 350m long by 2.5m wide and leads to the first of two viewing platforms. This section is disable access compliant.
2. Nelly Bay towards Geoffrey Bay – this section is 360m long by 2m wide and mostly elevated, with several break out areas to enjoy the vistas from.
How much did the project cost?
The project cost $5.29million with funding from:
• Australian Government: $4.7million
• Townsville City Council: $500,000
What was the duration of the project?
Construction began in May 2012 and wrapped up just before Christmas the same year.
Who delivered the works?
Council contracted Hutchinsons Builders to deliver the new walkway.
Why did Magnetic Island need this walkway?
In February 2009 Townsville City Council undertook a feasibility study on the Nelly Bay to Geoffrey Bay walkway. The study found that the walkway would increase safety of vehicular, pedestrian and cycling traffic and would greatly improve the accessibility to a broad range of users. The walkway forms a key part in the recreational infrastructure on Magnetic Island and the delivery of the project has improved safety for both pedestrians and cyclists on Magnetic Island.
| This project is supported by funding from the Australian Government's Regional Development Australia Fund |
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