Townsville City Council will reinstate essential infrastructure at key Pallarenda beach access points and install CCTV as a deterrent and to assist with monitoring antisocial behaviour, following community feedback.
A petition presented to Council in October 2025 called for the return of taps, fencing and improved conditions at Rowes Bay/Pallarenda Foreshore accessways No. 8 and No. 9 after theft and antisocial behaviour caused thousands in damages.
In response, Council has endorsed a measured approach that balances community access with the need to protect public assets. This will see taps and drinking fountains reinstated, fencing repairs to safeguard coastal vegetation, alongside the installation of CCTV as a deterrent to ongoing vandalism.
Mayor Nick Dametto said Council had listened to the community while taking a practical approach to protecting ratepayer-funded infrastructure.
"In 2024, Council removed these facilities after repeated vandalism caused significant cost to the community, but we've heard clearly that residents want them back," Cr Dametto said.
"The community shouldn't be disadvantaged because of the actions of degenerates - this solution strikes the right balance - restoring access to essential amenities while putting measures in place to help protect them from being damaged again.
"The addition of CCTV is about accountability and deterrence, so we're not back in the same position in 12 months' time, and if there is damage or antisocial behaviour the footage can assist QPS in prosecuting those responsible."
Divisional Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said the outcome reflected the importance of community advocacy and preserving access to the foreshore.
"These beach access points are well-used by locals and visitors, and it's important they remain welcoming, functional and safe spaces for everyone," Cr Greaney said.
"The petition showed strong community support for reinstating these facilities, and I'm pleased to see a solution that both restores amenity and helps protect our coastal environment."
Council will invest approximately $100,000 to deliver the works, with minor ongoing costs associated with maintenance and CCTV operations.
The effectiveness of the reinstated infrastructure and security measures will be reviewed after twelve months, with the findings informing any future improvements or expansion of amenities.
