Rockhampton Regional Council is seeking community feedback on a proposed temporary camping site at the former Music Bowl site, Parkhurst, to support people experiencing homelessness.
Planning and Regulation Councillor Grant Mathers proposed the initiative to Council in March in response to rising homelessness in Rockhampton, driven by the national housing and cost of living crisis.
"From that meeting, Council committed to investigating a temporary place for homeless members of our community who are sleeping rough to access as a last resort, which we are calling Rockhaven," Cr Mathers said.
"We considered many sites but landed on the Music Bowl due to its existing infrastructure, flood-free location, size, and accessibility to services.
"The Music Bowl has been inactive since it was deemed no longer viable for entertainment use, but it still offers basic amenities."
To understand the community's views, Council is launching a public engagement process which will run until Monday 17 November, led by independent consultant Articulous.
"I'm pleased we've progressed to the engagement stage and look forward to hearing the community's thoughts on Rockhaven," Cr Mathers said.
"In particular, we want feedback on Council's proposal to provide a space for people experiencing homelessness, the suitability of the Music Bowl site, and what design, services, and safeguards are needed.
"Feedback will help shape Council's decision on the suitability of the Music Bowl site, guide how Rockhaven could operate effectively, and clarify the role the community believes Council should play in supporting people experiencing homelessness in the future."
Input will be gathered from people with lived experience of homelessness, service providers, outreach organisations, neighbours, and the wider community.
"We'll be speaking directly with service providers, but the broader community can have their say through our online survey," Cr Mathers said.
"Once all feedback is compiled, a report will be prepared for Council to consider as part of future planning."
To share your views on the proposed Music Bowl site and Rockhaven concept, visit here or complete a hard copy survey at City Hall on Bolsover Street.
