The stunning Springers Lagoon in Gracemere is now even more inviting thanks to the addition of a fishing and viewing platform.
The platform is an initiative of the Queensland Government, and made possible through $80,000 in funding from Round 2 of the Works for Queensland program.
Member for Rockhampton Barry O'Rourke said that the new platform will draw tourists and locals alike to the natural waterhole.
"The lagoon is a wonderful natural asset for Gracemere, and this platform will help make it even more enjoyable," Mr O'Rourke said.
"As well as increasing liveability for the community, the works here will enhance the experience for visitors.
"The Palaszczuk Government is proud to have committed $80,000 from the Works for Queensland program to help the Rockhampton Regional Council deliver this for the community."
Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Works for Queensland had a great track record of kickstarting jobs and investment in the Rockhampton region.
"The Palaszczuk Government will continue to work with Rockhampton Regional Council to deliver new infrastructure that supports employment in the local community," Mr Hinchliffe said.
"Through the first two rounds of the Works for Queensland program, Rockhampton has received $18.428 million, for 27 projects, creating or supporting 648 jobs.
"And there's more on the way, with a further $8.79 million in round three funding rolling out from July 1, bringing the total amount of Works for Queensland investment in Rockhampton to more than $27 million.
"And the impact Works for Queensland is having on areas outside the south east corner will continue, with more projects soon to begin, funded by a further $200 million in the third round of the program."
The addition of the platform builds on the renewal work completed in recent years thanks to $65,000 allocated through Divisional Councillor Ellen Smith's Councillor Capital Fund and $5,000 allocated through Councillor Drew Wickerson's Councillor Capital Fund.
Divisional Councillor Ellen Smith said Springers Lagoon is well-loved by the local community.
"I know there are many people who have very happy memories of spending hours at Springers Lagoon with their family, friends, and fishing poles," said Cr Smith.
"I imagine they will be very excited to head out to the lagoon and check out all of the work that has been undertaken, and to try out this great new fishing platform once we have had some rain.
"We have also taken the opportunity during these works to renew the footpaths at the lagoon as part of Council's footpath renewal program, and we have added some great interpretive signage, which was funded through Council's Environmental Sustainability Unit."
Council's Environment Spokesperson, Councillor Drew Wickerson, said the signage has information about the local flora and fauna and the broader significance of Springers Lagoon in the Fitzroy Floodplain.
"The signage also includes some fantastic artwork of the local birdlife, aquatic life, and flora commissioned from local artist Kelly-Dee Knight," said Cr Wickerson.
"It is a really nice addition to a naturally beautiful area."
