COMIN’ ROUND THE BEND

A large-scale waterfront public space gives new amenity to Riverbend, while opening the door to future ventures.

Transforming a former industrial precinct into a major public recreation space, the Riverbend all-abilities park is a greenspace triumph for the Launceston community.

A City of Launceston project, funded by local, state and federal government, Riverbend Park is a shining example of successful infrastructure investment. A $9 million project, the revitalisation of the North Esk riverfront region is but one step in larger urban renewal and commercial development opportunities through tourism.

Re-establishing an important aspect of Launceston’s industrial and commercial maritime history, the Riverbend Park project has created an inclusive recreation area that has not only revived the commercial viability of this end of town, but provided citizens with much needed public space.

A pedestrian bridge linking the Seaport boardwalk with Riverbend Park provides easy access across the urban landscape, with hundreds of people now making use of the network of walking and cycling paths along the river every day. Divided into four zones: River Play area, Gorge Play space, Wild Core zone, and the Urban Plaza, Riverbend Park provides something for everyone.

Each zone caters to visitors with a range of play equipment and active experiences that include the usual suspects of swings, sandpits, wheelchair-accessible carousels, a waterplay area, even outdoor table tennis and a full-size sports court. The park’s SkyWalk, the largest attraction in the area — and the most prominent in bright yellow — dominates the space and excites the masses.

A giant mural brings a sense of aesthetics to the area, while public toilets and sheltered barbecue facilities add function that is highly sought after. Offering much-needed protection from the climate, the barbecue shelters are a masterful offering from GX Outdoors the company commissioned by the City of Launceston to supply the barbecues and structures for the project.

As Australia’s leading supplier of commercial electric barbecues and street and park furniture, GX Outdoors was the ideal choice to outfit Riverbend Park. Contour barbecues provide park users with a safe and clean cooking station that lets them ‘break bread’ with family and friends without having to leave the park.

Lightweight, corrosion-resistant with good thermal conductivity, the stainless-steel topped Contour barbecue is housed in a powdercoated cabinet for long-term durability. DDA-certified and easy to clean, the Contour is backed by a GX Outdoors 20-year warranty. To keep these facilities dry and people in the area, GX Outdoors Akora shelters were also installed across the park.

Providing a place for visitors to gather and remain out of the sun, or rain, the Akora shelters are made from structural-grade aluminium with a Colorbond roof and stainless-steel anti-vandal fixings. Not only does this guarantee a sturdy and safe place for grilling, but serves as a positive asset for Council that will go the distance.

Contributing to the overall success of a much-lauded public recreation space, GX Outdoors' contributions to Riverbend Park will see it put to good use by locals and visitors for years to come.

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PROJECT PARTICULARS
Client City of Launceston
Location Launceston, Tasmania
Street Furniture Supply GX Outdoors

COMPANY
^{GX Outdoors}