Belle Eden Estate at Bundaberg receives federal funding for revamp

A project to transform a concrete drain at a Bundaberg housing estate has seen its first stage completed. See what it involves.

Stage one of the Belle Eden waterway naturalisation project is complete, transforming a barren man-made drain back into a thriving natural waterway.

The project involves the planting of 39,000 new plants, new park benches, picnic shelter and interactive spaces to make the most of what started out as a simple drain.

Hinkler MP Keith Pitt said the Federal Government had chipped $1.5 million into the council project through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program which was set up to deliver projects to communities as a boost during the pandemic.

“This project has not only improved drainage in Belle Eden but made an inviting space for local residents and wildlife to enjoy,” he said.

The three-phase revitalisation project will see $10 million poured in from federal coffers.

Bundaberg Regional Council Environment portfolio spokesperson Cr Wayne Honor said the innovative approach to stormwater drainage would set the standard for future projects.

“This is a fabulous result for the community and the environment – it’s a win-win,” Cr Honor said.

“Residents now have this beautiful area to enjoy, we have created a habitat for wildlife and are improving the quality of the stormwater runoff.

“Native plants like water reeds will naturally treat this run-off which ultimately finds its way to areas like Baldwin Swamp, so this is a critically important improvement.”

The upgrades will include a new footpath from Longview Drive to Belle Eden Park including a new bridge crossing across the waterway and a rock-lined low flow channel.

The project also includes reinstatement of a riparian corridor to reinstate the attributes and qualities of a natural waterway.

Several informal rock crossings for exploration and engagement with the waterway have been worked into the design.