Mayor Tom Tate says first stage of Greenheart is flood proof after Cyclone Alfred battering

The $25 million first stage of Greenheart has opened with the City confirming the hardstand areas were floodproof after withstanding Cyclone Alfred.

The $25 million first stage of Greenheart has opened with the City confirming hardstand areas were floodproof after withstanding Cyclone Alfred.

Mayor Tom Tate recalled flying over the first stage of the central park after Tropical Cyclone Alfred had earlier crossed the coastline as he the ribbon to open the Robina Parklands on Tuesday.

“The level where we are standing now was not under water,” he said. “(But) the green behind me was under water, within two days the water receded. We washed off the debris. I say to you within the week the park could have been operational, if it was opened.

“It was tested. The flood modelling worked perfectly. We will take that design work across to the other side of Stage Two of our Greenheart.”

Aerial photograph of the Gold Coast's Greenheart following the flooding brought by Cyclone Alfred.

The next stage will be more complex, requiring a creek crossing north of CBUS Stadium with a decision to made on an elevated connection road. Part of that planning will include an outdoor concert venue capable of hosing 50,000 fans.

Veteran councillor Bob La Castra said he was excited to see the first stage finished after numerous planning meetings in the lead-up.

Artist impression of Greenheart, the Gold Coast's new proposed parklands between Robina and Merrimac.

“It’s real. Before it was concept plans, a lot of meetings,” he said.

“The Greenheart has the backing of the city. We went out to extensive public consultation. Something like 98 per cent of those surveyed came back and said they supported a massive central park like Greenheart.”

New area councillor Dan Doran, who is helping the City promote a celebration day on May 3, paid tribute to previous councillors for “unlocking the vision”.

“This is the city vision. It’s welcoming for everyone from the city to enjoy,” he said.

Councillor Donna Gates paid tribute to the Mayor and councillors who worked hard to keep up momentum.

Opening of the Greenheart Robina Parklands: Mayor Tom Tate with Councillor Bob La Castra.

“There have been some doubts over time how it would stand up to flooding, and it’s just wonderful Alfred came and went and we see this part standing in pristine condition today,” she said.

Spanning 22.5 hectares, the Stage One Robina Parklands will be promoted as destination park providing recreation facilities for hundreds of daily visitors.

Mr Tate said it was significant milestone in the City’s commitment to fostering vibrant and accessible green spaces.

“This park not only offers a space for locals and visitors to enjoy but also supports our overall Greenheart Masterplan, which aims to create a central ‘green heart’ on the Gold Coast,” he said.

Greenheart Robina Parklands opening: Former Deputy Mayor and northern based councillor Donna Gates checks the playground facilities.

“This project is a great example of our commitment to improving the quality of life for our community.

“As the first stage of the Greenheart initiative, the park represents a significant step towards a greener, more sustainable future for the Gold Coast.”

Opening of the Greenheart Robina Parklands: Mayor Tom Tate cutting the ribbon, joined by councillors Glenn Tozer, Dan Doran Donna Gates, Bob La Castra and Nick Marshall.

Greenheart Robina Parklands facilities and features include:

* 400 newly planted trees and 17,000 plants.

* a fully fenced playground.

* New ‘tower play’ with challenging play for older kids.

* a pedal park for children to practice bike riding and scootering.

* outdoor gym for people of all ages and water play area.

* barbecues, picnic tables and shelters along with an event lawn.

* ball sports area for informal kickabout games.

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Originally published as Mayor Tom Tate says first stage of Greenheart is flood proof after Cyclone Alfred battering