Western Downs developments in the works for 2024 and beyond | list
From a brand new public pool to revitalised community parks and showgrounds, these are the projects in the works set to shape the Western Downs in upcoming years. See the full list along, with the biggest projects that were completed in 2023.
Community News
Don't miss out on the headlines from Community News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The Western Downs is set for a busy next couple of years, with many new projects in the pipeline, such as brand new public pools, revitalised parks and showgrounds.
This year alone has seen major developments completed across the region, so we take a look at some of the most exciting official openings and look to the future to see what residents can expect to take place in coming years.
2023 – completed projects
Mary’s Place
In a location special to many people, Western Downs Regional Council opened a public park in memory of a Dalby legend.
In August this year, Mary’s Place, which was named by residents in the area, was officially opened with a welcoming party that saw many locals come together to see the new space.
“This name will forever recognise an important local character, as well as a location that many locals would have fond memories of, some of whom may recall referring to the pub as ‘Mary’s’,” mayor Paul McVeigh said.
Tara pool
One of the more controversial projects to be completed this year was the revitalisation of the Tara Pool.
After two years of the public space being closed, it officially reopened in October this year with a complete revamp of the pool, the installation of a disability ramp and lane, pool heating, a new kiosk and accessible adult change facility.
“We know the project had its challenges and council has learnt from this experience,” Mr McVeigh said at the time.
Bunya Mountains Bike Trails
The construction of the bike tracks in the Bunya Mountains officially opened in July this year following a long journey of weather challenges.
The tracks were set to be finalised at the end of 2022 however heavy rainfall kept putting a halt to progress.
“Designed to preserve the natural area and sensitive environment of the Bunya Mountains, the new trails feature roughly 18km of riding tracks which cater from easy to intermediate riding ability, with three dedicated loops ranging in length from 1.3km to 6.3km and a shared use linkage trail for walkers and riders,” council spokesperson Kylie Bourne said.
Chinchilla Cultural Precinct
The revitalised Chinchilla Cultural Precinct was officially opened on Saturday, with residents gathering at Fuller Place for the celebration.
Construction for the site began in December last year, with WDRC sharing the revitalisation would include a brand new outdoor amphitheatre, seating terraces, street arbours and ‘bush houses’ as well as a revamped cinema.
The $8.4m project also included an upgrade to the local art gallery, with the opening event showcasing the latest exhibition.
In the works, 2024 and beyond
Dalby Cultural Centre
In September 2023, WDRC announced they were ready to take on the next step after completing the final phase of community consultation in regards to Dalby’s new cultural centre.
The new development would be in place of the former Myall 107 site which was demolished in 2021.
WDRC shared the project will be located at Thomas Jack Park, however they’re still in the process of assigning an architect to the development and finalising conceptual designs to bring residents’ ideas to life.
“The feedback gathered through this process has made it really clear that the new centre should be a community-focused space which is inclusive, safe and social for all age groups, offers multipurpose opportunities with integrated indoor and outdoor spaces, and access to the latest technology,” council spokesperson Megan James said.
Council has voted to retain the nature of the park as a community parkland with the concept designs and any future master planning of the site.
The concept designs are expected to be completed mid next year.
Chinchilla Aquatic Centre
WDRC have revealed they are planning to completely replace the pool due to it reaching its end of life.
Councillor Megan James said there would be minor remediation works completed over the next two years to enable the pool to remain open and operational during the planning phase.
“While it’s very early in the process, it’s important we hear from the community from the beginning, so to ensure future project plans reflect the needs of all types of pool users,” she said.
The community consultation phase of the planning has been completed. The next steps will include a site and inclusions report being drafted based on the findings from the community.
Jandowae Showgrounds
As part of the ‘Showgrounds Governance and Management Project’ from WDRC, the Jandowae Showgrounds has been selected as the project’s first site, with Dr Pamela Greet from Future Ag Queensland engaging to conduct a governance and management review.
On October 17 this year, the first workshop with Dr Greet and the Jandowae community took place, where they discussed what residents want to see the showgrounds used for.
Residents can see the outcome of the workshop here.
The community survey for the project has been closed, with the next step including analysing the feedback.
Dogwood Creek, Miles
Between May and June 2021, WDRC met with key stakeholders in Miles to develop the Dogwood Creek Recreation Masterplan.
In November this year, stakeholders were invited back to revise and update the plan and create a draft of the concept designs that would reflect the growing needs of Miles.
Residents are now being asked to provide their feedback on what’s in store for parts of Dogwood Creek including Chinaman’s Lagoon, the historic cemetery and Moraby Park.
Residents can provide their thoughts at the Dogwood Creek Recreation Masterplan site.
Lions Park, Jandowae
WDRC are in the process of finalising the masterplans for an upgraded Lions Park in Jandowae.
Online engagement for the project including community member’s feedback was held from November 2 to 11 this year.
After developing a draft sketch of the masterplan, WDRC are now in the last stages of finalising the development before they will take it to an online engagement poll for residents to have their say once again.
Members of the public can view the proposed Lions Park Draft Sketch Masterplan here.
More Coverage
Originally published as Western Downs developments in the works for 2024 and beyond | list
Dalby duo picked for international boxing tournament
After a year of impressive performances, including wins at Golden Gloves, and states and nationals titles, a Dalby PCYC father and son duo have been selected to coach and compete at an event in Germany.
Mixed results for Dalby Diehards after semi-final showdowns
The Dalby Diehards had mixed results from their semi-final fixtures at the weekend, with one side going deeper into the finals, while another side bid farewell to the 2024 season. Find out more here.
Spring off to a scorching start across the Western Downs
It’s been a warm start to spring across the Western Downs, with the temperature reaching into the 30s. Find out more.
What you said: Community responds to Bell’s ‘Big Blade’
Western Downs residents have had their say on Bell’s newest tourist attraction, a 67m 22 tonne wind turbine blade.
Why man braved fire to save his car: ‘I couldn’t stand around to watch my friend die’
In a split-second decision, Western Downs man Greg Larsen risked his life to save his pride and joy, his prized 1965 XP Falcon, but suffered serious burns in the process. Here’s why he has LifeFlight to thank for coming to his rescue.
Two new firefighting aircraft join arsenal of Dalby aviation firm
A Dalby aerial company have purchased two new fire fighting aircraft which are expected to be vital for the upcoming bushfire season. Find out more.