Cook Shire Council has temporarily closed access to the new boardwalk along the Rail Trail in the interest of public safety, as the structure has not yet received final building certification.
The opening date was announced without prior consultation with Council, and before a formal inspection had been requested. Once we became aware of the proposed opening through social media, Council acted quickly to support the process by arranging for an independent building inspector to assess the structure.
Unfortunately, a number of non-compliances were identified that need to be resolved before the boardwalk can be safely opened. Council is now working with the project’s delivery partner, Gungarde, to rectify these issues and ensure the boardwalk meets all required standards.
Council’s independent certifier has not signed off on the structure, and as such, Council cannot endorse its use. As part of our duty of care to the public, temporary barriers have been installed to restrict access until all compliance requirements are met.
All relevant parties, including the project proponents and delivery partner, were advised of the outcome of this inspection yesterday, 29 May 2025, and provided with a copy of the inspection report. Council has requested that the opening be delayed to allow the identified issues to be addressed and the structure to be certified as safe for public use.
Council remains committed to supporting the completion of this community-driven project and ensuring it is delivered safely and in line with all required building and environmental approvals—just as we would for any other development on public land.
We acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved in progressing the project to this point, including volunteers and local organisations, and we look forward to formally opening the boardwalk once it is safe to do so.
If anyone has questions or would like to discuss this matter further, please contact me directly on 0417 955 852 or email bjoiner@cook.qld.gov.au
Brian Joiner
Chief Executive Officer
Cook Shire Council