A versatile public recreation hub offering direct Brisbane River access for various watercraft has been provided to the Hamilton community as part of a major local road project.
Project Background and Connections
The Kingsford Smith Drive Recreation Hub opened to the public in early 2020. It was built as a component of the significant $650 million upgrade to Kingsford Smith Drive, a major infrastructure project for Brisbane. The road upgrade project, including the recreation hub, was completed in late 2020 and delivered under budget.
This facility is part of Council’s wider River Access Network, which aims to improve how residents and visitors can use and enjoy the Brisbane River. Importantly, the hub connects directly to the Lores Bonney Riverwalk, a 1.2-kilometre path for pedestrians and cyclists created during the roadworks, providing linked-up recreational opportunities along the riverfront. Nearby redeveloped areas such as Bretts Wharf Plaza and Cameron Rocks Reserve also offer additional public spaces for the community.
Design and Construction
The Jetty Specialists / Marine Structures designed and constructed the hub’s pontoons. The facility is designed to last 50 years and is built using durable materials like aluminium for the pontoons and strong mooring and guide piles.
Key considerations in the design included ensuring it complied with standards for disabled access and building it to withstand high flood levels. The hub features the Council’s distinct blue, white, and yellow branding colours, along with signage and lighting. It also includes different deck heights above the water, known as freeboard heights, with some low zones specifically suited for easy launching of passive craft like kayaks and canoes.
Versatile River Use
The recreation hub caters to a broad range of users. It provides access to non-motorised watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Owners of motorised recreational boats can also use the facility for short-term mooring, generally for up to two hours unless signs indicate otherwise, making it convenient for quick stops.
The design also allows for potential water taxi pick-ups and drop-offs. Furthermore, parts of the facility, likely the commercial pontoon section, can accommodate larger vessels, including tour boats like the “Lady Brisbane,” with a capacity of up to 300 tonnes displacement. The main purpose is to be a convenient point for short-term use, allowing various boaties and paddlers to get on and off the water easily.
Published Date 23-April-2025
