Award for popular play space

Moreton Bay Regional Council’s $8.5 million water park and play space at The Mill, Petrie, has taken out a gong at the 2021 IPWEAQ Excellence Awards.

The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia, Queensland (IPWEAQ) awards celebrate excellence in public works engineering.

The Mill play space was recognised for its unique design and location as the entry piece to one of the region’s largest developments.

Mayor Peter Flannery says the award reinforces the popularity of The Mill at Moreton Bay and its open spaces with residents and visitors to the region.

“We may need a bigger trophy cabinet, having now received 3 separate peak industry body awards for the Mill Project,” Mayor Flannery says.

“It’s been great to see this space become a popular weekend destination for families looking to cool off in the water park or have a picnic, and so to see it recognised by industry-leading engineers as well as the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects and Parks and Leisure Australia proves that it’s one of the best in Queensland.”

Division 8 Councillor Mick Gillam acknowledged the work of council staff and project crews in building the space, saying it was just the beginning of much bigger things for The Mill.

“Decades ago, the old Petrie Paper Mill was a hub for the community. With our investment in this space, the new university and the preservation of key habitat, we’ve reignited that flame by turning this area into an exciting, new asset for our community,” Cr Gillam says.

“In particular, this award recognises the investment in smart technology incorporated into the project as well as what were some pretty big challenges that our park planners and construction crews had to face, including the site’s unique location.

“If you haven’t been yet, I encourage you to load the family in the car or hop on the train and see why so many families are flocking to The Mill.”