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Mackay Regional Council has awarded local contractor Vassallo Constructions the lucrative contract to redevelop the Seaforth Esplanade - about 45km north of Mackay - with works expected to begin in September.

The total cost of the project is valued at $8.6 million, which is $4.5 million more than anticipated.

Vassallo Constructions beat out rival Woollam Constructions with Council having voted unanimously to award the contract to Vassallo after concluding the Vassallo bid offered the Mackay region the best “value for money”.

Woollam’s tender to Mackay Council totalled $7.46 million while Vassallo’s came in at $7.12 million, both incorporating costs for demolition, civil, building, electrical, water and sewer works as well as water play, landscaping and playground works.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said current market conditions meant the cost of the project came in higher than expected, but it was important that it went ahead adding “I think everyone is aware of the impact that inflation and supply chain constraints are having on the construction industry at the moment.

“It is affecting all of our projects and we have had to reschedule some of the projects we had planned to do this year because it is not feasible to complete them within this year’s budget due to price increases.”

Vassallo will revamp the children’s play area, improve disability access, upgrade the esplanade and improve beach access.

Mayor Williamson said the project featured a swimming enclosure as its centrepiece flanked by a marine-inspired all-abilities water play area with an oversized splash pad, a shallow pool mimicking ocean tides, water jets and sprays.

There will also be new picnic shelters, barbecues, and seating; double beach showers; expanded amenities including change rooms; and two playground areas.

The toddler-to-age-six play area has slides, springers, spinners, and swings with a Kombivan play car, while a six-years-and-up playground features a tower with climbing, sliding, balancing and social play opportunities.

Mayor Williamson added “this project is a key priority for council, as it will help improve the liveability and livelihood of our region and will drive tourism to our region due to its location next to the popular Seaforth camping ground.

“This is why it is important this project goes ahead despite the shortfall in the budget.”

Work is expected to begin in September and will likely take 12 months to complete.

Image top: Detailed design of the water play area at Seaforth Esplanade Reserve (for illustrative purposes only). Image above: Design for Seaforth Esplanade Reserve (for illustrative purposes only). Images supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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