General News
30 September, 2025
New park makes big splash
HUNDREDS of children, families and visitors have enjoyed the new $4.75 million Port Douglas Splash Park.
The new community space at Jalunbu Park, Garrick Street, has been shaped by extensive community input and made possible through a $2.53 million contribution from the Queensland Government.
It features interactive water play elements inspired by the rainforest, Great Barrier Reef and Mossman Gorge, offering a safe and inclusive environment for children and families to enjoy.
The park was launched by Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon last Saturday and she said the park was expected to become a major drawcard for locals and visitors alike.
“It’s more than just a place to cool off – it’s a celebration of our surroundings and a space for families to connect, play and make memories,” she said.
“We’ve had a few quiet trial runs behind the scenes, but Saturday’s official opening was when the real celebration began.”
Cr Scomazzon said the opening was “a fantastic day”.
“So many people have massive, big smiles,” she said.
Cr Scomazzon said the council was always looking to add new attractions to the shire for all age groups and the splash park was for children.
“So many people have come up to me and thanked us so much for such a beautiful addition to the Shire.
“It’s all about the smiles on the children’s faces.”
The reaction on social media was mostly positive.
Jean Marashlian said she thought the splash park was going to be a huge success.
“It already is by the sound of so many joyful children when I walked past at just after 5 o’clock this evening,” she said.
“I don’t think we would have quite that level of joy if we are ever lucky enough to have a pool for us oldies here in Port. It will be more a sigh of relief as we sink our aged bones into the water.”
Laura Mattravers said it was great for children but not for teenagers.
“Kids, yes, but teenagers no. I have two and this town doesn’t provide anything for the older kids … other than fishing,” she said.
Sarah Williams said she had to drag her grandson away after two hours of fun.
“As for an adult pool, the public can pay to swim at the Sheraton Mirage lap pool near the golf club – $5, I think, soon to have solar heating for winter,” she said.
Sarah Millar said it was “great for the kids”.
“Port Douglas has so much for adults, happy this is done for the children. Well done,” she said.
Stacey Mousley said she was “pretty underwhelmed to be perfectly honest”.
“For the cost of it, it has lots of fancy unnecessary stuff in it. With the tiniest little pool/shallow spot. But in the same token, grateful for something for the kids because there isn’t much for them. Next would be good to see something set up for the high school kids,” she said.
Flick Boucher said he wished “big kids could use this facility”.
“I’m 54 and keen as. Maybe I’ll just go and sit in it and enjoy it … my rates are paying for it,” he said.
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