The South Burnett Regional Council is asking its ratepayers for ideas on how to proceed with the redevelopment of Wondai’s Coronation Park playground.
Council staff will host several ‘community chats’ meetings at the Wondai Library starting on Wednesday 12 November which will feature information displays and feedback forms for locals to fill out.
The SBRC plans to construct a new playground at Coronation Park, which is located near the Wondai Regional Art Gallery in the centre of town.
A total of $550,000 has been budgeted for the Wondai playground, with funds put forward by both the South Burnett Regional Council and the Queensland Government.
“I’m really excited about a new playground for Wondai which will be fantastic for our region,” Deputy Mayor Ros Heit said.
“I’m looking forward to hearing the ideas of locals to incorporate into the plan.”
Council received $895,303 in funding from the Queensland Government through the 2024-27 Works for Queensland Program’s Liveability Infrastructure – Parks Program which will be divided amongst several projects throughout the region.
A total of $200,000 from the Queensland Government’s liveability program has been allocated to kickstart the Wondai park project.
The remaining $350,000 for the new playground has been allocated from the South Burnett Regional Council’s 2025/26 capital budget.
Nanango MP Deb Frecklington welcomed the prospect of the revitalised Coronation Park for Wondai.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Wondai families to help shape a space that will bring joy to children for years to come,” she said.
“Safe, inclusive play areas are vital for regional communities, and I’ll be backing this project every step of the way.”
The Works for Queensland program has been made a permanent funding stream by the Queensland Government. Mrs Frecklington said this funding security helps deliver for communities like Wondai.
“I’m proud to support Council’s investment in critical infrastructure that makes a real difference to local families,” she said.
At the information sessions, Wondai locals will be able to learn more about the proposed project and give their own feedback on its design.
“I encourage everyone to have their say—your ideas will help create a playground that reflects the heart of Wondai,” Mrs Frecklington said.
In announcing the series of meetings, a spokesperson for council said they were encouraging community contributions that “ensure the new playground meets the needs and expectations of families and children in the area.”
“Council values the input of its residents and is committed to creating a vibrant, safe, and enjoyable playground for everyone in the community,” the spokesperson said.
“Participation in these community chats is crucial to the success of this project.”
The first session at the Wondai Library will be held on Wednesday 12 November, concluding at noon.
Other 10am-12pm sessions at the library are due to take place on Thursday 13, Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 November.
SBRC staff and councillors will also host a community information session at the Wondai markets on Saturday 22 November, starting at 6am and finishing at 9am.
