Flagstaff Hill walking track partially reopened
PORT DOUGLAS
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DOUGLAS Shire Council has announced that the Flagstaff Hill Walking Trail, which was heavily damaged during the March deluge, has reopened from the stairway at the north of Four Mile Beach to the lookout on Flagstaff Hill (Island Point Rd).
However, the trail from Rex Smeal Park to the lookout junction remains closed and Council has requested everyone to obey signage and avoid the closed area until further notice.
There are still underlying questions which require thorough examination for a project that received considerable exposure and hype when it was officially opened by Mayor Julia Leu.
Why is the cost to repair the trail so high? What is the estimated cost? And was it constructed to withstand weather in the wet and potential mudslides?
Many also questioned the uneven surface and the lack of hand rails along the complete route for safety purposes when the trail was launched in December.
In response to these questions, Leu said today a geotechnical engineer will review design specifications at damaged areas of the Flagstaff Hill Walking Trail.
“Repair works are expected to cost a substantial amount and Council is investigating the possibility of including this in the proposed 2018/19 budget.
“The trail is not eligible for disaster relief as it is not deemed essential public infrastructure and Council is also investigating potential funding opportunities.
“Council will seek quotes for the repairs and have a final figure once that is finalised,” she said.
Three landslides, numerous washouts and erosion damage were caused during the March deluge, which was a one in a 100-year event that significantly tested infrastructure across Douglas Shire. The rainfall recorded was the second highest on record for Port Douglas since 1887.
“The viewing platform at the Four Mile Beach end of the walking trail, which has created a sensational buzz on social media as a photographic hotspot, remains open to the public,” she said.
The 1.5km walking trail had been 25 years in the making with a major objective of showcasing the shire’s spectacular natural wonders.
At the opening in December last year, Leu said she was thrilled that the project had finally reached fruition.
“It’s been talked about for a long time. Now that it’s a reality, is testament to Council’s decision in 2015 to make it happen.”
The total cost of the track was $953,104.00 – Stage one cost $248,061 and Stage two was $705,043, with the State Government contributing $550,000 under its Works for Queensland program.
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