The Fraser Coast Regional Council has decided to resume the redevelopment of the Pialba Caravan Park while considering alternative uses for the Torquay Caravan Park site.
The decision follows a temporary pause in redevelopment efforts to reassess costs and future plans.
Councilor Zane O’Keefe emphasized the need for infrastructure upgrades across the region’s Council-owned beachfront caravan parks, which have been operating for decades.
“The Scarness Caravan Park redevelopment was completed last year, and the first stage of improvements at Burrum Heads finished earlier this year, with work now underway on the next stage,” O’Keefe said in a press release.
“The Pialba Caravan Park also has aging infrastructure that needs urgent upgrades. After reviewing cost-saving options, it was clear major reductions weren’t possible without lowering the quality of the park. That’s why we’re moving forward with the redevelopment using the current design.”
Meanwhile, the Council will develop concept plans for the Torquay Caravan Park site and seek community feedback before determining its future.
Options under consideration include converting the area into an open space with basic amenities or transforming it into a premium playground and recreational hub.
Councilor Lachlan Cosgrove highlighted the importance of public input in shaping the final decision.
“We’ll be asking the community for their thoughts before making a final decision on whether to go ahead with one of these options, a hybrid option containing some elements of both, or continue with the Torquay Caravan Park redevelopment,” he said.
For caravan park operators and industry professionals, the redevelopment decisions highlight the evolving landscape of outdoor accommodation.
Upgrading infrastructure to meet modern visitor expectations is a growing priority for councils and private operators alike.
The potential repurposing of the Torquay site also underscores the ongoing debate between maintaining traditional caravan parks and developing alternative recreational spaces that serve broader community needs.
The next steps for the Torquay site include preparing layout plans and cost estimates for the proposed alternatives, followed by a formal public consultation process.
“This is about making sure these sites provide the best value and experience for our community and visitors now and into the future,” O’Keefe said.