Riverhills has been listed among eight Brisbane river pontoons under review for expanded use by tourism and hospitality operators.
Review of Pontoons
On 9 September 2025, BCC confirmed plans to review the use of eight pontoons along the river, including the Riverhills Recreation Hub. The proposal would allow facilities currently used for recreation, such as kayaking and drop-offs, to support activities including river taxis, tour boats, and floating restaurants.
Proposed System and Infrastructure
The review will consider new infrastructure where required and a licensing framework intended to give operators more certainty. The proposal requires state government approval before commercial operators can use the facilities. Larger pontoons at New Farm Park and the City Botanic Gardens have been identified as best equipped to host bigger vessels.
Broader Context
The plan is being compared to earlier changes that introduced footpath dining in Brisbane. The review will also examine the former Gardens Point marina moorings near the City Botanic Gardens. Some pontoons, such as West End, are currently closed for repairs but remain part of the network under consideration.
Community and Industry Views
Industry representatives, including the Committee for Brisbane, said further activation of the river would create opportunities for locals and visitors. They noted investment along the river has been consistent, but on-water activity has remained limited to the CityCat service and small private ventures.
Existing operators, such as seafood and adventure services, have already shown interest in broader river use. Others have raised concerns about the potential shift from public to commercial access, underlining the need to balance business investment with community use.
Next Steps for Riverhills
The Riverhills Recreation Hub will be assessed alongside the other seven sites as part of the BCC review. Any changes will rely on state approval of commercial water licences. The initiative is linked to preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, where Brisbane aims to showcase its river as part of the city’s visitor experience.
Published 17-Sep-2025
