Rocks Riverside Park Archives

Parents Share Concerns About Rocks Riverside Park Water Play Surface

Rocks Riverside Park’s recently upgraded water play area has become a topic of community discussion, with some parents reporting injuries to their children whilst authorities maintain that the facility meets safety standards.

Read: Rocks Riverside Park Upgrade Shuts Days After Reopening

The water play area at the popular 26-hectare Seventeen Mile Rocks facility underwent a multi-million-dollar upgrade, with the 23-year-old installation being redesigned to improve functionality. The renovation was completed in time for the summer school holidays, welcoming families back to the riverside attraction.

Following the initial reopening, some parents shared photographs on social media showing their children with various injuries, including cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Several families commented about the surface being slippery, prompting concerns within the community.

Rocks Riverside Park — Photo credit: Tracy Pitman/Google Maps

In response to these reports, authorities closed the facility for additional works, describing the decision as taken out of “an abundance of caution.” Contractors were engaged to address the surface issues before the area could reopen.

The water play area was reopened for a second time on Thursday, 22 January, with Cr Tracy Davis, LNP Chair for Parks and Sustainability, attending to provide information about the remedial works.

Following this second reopening, some parents have continued to report concerns. Parents have continued to share photographs and express concerns on Jamboree Ward Cr Sarah Hutton’s Facebook page. Reports from those experiencing difficulties have shifted from concerns about slipperiness to comments about the surface texture.

One resident noted that whilst the surface may not be slippery, it felt abrasive, describing it as sharp and like sandpaper. Another parent mentioned that their children experienced issues within the first five minutes of their visit, with both children affected.

Authorities have pointed to the age of the original facility as a factor in undertaking the comprehensive redesign. The water play area was part of the park’s original opening in December 2003, making it more than two decades old at the time of renovation.

“If you’re using the water play area, the surface may feel fairly coarse in the first few months. This is normal and will ease over time as more people use it and the surface wears in,” BCC stated in its website.

“We urge anyone using the water play area to remember the surface is not designed for running and is best enjoyed at a slower pace.”

Cr Hutton’s office has also invited parents who have concerns to provide details via email to jamboree.ward@bcc.qld.gov.au, indicating that feedback is being collected and monitored.

The broader Rocks Riverside Park continues to serve as a community gathering space, offering playgrounds, barbecue facilities, and 800 metres of Brisbane River frontage. The park features public art and industrial artefacts that reflect its history as the site of the Queensland Cement and Lime Company operations, with a crop patch reflecting the site’s farming heritage.

Read: Free or Budget-friendly Activities at the Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks

Parents planning to visit are encouraged to be aware of the surface characteristics and supervise children appropriately. Those who experience any issues are being asked to report them through official channels so that feedback can be properly documented and considered.

The coming weeks will provide more information about how the upgraded facility performs under regular usage conditions, and whether the current surface treatment addresses the concerns that have been raised by some members of the community.

Published 4-February-2026

Rocks Riverside Park Upgrade Shuts Days After Reopening

Families visiting Rocks Riverside Park were met with fencing and warning tape instead of water play, after a multimillion dollar upgrade was shut down only days after reopening, following reports of children slipping and getting injured.

Families Raise Safety Concerns

The closure occurred on the 14th of December, just days after the upgraded water play area reopened, during the peak school holiday period. Parents reported children falling on wet surfaces, with images shared online showing scratches and grazes. Some families said the area felt unsafe within minutes of entering.

Parents who arrived with children in swimmers said they were surprised to find the water play area closed without warning. Several families had travelled specifically to visit the upgraded space.

Some parents reported seeing multiple children slip in a short period of time, raising concerns about surface grip once water was running. Parents questioned how the surface passed safety checks before opening, given the number of incidents reported so quickly after reopening.

Council Response And Investigation

Brisbane City Council confirmed it received complaints about slippery surfaces in the splash zone. Council stated it is investigating the issue and working with the contractor responsible for the upgrade. The area was closed as a precaution while further checks are carried out.

Photo Credit: *Cr Sarah Hutton*/Facebook

Council advised that slip testing was completed before reopening and met required Australian safety standards. Despite this, the water play area remains closed, with no confirmed date for reopening.

Impact On Community And Summer Plans

The water play area was closed for nearly six months before reopening as part of a major upgrade costing about $3.5 million. For many local families, the space is a key summer attraction, especially during hot weather and school holidays.

Parents have expressed disappointment and concern, saying the closure limits free outdoor options for children during summer.

Published 22-December-2025

Grinding Mill Relic at Rocks Riverside Park, Seventeen Mile Rocks

Photo Credit: Silei Salanoa/Google Maps

The grinding mill at Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks serves as a notable industrial relic, symbolising the area’s past as a prominent cement manufacturing centre.

Once integral to the operations of the Queensland Cement and Lime Company (QCL), established in 1914, the mill highlights the industrial heritage of the region.

Industrial relics at Rocks Riverside Park — *Photo Credit: thegrayscales/Reddit*

QCL played a vital role in Queensland’s construction industry, manufacturing cement and lime at its factory in Darra, Brisbane. Initially, limestone from the Darling Downs was used, but by the 1930s, the company transitioned to using coral dredged from Moreton Bay. This coral was transported via barges to Oxley Wharf at Seventeen Mile Rocks before being conveyed to the factory.

The grinding mill was used to process the coral into cement by crushing it using either rotational methods or steel balls. Maintenance of this equipment was intensive, with workers frequently replacing steel cables and maintaining cranes that handled the coral. The industrial operations ceased in 1998 after QCL was unable to renew its dredging licences, leading to the closure of the Darra plant.

Rocks Riverside Park: A Historical Site

Rocks Riverside Park, established in 2003, preserves the industrial heritage of the area. The park was built on the former site of QCL’s operations, with remnants of the grinding mill and other industrial artefacts scattered throughout. These relics serve as a reminder of the area’s history while contributing to its unique character.

The park is divided into zones, including the river flat, bushland ridge, and a green link. Its features include picnic areas, playgrounds, a water play area, and shared pathways, making it a popular destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Grinding mill Rocks Riverside Park — *Photo Credit: Kikoprincess Li/Google Maps*

Community Sentiment and Legacy

The community appreciates the incorporation of industrial artefacts into the park, which offer a tangible link to Seventeen Mile Rocks’ industrial past. Visitors often reflect on the area’s transformation from an industrial site to a recreational park. The grinding mill remains a focal point, symbolising the transition of the space while maintaining its historical identity.

The grinding mill at Seventeen Mile Rocks is a key historical feature, bridging the area’s industrial heritage with its current role as a vibrant recreational park. Rocks Riverside Park not only honours the past but also provides a unique setting for the community to enjoy.

Published 18-Jan-2025

Your Walking Guide to Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks

Are you looking to achieve 10,000 steps per day? Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks offers a peaceful way to add approximately 1,000 steps to your daily count through its scenic 800-metre riverside path.

Read: Free or Budget-friendly Activities at the Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks

While this gentle walk contributes just a portion of your daily goal, its tranquil setting and excellent facilities make it an ideal location for multiple laps or as part of your daily walking routine.

Quick Facts

Photo credit: Srdjan Serge Komadina/Google Maps

Distance: 800 metres (one way)
Steps: Approximately 1,000
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Paved shared walkway
Best For: Families, casual walkers, step-goal achievers
Facilities: Water play area, BBQs, toilets, picnic areas, playgrounds

The promenade follows the peaceful Brisbane River shoreline at Rocks Riverside Park. Those looking to extend their walk can continue along the riverside path until they reach Amazons Place Park in Jindalee. This flat, paved pathway offers a peaceful riverside experience with plenty of opportunities to observe local riverine flora and fauna.

Amazons Place Park (Photo credit: Ross Cronin/Google Maps)

For those seeking extra steps, the Zig Zag trail offers an additional challenge. This unpaved but well-formed track through eucalypt forest winds through the bushland ridge to the south-east of the park, adding approximately 30 minutes to your walk.

The trail rewards your effort with excellent views of the surrounding area and, while suitable for wheels, provides a more challenging option for step-counters.

Making It Part of Your 10,000 Steps Journey

While the basic promenade walk contributes 1,000 steps, you can easily extend this by combining multiple laps, including the Zig Zag trail, or exploring all park pathways. This location works perfectly as part of your active breaks throughout the day, especially if you’re gradually building up to a 10,000-step goal.

Health Benefits and Tips

This gentle riverside walk contributes to your daily fitness goals by improving cardiovascular health, strengthening muscles, and enhancing mood through nature exposure.

Remember to bring water, wear sun protection, and consider walking shoes if taking on the Zig Zag trail. The park’s facilities make it perfect for all ages, so consider bringing the family along for a morning or late afternoon visit.

Read: Seventeen Mile Rocks House Undergoes Transformation After Nearly Five Decades

Whether you’re starting your 10,000-step journey or looking for a peaceful addition to your existing routine, Rocks Riverside Park Promenade provides a serene setting for walking goals. Its combination of natural beauty, excellent facilities, and easy terrain makes it a valuable destination in Brisbane’s network of walking locations.

Published 31-October-2024

Free or Budget-friendly Activities at the Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks

Discover a variety of engaging and family-friendly activities that won’t break the bank, all taking place this May 2023 at the Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks.

Read: Narrung Street Park, Sanananda St Park To Be Retrofitted With Shade Covers In 2023

U-Jam

U-Jam Fitness fuses urban dance and hip-hop music with physical fitness, resulting in a dynamic blend. This exhilarating cardio workout embraces the latest chart-topping beats, making you feel as if you’re attending an electrifying dance party.

Dates:

Fri 12 May 2023
Fri 19 May 2023
Fri 26 May 2023

Zumba Fitness

the rocks riverside park — Photo credit: Andrzej Rembowski/Pixabay

Catering to individuals of all ages, their classes seamlessly transition between high and low-intensity dance moves strategically crafted to elevate your heart rate and enhance cardio endurance.

Dates:

Sat 13 May 2023
Sat 20 May 2023
Sat 27 May 2023

Ball sports Program for Kids Aged 2-6yrs

This ball skills program, inspired by the renowned Billy Slater, is tailored for children aged 2-6 years. The engaging sessions include a diverse range of games and activities that focus on enhancing hand-eye coordination and gross motor skills. Bookings are essential.

Dates:

Sat 13 May 2023 (9:30 a.m and 10:00 a.m.)
Sat 20 May 2023 (9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.)
Sat 27 May 2023 (9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.)

Cardio and Strength Conditioning

Indulge in an invigorating workout experience at the park, where you can partake in a dynamic bodyweight strength and cardio session. Whether you prefer a low or high impact workout, this session has got you covered.

Join a supportive community of like-minded individuals who not only share fitness goals but also enjoy a good laugh as you push through an exhilarating workout together. Get ready to break a sweat and have a fantastic time!

Dates:

Wed 17 May 2023
Wed 24 May 2023
Wed 31 May 2023

Tai Chi Qigong in the Park

Experience the invigorating power of this dynamic activity that harmonises your body and mind, leaving you feeling relaxed, refreshed, and serene. Admission fee is $5.

Dates:

Thu 18 May 2023
Thu 25 May 2023

Children’s Storytime at the Park

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of storytime with your little one at a First 5 Forever storytime session in the park at the Pop-up Library.

This captivating experience offers a blend of tales and melodies designed specifically for young children. It’s the perfect opportunity for children aged from birth to five years and their parents or caregivers to engage in a delightful, interactive session filled with stories and songs.

Date:

Wed 24 May 2023

Walk and Whimsy, Art in the Park

Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting gardens and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Breathe in the delightful sights and sounds that surround you, and let them ignite your imagination for the second part of the workshop.

Unleash your creativity as you craft whimsical artist books using an array of papers and fabrics. Admission is $5, offering you a delightful experience that blends nature’s wonder with artistic expression.

Date:

Thu 25 May 2023

More Strength and Cardio Activities

Join a community of like-minded individuals and embrace an active lifestyle that fosters independence while enhancing brain function and uplifting mood through the power of strength training. This low-impact workout is suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for seniors.

Dates:

Wed 17 May 2023
Wed 24 May 2023
Wed 31 May 2023

Read: Construction Contract Awarded: Centenary Bridge Upgrade Now a Step Closer

The Rocks Riverside Park is located at 531 Seventeen Mile Rocks.

For more details about the upcoming events at the park, visit Brisbane City Council’s website.

Published 11-May-2023

Rocks Riverside Park: Among Brisbane’s Most Popular Parks

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council / Flickr

Did you know that Rocks Riverside Park has recently been named among Brisbane’s most popular parks in 2022?

Revealed last February, Rocks Riverside Park ranks among Brisbane’s most popular parks behind New Farm Park, City Botanic Gardens and Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha. The list is based on the number of inquiries and bookings in 2022.

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council / Flickr

Rocks Riverside Park is a district park located on the site of the former Queensland Cement Limited quarry at 531 Seventeen Mile Rocks Road in Seventeen Mile Rocks. Opened on 7 December 2003, the park is Brisbane’s largest riverfront park covering an area of 26 hectares.

Rocks Riverside Park is divided into three major zones: the river flat which used to be a rich riverside environment, market garden and industrial site; the bushland ridge that forms a backdrop to the river flat area and is covered with dry eucalypt forest; and the major green link from the park to suburbs in the south.

It features three booking sites (The Entrance, The Green and The River), a community garden, free Wi-Fi, Great Lawn (approximately 8000 square metres of open grassed space) and a half-size basketball court.

Visitors will also find industrial artefacts throughout the park, a junior playground (suitable for toddlers to eight-year-olds), climbing net/fort and flying fox for school-aged children, jumping pillow, public art reflecting the park’s industrial heritage, shared pathways and a water play area.

Top 10 most popular parks based in inquiries/bookings:

New Farm Park: 1,284
City Botanic Gardens: 694
Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha: 679
Rocks Riverside Park – Seventeen Mile Rocks: 335
Calamvale District Park: 234
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park – Lower River Terrace: 187
Newstead Park: 141
Musgrave Park – South Brisbane: 138
Orleigh Park – West End: 105
The Lake Parklands – Forest Lake: 92

Published18-March-2023

Dementia Australia Brings Memory Walk & Jog to Rocks Riverside Park for 2022

Did you know that Queensland has more than 87,700 people with dementia? With the fundraising efforts of the Memory Walk & Jog at the Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks, dementia patients and their families or carers will have invaluable resources for their needs.

The Memory Walk & Jog at the Rocks Riverside Park will take place Sunday, 29th of May, at 8:00 a.m. This is an important initiative to support the patients, as well as raise awareness for the degenerative condition.

This year’s goal in Brisbane is to raise $130,000 and so far, over 55 teams with 874 participants have signed up and pledged more than $88,000 to the cause.

“These events are so important, not just from a fundraising perspective, but also because they are opportunities for people impacted by dementia to gather, to get active and to share stories with people in similar circumstances,” Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said.

“Together, we can make the world look brighter for people with dementia. Let’s show them they are not alone!”

For the rest of the year, various Memory Walk & Jog events will also take place across the country for all ages and abilities.

Photo Credit: Memory Walk & Jog/Facebook

However, those who can’t attend one of the planned events in the series may still organise their own group or individual walk or jog and contribute via the My Way or Walk & Jog Impossible Challenge.

It’s Brisbane’s Turn to Hold a Memory Walk & Jog at Seventeen Mile Rocks

Brisbane, get ready for the return of Memory Walk & Jog, the annual health and fitness activity mounted by Dementia Australia! In 2021, 17 events will take place across the country with Brisbane’s walk and jog taking place at Seventeen Mile Rocks.

Happening on Sunday, 20 May 2021, the Memory Walk & Jog will begin at 7:00 a.m. at the Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks. So far, 53 teams have signed up for the event, with an impressive 778 fundraisers.

This year’s goal for Brisbane participants is to raise $183,000 that will help fund studies on managing or potentially curing the disease. The funds collected will also provide for the resources needed by Australians living with dementia, their families, and their careers.

At least 90,000 people in Queensland have been diagnosed with dementia and experts said that this number will rise to 207,000 in 2058. Thus, this annual walk and jog will also help raise awareness on the risks, social stigma ad other challenges faced by patients and the people around them.

Since February 2021, Memory Walk & Jog have taken place at various locations, such as Sydney, Western Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Canberra and Adelaide.

There will be three categories for the Memory Walk & Jog at the Rocks Riverside Park and the event is open for all ages and all fitness levels, including family pets! The organisers have established a COVID-safe plan so participants, volunteers and staff could enjoy the run as safely as possible.

To learn more about the event, visit the official site: www.memorywalk.com.au. For dementia support, phone the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit Dementia Australia online.

Exciting Annual Holi Festival of Colours Back for Year 4

India’s most widely celebrated festival is back for a fourth year in Seventeen Mile Rocks. The Holi Festival of Colours brings together people from all walks of life, beliefs and communities to unite in joy and to celebrate inclusiveness.

Happening on Saturday, the 29th of February 2020, Brisbane Holi 2020 is returning to the Rocks Riverside Park for an exciting night of music, performances, Bollywood dance battles, Matki phod competition, sports competitions, kids activities, heaps of Indian food, and colour — of course!

This event is primarily organised by the Indian Cultural and Sports Club Inc. but Australian and Asian communities are also welcome to join as part of Brisbane City Council’s month-long BrisAsia Festival this February.

Set from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the Holi Festival continues the tradition enjoyed by people of all ages. Throwing wonderful colours at each other for fun is the highlight of this festivity to foster camaraderie and build better ties with the community.

*Photo Credit: Ecutas Productions/Eventbrite*

Similar to past events, the Holi Festival is expected to welcome thousands of participants this year. Guests are encouraged to purchase their colours online and onsite as bringing their own is prohibited.

As the event slogan goes, “Let’s colour everyone equal!”

Check Eventbrite for the colours and ticket reservations. This is a no alcohol, zero tolerance event. For enquiries, phone 0449 700 428 or email paviter@ecutas.com.au.

Seventeen Mile Rocks Event Puts Seniors Back on Their Bikes Again

Senior residents 50 years and above who wish to start riding their bicycles again are encouraged join the Back on Your Bicycle event at Rocks Riverside Park on May 15th.

The event is a refresher course specifically designed for senior members of the community who want to pursue biking as a regular physical activity. It is part of the Growing Older and Living Dangerously (GOLD) programs of the Brisbane City Council’s Active and Healthy Lifestyle initiative. GOLD events are free or low-cost programs for residents 50 years old and above.

Back on Your Bicycle is free of charge and will teach participants the basics of helmet use, bike safety check, bike handling, biking etiquette and gear use. Attendees will have to bring their own bike, helmet and water.

Event Details:

When: Monday, 15 May 2017, 9:30 am – 11:30 am
Where: Rocks Riverside Park, 531 Seventeen Mile Rocks Road, Seventeen Mile Rocks
Bookings: Call Jan Stevenson at Cycle Away on 0427 431 481

Ideal Physical Exercise

The refresher course should be an excellent opportunity for seniors to start enjoying cycling again. Some people shun the idea of older people taking on cycling for fitness, when in fact, it is one ideal exercise that senior folks will enjoy.

There has been a reawakening in bicycle riding among seniors. Because of the fun in riding the bike, seniors are more likely to stick to the healthy activity.

What makes biking stand out is that it can be a fun physical activity whether the person is riding alone or riding with friends. The city council’s Back on Your Bicycle event should be able to help seniors take on this fitness activity once more.