An Aqua Adventure Playground will replace the WaveRider at WetSide in Hervey Bay.

Fraser Coast Regional Council has awarded a tender to Playscape Creations for the $1.3 million project with work to start within weeks and be completed by mid-2022.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said the new playground would be a welcome addition to the popular venue in Hervey Bay.

“This project has been funded through the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program, which is aimed at improving the liveability of ratepayers while also boosting local jobs and supporting local businesses,” Mr Pitt said.

“Fraser Coast Regional Council has received $5.9 million from the first two phases of this program and will receive an additional $3.8 million from 1 January 2022.

“This funding is for shovel ready projects so they can get underway as soon as possible to provide an economic benefit to the community,” he said.

“The WaveRider had reached the end of its serviceable life and needed to be replaced,” Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said.

“While the WaveRider was popular, we think the Aqua Adventure Playground will have a wide appeal.

“It can be used by families, school groups, people with disabilities and groups of friends.”

Council awarded the contract to Playscape Creations to install its XTrail AQ system, an innovative and interactive obstacle course designed as a challenging test of skill for participants and interactive spectacle for onlookers.

The course is made up of nine linked physical challenges, testing strength, agility, co-ordination, and stamina.

To add complexity, and fun, water jets, cannons and dumpers are activated as participants move through the course.

To add to the stakes, participants are timed, spectators can also activate water jets, sprays and canons to hose down participants.

The challenge and interaction between participants and spectators will provide a great spectacle, and entertain on‑lookers, and encourage more participation as everyone will want to get involved.

As participants enter the course an electronic activator reads information from a wrist band or ankle band starting the timer. The participant’s name or call sign, as registered at the park entry, is also illuminated on the start screen.

“The adventure playground will enhance the popularity of WetSide and expand the age range of people using the facility,” Cr Seymour said.

“It fits in well with the other facilities near Seafront Oval – the Adventure Playground, the All Abilities Playground, parkour facilities and the skate park.”