Happy Valley Access Ramp and Boardwalk Replacement

Aerial view of Happy Valley on K'gari with project area outlined in red

What’s happening

Council is replacing the existing access ramp and boardwalk at Happy Valley after it was damaged during flooding from Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025.

The project will be delivered in two stages, including road, drainage and full boardwalk replacement works.

Why

The current ramp and boardwalk were damaged by flooding and need to be rebuilt to ensure safe and reliable access.

The new design will better manage stormwater and improve the durability of the structure.

When

  • Stage 1: Completed (May to mid-June 2026)
  • Stage 2:
    • Boardwalk Reconstruction - (late July to late October 2026)
    • Roadway Reconstruction - (late October to early December 2026)
  • Project completion: Expected early December 2026 (subject to weather and contract conditions)

What

Stage 1 included:

  • Earthworks and excavation
  • Vegetation removal
  • New drainage, including a swale drain and bund wall
  • Road pavement works on Happy Valley Drive

Stage 2 includes:

  • Demolition of the existing ramp and boardwalk
  • Construction of a new boardwalk using modern materials
  • Installation of piles, drainage layers and geofabric
  • New signage and site restoration

More detailed information can be found on the Stage 2 Fact Sheet(PDF, 444KB).

How much will it cost

The total project is estimated at $2.6 million, partly funded through Federal and State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Community impact

Roadway Reconstruction (mid October to early December 2026)

Reconstruction of the roadway will require a full closure of the Happy Valley Beach Access Ramp. Due to the nature of the works and the constrained site conditions, it is not possible to safely maintain vehicle access through the construction area during this stage. During this closure, traffic will be detoured via the Happy Valley Back Track. Recent improvements in beach conditions have enabled vehicles to travel along the beach to access areas north and south of Happy Valley. This arrangement will remain subject to prevailing beach and tidal conditions.

Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained throughout the duration of the works.

Please note that the above construction timeframes are estimates only and may change due to adverse weather, site conditions or delays associated with the revised traffic management methodology implemented to facilitate continued vehicle access during the boardwalk reconstruction.

Council apologises for the inconveniences caused relating to this temporary road closure and thanks you in anticipation of your understanding and cooperation during the course of this work.

Location

Seventy Five Mile Beach, Happy Valley, K'gari 4581  View Map

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