Thomas Jack Park Precinct transformation takes shape

Published on 30 August 2026

The Western Downs community is getting its first look behind the construction fences at the exciting new play and recreation areas taking shape within the Thomas Jack Park Precinct, with works on track for completion this summer.

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said the latest progress photos showcased the scale of the transformation underway and highlighted Council's commitment to creating a destination that celebrates the region's identity while providing new opportunities for recreation, connection, and play.

"Thomas Jack Park is one of our community's most treasured spaces, and it's exciting to see this vision starting to come to life," Mayor Smith said.

"From the iconic wheat-inspired adventure playground to the new gathering spaces, pathways, landscaping, and recreational facilities, this project has been designed to reflect the character of the Western Downs while creating a place for residents and visitors of all ages to enjoy."

Significant progress has been made across the precinct, with underground services and water reticulation tanks now installed for the future water play area.

Works on the water play area will continue alongside construction of the multi-purpose court, playground and play equipment, outdoor gathering spaces, amenities, pathways, and associated landscaping.

Mayor Smith said the precinct had been carefully designed to offer a diverse range of play and recreation experiences while retaining the park's natural appeal.

"One of the things the community told us was how much they value Thomas Jack Park's established trees and beautiful green spaces," he said.

"Protecting and enhancing that character has been a key focus of this project."

As part of the upgrades, Council will plant a 3,805 new plants, including 70 advanced trees, helping to create additional shade, enhance biodiversity, and maintain the park's leafy atmosphere for years to come.

"The landscaping is every bit as important as the play spaces themselves," Mayor Smith said.

"These new trees and plants will help ensure Thomas Jack Park remains a beautiful, welcoming, and comfortable place for future generations to enjoy."

The new play and recreation areas form part of the broader Thomas Jack Park Precinct project, which will deliver a destination playground, water play area, multi-purpose court, event and gathering spaces, improved pathways, landscaping, amenities, and enhanced accessibility.

Residents can learn more about the extensive tree planting program and follow project updates via Council's Have Your Say page at https://wdrc.au/tjpp.

The Thomas Jack Park Precinct project is jointly funded by Western Downs Regional Council and Queensland Government.