Exciting news for local parents! Major family-focused upgrades are coming to the Graceville Riverside Parklands, including a brand-new nature play space.
Brisbane parents, get ready to add another fantastic destination to your weekend bucket list! Families will soon have even more reasons to embrace our city’s outdoor lifestyle, with a major kid-friendly upgrade officially underway at Graceville Riverside Parklands.
Located right where the Brisbane River meets Oxley Creek, the popular precinct is getting a massive facelift, designed specifically for young explorers. The project is set to deliver a brand-new nature play space, upgraded picnic areas, and a massive community event lawn perfect for kicking a footy or hosting birthday parties.
Brisbane City Council has teamed up with the Brisbane Sustainability Agency and the Federal Government to deliver Stage 1 of this exciting revitalisation.
“Brisbane’s parks are designed for kids to run, climb, explore and enjoy the outdoors close to home,” says Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner. “The major Graceville parklands transformation will create yet another fantastic destination for families, community events and riverside recreation.”
What’s coming in Stage 1 of the Graceville Riverside Parklands upgrades?
The first phase of the revamp, expected late 2026, is entirely focused on recreation, relaxation, and getting kids into nature. Look forward to:
- A Brand-New Nature Play Space: A dedicated children’s nature play space inspired by the surrounding river and creek environment — perfect for sensory play and wild imaginations.
- Upgraded Community Lawn: A flexible green space for local family events, community gatherings, and open-air fun.
- Fresh Family Amenities: Brand-new picnic shelters, comfortable seating, and electric barbecues for the ultimate Sunday family cookout.
- 6,000+ New Native Plants: Greening the area to support local wildlife and stabilise the beautiful riverbanks.
Brisbane tops the nation for parks
It’s no secret that we love our green spaces. Brisbane officially holds the title for the highest number of parks and playgrounds per capita in Australia, boasting an impressive 84.89 per 100,000 people.
Since 2019, the Council has added more than 300 hectares of new parklands across the city, reinforcing why Brisbane was recently voted the best place in the country to raise a family.
An artist’s impression of the planned upgrades at Graceville Riverside Parklands in Brisbane
The bigger picture: A 20-year transformation
The makeover at Graceville Riverside Parklands isn’t just a standalone project; it’s part of the massive, 20-year Oxley Creek Transformation. This initiative is turning the entire corridor from the Brisbane River to Larapinta into a world-class environmental and lifestyle destination.
Other family-favourite spots included in this master plan are:
- Archerfield Wetlands Parkland
- Oxley Creek Common
- Warril Parkland
- The Greenway & Glider Forest
Looking ahead for Graceville Riverside Parklands
Once Stage 1 wraps up, subsequent stages will introduce a dedicated water-activity hub. This will feature improved facilities for water-based sports, accessible amenities, and viewing areas, making it easier than ever for Brisbane families to safely interact with our beautiful waterways.
Pack the sunscreen and get ready, Brisbane parents, our river life is about to get a whole lot better!
