News

Project Update: February 2026

16 February 2026

Thank you for taking the time to share your concerns regarding the proposed BBQ installation at Omeo Park. We appreciate the strong community interest in the future of this space and have carefully considered all feedback received.

After reviewing all submissions, the City will proceed with installing the BBQs. Omeo Park is already a popular coastal destination, and the BBQs are intended to support the many families and visitors who already use the area for swimming, snorkelling and passive recreation. The installation is not expected to significantly increase visitation beyond current levels, particularly during peak seasons.

We recognise the concerns raised and want to outline the practical measures the City has in place to help manage the key issues identified.

Rubbish, Cleanliness and Environmental Concerns

We understand the community’s concerns about litter, bin capacity, and environmental impacts. While the City cannot commit to additional servicing beyond current resources, we will:

  • Monitor bin levels after installation to determine whether additional bins or more frequent emptying are required.
  • Continue to provide a dedicated weekend litter picker on Saturdays and Sundays to collect wind‑blown rubbish and improve general cleanliness around the park. This service is currently provided for five months across summer.

These measures reflect the City’s current service capacity while ensuring we remain responsive to actual demand.

Anti‑Social Behaviour, Noise and Vandalism

Concerns about behaviour near public facilities are well understood. While the City is not able to introduce additional patrols for the BBQ installation, residents are encouraged to:

  • Contact CoSafe on 1300 26 72 33 if they observe anti‑social behaviour, noise issues or any conduct causing concern.
    CoSafe operates throughout the City and can respond to behavioural issues as they arise.

Parking, Traffic and Access

We acknowledge that parking pressure is a long-standing issue during peak periods. The City is not able to expand or modify parking arrangements at this time; however, additional parking areas have been constructed by the developer along Napoleon Parade, which provide additional parking spaces. The BBQs are intended as an amenity for existing park users, not to increase visitation, and therefore are not expected to meaningfully change parking demand.

Overuse and Capacity of Omeo Park

We understand that Omeo Park experiences very high seasonal use. The installation of a BBQ does not change the park’s purpose as a coastal recreation space and is designed to support people already enjoying the area. The City will continue to monitor general use and park condition through standard operational practices.

Existing BBQs in Nearby Locations

While BBQ facilities exist at Ngarkal Beach, Coogee Beach and the marina, many park users spend extended time at the Omeo Wreck and Maritime Trail and have expressed a desire for facilities within close proximity. The BBQ has been designed to complement the park’s existing use without altering its primary function.

Maintenance and Long‑Term Management

Concerns about ongoing maintenance and resourcing are appreciated. The new BBQ will be incorporated into the City’s existing maintenance program. BBQ use will be monitored, and cleaning frequency will be altered as required. This ensures the facility is supported within current operational capacity and remains sustainable for ratepayers.

Moving Forward

The decision to proceed reflects a balance between providing amenities for the community and managing the park within realistic service levels. We will continue to observe how the area functions once the BBQ is in place and will make adjustments to bin capacity or servicing frequency only if monitoring indicates a clear need.

Thank you again for your engagement. Your feedback has helped shape the approach, and we welcome any further comments you may have.