Project Case Study
Port Douglas Splash Park
Port Douglas, QLD
Where rainforest meets reef, Port Douglas Splash Park captures the rhythm of the tropics.
Located within Jalunbu Park, this landmark project celebrates place, offering a vibrant, inclusive space inspired by the convergence of two World Heritage landscapes.
Details
Asset Owner: Douglas Shire Council
Splashpark Equipment Design: Atlantis Liquid Dynamics
Specialist Splashpark Construction: PARX Build
Project Partners: Urbis, JMAC, Aquatic One
Project Budget: $4.75 million
Project Overview
Situated in the heart of Port Douglas, the splash park transforms an underused foreshore site into a vibrant community hub.
Project Objectives
Guided by the poetic vision “where the tides kiss the canopy,” the project celebrates the essence of Port Douglas, where rainforest and reef intertwine. The aim was to create a space that feels both natural and innovative: immersive, inclusive and deeply connected to Country.
For Douglas Shire Council, this park means more than just infrastructure; it’s a legacy of community pride, cultural respect and sustainable design. Every ripple of water tells a story of collaboration, creativity, and environmental care.
Concept Design
The design features a 360m² zero-depth splash zone, bordered by shaded picnic spots, walkways and native landscaping that seamlessly complement the coastal environment.
Each element was carefully selected to mirror the dynamic relationship between land and sea: lively, playful and unmistakably North Queensland. The project brought together the skills of aquatic engineers, landscape architects and civil contractors to create a space that not only excites but also endures.
Systems & Infrastructure
At the park’s heart is a fully recirculating aquatic system designed to perform as beautifully as it plays.
- Advanced filtration and disinfection systems keep the water pure and inviting.
- Smart automation and flow control maintain efficiency in the demanding tropical climate.
- A dynamic pop-jet plaza pulses with choreographed water sequences, drawing children into the rhythm of discovery.
- Interactive gates and natural water channels allow young explorers to experiment with flow and movement, merging play with learning.
Behind the scenes, robust infrastructure supports effortless operation and low maintenance, ensuring the splash park’s performance matches its visual appeal.
Sustainable Water Design
Every design decision was made with longevity and stewardship at heart. The system’s closed-loop recirculation reduces water and energy consumption, while stainless steel, aluminium and in-situ concrete offer resilience against the coastal environment.
Existing Melaleuca trees were carefully preserved, with roots protected and their shade integrated into the layout. Together, these features create a park that not only respects its environment but also flourishes within it as a model of sustainability for the region.
Construction & Delivery
Delivered through a partnership between Atlantis Liquid Dynamics, Aquatic One, JMAC and Douglas Shire Council, the project demanded precision and adaptability.
Tropical downpours, delicate root zones and site logistics required careful coordination. Despite these challenges, the project was completed on schedule and to an exceptional standard. The finished park stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision aligns with expertise: a community asset that is both practical and stunning.
Community Impact
Since opening, Jalunbu Park has become a treasured gathering place for families, children, and visitors. Its open, inclusive design encourages everyone to connect, play, relax, and rediscover joy.
The splash park has not only transformed the foreshore but also strengthened the town’s sense of community, drawing locals and tourists alike to enjoy the area. Nearby businesses have felt the ripple effects, and the community has embraced it as their own tropical playground.
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