New Norfolk Esplanade, TAS

The Challenge

Located 35 kilometres upstream from Hobart, New Norfolk is a growing township of around 6,000 residents and a key service hub for surrounding rural communities.

The Esplanade plays an important role in daily life, supporting play, social connection, exercise, events and relaxation, while linking walking trails, a campground, the town pool and facilities for youth and community groups.

Over time, ageing infrastructure and outdated amenities had reduced the appeal and functionality of the space. Derwent Valley Council identified the need to renew the Esplanade with contemporary, accessible and durable infrastructure that could better support community use and future growth.

The Solution

Following the successful securing of funding, the Council delivered a coordinated upgrade featuring a complete suite of GX Outdoors street and park furniture designed to improve accessibility, comfort and usability across the precinct.

Inclusive cooking facilities were introduced through the installation of Easy-Access Contour BBQs, providing DDA-compliant, wheelchair-accessible cooking surfaces for people of all abilities. These BBQs feature an industry-leading hotplate with a four-prong heating element to ensure even heat distribution and reliable performance.

To create a comfortable and weather-protected gathering zone, the public BBQs were installed beneath Akora Skillion Shelters, forming shaded, all-weather cooking and social spaces.  

The shelters were powder-coated in Surfmist to create a bright, contemporary presence, with Timberimage screening incorporated as a warm architectural feature.

Timberimage is GX Outdoors’ aluminium solution with a natural wood-look finish, delivering long-term durability and low maintenance beyond that of traditional timber. Explore Timberimage finishes and colour options in the guide below.

To encourage inclusive group dining,  Streetstyle Table Settings with wheelchair accessibility were positioned under the shelters. While Streetstyle Park Seats and benches were placed along the Esplanade to provide regular resting points and outlook areas. Frames were finished in Deep Ocean, with Western Red Cedar Timberimage slats selected to reflect the river environment and blend with the surrounding landscape.

An Eco Drinking Fountain with integrated dog bowl was also installed to support hydration for both people and pets. Finished in French Blue, the fountain is highly visible and promotes the use of reusable water bottles.

Together, these upgrades deliver a cohesive, accessible and durable public realm that supports everyday use, community events and long-term activation of the Esplanade.

Discover coordinated shelter, screening and street furniture solutions for your next project.