The 129-year-old S.S. Dicky wreck has been immortalised and is now on display in an interpretive installation for the Sunshine Coast community and visitors to enjoy.
The rich history of an iron-hulled steamer, driven ashore during a cyclone in 1893, will live on in the new seaside park.
The ‘barnacle wall’ features restored wreck pieces, artefacts, lifebuoy, replica bell, and stories of locals inspired by the S.S. Dicky.
Sunshine Coast Council’s Liveability and Natural Assets Group Executive, Bill Haddrill said the impressionable works were the final piece of the Dicky Beach Precinct Plan.
“It’s great to see the finishing touches completed ahead of the school holidays for everyone to enjoy,” Mr Haddrill said.
“The wreck’s significance to the local area will continue to live on and serve as a really fun way to share the memories and history of what the S.S Dicky meant to our community.
“Come and take a look at the interpretive elements and ship pieces featured on the viewing deck, which has direct line of sight to the location of the grounding.
“This second stage of works complements the first with connecting pathways, improved beach access, custom furniture and seating which encourages locals and visitors to grab lunch from the nearby shops, or just spend time outdoors.
“Earlier upgrades include the new skate park and major upgrade of the beachside park, including S.S. Dicky propellor relocation, new and improved community facilities such as the public amenities, connecting pathways, a new picnic shelter and beach showers.
“With the finishing touches completed, it has become a really inviting and welcoming space for locals and visitors to enjoy with something for all ages and abilities.”
Local Graham Smith said he was pleased to see the S.S. Dicky’s heritage on display.
“I think it’s a job well done!” Mr Smith said.
“Colin White and I were strong advocates for the precinct upgrade since 2013 and were on the S.S. Dicky Taskforce to ‘bring the bell home’.
“It was a great achievement to find the original bell and to now have its history on display alongside the replica bell is great.
“It’s a dream come true to see the heritage ring on at Dicky Beach.”
The upgrade is a welcome addition to the Dicky Beach Coastal Pathway upgrade which aims to better connect locals and visitors to the park and with businesses across the street, the Dicky Beach Holiday Park, beach and surf lifesaving club house.
Stage 2 upgrades include:
- Viewing deck
- Interpretive signage and wreck pieces of the S.S. Dicky
- Custom furniture and seating
- Connecting pathways
- Beach Access improvements
- Picnic settings
- Drainage swales and improvements
- Tree planting and garden beds
The project is supported by the Sunshine Coast Council Arts and Heritage Levy.
The Levy, which is a contribution by every rateable property, is used to document, research, conserve, protect, promote and provide access to those tangible and intangible items, places, facilities and events that define the stories, history and values of the people, communities and culture of the Sunshine Coast.
