Federation Walk facts for kids

Federation Walk is a fantastic walking path on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. It's about 3.5 kilometres (2.2 mi) long, which is like walking for half an hour or more! This special path was created as a community project to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Federation of Australia in 2001. It's located at the northern end of the Gold Coast Oceanway on a place called the Southport Spit.

The Story of Federation Walk

How the Walk Began

The idea for Federation Walk started in 1999. A group called the Main Beach Progress Association and the Friends of Federation Walk worked hard to make it happen. They received a grant of $75,000 from the Queensland government for the Centenary of Federation. The Gold Coast City Council also added the same amount, making $150,000 in total.

This money helped build the first part of the pathway. An architect and planner named Arnold Wolthers designed the walk.

Opening the Path

On March 19, 2000, the walk was officially launched. More than 100 people came to celebrate! A special fig tree was planted to mark the start of the path. You can still see this tree today.

The first section of Federation Walk officially opened on January 21, 2001. It was a huge event with over 5,000 people attending. They also planted 100 trees, making the area even greener. The full pathway was opened on June 6, 2002, with a large plaque unveiled at the beginning of the walk.

Keeping the Walk Safe

Even though there were plans for a cruise ship terminal nearby, the Federation Walk has been protected. In 2007, the Queensland State Government promised $100,000 each year to help look after the walk. The Gold Coast City Council matched this amount. This funding helps manage the area and even pays for a part-time Ranger to care for the Federation Walk Coastal Reserve.

Where is Federation Walk?

Starting Your Adventure

Federation Walk is a natural part of an area known as The Spit. This 3.5 kilometres (2.2 mi) long walk begins at a fig tree. You'll find this tree in the parking lot right across from the entrance to Sea World.

Exploring the Path

As you walk, you'll go through beautiful patches of rainforest. Local community groups often hold planting days here to help new plants grow. After leaving the main reserve, the path continues under the sand bypass jetty. It then follows a pathway all the way to the southern wall of the Gold Coast Seaway. The very end of Federation Walk connects with the Gold Coast Oceanway.

Who Supports Federation Walk?

Community Caretakers

The main group supporting Federation Walk is called Friends of Federation Walk. They are part of the Main Beach Progress Association. Their goal is to create a special plan to help the plants on The Spit grow back. They also want to make sure everyone can visit and enjoy this beautiful area. They work hard so that people now and in the future can appreciate and care for The Spit.

Overcoming Challenges

Between 2003 and 2005, some unfortunate fires caused damage to the area. These fires destroyed many of the plants that had been put in place with a $25,000 grant. After the fires, a special "weed-a-thon" was held in November 2006. This event helped clear weeds and prepare the area for new growth. It was supported by a grant from the Queensland government and money from the Gold Coast City Council.

Other Helpers

Other groups have also helped Federation Walk. These include programs like Work for the Dole and Green Corps. In 2006, the state government also promised $100,000 each year to help pay for a ranger. This ranger helps look after the Federation Walk.