Petrie Residents to Benefit from New Lakes Precinct Community Space

A major project to reshape Petrie’s landscape is moving ahead, with construction confirmed for a new Lakes Precinct that will deliver walking trails, open spaces, and family-friendly facilities for the community.

Timeline and Project Scope

The City of Moreton Bay has awarded a contract for the civil works stage of the Lakes Precinct Activation, with construction due to begin in October and targeted for completion by mid-2026. This marks another step in the redevelopment of Moreton Bay Central, formerly known as The Mill at Petrie.

At the heart of the plans is a three-kilometre lakefront walking track that will wind around the site’s lakes and continue along the North Pine River. The design also includes landscaped parklands with picnic shelters, a solar-powered barbecue, and a new car park that will provide space for 74 vehicles to accommodate visitors. Wayfinding and interpretive signage will highlight the history of the precinct and showcase the local environment.

A Community-Focused Space

The precinct has been designed with community needs in mind, offering opportunities for outdoor activity and social gatherings. Council statements describe the project as a way of creating a destination where families, walkers and visitors can engage with nature in a safe and well-designed setting.

Council sees the project as a catalyst for the wider transformation of Petrie, supporting recreation and drawing visitors from across the region. The site’s integration of green spaces and heritage-focused signage is intended to make it both functional and meaningful for residents.

The Lakes Precinct Activation is supported by the SEQ Liveability Fund, which aims to improve the quality of public spaces across South-East Queensland. Funding of more than $5.8 million has been allocated to the project, with contributions from both local and state levels.

Petrie’s Changing Identity

For many years, Petrie was recognised for its industrial and manufacturing past, particularly the paper mill that once dominated the site. The closure of the mill opened opportunities for a reimagining of the land, leading to the establishment of the Moreton Bay Central redevelopment project.

The Lakes Precinct represents a continuation of this transformation, moving the area toward community and environmental uses. The new infrastructure aims to balance accessibility with the preservation of natural surroundings, offering spaces that reflect both the area’s history and its future potential.

What Residents Can Expect

Once complete, residents and visitors will have access to a versatile outdoor destination. The walking track is expected to become a popular attraction for those seeking exercise or leisure walks, while the open spaces and picnic areas will provide options for family outings and social gatherings.

The Lakes Precinct Activation is only one part of the broader Moreton Bay Central redevelopment, which continues to evolve as an important community hub. By mid-2026, Petrie is expected to gain a space that will serve residents for decades to come, combining recreation, sustainability and respect for local history.

While construction will bring temporary changes to the area, Council has expressed confidence that the long-term benefits for Petrie will outweigh short-term disruptions. The vision is to provide a destination that draws people into the heart of Moreton Bay Central, encouraging outdoor activity and social connection.