15 July 2026
Warwick’s CBD gardens will be revitalised with water-wise garden works including drought-tolerant plantings in spring, mulching and the installation of recycled-water irrigation.
As part of Southern Downs Regional Council’s commitment to delivering Liveable Communities through the 2026–2031 Corporate Plan, nine prominent garden beds will be upgraded this budget year as part of a broader beautification strategy to deliver four seasons of colour.
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said having attractive parks and gardens is part of why people love living here.
“We heard very clearly from the Warwick community that they want to restore their pride of place and show why we’re famous as the Rose City,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“Our Parks and Gardens crews take great pride in maintaining the region’s public spaces, and these works will ensure some of Warwick’s most prominent garden beds continue to provide colour and charm to the streetscape.”
Portfolio Councillor for Liveable Communities, Deputy Mayor Sheryl Windle, said it is important to design our public spaces to withstand increasingly challenging seasonal conditions.
“We are very mindful of the dry conditions currently affecting our region. These works use recycled and rainwater where available and drought-tolerant plants best suited to our climate.
“By balancing presentation with practicality, we're creating garden spaces that not only look great but are also better equipped to cope with the conditions we're experiencing now and into the future.”
The program will revitalise existing rose garden beds through complementary planting and understorey landscaping designed to enhance seasonal interest throughout the year. Works will also improve soil quality to support stronger plant growth, health and longevity.
Building on the success of previous projects, including the revitalisation of the Jubilee Park garden plots, the program places greater emphasis on ongoing maintenance, weed management and fertilisation to maximise the lifespan and presentation of new plantings.
Planting will be timed to coincide with cooler, wetter months, giving new plants the best opportunity to establish and thrive, while allowing for replacement planting where needed.
The program also includes expanding Council’s plant selection to incorporate additional drought-tolerant varieties and local native species that are well suited to the region and help improve the resilience and sustainability of public gardens.
The following locations are included in the works:
• John Simpson Park
• Victoria Park
• Byrnes Monument
• Corner of Palmerin and Percy Street
• Two Palmerin Street roundabouts
• Two Guy Street roundabouts
Last edited date 15 Jul 2026