A new seaside park outlining the rich history of an iron-hulled steamer driven ashore during a cyclone in 1893 has been given the thumbs up by two locals instrumental in the campaign to recognise the incident.
The 129-year-old S.S. Dicky wreck has been immortalised and is now on display in an interpretive installation for the community to enjoy and no one is happier than Dicky Beach residents Graham Smith and Colin White.
Graham said he was pleased to see the S.S. Dicky’s heritage on display.
“I think it’s a job well done!” he 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 display includes a ‘barnacle wall’ featuring 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 these 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.”
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.
