For Stefan Walstab, there was only one reason to get out of bed at 6am on a Saturday - Riverbend Park.
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The eight-year-old was one of the first to get his hands, and feet, on one of the tallest pieces of play equipment in Australia.
He was among thousands who turned out for the long-awaited park opening, including the highly anticipated Sky Walk.
By 11am, after being officially declared open by City of Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten, Stefan was among dozens of young playground enthusiasts who made a quick dash to the 12-metre peak.
His father, Michael Walstab, said it was something his son had been waiting to do for a long time.
"He has been so excited for today," he said.
"He was out of bed at 6am this morning, just waiting.
"I think we'll be here for quite a while."
A redevelopment more than a decade in the making, Cr van Zetten said what was once an old industrial site had been transformed into a "you beaut" play area suitable for people of all ages, and abilities.
"This is going to be for our city, another one of those areas that's going to make Launceston one of the great regional cities, not just in Australia, but of the world," he said.
"It's great for people to be able to come outdoors and enjoy the facilities, and what better place than to do it right next to our river, the Seaport.
"It's a fantastic environment. Whatever your interest is, I am sure you will find it somewhere in this park."
Divided into four zones including the River Play area, Gorge Play area, Wild Core area, and the Urban Plaza, Bass Liberal MHR Bridget Archer said the project would help attract more visitors.
"A new 120-metre-long bridge between the city and Riverbend Park means people can now take an easy walk or bike ride from one side of the river to the other," she said.
"The redevelopment has also given the local economy a boost, supporting 88 jobs in the construction and ancillary industries while creating another three ongoing roles."
Saturday's opening featured a free barbecue and a range of activities including face painting and a visit from the Hawthorn Football Club mascots.
The redevelopment included $6 million funding from the federal government, $1.35 million from the state government and $1.8 million from the council.
Jessica Willard
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
