Sunshine Coast Council today honoured former prominent businessman and philanthropist, Mr Geoff Shadforth, in memoriam by resolving to name a bridge after him over the Western Waterway on Florey Boulevard, Oceanside, Birtinya.
The bridge will be officially named the ‘Geoff Shadforth Memorial Bridge’ following an application made by Stockland, the master developer for Oceanside Kawana.
Division 3 Councillor, Peter Cox said the former director of Shadforths Civil Contractors, who tragically died in an accident overseas last year, was heavily involved in the planning and engineering of the nominated bridge, and was instrumental in its construction.
“Mr Shadforth and his family have, over many years, contributed significantly to the local Sunshine Coast region through their support of business and community,” Cr Cox said.
“Council unanimously supported today’s recommendation to name the bridge on Florey Boulevard, Oceanside in honour of Mr Shadforth so that his memory may live on both in the community and more specifically at the place where he played such a pivotal role.”
Stockland Regional Manager, Ben Simpson, said the organisation had been closely associated with Geoff Shadforth and his family over a number of years on Stockland’s key infrastructure and development projects on the Sunshine Coast.
“The Shadforths are one of the region’s most respected families and they have made a significant contribution to the Sunshine Coast over many years,” Mr Simpson said.
“Geoff was instrumental in the design and delivery of the Florey Boulevard bridge and surrounding Oceanside Health Hub precinct. It is fitting that his legacy is recognised with the naming of the bridge.”
Geoff’s father, Peter Shadforth said he was absolutely thrilled regarding the naming of the bridge in memory of his son.
“The Shadforths are extremely grateful to Stockland and to the community for driving the naming of the bridge – we are deeply honoured and so happy,” Mr Shadforth said.
“Geoff’s wife Helen told me their two young children have already been calling the bridge “Daddy’s bridge” when they drive across it in tribute to Geoff’s integral part in its development.”