Sunshine Coast Council

"A place of cherished nature and ecological wonder for generations to discover and enjoy"

Sunshine Coast Council has commenced the next phase of planning for an ecological park located on 65 hectares of land adjoining the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve.

The project provides an opportunity to create a unique ecological park, inspired by the beautiful natural environment and expand accessible green space on the Sunshine Coast.

Developing a new ecological park that services the entire region enhances the conservation and recreation credentials for the Sunshine Coast community and for visitors to enjoy.

Vision and values

The vision for the park is to create a place of cherished nature and ecological wonder for generations to discover and enjoy. 

The vision for the park is underpinned by six core values: 

• An ecologically valuable, resilient and connected landscape. 
• A place that welcomes people to learn, play and contribute to the future. 
• A place inspired by nature.
• An immersive experience that promotes balance, respite and revival.
• A place of expected and spontaneous discovery.
• A place that shares the stories of people, culture and the natural history of the region. 

Project overview 

Following council’s acquisition of land between 2016 and 2018, a detailed site investigation and feasibility assessment were completed in 2021 to ensure the concept of an ecological park on this land was achievable.

The next phase of the project is to develop a master plan and strategic business case to guide future detailed design and construction over the next five to 10 years.

The master plan is being prepared with the input of the community to ensure the project delivers the desired mix of park activities, education and ecological restoration. It is anticipated that the master plan will be completed in 2023.

Consultation

Input from the Sunshine Coast community will inform the planning for the new park. There will be three engagement stages throughout the planning process.

Stage 1: Information sharing and gathering to help the project team develop and understand what experiences and activities residents think are important. Stage 1 has now commenced to help us understand what features and activities within the ecological park are most important to the Sunshine Coast community now, and in the future. Help council bring this vision to life by completing an online questionnaire and registering your interest in the project.

Stage 2: Sharing, testing and seeking feedback on the ideas and preliminary activities with the community and stakeholders. Stage 2 is proposed for late 2022. 

Stage 3: Presenting the draft master plan for public comment. This is likely to occur in early 2023. 

In addition to the public consultation, an Excellence Advisory Panel and Community Reference Group have been established to help inform the development of the master plan.

 Excellence Advisory Panel Members

Spencer Shaw	John Wright
John Mainwaring	Ella Woodborne
Angela Wright	Alan Hoban
BJ Murphy	Cathryn Chatburn

 Community Reference Group Members

Rosa Lohrisch	Lindsey Bowles
Charne Turner	Desmond Crane
Natalie Frost	Rick Vickers
Jillanne Leach	Peter Stevens
Darren Gilson	Tamara Kowitz

 

Council is now in the important master planning phase and encourages the community to become involved by having your say.

More information

For more information on the ecological park, please email sunshinecoastecologicalpark@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.