Sunshine Coast Ecological Park
Council has commenced the next phase of planning for an ecological park located on 65 hectares of land adjoining the Mary Cairncross scenic reserve.
"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 6 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 5 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.
Engagement
Input from the Sunshine Coast community will inform the planning for the new park. There will be 3 engagement stages throughout the planning process.
Stage 1: the information sharing and gathering stage was completed in May 2022 and tested the vision and values of the project. Stage 1 feedback informed the creation of key strategies to guide the design and delivery of the ecological park and based around three themes:
- Recreation and wellness
- Ecology and restoration
- Research, education and culture.
Learn more about the stage 1 findings (PDF, 156KB).
Stage 2: shared, tested and sought feedback on spatial ideas, proposed activities and strategies for the park with the community and stakeholders was completed in September 2022.
Learn more about the stage 2 findings (PDF, 262KB).
Stage 3: Presented the Draft Master Plan document for public feedback. Stage 3 was completed in March 2023. The feedback received is being used to refine and finalise the Master Plan before it is presented to Council for consideration.
Learn more about the stage 3 findings ( PDF, 262KB).
In addition to community engagement activities, an excellence advisory panel and community reference group were established and helped 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 |
More information
For more information on the ecological park, please email [email protected].