Plans revealed for a ‘new kind of park’ in Maleny

A  vision to restore grazing land in Maleny to original rainforest has been revealed by Sunshine Coast Council.

The community is invited to have their say on the proposed Sunshine Coast Ecological Park which features two treetop bridges, a forest lookout with 360 degree views over the Glass House Mountains and down to the coast, a community pavilion, operations and research facility and “forest rooms”.

The 65ha cattle grazing land adjoins Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said the proposed project would restore rainforests and wetlands, but it would take decades for ecosystem function to recover and flourish.

“In 30 years and beyond, council wants our next generations to benefit from the decisions we make today,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“Over time, we’ll have the privilege of watching the ecosystems in this park recover as species return to the restored forest and wetland.”

“My hope is the community will embrace this park as their own as a place to immerse in nature, connect with each other and be inspired to continue our sustainability journey.”

Environment and Liveability portfolio Councillor Peter Cox said the draft master plan would be open to community feedback on council’s Have Your Say website until March 20. 

“This proposal will provide a unique park for the whole community, and council is committed to listening to community feedback to ensure a strong plan for the Sunshine Coast Ecological Park,” Cr Cox said.

“In this third round of community consultation for the proposed park, residents and visitors can help council determine whether this plan will meet our growing community’s needs and aspirations.”

The draft master plan was developed with input from an excellence advisory panel, community reference group, and an engagement-led design approach that invited the community to help shape the park’s mix of recreation, green space and ecological conservation.