Meeting paves way for hinterland-to-coast trail

Council representatives met with the newly-formed Nambour to Coolum Trail Joint Working Group of community members.

People may soon be able to walk from Nambour to Coolum under a proposed 50km network of trails that would connect the hinterland to the coast.

The long-awaited concept is closer to becoming reality, following a May 27 meeting involving Council representatives and the newly formed Nambour to Coolum Trail Joint Working Group of community members to determine how to proceed.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said it was an exciting project that would require a strong partnership between Council and the community.

“We look forward to working with our community so that, together, we can bring this project to life,” Mayor Natoli said.

“When complete, the trail will offer more walking, running and cycling opportunities for our region and provide a unique opportunity to access many different recreational, natural and history-laden experiences.

“The path could comprise a network of up to 50km of trails with a core route between Nambour, Bli Bli and Coolum.

“The trail’s alignment has not yet been finalised and Council will continue to engage with our community, making sure we respect the views of all private landholders as the alignment is further developed.”

Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said Council was committed to working with our community to enhance our environment and quality of life. 

“At the meeting with the Joint Working Group, it became clear that this is a complex project that could take many years to be developed,” Cr Suarez said.

“However, there are opportunities to deliver the trail in stages over the coming years, using a hub and spoke model and we are now moving forward, one step at a time.”

Division 10 Councillor David Law said the first stage would secure funding to undertake a detailed investigation and design of the trail.

“A detailed plan would then allow Council to apply for grants and funding from other levels of government for the trail’s construction,” Cr Law said.

“Some funding for this first stage could potentially come from the SEQ City Deal for the Blue Heart as well as other sources.

“We look forward to regular meetings with the group to continue this exciting project.”

JWG Secretary Fiona Hughes said the Joint Working Group was excited at the positive response and engagement by Council.

“We really look forward to working with Council toward our aim to have the Nambour to Coolum Trail in place by the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games”.

A draft Nambour to Coolum Trail map