More powered campsites and expanded amenities are on the cards for two holiday parks, thanks to a combined $2.28 million funding injection.
The money was allocated in the 2025-26 Sunshine Coast Council budget, delivered in June, to support growing demand at the parks.
Cotton Tree Holiday Park and Dicky Beach Holiday Park will benefit from the key upgrades.
As one of the region’s oldest waterfront parks, the budget outlined that Cotton Tree Holiday Park would receive $1.35 million to continue works on formalising powered tent sites.
It follows on from a 2024-25 budget commitment of $861,000, which a council spokesperson said would be carried across to this year after prolonged wet weather.
“The project will convert unpowered and unmarked sites into formalised powered tent sites, improving usability and safety for guests,” the spokesperson said.
“This includes numbering sites, defining boundaries and installing power and water connections, as well as addressing long-standing drainage issues.
“This iconic park is uniquely positioned between the Maroochy River and the ocean, and has welcomed campers and caravanners for more than 140 years.
“Most of the funding for Cotton Tree Holiday Park is a carry-over from the previous financial year.
“Progress was delayed due to poor weather conditions and this year’s allocation will ensure the project is completed to a high standard.”
Meanwhile, Dicky Beach Holiday Park will receive $925,535 to expand amenities with the addition of a new toilet and shower block.
“These improvements will enhance guest comfort by providing more facilities to meet increasing demand,” the spokesperson said.
“The park continues to attract high visitor numbers and the additional amenities will help ensure it remains a welcoming and well-equipped destination for holidaymakers.
“Construction is expected to begin later this year, following final design and procurement processes.”
Related story: Holiday park buildings set for $1.5m upgrade
Sunshine Coast Council-owned holiday parks welcomed more than 125,000 visitors last year, contributing close to $12 million to the local economy.
The network of holiday parks includes locations at Dicky Beach, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Cotton Tree, Coolum and Mudjimba.
