A concept plan for a new district park with four distinct areas is being refined after strong community input, with almost 160 submissions helping to guide the project.
The Sunshine Coast Council thanked residents for their feedback on the draft concept plan for the Maleny District Park, which is set to include zones labelled The Lookout, The Bails, The Hill and The Hub.
Councillor Winston Johnston said the community’s ideas and responses were instrumental in shaping the plan.
“The new district park will be a place for our community to come and enjoy the outdoors together, as they experience all that our vibrant town centre and surrounds have to offer,” he said.
“In May this year, we shared the draft concept plan, asking if we got it right and I’m pleased to say our community answered with enthusiasm.
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“We received just under 2300 views of the project site and almost 160 submissions: a fantastic result that shows how much people care about the future of this park.
“Your feedback helped us refine the concept plan to ensure it reflects the needs and values of the Maleny community.”
The draft concept plan sets the blueprint for the park’s long-term multi-staged development which will be subject to future budget allocations.
It proposes four areas, each offering a unique experience.
The Lookout is set to be a scenic picnic area along North Maleny Road, with trails and sweeping views across the precinct. It received a 4 or 5-star rating out of five stars from 57 per cent of respondents, with strong support for new paths and picnic areas.
The Bails is expected to be a relaxed gathering space near the old Fairview Milking Bails, featuring open lawns, picnic spots and a small playground. It was rated 4 or 5 stars out of five stars by 53 per cent of respondents, with calls for more nature-based play and shaded seating.
The Hill is touted as a more adventurous zone next to Cloudwalk Estate, with a proposed mountain bike skills course, ‘mega’ slide and wetland views. It received a 4 or 5-star rating out of five stars from 54 per cent of respondents, with the bike course and trails among the most popular features.
The Hub is anticipated to be the park’s activity heart, with a fenced dog area, youth zone, toilets, multi-sports courts and picnic facilities. This area received the highest support, with 58 per cent rating it 4 or 5 stars out of five stars, and strong backing for youth and dog-friendly features.
Cr Johnston said the four areas would be linked by an expanded trail network and supported by convenient parking.
“We’ve designed each space to reflect the natural beauty of the area while incorporating the ideas our community told us matter most,” he said.
Just over half of respondents felt the draft plan captured the essence of the area, inspired by Obi Obi Creek and the surrounding farmlands.
A further 25 per cent were unsure, offering valuable suggestions for refinement that have been considered and incorporated where possible.
Council is now refining the concept plan based on community feedback.
The top five priorities identified for Stage 1 at The Hub zone include a youth activity area toilet facilities, a primary footpath network, a linking trail network and a fenced dog exercise area.
Once finalised, the plan will be presented to the council for endorsement and shared with the community via the Have your Say Sunshine Coast website.
