Noosa Council has hailed its efforts on projects and initiatives, highlighting a string of achievements across the region.
The council issued a media release stating that it had “delivered strong results” against its 2025-26 Operational Plan, with more than 80 per cent of approved projects completed or on track, including continued progress on infrastructure, affordable housing, environmental protection and community wellbeing.
Mayor Frank Wilkie said the annual plan tracked council’s commitment to delivering services, projects and outcomes for the community.
“From major infrastructure projects and affordable housing to environmental conservation and disaster resilience, we’re delivering practical outcomes that support our community today while planning responsibly for the future,” he said.
“Achieving 80 initiatives completed or on track is a strong result and highlights the dedication of council staff, councillors and our community partners.”
Housing affordability remained a key focus, with council supporting increased options for locals.
The affordable housing project at 62-64 Lake Macdonald Drive reached major milestones during the year, including completion of site remediation works and securing $4.1 million through the state government’s Residential Activation Fund.
The development will deliver 25 affordable homes for local families, young people and seniors on the Queensland Social Housing Register.
Planning for Noosa’s future also remained a priority, with council adopting a new 10-year Destination Management Plan to guide tourism and visitor management in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond.
More than 2900 residents, businesses and visitors contributed their views to help shape the plan.
CEO Larry Sengstock said council had also achieved important milestones in the future direction of tourism.
“The Tourism Noosa Roadmap and the new Tourism Noosa Funding and Performance Deed establish a clear pathway for the future of tourism in our region,” Mr Sengstock said.
“These initiatives support destination stewardship and ensure tourism continues to contribute positively to our economy while protecting the lifestyle and environmental values that make Noosa unique.”
Environmental protection continued to be a major focus, with council securing a 121-hectare conservation property at Kin Kin through the Environment Levy Program.
The acquisition protects a critical wildlife corridor on the Cootharaba Range and safeguards habitat for endangered species.
Council also advanced practical sustainability initiatives, including the commissioning of the Noosaville Community Battery, which stores excess rooftop solar energy and supports a cleaner, more resilient local energy network.
Community wellbeing, accessibility and resilience were also key achievements during the year.
Council awarded the contract for a new Changing Places facility at Gympie Terrace, which will provide accessible amenities for people with high support needs and their carers.
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Support for local residents and community organisations included more than $258,000 in Community Grants for local events, projects and infrastructure and almost $84,000 in Environment and Climate Change Response Grants.
The Individual Sports Development Grant Program was also introduced, supporting local athletes and coaches competing at national and international levels.
Future planning was informed through extensive community engagement, including Phase 2 consultation on the Draft Noosa Botanic Gardens Master Plan and completion of the Noosa Liveability Survey.
Council also strengthened preparedness for emergencies, undertaking more than 650 disaster preparedness engagement activities and distributing 350 emergency readiness packs to residents across the shire.
Progress was also made on one of the year’s most significant infrastructure projects, the upgrade of Doonella Lake Bridge, to extend the life of the 58-year old transport connection between Tewantin and Noosaville.
“We remain focused on protecting Noosa’s unique character, enhancing liveability and delivering the projects and services our community needs and expects,” Mayor Wilkie said.
