Tree clearing at a popular resort has sparked community concern, with a resident describing the removal of vegetation as a “massacre”.
The works at RACV Noosa Resort are part of an approved 15-villa development and environmental rejuvenation project at 94 and 142 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads.
RACV Noosa Resort manager Darren McClenaghan said the vegetation removal was part of an approved environmental rejuvenation project developed with specialist advice.
However, the works have prompted strong opinions among some residents, who have questioned the extent of vegetation being removed and its impact on wildlife and the character of the area.
On Facebook, Josie Woo said: “Really! What the heck is going on. RACV resort massacred trees. What is happening to this town”.
Janet Daly said: “Should never have been allowed to build there in the first place. Made me so sad when this was allowed. All the mangroves and old trees smashed for that eyesore”.
Nik Dodt said: “Saw that today. Soon there will be no bloody green spaces left. Just stop”.
Kate Hut said: “Very sad for wildlife”.
The new development was approved following an 18-month Planning and Environment Court appeal involving RACV and Noosa Council.
The approval followed changes to the original proposal, with conditions covering matters including building height, amenity, building appearance, stormwater drainage, landscaping and tree retention.
Council initially refused the application in November 2023, citing concerns about an “unacceptable loss of vegetation” and conflicts with the Noosa Plan 2020.
Updated plans lodged with the court in July 2025 showed 100 trees would be removed to make way for the cabins, while 142 would be retained.
The amended proposal also reduced the ground floor area and moved the development so all built form would be located within the Tourist Accommodation Zone.
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Noosa Council later said it was “satisfied” with the amended proposal and the conditions imposed on the development.
The resort is now progressing with construction under the approved development plans and conditions.
Mr McClenaghan said the project was designed over more than four years with an ecologist, a koala habitat specialist and a qualified arborist consultant.
“The advice we received was consistent – invasive frangipani vine (Chonemorpha fragrans) had engulfed established trees across the site and was driving the decline of the area’s vegetation,” he said.
“Without intervention, the ecological corridor would have continued to deteriorate.
“The approved plan involves removing a small area of selected vegetation, rehabilitates retained habitat and funds long-term environmental management.”
RACV Noosa Resort was asked how many trees had been removed from the site so far but had not responded at the time of publication.
