Public toilets will soon be installed at the entrance to one of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular walking tracks.
Work is set to start on a $475,000 public amenities block at the base of Mount Coolum in August, and it should be open by November.
The Sunshine Coast Council issued a media release stating the facility was “much-needed” at Mount Coolum National Park, which is visited by more than 200,000 people each year.
The build is a joint initiative of Sunshine Coast Council and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, and Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell lauded the project.
“We’re glad to be partnering with Sunshine Coast Council to deliver a new accessible and modern public amenities block to service Mount Coolum National Park,” Mr Powell said.
“The Queensland Government is committed to improving the facilities at all our national parks so visitors can enjoy our incredible natural landscapes in comfort.”
Sunshine Coast councillor Taylor Bunnag said it was important to maintain and improve parks and recreational spaces across the region.
“We’re pleased to be able to provide amenities here so the thousands of people who visit to enjoy nature can also answer nature’s call comfortably,” he said.
“Currently, the nearest public toilets are located almost 2km away in Birrahl Park so providing amenities at Mount Coolum will be a welcome improvement for both residents and visitors.
“Council is appreciative of the initial funding commitment made by the previous state government in August 2024 and the ongoing support of the current state government towards this project.”
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The council is investing $50,000 and partnering with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, which is providing $425,000 to design and construct the new amenities block.
Construction is scheduled to start in August, with completion expected by early November, depending on weather and site conditions.
“The prefabricated amenities block will be designed to improve security and safety for visitors to the park,” Cr Bunnag said.
“The amenities block will be open and accessible, and we’re designing it to help people feel safe while using the facilities. It will also be powered sustainably by its own solar system.”
Mount Coolum walking trails are midway between Noosa and Caloundra, with the David Low Way providing access to the park.
The car park entrance is near the junction of Tanah Street West and Jarnahill Drive, Coolum Beach.
The Mount Coolum summit walk (1.6km return) is a Grade 4 walking track suitable for fit walkers only. The summit is 208m above sea level.
