Residents, businesses, tourism operators, community groups and young people have had their say about the future of tourism in an iconic region of the Coast.
Noosa Council received more than 900 survey responses and a high volume of written submissions during a six-week public consultation period for the draft Destination Management Plan (DMP).
It followed on from extensive community engagement council undertook in September 2023 to gauge community sentiment and inform the development of the draft DMP.
At that time, more than 3000 pieces of community feedback were received from residents, businesses, Traditional Owners and visitors.
Mayor Frank Wilkie said the recent strong response represented one of the most engaged community feedback campaigns in recent years and reflected the community’s deep interest in shaping the future of tourism in Noosa.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts,” he said.
“The level of engagement shows how much our community cares about the future of tourism in Noosa and managing it in a way that protects our unique lifestyle, natural assets and values.
“It is particularly pleasing to see strong numbers of survey responses and submissions from young people who live in our shire.
“Council has a strong focus on ensuring our youngsters are informed, empowered and incentivised to speak up on the DMP.
“Over the past few weeks we visited a number of schools to explain what the draft DMP is all about and why it is important for them – as our future community leaders – to help shape the DMP and what it will deliver for Noosa.”
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Residents, businesses, tourism operators and community groups were also invited to participate in several community workshops that were held throughout the shire during August.
Feedback from September 2023 outlined four key areas for improvement: to protect the environment, improve short-term accommodation management, address traffic management and reduce congestion, and align tourism with community values.
Potential solutions for traffic management, which was identified as a priority by 69 per cent of people, include introducing timed or paid parking while considering low or no cost for residents, more park-and-ride options and introducing a congestion charge.
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With 75 per cent of people concerned about the environment, the plan also proposes to sustainably manage access and congestion to locations including Noosa North Shore, Noosa River, Cooloola Recreation Area, Teewah Beach and Noosa Heads National Park. This could include exploring the use of technologies such as mobility sensors and real-time apps to ensure visitor numbers and activities are sustainable.
Council was now analysing the 900 survey results and feedback it received to help shape the final version of the Destination Management Plan.
“These insights from our community will play a vital role in guiding tourism policy and planning for the years ahead,” Cr Wilkie said.
The final DMP is expected to be presented to council later this year.
