By Sonia Isaacs
Plans for Maleny District Park are moving ahead, with community feedback released today (November 13) helping to guide the next stages of the project.
Community submissions were sought to help shape the design of a new district-level recreational park for Maleny, and the results show strong local engagement and enthusiasm for the park’s future.
With $900,000 allocated to progress stage one of the park’s design and implementation under Sunshine Coast Council’s 10-year capital works program, the project is now entering its next phase.
Council has thanked residents for their valuable input on the draft concept plan, which will guide the park’s long-term, multi-staged development – subject to future budget allocations.
Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said the feedback had played a vital role in refining the plan to ensure it reflects the unique character and aspirations of the Maleny community.
“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,” Cr Johnston 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. We received almost 2,300 views of the project site and nearly 160 submissions – a fantastic result that shows how much people care about the future of this park.”
The proposed plan outlines four distinct areas, each offering a unique experience:The Lookout, a scenic picnic area along North Maleny Road featuring trails and sweeping views.The Bails – a relaxed gathering space near the old Fairview Milking Bails, with lawns, picnic spots and a small playground. The Hill, an adventurous zone beside Cloudwalk Estate, with a proposed mountain bike skills course, ‘mega’ slide and wetland views and The Hub, the park’s activity heart, featuring a fenced dog area, youth zone, multi-sports courts, picnic facilities and toilets.
The four areas will be connected by an expanded trail network and supported by convenient parking.
Just over half of respondents felt the draft plan captured the essence of the area, inspired by Obi Obi Creek and surrounding farmlands, while a further 25 per cent provided suggestions for improvement – many of which have now been incorporated. Council is refining the concept plan, with the top five Stage 1 priorities at The Hub including a youth activity area, toilet facilities, primary footpath network, linking trail network and fenced dog exercise area
Once finalised, the plan will be presented to Council for endorsement and shared with the community via the Have Your Say Sunshine Coast website.
“This is a park for the people of Maleny, and we’re committed to getting it right,” Cr Johnston said.