THE community-based Maleny Pathways Working Group received an overwhelming response to its recent survey assessing the safety and accessibility of getting around Maleny without a car. The 409 responses have been collated into a comprehensive report that shows a notable absence of safe, connecting pathways in Maleny.
Report findings will be presented at a public forum hosted by Maleny Forums in the Maleny Community Centre on Monday, October 18.
Report co-author Cath Ovenden is keen for people to hear the survey results first-hand and give further valuable input before the group finalises the report.
Cath said it was clear Maleny people felt strongly about the issue with 6% of residents completing the survey.
“We look forward to presenting the results and taking questions from the floor,” Cath said.
Maleny’s population has doubled since 1991. The town was recently voted as Australia’s most welcoming town by ‘Australian Traveller’. Spending in Maleny increased by 20% in the January-March quarter compared with the same period in 2020.
“The population and tourism increase, coupled with the fact there has been no significant spending on pathways in Maleny for more than 12 years, means there are urgent community safety issues,” Cath said.
“Residents and tourists expect to be able to easily and safely walk to and around our beautiful town. This is not possible at the moment.”
Local councillor Winston Johnson has accepted an invitation to attend the forum and will answer community questions.
The final report will be circulated widely to Sunshine Coast Council and state government representatives.
What: Public Forum
When: Monday, October 18, 5.30–6.30pm
Where: Maleny Community Centre hall
Cost: Free. Registration essential at www.trybooking.com/BUITD
All welcome
