Plans to transform 65ha of Sunshine Coast pasture into an ecological park have won a national award.
The Sunshine Coast Ecological Park Master Plan took out a Landscape Planning award at the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects national awards, after picking up two Queensland awards earlier this year.
Sunshine Coast Council Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Tim Burns said an ecological park differed to traditional parks as it was a place that considered people, wildlife, resources and vegetation equally.
Cr Burns said the award-winning project aimed to restore and protect a 65ha site adjoining Maleny’s Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve.
He said the master plan, developed for Council by Hassell Studio, included walking trails, wetlands, a forest lookout tower, treetop boardwalks, events space, a community hub with a café and facilities for research and operations.
“This will be a place that inspires care and respect for our environment, community and culture for generations to come.
“That’s a legacy that will extend far beyond the park’s boundaries.”
In announcing the award, judges applauded the “innovative strategy to transform the former pasture into a place for community to connect with nature and each other”.
“The plan harmoniously blends human activities with ecological restoration and the celebration of cultural heritage, pioneering a new standard for cohabitation,” the judges said.
“It aims to foster nature-based recreation and provide opportunities for educational and research endeavours.
“The plan was developed with vital input from the Jinibara Traditional Owners and is deeply rooted in the principle of Healing Country.”
Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said the initial phase of implementing the master plan was underway.
“With the help of Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve volunteers and staff, as well as other local organisations, we are continuing bush regeneration activities in existing areas of focus for restoration,” Cr Johnston said.
“Meanwhile our flora, fauna and fungi surveys and other site investigations are helping us to prepare for this long-term restoration and community project.”
Learn more about the Sunshine Coast Ecological Park.
