A draft landscape plan has been created for new walking tracks within previously inaccessible areas of a prominent mountain on the Sunshine Coast.
Sunshine Coast Council has developed the plan to provide more opportunities for people to explore the Mount Ninderry Environment Reserve, in a way that conserves its ecological and cultural values.
It was prepared in partnership with the Kabi Kabi First Nations people and through targeted workshops with councillors, reserve neighbours, key stakeholders and community groups.
The community can participate in planning for the mountain’s future by sharing their views before July 15.
Kabi Kabi man Kerry Jones said Mount Ninderry was a significant landmark to the Kabi Kabi people.
“It’s a part of our storyline, our legend that is connected to all these significant mountains and rivers around here,” he said.
“Kabi Kabi has been working with council and we have the opportunity to look at new trails and share the stories of the Kabi Kabi peoples.”
The draft landscape plan follows on from the recommendations of a management plan that was prepared in 2021, recognising the growing popularity of the mountain, where there is only one trail option.
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New walking trails have been proposed to create new experiences for hikers to appreciate the beauty and views of the mountain.
A new cultural and education node area is proposed to the east of the peak, to honour the Kabi Kabi connection to this land and to create opportunities for all-abilities access.
The intention will be to share the Kabi Kabi peoples’ story of Mount Ninderry, environmental facts, trail information and artwork.
A new workshop shed is proposed as a base for Kabi Kabi training and landcare volunteers.
The shed will provide room for tools, workshops and training activities, supporting community efforts to care for the land.
Councillor David Law said the mountain was a picturesque backdrop for people to be active and connect to Country.
“Across the years, council has been able to expand the original environment reserve, which is now 199 hectares,” he said.
“There is so much more to Mount Ninderry than a hike to the top of the mountain.
“We are excited to be able to share these new experiences with visitors through the draft landscape plan.
“It’s a plan for the mountain’s future.
“This infrastructure is costly and will take years to be fully developed, however the new opportunities proposed are worth waiting for.”
Councillor Maria Suarez encouraged community members to share their stories about Mount Ninderry online.
“They can also watch the video as the Traditional Owners, the Kabi Kabi people, share what Mount Ninderry means to them and why future planning matters,” she said.
“You’ll also discover how important its natural forests are to the Sunshine Coast’s plants, trees and wildlife.”
Visit Have Your Say before July 15 or speak to an officer at the Mount Ninderry trail head between 9am and noon on June 27 and July 7 at Ninderry Road.
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