Work has begun on a new masterplan for a botanical garden that opened 34 years ago.
Noosa Council has appointed a stakeholder reference group to assist in developing a new plan for the Noosa Botanic Gardens at Lake Macdonald, near Cooroy.
The council’s director of infrastructure services, Shaun Walsh, said the plan would set a new direction for people’s future enjoyment and botanical appreciation of the space.
A stakeholder reference group, comprising council and community representatives, has been appointed to help develop the new plan with consultants and staff.
The reference group includes representatives of Friends of the Noosa Botanic Gardens, Seqwater, Noosa Hinterland Residents Association, Cooroy Area Ratepayers Association, Cooroy Chamber of Commerce, Cooroy Future Group, Outdoors Queensland and Tourism Noosa.
It will be chaired by Councillor Jessica Phillips and also include councillors Karen Finzel and Amelia Lorentson.
Mr Walsh said there would be opportunities for members of the public to have their say on the new masterplan, which will cover facilities, uses and an over-arching vision for the gardens.
“It’s also important to note that there’ll be a broader community consultation program, so as well as the stakeholder reference group, of course we’ll be going out to the broader community to get their views and thoughts on any future changes or proposals for the botanic gardens,” he said.
The gardens opened in 1990 and have since become a much-loved destination for locals and visitors who enjoy walks, picnics, photography and horticulture.
Mr Walsh said the Friends of Noosa Botanic Gardens and other community members had volunteered much time and energy over the years to maintain the gardens in a successful collaboration with the council.
“After 30 years the time is right for us to develop this new masterplan and so we’re excited to continue that collaboration to guide the future of this much-loved asset,” he said.
“The gardens will of course continue to provide an inclusive, connected, and vibrant place for our community to share, with the masterplan process to consider the evolving needs and interests of residents across the shire.
“We will continue to work alongside our local Kabi Kabi and Jinibara First Nations peoples in an exchange of ideas for enriching the culture of the gardens.”
Mayor Frank Wilkie expressed his support for the masterplan process.
“We are in the very early stages of planning and look forward to consulting our community in the months ahead with a range of opportunities planned,” he said.
For information on the Noosa Botanic Gardens click here.
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