Scores of locals have signalled their opposition to a proposal for walking tracks, vantage points and education areas at a well-known mountain.
A petition with 175 signatures was submitted to Sunshine Coast Council, expressing concern about the Mount Ninderry Draft Landscape Plan.
The plan has been developed 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, neighbours, key stakeholders and community groups.
A community engagement phase showed there was plenty of support and ideas for the proposal.
But there was also some kickback.
Maroochy River resident Mike Mooney submitted a petition with the worries of many.
“We are concerned about the negative impact the draft plan will have on the Ninderry Rise Estate community,” he stated on behalf of the signatories.
“The proposed establishment of walking trails and a car park at the end of Ocean Vista Drive threatens the safety and tranquility of the estate.
“Families now face significant increases in traffic on roads not designed to handle such pressure. The plan will compromise the very essence of our neighbourhood.”
Council environmental operations manager Adam Connell responded to Mr Mooney and ensured him that the project team would “review all feedback received, including the valuable input from residents of Ninderry Rise”.
“We recognise the concerns about increased traffic on roads not designed to handle significant pressure,” he said.
“The intention of the plan is not to transfer traffic issues but to manage existing and future use sustainably while preserving the unique, natural qualities of the area.
“The feedback from the community, including the concerns about traffic and environmental impact, will be carefully reviewed. Following this review, further studies/investigations can be commissioned to help refine the plan.”
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.
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.
The community engagement summary drew 55 email submissions, three community group submissions and 60 notes submitted at the onsite talking post.
There was a range of support for the proposed new trails and facilities, citing enhanced accessibility, safety, and improved visitor experience.
A council spokesperson expanded on the engagement summary.
“It’s clear from the range of feedback we received that the mountain is a special place for many people in our community,” he said.
“The most supported theme was for sharing more information about the Kabi Kabi cultural heritage in relation to Mount Ninderry.
“The main cause of concern was from the rock-climbing community that rock-climbing might be prohibited.
“In response to the consultation, the Australian Rock Climbing Association will be applying for a permit through council to seek to have their activities formally authorised.
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“Additional concerns were raised regarding improvements to visitor experience leading to an increase in popularity and traffic on approaching streets which could affect the residents.”
The engagement summary stated that respondents expressed concern about the potential impact on the natural environment.
Responses were strongly divided between those who wanted to maintain access in a bushland setting for dog walking and those who were opposed.
Opposition cited the environment reserve’s conservation values and dogs off leash chasing wildlife, particularly kangaroos.
The council spokesperson said it was a long-term initiative and any works would not start for some time.
“The next steps are to conduct further technical investigations and focus group sessions to refine the plan,” they said.
“As council is in the early planning stages, there may not be any construction for several years and any changes are likely to be small scale.
“We encourage anyone interested in learning more to read the extensive consultation report at Have Your Say.”
