Vanessa Hall
Editor
A long-touted rail trail linking the hinterland town of Nambour with the coastal strip at Coolum is one step closer to fruition with a working group established in an effort to oversee the establishment and initial planning of the trail.
On May 27, Sunshine Coast Council representatives met with the newly formed Nambour to Coolum Trail Joint Working Group, comprised of community members, to discuss the project’s opportunities, challenges and how to proceed.
Representatives from Coolum Residents Association were in attendance with President Ray Barber stating the original concept for the trail was first mentioned in 2017.
“Council approved the trail concept plan way back in March 2017 and we have strong support across the region and from the community for the trail.
“The Trail is quite a major project, but it will be a real shot in the arm for both
Coolum and Nambour residents and businesses, and for Bli Bli and other venues in
between”.
The working group was established in March of this year and comprises groups and people who have a general interest in the idea and includes the Nambour Chamber of Commerce and Maroochy Farmers Land Association.
Coolum resident and Joint Working Group spokesperson Fiona Hughes said the trail will be a huge win for the region.
“There will be no compulsory acquisitions of land for this trail, and we want to improve the amenity of the region and encourage people to get out of their cars.”
CRA President Ray Barber further stated the benefits of the trail.
“Imagine the fantastic variety of landscapes you would traverse on The Nambour to Coolum Trail – either all the way to Nambour or some of the way to Bli Bli or just a return
Trip – Coolum to the Blue Heart and all this on your bike, or as a great walk – free of cars.”
CRA has recognised the trail as a key project for the association to pursue, not only for the welfare and interests of the Coolum community but for all who are interested in healthy, safe, active, and environmentally friendly ways of getting around.
The residents association considers the first step from the Coolum end is to get west of the motorway and to the Blue Heart, the area of reserve west of Coolum which connects to the Yandina Wetlands.
COUNCIL RESPONDS
Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said Council was committed to working with the community to enhance our environment and quality of life.
“At the meeting with the Joint Working Group, it became clear that this is a complex project that could take many years to be developed,” Cr Suarez said.
“However, there are opportunities to deliver the trail in stages over the coming years, using a hub and spoke model and we are now moving forward, one step at a time.”
Division 10 Councillor David Law said the first stage would secure funding to undertake a detailed investigation and design of the trail.
“A detailed plan would then allow Council to apply for grants and funding from other levels of government for the trail’s construction,” Cr Law said.
“Some funding for this first stage could potentially come from the SEQ City Deal for the Blue Heart as well as other sources.
“We look forward to regular meetings with the group to continue this exciting project.”
After such a promising meeting the working group were happy to see Council enthusiastically supporting the trail with Fiona Hughes stating the benefits of the trail would reach far and wide.
“We really look forward to working with Council toward our aim to have the Nambour to Coolum Trail in place by the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
MORE INFO
Keen to see a rail trail that is already in place? Why not have a look online, or in person at the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail – www.brisbanevalleyrailtrail.com.au
To follow the development of the Nambour to Coolum Trail please follow along via Facebook at ‘Nambour to Coolum Rail Trail’.