COMMUNITY consultation is now open for the Mount Ninderry Environment Reserve draft landscape plan which is looking at opening up a previously inaccessible part of the mountain.
Mount Ninderry Environment Reserve, on Kabi Kabi country, is a place favoured by many and Sunshine Coast Council has developed a draft landscape plan to share more of it with people of all abilities – in a way that conserves its ecological and cultural values.
The plan has been prepared in partnership with the Kabi Kabi First Nations people and through targeted workshops with Councillors, reserve neighbours, key stakeholders and community groups.
Until July 15 the community can participate in planning for the mountain’s future by sharing their thoughts on the Mount Ninderry experience at haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
Kabi Kabi man Kerry Jones said Mount Ninderry was very important 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,” Mr Jones 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.”
Plan for Mount Ninderry’s future
The draft landscape plan follows on from the recommendations of a management plan that was prepared in 2021, recognising the growing popularity of Mount Ninderry with only one trail option currently available.
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. This shed will provide room for tools, workshops and training activities, and supporting community efforts to care for the land.
New walking trails are proposed and there will also be all abilities access, and a new cultural and education node area is proposed to the east of the peak.
These new experiences will offer sustainable and culturally sensitive access for the community to appreciate and enjoy the mountain and its beautiful natural environment.
Tell your story of Mount Ninderry
Sunshine Coast Division 10 Councillor David Law said Mount Ninderry was a picturesque backdrop for people to get out, be active and connect to Country.
“Across the years, Council has been able to expand the original environment reserve which is now 199 hectares,” Cr Law said.
“There is so much more to Mount Ninderry than a hike to the top of the mountain and 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!”
Share your story of Mount Ninderry at haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au before July 15 or drop in and speak to an officer at the Mount Ninderry trailhead between 9am-noon July 7 at Ninderry Road, Ninderry.
