Nominate now for Point Cartwright Reserve and La Balsa Park Community Reference Group

Nominations are now open for a Sunshine Coast Council Community Reference Group (CRG) to contribute to the development of a master plan for the Point Cartwright Reserve and La Balsa Park area.

Division 4 Councillor Joe Natoli said the reference group would provide a forum for the community to provide input into the future planning and management of this coastal area which would include an analysis of the site, current uses, understanding environmental opportunities and constraints, values and vision, ecological sustainability and proposed actions, priorities, and costs to be considered for implementation.

“To do this, we need to speak with the community and listen to their views and needs so we can ensure a safe, shared space and preserve our natural environment for years to come,” Cr Natoli said.

“We’re at an early pre-planning phase and we want to gain a more detailed and a factual understanding about how the area is being used.

“It’s really no surprise how increasingly popular this area is within Division 4, with the headland providing a great recreation area and sweeping views from Mooloolaba to Coolum.”

The group will play a vital role in connecting with the local community, shaping community engagement, sharing project information and, importantly, providing an insight into the challenges and opportunities within the area.

The Point Cartwright Reserve and La Balsa Park master planning process will allow council to gain a more detailed and factual understanding about how the picturesque area is being used by the community and once finalised, will guide future use, management, and infrastructure investment.

It's very important we get input from a diverse range of community voices - Cr Cox.

View looking out to ocean from Point Cartwright.

Environment and Liveability portfolio Cr Cox said establishing a CRG was an important component of the project’s community engagement and participation process.

“It’s very important we get input from a diverse range of community voices and ensure that everyone has an opportunity to be heard,” Cr Cox said.

“Anyone who loves this beautiful corner of the Sunshine Coast – locals, residents, business owners, people with environmental interests, young people, people who love walking their dog or exercising in the area – we want to hear from you, so please send your expression of interest to council.”

Forming a CRG is a tried and tested approach - Cr Natoli

The CRG is just one of the ways interested community members will be able to get involved in the project and council will progressively keep the community informed on engagement activities as the project progresses.

The CRG will consist of an independent chair, up to 10 community members, and councillor representation. Members are expected to attend four meetings with their role equating to approximately two to six hours per month.

“Forming a CRG is a tried and tested approach – as we have seen with our Biosphere nomination and the development of the Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy,” Cr Cox said.

“Council anticipates significant outcomes can be realised through this collaborative initiative.”

Aerial view of Point Cartwright Reserve and Mooloolah River entrance.

Council expects to finalise the Master Plan next year which will provide a long-term vision for this coastal area and identify how it should be managed and function into the future.

Visit council’s Point Cartwright Reserve and La Balsa Park Master Plan webpage for details and download an Expression of Interest pack.

Expressions of interest are due by 5pm on Tuesday, October 26, 2021.

There are several ways to submit your expression of interest:

• Email [email protected]
• Visit reception at council’s administration buildings in Caloundra, Maroochydore or Nambour
• Mail Erin Johnston, Design and Placemaking, Sunshine Coast Council Locked Bag 72, SCMC 4560
• Visit Council's website: Point Cartwright Reserve and La Balsa Park Master Plan

Members for the CRG will be selected using an advisory panel in accordance with the CRG Terms of Reference

Point Cartwright Reserve fast facts

• Located near the mouth of the Mooloolah River, Point Cartwright is renowned for its scenic beauty and landmark lighthouse.
• The current reinforced concrete pentagonal lighthouse tower, measuring 32.4 metres in height, was opened in 1979 replacing the earlier lighthouse that had been guiding ships into Moreton Bay since 1896.
• The popular walking track starts from either La Balsa Park on Harbour Parade, or the Reserve carpark at the end of Pacific Boulevard, Buddina.
• The Point Cartwright trail is part of the 96km Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway.