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Beachgoers were awestruck and surfers were ecstatic when an unusual event occurred on the Sunshine Coast during the weekend
A crowd gathered to watch and ride perfect waves forged by a runout from Currimundi Lake after heavy rain
Stuart Cordingley was among those to witness it and shared a video of surfers and bodyboarders having the time of their lives
“The lads there were very confident and experienced,” he said
it is not dangerous for experienced surfers
“The lifeguards were in the background keeping an eye on things.”
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“Every four to five minutes a combination of the flow speed
the position of the sand base and the tide created a one metre rideable wave,” he said
“Half a dozen local surfers were taking advantage of the conditions created by the runout tide
“I have only seen it this good on rare occasions and it usually only lasts for a few hours.”
The clip captured plenty of attention on social media
“That’s insane,” Lauren Roberts said
“How good is that?” Dave Spiller added
“I dream of this: epic,” Ariel Albert exclaimed
“They look like they’re having so much fun,” Karen Johnson said
“So impressive,” Tiffany Gray Slade stated
“Not for the faint-hearted,” Amy Bennett added
The runout happens just a few times a year
It can occur when locals break open the lake to form their own wave or when Sunshine Coast Council opens the late using machinery
Mr Cordingley said council had created the latest event
and the council posted a story of them opening the lake to relieve the risk of flooding (on Saturday morning).”
He said the waves would last “until the tide turns or the opening gets too wide … usually only a few hours.”
Local Kyle O’Donnell has previously told Sunshine Coast News that the conditions need to be perfect for the event to occur
“There is more to it than just shovelling sand to successfully create the stationary wave,” he said
“You can only do it when there is a lot of rain and the lake has to be full
“You have to wait because it might not even work
If you don’t open it the right way or have the right current
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The Caloundra to Currimundi (C2C) Active Transport Corridor project aims to deliver a safe and comfortable route to significantly increase the number of people walking and riding in these communities
This will be achieved by creating an inclusive walking and riding outcome for people of all ages and abilities
including safety improvements for riders continuing on road
The C2C Active Transport Corridor is located along the Queensland Government’s Principal Cycle Network (PCN)
The C2C corridor is a high priority as it links many centres and schools to provide valuable and safe active transport connections for people walking
The publicly available PCN Plan map published in 2016 shows the corridor alignment along Maltman Street and Buccleigh Street
After State Government consultation in 2022
the draft PCN map has been updated to move the alignment to George Street and Tooway Parade
The Active Transport route will enable people of all ages and abilities to safely enjoy getting where they need to go
The corridor will help create calmer streets
and integrate effectively with surrounding open space areas
Council will aim to maintain the existing supply of car parking within the project area
The Australian and Queensland governments are together contributing $1.9 million in funding through the South East Queensland (SEQ) Liveability Fund under the SEQ City Deal towards stage 3 of the C2C Active Transport Corridor
C2C is recognised on Queensland Government’s Principal Cycle Network
The proposed project route will link Caloundra to Currimundi
connecting six schools and linking to six centres
Consultation was open between 4 November and 5pm
We invited community members to provide feedback via an online survey
Your input and feedback will assist us to:
Sunshine Coast Council’s Corporate Plan 2024-2028 includes ‘Our Strong Community’ goal
This encourages a healthy and active community through planning and delivery of the transport network to support active transport modes (walking and cycling)
To align with strategic priorities, the project will also reference Council’s Active Transport Plan
the emergence of personal mobility devices
and improved active transport standards and guidelines
This project will have two phases of community engagement
Feedback gathered during Phase 1 will be used to inform planning and design of the corridor
It will ensure that we recognise and address any potential issues or concerns
In April 2025 as part of phase 2 community engagement
we will share the outcomes from Phase 1 community engagement and present the corridor design to our community for feedback and commentary
Feedback received during Phase 2 will be used to finalise the corridor detailed design
Funding is required to progress other stages to design and construction
We will keep our community updated with information as it becomes available
If you would like to remain updated on this project, please follow the project via Have Your Say Sunshine Coast
E: [email protected]
P: 07 5475 7272 (stating project number P-K5925 Caloundra to Currimundi Active Transport Corridor)
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now’s the time to have your say to help shape two major active transport corridors on the Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast Council is planning to deliver safe and inclusive active transport corridors
riding bikes and using personal mobility devices including e-scooters
The two corridors will improve the active transport network connecting Mooloolaba to the University of the Sunshine Coast
Council is inviting community input to understand safety issues and opportunities along these two routes
The Australian and Queensland governments are each contributing $1.9 million in funding through the South East Queensland (SEQ) Liveability Fund
towards sections of the active transport corridors
Planning for the entire route of these corridors is a multi-year
long-term project and funding will be required to progress the other stages to design and construction
Both routes are recognised on Queensland Government’s Principal Cycle Network
the Mooloolaba to University (M2U) corridor will offer a 10-kilometre route connecting six schools
shopping centres and the communities of Mooloolaba
The Caloundra to Currimundi (C2C) corridor will provide a safe and direct six-kilometre ‘spine’ connecting six schools
shopping centres and the communities within Currimundi
Sunshine Coast Council Transport Portfolio Councillor David Law said Council aimed to deliver connected
safe and sustainable transport systems for the region
ensuring all members of the community could move around safely and enjoyably
“On average more than 70,000 people per week ride bicycles on the Sunshine Coast,” Cr Law said
“Through Council’s ThinkChange program we are also supporting engagement on the Active Transport Corridor with initiatives such as the recent successful Biketober promotion
“This encouraged community and workplace cycling participation
“Walking and cycling will play an increasingly important transport role in the future and we’re planning now to help support this
“Active transport along these two corridors will deliver improved mobility
and I encourage our communities in these areas to share your feedback with us.”
The M2U Active Transport Corridor project aims to deliver a safe and comfortable route to significantly increase the number of people walking and riding between Mooloolaba and the University of the Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast Council Division 6 Councillor Christian Dickson encouraged people to have their say to help Council create an inclusive walking and riding outcome for people of all ages and abilities
“All members of our community deserve to feel safe and welcome on our streets,” Cr Dickson said
“This active transport corridor connecting Mooloolaba to the University of the Sunshine Coast will ensure that more people can get around safely
and integrate effectively with surrounding open space area.”
Sunshine Coast Council Division 3 Councillor Tim Burns said according to last year’s Queensland Household Travel Survey
almost 80,000 total daily trips were made by active transport in the Sunshine Coast region in 2023
“For active transport on the Sunshine Coast
the average travel distance and time for bike riding is 2.3km and 14 minutes
and for walking is 0.8km and 15minutes,” Cr Burns said
“The Caloundra to Currimundi Active Transport Corridor will deliver a safe and comfortable route to significantly increase the number of people walking and riding within Currimundi
“This active transport route will create safer and more accessible streets
“It will reduce the need for interaction between motorists and people walking or riding bikes on roads
Cr Law said stakeholder and community engagement would play an important role in ensuring connectivity and accessibility measures were tailored to community needs
“We want to hear from residents so we can find out how active transport can be improved and used by more people in our community,” Cr Law said
“Between November 4 and November 29 we invite our community to provide feedback via an online survey
“Your input and feedback will help us to better understand the issues and opportunities along these two corridors
understand the type of active transport infrastructure that is important to our community
and ensure connectivity and accessibility measures are tailored to the needs of the communities along these routes.”
Our community can provide feedback via Have Your Say Sunshine Coast by November 29
Select a button below to share your feedback on the M2U or C2C Active Transport Corridor
These projects will have two phases of community engagement
Feedback gathered during Phase 1 will be used to inform planning and design of the corridors
It will ensure that Council recognises and addresses any potential issues or concerns
Council will share the outcomes from Phase 1 community engagement and present the corridor designs to the community for feedback and commentary
Feedback received during Phase 2 will be used to finalise the detailed design of both corridors
Council will keep our community updated with information as it becomes available
This encourages a healthy and active community through planning and delivering the transport network to support active transport modes (walking and cycling)
the emergence of personal mobility devices and improved active transport standards and guidelines
Sunshine Coast Council is developing its new Active Transport Plan to provide a strategic
long-term plan which will support people walking and riding around our region
The SEQ Liveability Fund is one of 29 commitments being delivered under the $1.8 billion SEQ City Deal
a partnership between the Australian and Queensland governments and Council of Mayors (SEQ) to generate long-lasting benefits for the fast-growing region
Last updated : 06:00 AM, Fri 04 Apr 2025
Keep the kids off the couch and outside with Adventure Sunshine Coast these school holidays:
Rated easy: 3.8kmA great circuit alongside both sides of Currimundi Lake and the beach at the end.*NB - The lake mouth eastern crossing can be open at times making it impossible to cross without getting wet feet or sometimes not at all due to deep water and currents
Rated easy: 1.1kmPaddle around an island right in the middle of downtown Maroochydore in no time at all
Rated intermediate: 1.0kmA bush and coastline walk to one of the Sunshine Coast’s most spectacular headlands
part of the Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway
Rated easy: 3.3kmA great section of the coastal pathway with gorgeous beach views and lots of playgrounds and supporting facilities
Rated intermediate: 5kmA circuit paddle upstream and downstream through urban and bushland areas fringed with Paperbarks and She-oaks
Sunshine Coast Council acknowledges the Sunshine Coast Country
home of the Kabi Kabi peoples and the Jinibara peoples
We wish to pay respect to their Elders – past
and acknowledge the important role First Nations people continue to play within the Sunshine Coast community
Our Sunshine Coast is a free community website proudly produced by Sunshine Coast Council
Police are investigating the death of a woman on the Sunshine Coast
Emergency services were called to an address at Gannawarra Street
A 47-year-old woman was located at the address with non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Sunshine Coast University Hospital for treatment
The woman passed away in hospital on Monday
A 58-year-old Currimundi man was initially taken into custody at the scene and has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm (domestic violence offence) and obstructing police
He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on January 6
Investigations into the circumstances of the woman’s death are underway and a post-mortem is yet to be completed
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A 58-year-old man arrested and charged with assault occasioning bodily harm (domestic violence offence) as part of a Sunshine Coast sudden death investigation has had that charge upgraded to acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm (domestic violence offence)
The man remains remanded in custody to reappear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on 6 January
Police are investigating the death of a 47-year-old Currimundi woman
Emergency services were called to a Gannawarra Street address around at 4.40pm on Sunday 22 December following reports of a disturbance
The woman passed away in hospital the following day
A 58-year-old Currimundi man was taken into custody at the scene and initially charged with assault occasioning bodily harm (domestic violence offence)
Investigations into the circumstances of the woman’s death are underway
The WA autumn carnival is about to hit top gear in coming weeks with a slew of Group races and the $5million Quokka and the state’s best stallion Playing God got in early with a new stakes-winner last Sunday
Tough Playing God gelding Currimundi avenged a last start Bunbury Cup defeat and scored a determined victory in the Listed Pinjarra Cup (2300m)
The six year old has raced in stakes company for much of his 41 start career
but has found his niche as a country Cups performer
Currimundi is a half-brother to stakes-placed The Spruiker and is out of winning miler Pins Perhaps (Pins)
He is one of only two foals she left before an untimely demise - both of which have earned black type
underlying the sad loss of a valuable broodmare
Western Australia’s reigning Champion Sire Playing God continues to demonstrate his extraordinary consistency as a sire of versatile stakes class gallopers
The Darling View resident already has seven stakes winners to his name this season
with 23 stakes winners overall,and that number is likely to increase as Perth's Autumn carnival rolls on
Playing God maintains an impressive strike rate of 9% stakes winners to runners and in the mould of his sire Blackfriars
throws progeny that are keenly sought after for their soundness and temperament as well as ability
Many are quality juvenile performers that train on and give their connections an enjoyable ride over a number of seasons
Currimundi under regular jockey Shaun Mc Gruddy
came home from well off the pace to defeat Fear The Wind by a narrow margin in an exciting finish to the regional feature
With this win Currimundi adds to his 2024 Albany Cup 2100m - Diggers Cup 1800m double
He was also runner up in the Northam Cup 1600m last year and has the overall record of 11 wins and nine placings from 41 starts with prizemoney topping $750,000
Currimundi comes from a tough New Zealand based family featuring Group I winners Sphenophyta
at one time a raging Melbourne Cup favourite and Moss Downs
who claimed New Zealand features the Kelt Capital Stakes and Easter Handicap amongst a haul of black type victories
The family is a branch of the famous dynasty descending from taproot mare Manto (family 18) which since the earliest days of the studbook has supplied a stream of feature winners on both sides of the Tasman and is a family enjoying a great deal of the limelight on the Australian turf currently
as champion sire Written Tycoon hails from its ranks
Playing God descends from a mare strongly inbred to family 18 which is doubtless one contributing factor to the genetic prepotency of this impressive stallion
Playing God covered 136 mares last season at Darling View Thoroughbreds at a fee of $49,500
A stunning new beachfront mansion in a tightly held area is set to go under the hammer early next month
has attracted significant interest from prospective buyers ahead of its anticipated sale on August 3
More than a hundred people attended an initial inspection of the 766sqm block
while local and interstate buyers have also expressed plenty of enthusiasm
three-car space abode is just metres from the sand
Experienced real estate agent and licensee-in-charge at Next Property Group Sunshine Coast Richard Scrivener said the property was a rarity
“I’ve never been involved in a sale like this on the beachfront,” he said
“It’s unbelievable … such a high-quality home
a singular piece of art that won’t be repeated
“It’s a fantastic property high on the dunes.”
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Mr Scrivener said beachfront properties on the southern Sunshine Coast were tightly held
He said he couldn’t recall a premium beachfront property like this being sold
never … not that I can remember in 25 years,” he said
“A sale like this won’t be repeated here until someone decides to knock another house down and put themselves through two-and-a-half-years of pain (and build a new home)
Mr Scrivener said there was an obvious reason why there was a low turnover of beachfront homes in the area
You only have to stand on the back porch and look out (to the ocean) and you think ‘oh my God
“They’re generational properties and they rarely change hands
The owners managed to buy the property for $4.25 million in 2020
They demolished the old home there and had a lavish residence built on it
and they don’t need such a big house on the beach: they will downsize,” Mr Scrivener said
The residence was brought to life by Nick Hayes Construction
It boasts colonial design elements and coastal aesthetics
The home was designed to take advantage of the views
which gives you that feeling of safety on the beach.”
The property represents a golden opportunity for a buyer with deep pockets
“It’s a good size for someone who wants a nice holiday home
but I’m pretty sure a family will buy the home and live in it and keep it forever and ever,” he said
Given that very few prestige beachside homes in the area have been sold in recent years
“We’ll just see what people are prepared to pay for it,” Mr Scrivener said
But SCN believes that luxury homes close to the sand in exclusive areas have the potential to sell for more than $10 million
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Proactive maintenance work will begin today (Tuesday 28 April 2020) on the southern side of Currimundi Lake to protect the roads
Sunshine Coast Council Coastal Engineer Georgia Keeshan said the work is in response to the significant erosion that occurred during Tropical Cyclone Oma and following a large amount of rain in February
“The project will involve strengthening the southern side of the bank by relocating sand from an island at the lake’s entrance,” Ms Keeshan said
“The build-up of sand will form a ridge known as a berm
which will prevent the creek that links to Currimundi Lake from moving towards the southern bank and threatening the areas and spaces our community enjoys.”
An excavator and two large trucks will move the sand and a bulldozer will then shape the piles of sand
The berm also is used throughout the year when Council closes the lake for midge control
Division 3 Councillor Peter Cox urged the community to keep clear of the area until Thursday (30 April) while the work was taking place
“Currimundi Lake is well-loved by locals and visitors to our region and Sunshine Coast Council continually works to manage all the changes this very dynamic lake presents,” Cr Cox said
Signage and fencing will be in place for the duration of the maintenance
There will be some restrictions near the construction site
If you see smoke near the Mountain Creek Conservation Area
Council’s Natural Area Fire Management team will be undertaking prescribed burns
The burn area at Mountain Creek Conservation Area is 1.5 hectares and will take place from 10am – 6pm
Smoke may be seen in the local streets and from the Sunshine Motorway
At Lilac Park the burn area includes two 1.5 hectare sections and will be undertaken between 10am – 6pm
smoke may be visible around local streets in the area as well as from Nicklin Way
The aim of the burns is to reduce the volume of forest fuels and to create a mosaic pattern of burnt and unburnt areas within the reserve
Doing this will help reduce the intensity of any subsequent wildfires if they were to occur and provide favourable conditions for natural forest regeneration
Sunshine Coast Council is investigating the alleged deliberate poisoning of two sensitive coastal environments
About 250sqm of trees and shrubs in the Buddina Beach Foreshore Reserve have been destroyed at beach access 202
A similar incident has happened at Currimundi Lake
The council is investigating both cases and has installed a large warning sign at each location to highlight the damage and send a clear message that environmental vandalism will not be tolerated
The location of each sign has been selected to minimise any further impact on the environment and community safety
and will remain in place until the sites have regenerated
Councillor Joe Natoli said senseless damage had far-reaching consequences
“Buddina Beach is a vital nesting location for critically endangered loggerhead turtles
with data revealing nests are laid in and around this location each season,” he said
“Trees and shrubs in the dunes help to prevent light shining onto the beach
“Light pollution deters female turtles from laying and bright artificial light near nesting beaches can disorientate hatchlings
leading them away from the sea and toward inland areas and roads
Cr Natoli said each location had been lovingly cared for by hundreds of local volunteers either through BushCare
TurtleCare or at marine debris clean-up events
BushCare volunteers have spent almost 200 hours working hard to conserve the Buddina dunes
which are an important part of our coastline,” Cr Natoli said
TurtleCare citizen scientist volunteers have contributed more than 2200 hours
to the ongoing survival of critically endangered turtles by monitoring nesting mothers
relocating nests if necessary for hatchling survival
and providing essential data to support this protection of these majestic animal.”
Councillor Tim Burns said it was a similar story at Currimundi Lake
where volunteers had put in 335 hours protecting the well-loved lake and nature reserve
“Countless hours have been donated over many years by community groups – like the Currimundi Catchment Care Group and Friends of Currimundi Lake – and local people who help conserve the lake and clean up at initiatives such as Clean Up Australia Day,” he said
Cr Natoli has asked members of the community to help find the culprit or culprits by providing evidence of the identify of the offenders
“Council is investigating both sites and we are calling on the local residents to help,” he said
“Our natural environment is part of what makes the Sunshine Coast so special and if convicted of illegal damage
people can face significant fines of up to $131,580 from council
and more if found guilty under the Queensland Environmental Protection Act.”
Anyone with information on the destruction at Buddina or Currimundi Lake
or who has noticed suspicious vegetation damage occurring in council-managed reserves or parks
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Combatting the breeding of the dreaded biting midge at Currimundi Lake will occur earlier than planned this year after the lake entrance unexpectedly closed naturally
Sunshine Coast Council has manually closed the lake entrance off from the ocean in late August-early September
This year it is trialling an earlier closure to take advantage of nature’s helping hand
The lake remains open to the public for swimming and other recreational activities
Division 3 Councillor Peter Cox said the natural closure had occurred around six weeks earlier than when council had planned to bring in equipment to close off the entrance
“Council is taking this earlier closure as an opportunity to trial a different time period and compare its effectiveness in reducing midge larvae numbers to our usual
“Lake closures aim to flood the midge habitat
and disrupt the breeding cycle as much as possible
“It will be interesting to see what learnings we can garner from this early closure which will help us better plan for future years
if this opportunity proves to be unsuccessful in reducing midge numbers
another attempt could be made during August and September
“As with the mechanical closures in previous years
we will monitor the water quality in the lake closely and will reopen if any quality issues arise.”
Council plans to reopen the lake in 6-8 weeks
depending on larvae numbers obtained from sampling
Some works may occur on the northern bank of the mouth during this time to help with erosion
Sunshine Coast Council will carry out works this week to reinforce the foreshore area at Currimundi Lake
Image: Currimundi Lake works earlier this year
Following recent large swells and wet weather
Division 3 Cr Peter Cox said the works would see around 1000m3 of sand removed from inside the lake and placed on the beach to support the existing sand profile
“In recent weeks we’ve seen weather and swell events eroding a 300 metre section of the beach between the lake and the ocean,” Cr Cox said
“Recent predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology suggest these conditions could continue throughout the coming months
“Council will be undertaking these pre-emptive works over the next two days to ensure adjacent council assets are protected during the upcoming storm season
and to make sure everyone can enjoy this beautiful part of the coastline during our busiest time of year.”
with works starting today and expected to be complete on Thursday
Beach access will remain open while the work is completed but exclusion zones will be in place around the work areas to ensure public safety
Sunshine Coast Council is about to begin Currimundi Lake dredging works in order to re-nourish eroded sections of the lake foreshore
the scheme that will begin this week may take around 4 weeks to complete
This regular dredging campaign taking place upstream of the sand plug will replenish estuarine beaches that erode during storm events
and assists in managing the size and scale of the sand plug
Currimundi Lake is an important coastal asset for both the community and the local wildlife
The dynamic nature of the mouth and lack of hard structures such as training walls means active management of the entrance location is unavoidable to protect the assets that are on the southern side of the entrance to the lake
One management technique that Council uses is a sand ‘berm’ at the lake mouth
This has proven effective in directing the flow to the ocean
It also allows the entrance to be maintained generally to the central and northern sections of the lake mouth and protects the southern hard assets
from migration of the mouth and subsequent erosion
Due to erosion events such as storms this berm can be depleted of sand
officers from the Environmental Operations Branch organise the reconstruction of the berm
This is usually with large machinery such as 25 tonne excavators
To reconstruct the berm the Council must take sand from the sand plug at the entrance to the berm around 200m away
place the sand along the berm length then smooth out the surface with the dozers
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Currimundi Lake’s entrance to the Pacific Ocean has been re-opened following its natural closure earlier this year that reduced the cost of the annual attempt to reduce biting midge numbers
Sunshine Coast Council has manually closed the lake entrance in late August-early September to combat the breeding of the biting midge
This year,council’s program was trialed during the winter months after the lake entrance unexpectedly closed naturally in July
Division 3 Councillor Peter Cox said an extended period of dry weather had assisted the trial
but also heightened the focus on ensuring water quality was maintained within the lake during the closure
“The entrance to the lake is traditionally closed off at its high tide level in September to reduce midge larvaein an attempt to minmise the adult biting midge population,” Cr Cox said
“This year saw the program run earlier in the year to take advantage of the lake’s natural closure
“Results of the midge reduction program so far show the rate of larval mortality has been slower than during previous spring closures
reducing midge lave numbers by approximately 76%
“These results will be compared with those of our previous years to help us determine the whether factors such as timing and tides can increase the effectiveness of the program and help us to better plan future closures.”
Works began at 7.30am today (September 12) to re-open the lake’s entrance with a 20-tonne excavator digging out the sand berm as the tide dropped
“For a couple of years before the introduction of the closure program in 2007
larval biting midge abundance was very high in the Currimundi area
averaging up to 240 larvae per square metre in the lake,” Cr Cox said
“In the years since then they have only averaged 54 larvae per square metre
significantly fewer biting midge complaints are received by council in the Currimundi area compared to a decade ago.”
The re-opening works also form part of a three-year Australian Research Council (ARC) partnership
with the University of Queensland and Sunshine Coast University to monitor water velocity
and basic water quality (including salinity and temperature) during the re-opening of Currimundi Lake
It has a variety of activities for all ages
shelters with barbecues and off street parking
Dogs are permitted off leash outside the fenced playground area
Grahame Stewart Park is one of the Sunshine Coast’s premier parks
The all abilities play space is fully fenced and is now home to the region’s first Changing Places public amenities block
which means it contains play elements that encourage children of all levels of abilities to engage with one another in play and discovery
The new changing places facility will ensure adequate space and equipment is available for people with high support needs who can’t use accessible toilets
People with high care needs can now feel more comfortable spending a day out at the local park
knowing a specially designed amenities block will make life a little easier
We (council) are committed to improving access and inclusion for the benefit of all residents
The park is also home to the Vegie Garden Story Seat by Christine Sharp
There is a popular dog off-leash area outside the fenced children’s play area. We’ve created a handy interactive map to help you identify the dog off-leash
on-leash and prohibited areas when you’re out and about across the Sunshine Coast local government region
The Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway is 73km long and stretches from Bells Creek in the south to Coolum in the north
It takes advantage of the spectacular coastline that is hugely enjoyed by residents and visitors
People can explore the coastline by walking
jogging or cycling on a combination of on and off road networks
Whether you're looking for a half day cycling adventure or just a beachside stroll
Check out the Coastal Pathway guide or get a copy from your local bike shop
visitor information centre or council office
Coolum is a hilly but scenic section of the coastal pathway and is a tourist hotspot with beachside fun right across the road from shopping and dining
Pick up some lunch and take a short ride to the lookouts at Point Perry or Point Arkwright
Don't forget your binoculars - you might even spot some turtles or whales
Marcoola to Mudjimba is a family favourite - flat and shady and suitable for inexperienced riders
Dive into nature as you explore this peaceful stretch of coastline on the wide shady path
The pathway moves away from the coast from Mudjimba before reaching the vast Maroochy River
where you an enjoy river views all the way to Picnic Point
Explore the natural beauty of Chambers Island or stop at Ocean Street for your choice of cafes and restaurants
Cotton Tree is famous for its vast treelined park
This family friendly pathway hugs the water all the way to Mooloolaba with plenty of spots to relax among the way
Stroll to Mooloolaba Spit and take in the spectacular view while you enjoy some local fish and chips
This section includes a separated cycleway from Mooloolaba to Tuckers Creek Bridge
with some great spots along the way for a picnic or some fishing
There are some traffic lights and driveway crossings on this inland connection that are best suited to more confident riders
Buddina Beach is the gateway to a scenic loop to discover the natural wonders of Point Cartwright
Check out our video
this pathway hugs the coastline through tree-lined dunes with the sound of the ocean at every turn
try the new playground at Bokarina Beach or explore the calm waters of Currimundi Lake
Mostly flat with some driveway crossings around Warana
The peaceful natural beauty of this section of pathway will bring you back time and time again
explore the shady coastal bushland reserve and boardwalk heading south
Dicky Beach is a perfect stop for a casual bite to eat and a swim
Caloundra is famous for its beautiful beaches
Stop for coffee at one of the many beachside cafes or a swim
The pathway follows the cliffs so you can spot turtles
Sheltered from the ocean swell by Bribie Island
the calm Pumicestone Passage is perfect for a family ride with lots of places to relax
The Golden Beach foreshore boasts picnic areas
playgrounds and is a popular fishing and boating spot
The Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway supports the Sunshine Coast community to achieve a healthy
Council will continue to upgrade the coastal pathway to improve access to our iconic coastline
For more information on future development of the network, visit Coastal Pathway Linear Open Space Master Plan
Crummunda Park is loved by locals for its abundance of natural shade
The naturally shaded park along Currimundi Lake provides a playground with various elements such as a multi-level fort and flying fox
It also contains exercise equipment and a half basketball court
some via a jetty for trying your hand at fishing
Crummunda Park is also a popular location for wedding ceremonies
Brightwater and CurrimundiCouncil is seeking partnership proposals from community groups to ensure the best use of three land parcels in Birtinya
Council is seeking partnership proposals from community groups to ensure the best use of three land parcels in Birtinya
Council has voted to implement an Expression of Interest process to determine the future of the following land parcels:
Local not-for-profit organisations are invited to attend an information session at Venue 114, at 10am on July 2. To register to attend the information session and find out more, visit www.hpw.qld.gov.au/qtenders
Interested community groups will be required to submit Expressions of Interest in the sites
The process will allow council to prepare a short-list from respondents and will invite tenders from that shortlist
The three sites were made available as part of an agreement with Stockland Pty Ltd to set aside land to be used by the Brightwater
Planning portfolio Councillor Christian Dickson said council would offer long-term leases over the sites as part of our commitment to building a strong community
He said council’s decision to implement an Expression of Interest process was good news for all three communities
“This process gives council the ability to partner with community not-for-profit organisations to deliver facilities that meet the needs of each community,” Cr Dickson said
He said the proposal aligned with the Sunshine Coast Environment and Liveability Strategy which aimed to address the needs arising from projected population growth
“Council is committed to providing a high quality network of facilities through partnerships and advocacy,” Cr Dickson said
Division 3 Councillor Peter Cox said the Expression of Interest process would provide a broad enough scope to allow industry and community groups to propose a diverse range of innovative and dynamic solutions to make best uses of the three sites
“The Expression of Interest process allows council to attract potential investment into the site without the need for council to be solely responsible
“This is an exciting outcome for these three communities and I look forward to learning about the exciting ideas groups have in mind for the parcels of land,’’ Cr Cox said
Expressions of Interest close at 12 noon on August 1
The mouth of Currimundi Lake has been re-opened after storm surges caused the lake to naturally close at the weekend
Division 3 Councillor Peter Cox said the weekend’s storms produced a double impact of increasing sand levels along the mouth of the lake while the heavy rainfall also increased flow of water into Lake Kawana
“In order to ensure water quality is maintained
we have undertaken works to re-open the lake,” Cr Cox said
this has also resulted in a natural sand bank building up near the mouth of the lake which may serve to protect the popular southern bank area as we move into storm season.”
Cr Cox said a separate small dredging operation being conducted in the lake had not had any impact on the lake closure
but would assist in building a bank and managing erosion upstream
“The current dredging campaign is aimed restoring banks upstream
rather than removing large amounts of sand,” he said
“This will not only reduce erosion along areas of the lake
but will offer visitors with extra options of enjoying the area as we move into our summer season.”
QUEENSLAND (Sunday 29 May 2022) – The winners of the 2022 Woolworths Queensland Grommet Titles Event One were decided today in clean
The grommets once again scored pumping conditions and the performances didn’t disappoint as the surfers battled for early points to claim the overall series win.
The Under 12 Girls Division was won by local girl Charlotte Rielly (Dicky Beach) with a combined two wave score of 9.40 (out of a possible 20)
MillerMay Berg (Mermaid Waters) and Navah Holmes (Tugun)
family and coach are down here supporting me so I’m really stoked.”
The Under 12 Boys Division was taken out by another Currimundi local, Zac Johnston(Currimundi) (15.17)
defeating Lucas Deffenti (Miami), Louis Taylor (Peregian Beach) and Jaxxon Sands (Palm Beach)
“The waves were so good out there,” said Johnston
“My strategy was to just get on the best waves and surf my best so I’m so happy I did that today.”
The Under 14 Girls Division was a battle for first between the Richardson sisters
Rosie Richardson (Sunshine Beach) ended up claiming the top spot ahead of her twin sister
Meika Locke (Palm Beach) and Laney Stokes (Buddina).
“It’s always a competitive battle when I’m versing Eliza
it makes me really nervous” Richardson said
“I’m super stoked that I won today and look forward to heading to the Gold Coast for Event Two.”
The under 14 boys were on fire all weekend
Hunter Andersson (Moffat Beach) took the top honours with a 15.90
He overcame Jai Nield (Coolangatta) (13.00)
Jesse Fergusson (Sunshine Beach) and Caden Francis (Palm Beach).
Full event results and series placings are listed below.
Competitors will now head to the Gold Coast on the 11-12 June
and their results from the two events added together will determine the overall series winners.
Surfing Queensland would like to thank its partners Woolworths
The Point Coolum Beach and Sunshine Coast Council
1st – Zac Johnston Lucas Deffenti
Lucy Callister | Media and Communications Manager | 0468 430 759 | comms@surfingqueensland.com.au
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Clinton Guest (NSW) posting a near perfect 9.93
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wheelchairs and prams - and is an easy grade
This is an easy 1.7 km one-way walk or cycle that is suitable for the whole family
Walkers have the option to walk along the path through beautiful coastal bushland
with pockets of views onto the local beaches
head down onto the beach and enjoy a swim along the way
The path option will take you across the picturesque Coondibah Creek bridge - half-way through the walk - with expansive views over the creek (beautiful any time of day)
Once you reach Currimundi Lake you won’t want to leave in a hurry
The calm waters and endless sand make it an aquatic playground for the whole family
This largely shaded section of the coastal pathway is a great option for hotter days
Bikes on pathway can come through quite quickly so dogs must be on leash for everyone's safety
Be sure spend some time enjoying the stunning surrounds in Cliff Hargreaves Park
This popular park overlooks Currimundi Lake and has a playground
you can purchase food and drinks from the beach front cafes
Continue north along the coastal pathway to Warana
Park your car at Dicky Beach and then head towards the surf club and you’ll see the pathway continue past the club
Explore this trail
For more than 250 walking, running, paddling, cycling, mountain-biking and horse-riding trails on the Sunshine Coast #chooseyournextadventure with Adventure Sunshine Coast
For those who wish to take a dog on their adventures – be sure to check out Council’s handy interactive off leash dog map to help identify the current dog off-leash, on-leash and prohibited areas when you’re out and about across the Sunshine Coast local government region.
Sunshine Coast Council acknowledges the Sunshine Coast Country, home of the Kabi Kabi peoples and the Jinibara peoples, the Traditional Custodians, whose lands and waters we all now share. We wish to pay respect to their Elders – past, present and emerging, and acknowledge the important role First Nations people continue to play within the Sunshine Coast community.
Our Sunshine Coast is a free community website proudly produced by Sunshine Coast Council.
Currimundi has undergone a big transformation recently
The wetland helps to filter the stormwater before it reaches Currimundi Lake and was full of years of built up sediment and litter
Now it's looking fresh after extensive work by Sunshine Coast Council over the past few months
As you can see in these before and after pictures
the transformation really has been amazing
It was the result of Andrew and Anna Vizis’ grandchildren constantly nagging for a waterslide to play on
There was once a water slide park at Alexandra Headland
researching and gaining council approval for a waterslide
Two years later the couple sold the complex and the owners renamed it the Olympia Theme Park
Anna recalled the many happy memories shared with their grandchildren during the school holidays and how she would put money into the pool early in the morning and wake the kids up
The Black Hole Waterslide built and run by Max and Denise Morris and family in Currimundi boasted three giant waterslides
The Black Hole was not for the faint-hearted
the slides were blacked out so you never knew where you were sliding or when the next turn was
At the time it was the second largest tourist attraction on the Sunshine Coast
In the 1980s the Mighty Putt and Water Wonderland featured Australia’s longest waterslide
18 holes of mini golf and fun for all the family
It was open daily and situated near the Golden Beach turn-off in downtown Caloundra
Of course there was also the Tanawha waterslide which gained fame as Australia’s biggest regional waterslide
It has since become an icon in the small regional town of Kulin in Western Australia
The slide was transported across the country by a band of volunteers from the small town
If you had your fill of thrills and spills on the waterslides
there were many other attractions to visit
Nostalgia Town at Pacific Paradise was a theme park that promised a “laugh at the past”
A scaled reproduction of an 1863 steam train took visitors on a ride through a range of settings
such as the dinosaur swamp and the Enchanted Tunnel
Props and technologies depicted nostalgic and humorous stories of the past through a narrative adventure involving three convicts
mini golf and Albert’s Incredible Time Machine – which took you back in time
One young visitor described it as being “pretty cool”
Memories have been written of geese attacks at the duck pond
with the geese getting sugar highs from the Ironbark honey
having your photo taken with the three bears in their cottage as well as hanging out with Jack in the house he built
The year of 1978 saw the Grand Opening of Tanawha World
The complex was built by Derek and Marylou Heiser and offered entertainment for both adults and children
It featured a life-size model of an Australian dinosaur and pictorial information relating to dinosaurs
a jungle river boat ride and bush tour by train
kangaroos or just a relaxing stroll through the grounds
The park also had Australia’s first skid pad – a concrete bike track where children over the age of 11 years were allowed to drive motorised vehicles and learn how to control them in a skid situation
The grand opening advertisement listed activities such as meeting “Ping Pong” the Tanawha gorilla
4NA radio car and a Coast Guard display as well as steak and salad at the family restaurant for $2.75
Queensland’s first drive through deer park was completed
The park covered 21 hectares of forest country on the Bruce Highway and no Sunshine Coast holiday was complete without a drive through the park with a brown paper bag of feed for the animals and birds
You could also cuddle a koala and be entertained by two wildlife shows through the day
The Big Pineapple structure has iconic and landmark status as one of Australia's most well-known Big Things
It holds a fond place in the memories of many domestic and overseas tourists who drove or were driven north of Brisbane on holiday road trips after 1971
Apart from the iconic value of the Big Pineapple structure itself
as a roadside attraction of the Big Thing variety
represented early agri-tourism in Queensland
Everyone had to climb the pineapple and indulge themselves with the world-famous big pineapple sundae
The Sunshine Coast’s most iconic tourism attraction – the Big Pineapple – will soon return to its glory days following Sunshine Coast Council’s approval of a multi-million-dollar renewal project
The approved master plan will ensure a sustainable future for the 169-hectare site by leveraging the Big Pineapple’s strong brand and history
as well as providing entertainment opportunities
outdoor educational facilities and accommodation
The Coast will always be known for its natural attractions of sun
but it brings a smile to remember all the other fun attractions
Thanks to the Heritage Library staff for the words and Picture Sunshine Coast for the images
catering for people with high support needs who can’t use accessible toilets
One of the Sunshine Coast’s premier parks is now home to the region’s first Changing Places public amenities block
Located at Currimundi’s Grahame Stewart Park
the new amenities ensure adequate space and equipment is available for people with high support needs
Sunshine Coast Council Division 3 Councillor Peter Cox said council was committed to improving access and inclusion for the benefit of all residents
“These new amenities have been built in accordance with the Changing Places guidelines
an initiative which began in the United Kingdom
with the first Changing Places amenities opening in Australia in 2014,” Cr Cox said
“Changing Places is all about allowing people with high support needs to fully participate in our community
“Council engaged a Changing Places consultant to ensure the facilities met all requirements for it to become a fully accredited Changing Places location
“There are 158 Changing Places in Australia and I’m proud the Sunshine Coast can now be added to the map.”
a toilet privacy screen and additional circulation space
The $200,000 project was delivered by Sunshine Coast Council thanks to the Queensland Government’s Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package
Cr Cox said the upgrade was another boost to the much-loved family park
“Accessing public toilets is something many of us take for granted
but it’s a real challenge for certain members of our community
“The new Changing Places facility truly complements the existing amenities building opened in March 2020
“Grahame Stewart Park continues to grow and be incredibly popular with families and I know this improvement will make it easier for more people to enjoy this great spot.”
Queensland Minister for Disability Services Craig Crawford said the Sunshine Coast’s first Changing Places amenities was just one sign of more to come to make our public places more accessible for everyone
“The Palaszczuk Government is so proud to be supporting this initiative
as we continue to build awareness of how inclusive our state is,” Mr Crawford said
Grahame Stewart Park is located between Croydon Avenue and Ilya Street, Currimundi.
Image: Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson and Division 3 Councillor Peter Cox cut the ribbon to officially open the new Changing Places at Currimundi’s Grahame Stewart Park