Strategy to shape Fraser Coast parks for next 20 years

Four new five-hectare district recreation parks will be needed over the next two decades to meet the needs of the growing Fraser Coast region.

At its meeting today (Wednesday 26 March 2025), Fraser Coast Regional Council adopted ‘Park Strategy 2041’ to guide the planning, development and management of the region’s parks.

Cr Daniel Sanderson said Park Strategy 2041 would help shape the region’s new Planning Scheme and ensure the Fraser Coast’s parks remain high-quality, accessible and well-maintained as the population continues to grow.

“Parks bring communities together, encourage active lifestyles, and protect our natural environment,” he said.

“Council manages more than 600 parks across the Fraser Coast, covering thousands of hectares - from local playgrounds to large bushland reserves.

“This strategy ensures we have the right parks, in the right places, with the right facilities for our growing communities.”

Park Strategy 2041 introduces a new approach to planning, developing and maintaining Fraser Coast’s parks, focusing on:

• Better park locations – ensuring new parks are placed where they’re most needed;
• Larger, well-equipped parks – shifting away from smaller, underused spaces;
• Smarter land planning – securing open spaces in growing suburbs before they are developed;
• Improved maintenance and upgrades – using better mapping and planning tools to ensure parks remain in good condition.

Cr Lachlan Cosgrove said the strategy highlights that while the region has plenty of open space, much of it is small or not well-suited for recreation.

“We have many small parks and areas set aside for drainage or other purposes, but not enough larger parks that can serve the whole community,” he said.

“Based on population projections, four new five-hectare district recreation parks will be needed to meet demand by 2041, especially in high-growth areas such as Hervey Bay’s southwest and the Craignish-Dundowran region.

“By taking a long-term approach, we can improve park quality, reduce maintenance costs over time and ensure our open spaces support our region’s lifestyle.

“Park Strategy 2041 is about making smart, strategic decisions today so our parks continue to be great places for families, sports and relaxation in the future.”

A copy of Park Strategy 2041 is available on Council’s website at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/publications under ‘Strategies’.

Additional background
A ‘district recreation park’ is a larger, multi-use space designed to serve a wider community. These parks typically include playgrounds, picnic areas, walking and cycling paths, and open spaces for community events and gatherings.