Healthy boost for region as key projects fast-tracked
A commitment of $25 million from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program was announced today. This support will fast-track two major projects: the sports precinct at Meridan Plains and the First Avenue Streetscape at Maroochydore.
Two major projects on the Sunshine Coast will now be fast-tracked for delivery thanks to support from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program.
A sports complex located at Meridan Plains and the First Avenue Streetscape at Maroochydore have received a total of $25 million in funding.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli welcomed the Australian Government commitment - matched by Council - to progress these two critical projects.
“Council selected the Honey Farm Sports and Recreation Precinct and the First Avenue Streetscape to be supported due to the benefit they will deliver to our community,” Mayor Natoli said.
“They will provide much-needed community facilities, parklands and infrastructure to create a healthier and more connected community and support our local businesses.
“The Honey Farm Sports and Recreation Precinct will now be delivered faster than anticipated. Our community will be enjoying some of these facilities as soon as next year.
“The First Avenue Streetscape project will be critical in connecting the Maroochydore City Centre to Cotton Tree and Ocean Street, improving the way people move around safely, get to work and enjoy the leisure facilities in the area.
“We are grateful to the Australian Government for its recognition of these important projects that will create an even more connected, thriving and liveable community on the Sunshine Coast.”
Honey Farm Sports and Recreation Precinct Stage 1 – $13.6 million
The Honey Farm Sport and Recreation Precinct is a greenfield sports complex that will provide a major regional sporting, recreation and community precinct for the Sunshine Coast.
The precinct at Meridan Plains will feature first-class sporting fields and ovals for football (soccer) and cricket, hardcourt activities, skateboarding and disc golf.
It will also feature playgrounds, nature trails, wetland experiences, dog-friendly areas and opportunities for community events.
Service Excellence Portfolio Councillor Christian Dickson said the funding received through the Growing Regions Program Round 2 would help Council deliver Stage 1.
“We are thrilled to receive this funding, which will help bring this major regional precinct to life for our entire community,” Cr Dickson said.
“Sport and recreation facilities play such an important role in our local community and this one has been planned in conjunction with the people of the Sunshine Coast.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity that has been shaped by our community to create a healthy and active precinct for our whole community to enjoy now and into the future.”
The Honey Farm Sport and Recreation Precinct will also provide a new home for some sports relocated as part of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games infrastructure improvements.
First Ave Streetscape - funding of $11.9 million
A vibrant, shady and inclusive link between the Maroochydore City Centre, Cotton Tree and Ocean Street precincts has received a major funding boost.
The attractive streetscape upgrade will transform the older section of First Avenue, Maroochydore, providing businesses, residents and visitors a more inviting space to live, work and play.
Cr Dickson said the First Avenue upgrade would help the street operate more safely, improve accessibility and enhance the look and experience of the area.
“This project is a critical step in connecting the established northern section of First Avenue with the newly expanded City Centre, Aerodrome Road, The Esplanade and Duporth Avenue,” Cr Dickson said.
“The streetscape focuses on improving the built urban environment with shaded and attractive open space to conduct business, enjoy the local restaurants and actively move about more safely and efficiently by calming local traffic.
“By enhancing the look and atmosphere of this thoroughfare, we can continue to maintain and build upon Maroochydore’s strong economy and become a driver for attracting new investment in the commercial precinct.”
The First Avenue Streetscape is now expected to be delivered in 2027.