2021-03-09 P&E Agenda - Item 5 - Attachment 1 - Noosa Trail Masterplan

                                      Insights from consultation included:


                                      •   There is significant opportunity for trails to attract
                                          tourists and visitors to the Noosa region

                                      •   Trail planning processes need to consider
                                          necessary support infrastructure for trails and the
                                          needs of different trail users

                                      •   There needs to be a focus on quality of trail
                                          experience rather than quantity, incorporating
                                          points of interest and significant ‘destinations’
                                          where possible

                                      •   Trail developments should not rely solely on land
                                          managers’ funding from existing budgets; new
                                          opportunities and models to generate funding
                                          should be explored

                                      •   Consideration needs to be given to start and
                                          end points of trails, with preference given to
                                          placing trailheads within or close to towns so that
                                          economic benefits from trail users are maximised
                                          and efficiencies in infrastructure such as carparks
                                          are achieved

                                      •   Shared trails currently present some issues,
                                          with conflict between users apparent

                                      •   Trail development should consider the use of
                                          degraded areas and rationalisation of existing
                                          trails to minimise environmental impacts

                                      •   There is high existing demand for trails in
                                          the Noosa region and many potential new
                                          experiences not currently offered

                                      •   There is a lack of variety of trail type and
                                          classification

                                      •   More information needs to be made readily
                                          available on where trails are located and the
                                          experience on offer

                                      •   There is a lack of shade and amenities at
                                          trailheads

                                      •   Accessibility of trails is an issue with limited
                                          public transport and a majority of one-way trails
                                          requiring transport logistics

                                      •   Trail maintenance not sufficient for future growth
                                          in use

                                      •   Safety issues around fire, shared use and road
                                          crossings need to be carefully considered

                                      •   Trail signage needs an overhaul, wayfinding is
                                          lacking, and availability of trail condition and
                                          closures information is hard to find.



NOOSA TRAIL MASTERPLAN | APRIL 2020                                                           10