Sunshine Coast Council has released annual reports on its key strategies in Environment and Liveability, Community, and Regional Economic Development – detailing progress in enhancing regional sustainability and liveability.

Mayor Natoli said the reports measured progress on Council’s targets, but many achievements were only possible through strong partnerships with community groups, industry groups and dedicated volunteers.

“These annual reports show the ways our community continues to get involved – from our library volunteers and Land for Wildlife partners to our community groups and industry leaders innovating for inclusive and sustainable solutions,” Cr Natoli said.

“In our Sunshine Coast Biosphere, everyone can make a difference in creating stronger communities, a more innovative economy, and a healthier environment.”

The Regional Economic Development Strategy Annual Report highlights key advancements in the region’s economic growth and support for local businesses.

Key achievements across the coast include a gross regional product of $23.73 billion, the creation of over 107,000 jobs, and five gold awards for innovative marketing campaigns to attract investment.

For Caloundra specifically, the report touts the proposed spur line from Beerwah to Maroochydore via Caloundra, part of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line plan, as a key initiative to “enhance connectivity across South East Queensland”.

The Caloundra Aerodrome project, which is expected to create hundreds of new jobs and contribute more than $75 million per annum to our local economy, was listed in the report as “a platform for the emergence of an innovative, high-value advanced manufacturing and research and development cluster”.

Highlights from the Environment and Liveability Strategy Annual Report include securing nearly 500 hectares for conservation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 4.7 per cent and endorsing the Sunshine Coast Ecological Park Master Plan.

The report details how focusing future economic development within the Enterprise Corridor from Sunshine Coast Airport to Caloundra South (Aura) would pose “challenges in balancing competing land uses amid increasing climatic risks in the coastal zone”.

The Community Strategy Annual Report outlines significant initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and support.

Highlights include implementing the All-Abilities Action Plan and awarding over $5 million in grants to community groups.

Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the strategies were the “backbone of the Council’s long-term vision” for a thriving, sustainable and liveable region.

“By integrating our community, environmental and economic objectives, we are committed to delivering on the success, sustainability and liveability for all,” Cr Natoli said.

“Outcomes delivered through each of the strategies support the day-to-day lives for everyone in our region.”