Sunshine Coast Council
Group Executive Economic and Community Development Greg Laverty said while Council was still gathering feedback and figures from stakeholders, he expected the event injected more than $15 million into our local economy.
“This increased local spending helps many small businesses across our region, from accommodation houses and restaurants and cafes to our convenience stores and pharmacies,” Mr Laverty said.
“However we also recognise that sometimes these events have a temporary and minor impact and we are working as high priority to undertake repairs and remediation.
“Repairs to parkland turf at Alexandra Headland are expected to start in two-weeks’ time, weather permitting.
“Whenever we purchase materials and services, we aim to support and use local suppliers, and unfortunately, recent rains have meant our local turf farms haven’t been able to cut as quickly as we – and our community – would like.
“Our Parks and Gardens team is looking at all options, so any damaged park areas can be rectified as early as possible.
“Once the turf is laid, some areas may need to be fenced off to allow it to establish.
“We are also taking on board some very constructive community feedback on how we may be able to better protect the turf during future events.”
The temporary access at Alexandra Headland will be reprofiled next week. Works include revegetating the area the week after, when tube stock and contractors are available.
These works will be completed as part of the contract arrangement with Tourism and Events Queensland and Surf Life Saving Australia.
There was some minimal damage within the designated dunal environment reserve area and natural revegetation of any minor impacts will occur in the coming months.
Spinifex and beach bean is recovering in other areas along Maroochydore Beach and we have reprofiled the dune at Beach Access 147, where the first aid tent was located.
Mr Laverty said erosion, as a result of ocean swells in this area, was common and had occurred recently which resulted in some dunal vegetation loss.
“We will continue to monitor the site for six months to allow it time to regenerate naturally thanks to lots of intact spinifex still on site.
“We thank our community for your patience while we complete these works over the coming weeks.”
If you are aware of any impacts/damage to fencing, litter or dunal vegetation damage, please report these to Council through the following methods:
