The Mapleton and District Community Association (MADCA), in partnership with the Blackall Range Lions Club, is advocating for the creation of a safe active transport link between Mapleton and Flaxton as the first stage of a broader vision to connect the villages of the Blackall Range.
The proposal aims to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists while creating opportunities for healthier lifestyles, stronger community connections and sustainable economic benefits for the hinterland.
Importantly, this is a long-term vision rather than a short-term project. The pathway would require significant planning, detailed engineering and support from local, State and Federal governments before construction could be considered.
The vision extends beyond simply providing a safe alternative to walking or riding along the narrow roadside between Mapleton and Flaxton.
MADCA believes the project has the potential to become an important community asset that complements the Blackall Range's natural environment, existing walking trails and village centres. By linking communities through safe active transport infrastructure, the proposal also supports opportunities for recreation, tourism and local business.
The proposal aligns with Sunshine Coast Council's Active Transport Plan, which identifies the importance of improving walking and cycling connections across the region as part of a healthier, more connected and sustainable transport network.
As the vision has developed, consideration has also been given to how the pathway could reflect the unique cultural and natural heritage of the Blackall Range.
A companion concept, Deepening the Vision, explores opportunities for landscape design, interpretation, public art and storytelling that acknowledge the region's rich First Nations history and create a distinctive experience for residents and visitors alike.
These concepts are intended to illustrate possibilities only. They are not design proposals and would require close collaboration with Traditional Custodians and the wider community as the project evolves.
The immediate priority is to secure funding for detailed engineering, geotechnical investigations and cost planning. This work will establish the technical feasibility of the proposal, refine construction costs and provide the information needed to pursue future funding opportunities.
MADCA has discussed the proposal with Sunshine Coast Councillor David Law, who has expressed support for seeking funding for this next stage. The association recognises, however, that delivery of the project would ultimately depend on significant investment from State and Federal governments.
Many of the community assets enjoyed across the Blackall Range today began as ambitious ideas that took years of planning, collaboration and advocacy to achieve. MADCA and the Blackall Range Lions Club see this proposal in the same light.
By planning now for future generations, the vision seeks to create a safer, healthier and more connected Blackall Range while respecting the area's unique natural and cultural heritage.
The presentations outlining the proposal and the broader vision are available below.
