Heritage plan for caravan parks

Three caravan parks that have been a haven for Sunshine Coast holidaymakers for decades have been nominated for heritage listing, Sustainability Minister Andrew McNamara announced today.

He urged the public to have their say on the proposed listings for the Noosa and Cotton Tree parks that would block the sites from any development not in keeping with the theme of a cheap, casual holiday destination.

Premier Anna Bligh has already ruled out development of the state-owned land on which Tripcony Hibiscus stands.

“The proposed listing is recognition of the caravan parks’ role in the cultural heritage of this state,” Mr McNamara said.

“The three sites were remodelled into caravan parks in the ‘50s, when the car and the van came into their own after the war.

“They are much-loved sites that had been holiday spots for decades before. Noosa had been a camping spot next to the river since the ‘20s, Tripcony dates back to 1912 and Cotton Tree has attracted holidaymakers for more than 120 years.

“Cotton Tree was advertised in 1910 as `nature’s pick me up’ – as true then as it is today.”

The parks were identified as part of the EPA’s Cultural Heritage Branch’s Statewide Heritage Survey. The Cultural Heritage Branch contends they are an endangered aspect of Queensland’s cultural heritage.

“Over the years, many caravan parks have been sacrificed to make way for other glitzier developments but they represent a snapshot of our heritage,” Mr McNamara said.

Between Caloundra and Noosa in 1968, there were 24 private and council caravan parks. In 2007, 16 remained on the coastal strip, with no camping council reserves.

The Heritage Council has the final say on listings, in its role as the State Government’s expert advisory panel. Submissions must be sent to The Site Registrar,Cultural Heritage, EPA, PO Box 15155 City East Q 4002 by November 24.

Media: 0439 761 416