FAQs
What upgrades does the concept plan include?
The proposed concept plan includes new car parking, pedestrian bridge to improve access, public amenities, picnic facilities, dedicated access points to Mudgeeraba Creek.
Will there be any barbeques?
No, there are no plans to install barbeques within the reserve. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in designated areas.
How will rubbish be managed in the reserve?
As with other natural areas outside of the urban footprint, visitors are required to take their rubbish away with them.
Will any trees need to be removed for the day use area?
The design has been planned to preserve existing mature trees. No canopy trees will be removed as part of the upgrades. Any shrubs or understorey that need to be removed will be done with care, and new trees will be planted where appropriate.
What environmental considerations are being taken into account for the project?
Environmental sustainability is a key priority of the project. The final design will comply with all relevant environmental legislation and guidelines. Special care will be taken to avoid impacts and minimise disturbance to vegetation. The majority of the proposed upgrades are located within an existing cleared/grassed area of the reserve. Any unavoidable impacts will be managed responsibly and compensated for through planting and habitat restoration in other parts of the reserve.
How is the project considering cultural heritage values?
The proposed concept plan respects the cultural significance of the site by including only what is necessary to support the reserve and its visitors. Recognising that storytelling is key to caring for Country, the proposed structures and features are designed to encourage sharing of cultural knowledge. We will be consulting with relevant Traditional Owner groups and cultural heritage specialists to co-design interpretive signage. All work will comply with cultural heritage legislation, and any findings or concerns will be managed in partnership with the appropriate stakeholders to ensure respectful and responsible outcomes.
Is this project the same as the proposed Austinville Eco Accommodation?
No. This project relates only to the Austinville Conservation Area day use area (DUA).
The day use area focuses on low‑impact facilities such as parking, amenities, picnic areas and safer access to Mudgeeraba Creek for visitors during the day.
The proposed Austinville Eco‑Accommodation is a separate City led project that is in early concept phase. While this project will aim to integrate with any of the proposed day use upgrades, it is a separate project with its own specific timeframes and community engagement plan. Feedback provided through this survey will only be used to inform the day use area concept plan.
For all questions relating to the Austinville Eco-accommodation, please email naturebasedtourism@goldcoast.qld.gov.au
Will there be camping or overnight use allowed?
No. The day use area is for daytime use only. Camping, overnight stays, and permanent accommodation are not included in the concept plan and will not be permitted at the site.
How can I stay updated on the progress of the project?
We will provide regular updates through project bulletins, social media, and the dedicated project web page. You can sign up to this web page to receive updates and stay informed about upcoming consultations, changes, and milestones in the project timeline.
How will traffic and parking impacts be managed?
The concept plan proposes a formalised car park, with provision for overflow parking, to improve safety and reduce informal roadside parking. During the detailed design stage, further assessment will be undertaken to ensure the project supports safe parking, clear pedestrian access and overall road safety, while minimising impacts on surrounding areas.
Will the area be accessible for people with limited mobility?
Improving accessibility is a key consideration. The detailed design phase will explore inclusive and accessible design opportunities, where feasible, while balancing environmental constraints and terrain limitations.
Who will maintain the day use area once it is built?
The City of Gold Coast will be responsible for the ongoing maintenance and management of the day use area, consistent with how other conservation area facilities are managed.
Will there be lighting installed?
No. There are no plans for lighting. The reserve is intended for daytime use only.
What are the next steps?
The City will engage a consultant and finalise a detailed design that’s ready to build.
How can I get involved?
We want to hear from you! Have your say on the concept plan for Austinville Conservation Area day use area between Wednesday 6 May to Tuesday 19 May 2026.
Visit the GC Have Your Say webpage at gchaveyoursay.com.au/austinville2026 where you can find out more about the concept plan.
How will my feedback help?
Your feedback will help us understand the community’s sentiment and concerns with the draft concept plan for Austinville Conservation Area day use area. This feedback will help shape the final concept plan.
I don’t see my question here?
If you have a particular question about the concept plan for Austinville Conservation Area day use area, please email naturalareasadmin@goldcoast.qld.gov.au.