Strong community support and a local campaign for the Daisy Hill Conservation Park has delivered a big win, with the recent Queensland State Budget committing $7.3 million to the development of the new Shailer section.

The 213 hectare section of bushland, acquired by the Labor Government in 2024, was declared Conservation Park rapidly, after locals called for the land to be protected in perpetuity, in line with the wishes of the Shailer Family who owned the property.

The investment comes after I lobbied the State Government to invest in the section, to build new recreation facilities and conservation trails for locals and visitors to make the most of the spectacular spot.

Local mountain bikers have expressed their excitement at the development, particularly with the Koala Coast Eco Tourism Trail network, that proposes to link trails in Priestdale through Daisy Hill, all the way to Eastern Escarpment and Bayview in the Redlands.

Aaron McKinlay, President of RATS Cycling Club, said members were excited for the possibilities that the redevelopment poses.

“The extension of trails and development of the Shailer section continues to build on our  incredible mountain biking network that is renowned not just locally, but throughout the state and nation” McKinlay said. 

While the development of facilities and trails is important, it’s also important that the development recognises the initial reason the land was purchased - conservation.

Local trail care expert Lachie Bosworth says the investment is welcome, provided that conservation is at the heart of the project.

“Daisy Hill is a rare, protected green haven in the heart of suburbia. The purpose of the new land was for it to be conserved in perpetuity, and we intend to ensure that conservation is front of mind in the consultation process and development.” Bosworth said.

However, since the change of Government, community consultation has been sparse, and locals have raised concerns about the future development.

The Daisy Hill Design and Delivery Group, made up of local representatives, has been responsible for the careful management of investment in the Conservation park in recent years.

Consultation is now being run by external consultants, and the spirit of collaboration that is integral to the success of these projects seems to be missing.

I’ll keep tracking this project to make sure that locals have a fair say in shaping what is one of the best conservation parks in Queensland.