A draft 20-year vision has unveiled plans to make Brisbane’s much-loved Mt Coot-tha even better, with more free and affordable experiences for local families and greater protection for nature.
The draft Mt Coot-tha Vision outlines opportunities to improve popular attractions, picnic spots and walking trails, while exploring the potential to turn the existing quarry into a new parkland.
Shaped by more than 4,800 pieces of feedback, the vision responds to calls to improve existing attractions while protecting the bushland, wildlife and natural beauty residents love.
Brisbane residents now have until 30 November to have their say on the proposals, with the final vision expected in mid-2027.
One of the biggest opportunities is turning the existing 26-hectare Mt Coot-tha Quarry into a new parkland where Brisbane families can picnic, play and enjoy nature once operations end.
Other improvements focus on refreshing the Summit, upgrading the Botanic Gardens and making it easier and more accessible for residents to explore Mt Coot-tha for free.
The draft vision identifies six key opportunities:
• Quarry transformation: Exploring the potential to turn the existing quarry into a new parkland for recreation, nature-based experiences and community activities.
• Summit revitalisation: Better viewing areas, walking connections and shade to make Brisbane’s famous free lookout more enjoyable for residents.
• Botanic Gardens improvements: Investigating a children’s garden, better dining and function facilities, and upgrades to the Tropical Display Dome, Cacti House and Planetarium.
• Outdoor recreation: More opportunities for free and affordable activities, including bushwalking, cycling, picnics and family events.
• Better access: Improving connections between attractions through walking and cycling links, signage and parking upgrades.
• Environmental protection: Restoring wildlife habitats, protecting bushland and strengthening conservation across the precinct.
Mt Coot-tha is Brisbane’s largest conservation reserve, located just five-kilometres from the CBD and supporting over 450 native plant and 370 wildlife species.
Community research found 92 per cent of survey respondents were Brisbane residents, with nature, walking and outdoor recreation among the biggest drawcards.
The vision aims to protect what residents already love while creating more opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank.
Residents can view the draft vision and provide feedback at sustainablebrisbane.com.au/mtcoot-tha.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner
“Mt Coot-tha is one of Brisbane’s crown jewels and we want to protect what people love while creating more free and affordable opportunities for local families.
“It doesn’t cost a cent to enjoy the incredible views from the Mt Coot-tha Summit and practical improvements could make it even more enjoyable for local families.
“Imagine turning an old industrial quarry into beautiful new parklands where Brisbane families can picnic, play and enjoy nature for generations to come.
“This is a draft vision and we want residents to help shape the improvements they’d love to see before we finalise the plan.
“Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital and we want to keep improving the free and affordable experiences that make our city such a great place to live.”
Quotes attributable to Pullenvale Ward Councillor Greg Adermann
“Whether it’s a sunrise hike, a family picnic or taking in the city views, Mt Coot-tha has been part of Brisbane life for generations.
“We’ve got some fantastic ideas on the table, but the best people to help shape what comes next are the residents who know and love this place.
“This is about giving families more reasons to get outdoors, explore and enjoy everything that makes living in Brisbane so special.”
Quotes attributable to Brisbane Sustainability Agency CEO Tracy Melenewycz
“Brisbane residents have spoken loud and clear. They love Mt Coot-tha’s natural beauty and want to see it protected.
“The exciting challenge is finding new ways for people to enjoy this incredible destination without losing what makes it special in the first place.
“We’ve got an opportunity to create something Brisbane can be proud of for generations, and we want the community right there with us as we shape it.”
