In just seven years, the world will turn its attention to the Sunshine Coast for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Today, Sunshine Coast Regional Council Mayor, Rosanna Natoli was joined by Member for Caloundra Kendall Moreton, and a group of young local athletes at Lake Kawana to plant a ceremonial tree, officially launching 7 Years to Grow – a vibrant initiative to green and celebrate the region’s growth on the road to 2032.
With an ambitious goal to give away 2032 trees to be planted in thousands of backyards, schools and clubs across the region, Divisional Councillors will hold 20 free tree events from today until September 5.
The initiative also includes the planting of 500 trees at the Sunshine Coast Ecological Park and 92 trees on Sportsmans Parade alongside the Sunshine Coast Stadium, which is set to host Olympic Football in 2032.
Mayor Natoli said the trees planted in the coming months will grow and thrive, just as the region will over the next seven years as it prepares to co-host the Games.
“It’s incredible to think that on July 23 in seven years’ time, the opening ceremony will light up South East Queensland, and the Sunshine Coast will be on the world’s stage,” Mayor Natoli said.
“Our preparations go beyond co-hosting. We’re focused on building a legacy that supports long-term growth across the Sunshine Coast.
“The Games will bring increased visibility, investment and opportunity to the Sunshine Coast, supporting growth across tourism, transport, local business, environment and infrastructure.
“Two of our Games venues are progressing to procurement and will be some of the first in Queensland to come out of the ground.
“Our community will be able to enjoy the upgraded Sunshine Coast Stadium and the new Mountain Bike Centre at Parklands well before, and long after, the closing ceremony in 2032.”
Mayor Natoli said she also anticipated an exciting expansion in regional sports on the Sunshine Coast, including the growth and development of young local athletes.
“We have so much talent on the Sunshine Coast and our young athletes are already training with dedication for the opportunity to represent their region and their country at a home Games,” she said.
“I cannot wait to see what our region, our community and our athletes can achieve over the next seven years and beyond.”
To find a free tree event or BushCare Working Bee near you, visit Council’s website.
