SCATAC Begins a New Chapter

Last month’s SCATAC meeting marked a noticeable shift in both tone and direction. Following extensive discussion, members agreed to adopt a new identity as the Sunshine Coast Vulnerable Transport Network Users Collaborative, reflecting a broader focus on people who walk, ride and use mobility aids across the transport network. The revised purpose statement also signals a stronger commitment to involving community representatives earlier in planning and project development.

Council presented its preliminary response to SCBUG’s Golden Beach safety proposals. While there was broad agreement that improvements are warranted at all four locations, Council’s response remained largely centred on funding, regional prioritisation and engineering processes. Encouragingly, several smaller reviews—including signage and sight-line improvements—will now likely proceed, although major infrastructure proposals remain subject to future prioritisation.

SCBUG’s presentation reinforced a different but complementary perspective: that transport systems should first be designed for the most vulnerable users, with safer streets naturally producing better behaviour and reducing conflict for everyone. This philosophy—designing from the pedestrian and cyclist outward rather than from vehicle capacity inward—generated thoughtful discussion and was well received.

Despite encouraging signs of greater collaboration, Council’s underlying philosophy remains firmly car-centric. The Safe System approach demands an inverse hierarchy in which the safety of people walking, cycling and using mobility aids takes precedence over motor vehicle throughput. Until that principle is embedded in every transport decision, the Sunshine Coast will continue to produce a network that many residents simply do not feel safe using. The result is predictable: more car dependence, fewer people choosing active travel, poorer public health and avoidable road trauma. This philosophy must change if the Sunshine Coast is to become a genuinely safe and connected community.

Perhaps the most encouraging outcome was the atmosphere itself. The meeting was constructive, respectful and focused on finding common ground. While there were few immediate commitments beyond further reviews and consultation, the renewed spirit of collaboration provides a stronger foundation for future advocacy and, hopefully, future delivery.