The Sunshine Coast Regional Council has responded to community advocacy regarding the upcoming upgrade of the public toilets at Lilyponds Park in Mapleton. While the Council confirmed the essential replacement of the failed sewerage system, it stated that the current plans do not include the installation of accessible facilities for residents and visitors with mobility challenges.
The Background and Community Action
The public amenities at Lilyponds Park were closed in July 2024 due to a “catastrophic failure” of the waste storage system, according to Council. Nearly a year later, the Mapleton and District Community Association (MADCA) has been actively campaigning for the replacement facilities to incorporate accessibility features, highlighting that the Mapleton township currently lacks any public accessible toilets. Members of the community lobbied Councillor Law, the Chief Executive Officer, John Baker, and Mayor Natoli, to have the facility upgraded to include PWD provisions and access.
Council’s Decision
Following an internal review by its Ethical Standards Branch (ESB), the Council reaffirmed its initial decision. The ESB report, dated May 15, 2025, indicated that the upgrade will focus solely on replacing the sewerage system, without modifications to the existing building to include accessible features.
The report stated, “The building is in good condition; the level of services (number of cubicles) remains unchanged.”
Council outlined that the existing composting system will be replaced with a new flushing toilet system at an approximate cost of $230,000. However, a comprehensive upgrade or replacement of the entire facility is not prioritised within the current ten-year capital works program (FY25-34).
Council’s Prioritisation Process
Council explained its prioritisation of projects based on a “robust condition assessment regime” that considers eight criteria. Notably, Equitable Access, Condition/functionality, and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design were identified as having the highest weighting.
Despite the high importance placed on accessibility, the Lilyponds Park facility did not rank sufficiently high among the region’s 200+ public amenities to warrant a full upgrade at this time.
The report pointed out that “Of the 25 public amenities facilities ranked as the highest priority for replacement, 17 are without a PWD facility,” suggesting a broader regional challenge in providing accessible amenities.
Community Disappointment
The Council’s response has been met with disappointment from the community, particularly MADCA, which has strongly advocated for inclusive facilities. The Council’s suggestion that the nearest accessible toilet is 3km away at Mapleton National Park (managed by Park & Forestry Queensland) has been previously flagged as unsuitable by MADCA due to access restrictions.
MADCA President Max Standage has consistently emphasised the need for modern, accessible amenities with ramps, wheelchair access, and grab rails to ensure everyone can equally enjoy Lilyponds Park.
Human Rights Considered
The ESB report did acknowledge the consideration of Human Rights, specifically Section 15 of the Human Rights Act 2019 concerning “Recognition and equality before the law.”
However, the review concluded that “the limitation to the complainants’ Human Rights is justifiable due to the fiscal responsibility obligated on Council to ensure public funds are used efficiently and effectively.”
A Potential Opening?
While the official stance remains unchanged, a glimmer of hope may exist. The cover email accompanying the report mentioned that “this Internal Review has enabled Council to consider some possible solutions and alternative funding options that could go some way to address the concerns raised.”
It further stated, “If and when Council is in a position to provide any details for any alternative outcomes for Lilypond Park, further information will be released.”
What Happens Now?
With internal review avenues now exhausted, community members wishing to pursue the matter are directed to the Office of the Queensland Ombudsman.
The MADCA campaign has brought to the forefront the wider issue of accessibility in public spaces and the crucial role of community advocacy in influencing Council decisions. As Lilyponds Park remains a vital community hub in Mapleton, the question of accessible facilities remains a key concern for residents as the current 10-year planning cycle progresses.
Community members who wish to express their views on this issue are encouraged to contact the Queensland Ombudsman at ombudsman@ombudsman.qld.gov.au or by phone at (07) 3005 7000.
MADCA Lilyponds toilets campaign webpage
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