Mt Coot-tha could become world-class eco-tourism hotspot before 2032 Olympics

Brisbane’s Mt Coot-tha could be transformed into a premier eco-tourism destination ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner unveiled a 20-year vision under consideration to put the city’s iconic natural attraction on the world stage — capitalising on its prime location just minutes from the CBD.

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The ambitious new master plan is exploring eco-glamping, treetop walks, and an upgraded lookout for the hill beloved by locals and tourists alike, drawing inspiration from global attractions like Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay and Canada’s Butchart Gardens.

“Basically it’s about having more to see and do in a natural environment in Brisbane,” Schrinner said.

The potential transformation includes a proposed 170-kilometre wilderness trail stretching from Mt Coot-tha to Mount Archer on the Sunshine Coast, which could connect communities across southeast Queensland, Brisbane City Council (BCC) announced.

Visitors could experience upgraded summit lookouts with enhanced views, light shows illuminating the Botanic Gardens, and possible eco-glamping facilities complete with tree walks.

The proposed revamp also explores a revitalised Tropical Dome and Planetarium, and upgraded picnic areas with pop-up cafes and food trucks.

Plans being considered include turning Sir Samuel Griffith Drive into a one-way loop road, reserving a lane for cyclists.

Schrinner emphasised the importance of positioning Mt Coot-tha as a potential key drawcard for international visitors.

“Mt Coot-tha is already loved by locals but with smart planning, we can take it to the world stage,” Schrinner said.

The plan aims to explore how to enhance Brisbane’s global profile while providing long-lasting benefits to the local community and environment, BCC said.

The Brisbane Sustainability Agency has been appointed to lead the master planning process to examine what’s possible, though no timeline or budget has been released.

When questioned about funding priorities and the Story Bridge restoration on social media, Schrinner clarified the Mt Coot-tha project won’t impact other major infrastructure commitments.

“This will be a long-term master plan delivered over many years and won’t impact our long-term restoration of the Story Bridge, which we hope can be delivered with the support of all levels of government over the next 15 years, before the bridge turns 100 in 2040,” he said.