The TravelSmart Sunshine Coast Destinations program aims to encourage visitors as well as staff at selected Sunshine Coast destinations to use sustainable transport as an alternative to the car. It also aims to raise awareness of the benefits - health, environmental, financial - of embracing sustainable transport.
Being part of a TravelSmart Sunshine Coast Destinations program benefits the participating organisations, the community and the environment, including:
Benefits to the organisations
- Improved corporate image through promotion of the organisations as innovative, progressive and environmentally aware.
- Reduced traffic congestion.
- Improved access to the premises.
- An opportunity to demonstrate a commitment to the environment.
- Increased travel choices for employers/employees.
- Increased morale for employees who use sustainable transport to/from work.
- Improved focus on the health and well-being of staff.
Benefits to community members
- Cost savings.
- Increased travel choices for visitors/customers.
- More opportunities to be physically active.
Benefits to the environment
Current Projects
University of the Sunshine Coast
Council’s TravelSmart Sunshine Coast team is working with the University of the Sunshine Coast to develop and implement a TravelSmart Destinations behaviour change program at the University Campus. Council and the University are working with staff and students to encourage the use of more sustainable transport options, such as walking, cycling, public transport, scooters and carpooling in favour of always choosing the car.
Council will work with the University to implement key aspects of their Travel Demand Management Plan which include initiatives such as:
- U-pass scheme
- Improving walking and bicycle pathways on campus
- End-of-trip facilities for cyclists
- “Green Bikes” program
- Promoting carpooling
The Plan aims to increase sustainable travel (cycle, walk, public transport, carpool, scooter/motorcycle) by students and staff from 19% to 32% over 5 years (2009 to 2014).
Sunshine Plaza
TravelSmart are now working with Sunshine Plaza management and staff to reduce traffic congestion, ease parking issues and increase use of sustainable modes of transport. As a key attractor to the Sunshine Coast region, and the Maroochydore area in particular, it is important that we assist in promoting sustainable transport options for staff and customers.
We have recently undertaken a Staff Travel Survey to determine staff travel behaviour. We will use this data to develop our program for this year.
Future Projects
Council is currently developing programs to work with local business centres in the community to raise awareness of and encourage the use of sustainable transport. A number of key destinations are currently being investigated and, when selected, further information will be available here.
