Dozens of horse-riding enthusiasts on the Sunshine Coast are petitioning the local council to rebuild a horse round yard at Little Mountain Common after the original, aging facility was dismantled in May due to safety concerns and lack of maintenance. About 70 people have requested the council to not only reinstate the round yard but also consider expanding it into a larger, sand-based arena to provide a safe space for exercising and training horses. However, the council stated that the old round yard was rarely used, no feedback was received during the decommissioning notification period, and rebuilding it was not considered a good use of ratepayer funds. Horses are still allowed in the park, but the site of the former round yard will remain open park space.

Local residents, including Little Mountain’s Belinda Mair, expressed disappointment with the council’s decision, arguing that the removal was done without adequate consultation and that the park’s current conditions—such as the presence of motorbikes, e-scooters, and off-leash dogs—make it unsafe for horses. Mair highlighted safety incidents and emphasized the need for a fenced area to protect both riders and horses. While horse round yards are uncommon in public parks, the petition was formally submitted to the council’s CEO for consideration, reflecting a community desire for a dedicated, secure horse training facility.