When I first moved to the Sunshine Coast, Caloundra was home for ten years. Some of my fondest memories are from living there and starting to raise what was then my young family — a family that has grown quite a bit since!

So I get a real thrill seeing Caloundra receive some much-needed traffic upgrades. This is a place I have watched change over decades, both as a local and through my work in real estate.

From the Caloundra I remember to the town we see today

When I started in real estate in the mid-90s, I remember some post-war fibro houses in this area selling for under $100,000. I doubt many of us imagined then how much the area would change.

Today, I look at some of those locations and think the land alone could be worth more than a million dollars. That is my reflection on how far the area has come, rather than an appraisal of any particular property.

A new way into Caloundra

According to Transport and Main Roads, construction on the Caloundra Transport Corridor Upgrade began in September 2026. The Third Avenue section adds a signal-controlled connection to Nicklin Way, with two traffic lanes each way between Nicklin Way and Arthur Street.

The design also includes separated walking and cycling paths and a West Terrace underpass for people on foot and bikes. The intended result is another route into the CBD and less pressure on the existing Caloundra Road intersection.

Watch the project video

Watch the project video on YouTube. Project visualisation: see the video for the proposed layout.

Darren’s take

Getting out of this pocket of Caloundra could be a real headache even fifteen years ago. With the growth since then, I can certainly understand why better connections matter to the people who live and work here.

What excites me is that the upgrade considers bikes and walking as well as vehicles. Being able to move around more easily is part of what makes a place enjoyable to call home.

My feeling is that this pocket of Caloundra has an exciting chapter ahead. I expect the improved traffic flow will be warmly welcomed, and I look forward to seeing how the new connections support everyday life in a town that holds so many memories for me.

Talk with Darren & Megan about your next move on the Sunshine Coast.