in this issue - Sunshine Coast Council

encompass 

Issue 5 March 2010 

in this issue 

Let’s cut landfill 

by 70 per cent 

A new library 

for Cooroy 

What is the 

Coast’s culture?

Encompass 

Contents 

One way for 

Tooway Bridge ............................ 4 

Australia Day winners ........... 6 

A new library for Cooroy ...... 8 

Council plans for 

a creative Coast ........................ 9 

Coast towns get a 

makeover ...................................... 11 

Responsible drinking 

campaign a success ........... 16 

Maleny Community 

Precinct on target .................. 19 

Picnic at Coast parks .......... 23 

What’s On .................................... 24 

Publisher 

Sunshine Coast Council 

Encompass is produced 

and published by Sunshine 

Coast Council. Copy and 

photographs can only be 

reproduced in whole or 

part with the permission of 

Sunshine Coast Council. 

For more information 

or to provide feedback 

on the publication, contact 

Claudia Di Blasi 

(email: claudia.diblasi 

@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au). 

A message from 

your Mayor 

March 15 will mark two years 

since the election of the Sunshine 

Coast Council and I am extremely 

proud of our achievements in that 

relatively short space of time. 

We’ve written and released a series 

of significant documents that will 

lay the foundation for our region’s 

future and we’ve started work 

on developing the first Planning 

Scheme for the entire Sunshine 

Coast. 

Council staff have received statewide 

recognition with awards for 

their outstanding efforts in our 

libraries, art galleries and for the 

protection of our waterways. 

We’ve been tested by nature with 

flooding and cyclonic conditions that 

caused major beach erosion and a 

massive oil spill along our pristine 

coastline. 

Council will continue to pursue 

its vision for the Sunshine 

Coast to become Australia’s 

most sustainable region despite 

pressures to embrace rapid 

population growth. 

We have made it clear to the 

State Government and others that 

we believe the level of growth 

should be based on our region’s 

carrying capacity and we will 

strongly resist any attempt to 

force us to accommodate an influx 

of new residents without having 

the necessary infrastructure to 

support it. 

This is perhaps the greatest, but 

not the only challenge we face. 

From 1 July, council will lose 

the revenue we previously 

received from providing water and 

sewerage services across the 


Under the State Government’s 

water reforms, the Sunshine 

Coast and Moreton Bay regional 

councils have joined forces to 

form a new, independently run 

business – Unitywater – to deliver 

those services. 

Unitywater will begin billing 

residents from 1 July and at this 

time, the return council receives 

from that new business is still an 

unknown quantity. 

Encompass March 2010 

Cover story 

Our cover shows the 2010 

Sunshine Coast Australia Day 

award winners John Cooke 

and Bianca Bond. 

John is the Coast’s Senior 

Citizen of the Year for sharing 

his love of sailing, alongside 

his enthusiastic team of 

volunteers, with more than 100 

children and adults each week. 

Bianca was named Young 

Citizen of the Year for her roles 

as youth worker and organiser 

of Nambour High School’s 

Women’s Business Workshop 

for indigenous women. 

Meet all the winners on page 6. 

And we now have a single 

organisation delivering services to 

residents the length and breadth of 

our region. 

Much of the groundwork has been 

completed, however some of the 

biggest challenges lie ahead. 

“…we will strongly resist 

any attempt to force 

us to accommodate an 

influx of new residents 

without having the 

necessary infrastructure 

to support it.” 

In addition, we’ve embarked on 

reforms to ensure the Coast’s $2.4 

billion tourism industry continues 

to survive and thrive, we’re 

looking for further opportunities to 

diversify our economy and attract 

new business to the region and 

we’ll keep searching for savings 

so that we can provide our 

community with the best possible 

value for money. 

There is much to be done and I 

am confident that together, we will 

rise to the challenge in 2010. 

Bob Abbot 

Mayor - Sunshine Coast Council 

2 

Sunshine Coast Council

Wasting away: 

let’s cut landfill by 70% 

Cutting down on waste is 

a major goal for council 

– it is not only one of our 

largest ongoing costs, it 

also produces more than 

two-thirds of council’s 

greenhouse gas emissions. 

In a bold move in December 

2009, council adopted a new 

Waste Minimisation Strategy 

that aims to reduce the region’s 

landfill waste by 70 per cent. 

Environment Portfolio holder, 

Keryn Jones, said the strategy 

would guide council’s decisionmaking 

and resource priorities 

for the next five years. 

So what’s been done so far? 

► By June 2010, council hopes 

to have a partner in place to 

assist in the processing of 

construction and demolition 

waste from building sites. 

► An exciting new alternative 

energy initiative to capture 

landfill gas and enable emission 

reductions was adopted in 

December 2009 and council has 

been actively seeking a partner 

to create a tailor-made contract 

to reduce council’s greenhouse 

gas emissions by 60 per cent. 

► Education was identified as 

a major element in the strategy 

and the current education 

program is being revamped and 

increased to cover businesses, 

schools and residents. 

► All businesses that use 

council’s waste services are 

entitled to a bulk recycling bin at 

no additional cost. In November 

“It maps out how council can 

reduce the need for landfill, 

help educate the community, 

raise the bar on recycling, 

improve resource management, 

create jobs and make the 

Sunshine Coast Australia’s 

most sustainable region,” 

Cr Jones said. 

“The strategy gives us the 

freedom to work with the 

community and industry, adapt 

to regional changes such 

as population growth and 

habits, and investigate new 

technologies as they become 

available.” 

2009, requests for this service 

jumped from 12 per week to 104 

in some areas of the Coast. 

► Within the next 12 months, 

council will invite companies 

involved in alternative waste 

technology to submit an 

expression of interest for a new 

waste processing facility. This 

process will enable council to 

select the preferred technology 

for the Coast’s waste stream. 

► Trials into organic collections 

are expected to start in the 

2010-2011 financial year. 

Council will use the data to 

move forward with improved 

domestic collections. 

► Mattress processing is also 

high on the agenda and council 

hopes to have a contract in place 

within the next 12 months that will 

divert about 18,000 mattresses 

from landfill each year. 

Merging 

of the 

w a t e r s 

From 1 July, Unitywater, the 

region’s new water supplier and 

wastewater services company, 

will provide all Sunshine Coast 

residents with water services. 

This means residents will no 

longer receive water and sewage 

charges on rates notices but will 

receive a separate bill for these 

services from Unitywater. 

This new entity is the result of the 

Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay 

regional councils’ water supply 

and wastewater services merging 

into a single business that will 

service both regions. 

The merge is required under the 

State Government’s water reform 

measures and is the third such 

company to be established in 

South East Queensland under the 

reform. 

What else does this mean for 

Sunshine Coast residents and 

businesses? 

► Unitywater will be the region’s 

new water supply and sewerage 

services distribution and retail 

company. It will be wholly owned 

by the two councils but will 

operate independently under its 

own board of directors. 

► Residents will continue to 

receive the same water and 

wastewater services as they 

always have, just under the 

Unitywater name. 

► Unitywater will handle all 

water supplies and wastewater 

billing and any services enquiries, 

rather than the council. 

As it is established, the new 

business will contact you directly 

and help you through the change. 

For more information about the 

South East Queensland water 

reform, visit the Queensland 

Water Commission’s website 

at www.qwc.qld.gov.au 

or council’s website 

www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au. 


Sunshine Coast Council 3


4 

Oil spill funds 

put to good use 

In the wake of last year’s oil spill, council is 

using the $700,000 received from the Australian 

Government’s oil spill recovery project to shore 

up Coast beaches. 

Working with more than 32 partners, council is 

coordinating a coastal resilience program to strengthen 

beaches which were affected when the Pacific 

Adventurer lost 270 tonnes of oil from her decks during 

a storm last March. 

The oil washed up on Coast beaches including 

Kawana, Marcoola and Coolum, for days. Hardest 

hit was Moreton Island, with Bribie also needing an 

intensive clean-up. 

While council’s quick response to the oil spill 

significantly reduced the impact on our beaches, 

the event highlighted the need to build strength and 

resilience into our coastal zone. 

The oil spill recovery project aims to achieve a range 

of outcomes that will bring long-lasting benefits to the 

Sunshine Coast including: 

► dunal rehabilitation on at least 17 sites along the 

Coast 

► further support for the turtle conservation program 

► community-based monitoring of the rocky foreshores 

► training of key personnel in emergency procedures 

► establishment of a new monitoring program for 

critical frog habitats 

► support of the sea grass, mangrove and Reef Check 

monitoring programs 

► community capacity building in dunal restoration and 

revegetation 

► increased capacity building for three local native 

community nurseries 

► a partnership between the University of the 

Sunshine Coast, Department of Environment and 

Resource Management and council, to establish vital 

ecological baseline data and shoreline accretion/ 

erosion patterns of areas associated with the oil spill 

disaster. The data will assist the development of a 

Regional Coastal Management Strategy. 


One way for Tooway 

It will be one way at a time for traffic 

over Tooway Creek at Moffat Beach 

for much of this year, with council’s 

$5.6 million bridge replacement project 

scheduled to start soon. 

Council plans to begin preliminary work 

in late March to early April, subject to the 

appropriate permits – including those 

addressing a range of environmental 

requirements – being signed off by State 

Government agencies. 

The existing timber bridge must be 

replaced before it becomes a public safety 

concern. 

Constraints around the site mean council 

faced significant challenges when planning 

the project, including the impact on the 

local community, businesses, schools, 

emergency services and public transport. 

Following extensive community 

engagement and stakeholder consultation 

it was determined that the best solution 

was for council to provide a temporary 

one-lane bridge across Tooway Creek 

during the removal and replacement of the 

existing structure. The temporary bridge 

will be under traffic signal control at all 

times and will be open to traffic as much 

as possible. However, there will be times 

where it will need to be closed, such as 

when the crane is lifting bridge deck units 

into place on the new bridge. Council will, 

where possible, undertake these works 

on weekends and at off-peak times to 

minimise impact on road users. 

However, people are advised that the 

project will result in possible delays. 

An alternative route is available via 

Nicklin Way. 

Tooway bridge to be replaced

Firing the imagination 

It’s official – the Noosa 

Regional Gallery is among the 

best in Queensland. 

The gallery’s Floating Land 

exhibition scooped a prestigious 

Queensland Gallery and Museum 

Achievement Award. 

Sunshine Coast Mayor Bob 

Abbot accepted the award, 

which included a $1000 cash 

prize and a specially-designed 

trophy, at a gala presentation 

at the Queensland Museum in 

Brisbane’s South Bank. 

Floating Land 2009 was a 10- 

day festival held last June at 

Lake Cootharaba that allowed 

the public to interact with live 

art as they watched sculptors at 

work, attended forums and saw 

daily photographic and writing 

exhibitions take shape. 

A highlight was the sunset firing 

of paper kilns (pictured) that were 

floated on the lake to slowly 

smoulder before shooting flames 

into the sky. 

Participants included renowned 

Australian performer Robyn 

Archer, Queensland sculptor Terry 

Summers and leading academics 

from Queensland University, QUT 

and the University of the Sunshine 

Coast, as well as Aboriginal and 

Pacific Islander dancers. 

Council’s Creative Planning and 

Programs Manager, Christine 

Ballinger, said staff were delighted 

to be recognised for an exhibition 

that attracted 15,000 people. 

“Floating Land is a special art 

event on the Sunshine Coast 

that the community just loves,” 

she said. 

“A combination of the magical 

setting and the fascinating theme 

brought out the best in creativity 

from everyone who took part.” 

She said judges were especially 

impressed that the gallery had 

made a DVD of the festival. The 

DVD is a significant educational 

tool on climate change and the 

role artists can play to build 

community awareness of this 

issue. 

The biennial event is UNESCOendorsed, 

with the next planned 

for June 2011. 

Residents flock to 

Cr Green asked residents to keep 

an eye out for more opportunities 

to get involved in the preparation 

of the new planning scheme 

throughout 2010 and 2011. 

Sunshine Coast residents 

responded with more than 

3000 submissions to the twomonth 

Our place Our future 

community engagement 

program – results of which will 

help shape the region over the 

next 20 years. 

The program invited community 

comment on 12 direction-setting 

documents that will guide the 

creation of the new Sunshine 

Coast Planning Scheme and the 

way the region looks and feels 

during the next two decades. 

Statutory and Regional Planning 

Portfolio holder, Russell Green, 

said the community response 

was unprecedented and thanked 

everyone for their feedback. 

“About 1800 people visited 36 

roadshow displays that stopped at 

close to 25 locations around the 

region,” Cr Green said. 

“Council had more than 2800 

hits to the Our place Our future 

website page and received about 

3000 submissions — all this 

demonstrates just how keen the 

community is to be involved in 

planning for the region’s future.” 

“Council has now reviewed all the 

submissions received and this 

feedback is being used to draft 

the ‘detail’ of the new planning 

scheme and will also inform other 

council policies and programs,” 

Cr Green said. 

“The draft planning scheme 

will be available for community 

comment within a year and a half 

and we look forward to the same 

enthusiastic community interest in 

the next key stage.” 

Keep your eye on council’s 

website for updates and 

opportunities to get involved. 



Sunshine Coast 

Australia Day Award winners. 

Back row: 

Don McBryde, 

Tamsin Kerr, 

Ross Annels, 

Vernon Flood 

and Kristy Ellis. 

Front row: 

John Cooke, 

Mayor Bob Abbot, 

Dawn Wilson 

and Bianca Bond. 

Australia Day Award winners 2010 

Meet this year’s winners of the Sunshine Coast Australia Day Awards, announced by Mayor Bob 

Abbot on the sands of Mooloolaba Beach at a moving twilight ceremony on 25 January. 


6 

Community Award 

Dawn Wilson Golden Beach 

Dawn’s volunteering has made an outstanding 

contribution to the Sunshine Coast community. 

Locally her commitments include working with 

Linkin Services for the mentally ill, Sunshine Coast 

Emergency Accommodation Centre, Sunshine Coast 

Housing Council and Community Links Program. 

Dawn’s dedication and commitment are an inspiration 

to many, as is her happiness as a result of her 

extraordinary and effective community work. 

Environmental Award 

Vernon Flood Nambour 

Vernon’s 10-year commitment to Maroochy 

Waterwatch has been instrumental in making it the 

effective, financially secure community group it is 

today. Maroochy Waterwatch supports volunteering, 

skill development and partnerships to improve the 

Maroochy river and encourage ecological sustainabliity. 

Vernon has also contributed to significant national 

and international environmental initiatives and is a 

distinguished Toastmaster of more than 30 years. 

Creative Award 

Ross Annels and Tamsin Kerr 

Cooroora Institute Cooroy 

Ross Annels and Dr Tamsin Kerr have fostered 

creativity and their local community’s love of place 

for many years. Through the Cooroora Institute, they 

organise artists’ residencies and workshops, run 

cross-cultural performances and local artist initiatives. 

The environment inspires Ross’s furniture design, and 

is a backdrop for Tamsin’s work promoting artists and 

musicians and teaching business courses. 

Business Award 

Don McBryde Noosa 

Don McBryde, the man behind the iconic Noosa Ferry 

Cruise, has introduced about 700,000 visitors to the 

beauty of the Noosa River, Tewantin and Noosaville in 

just 11 years. While still a small business, the Noosa 

Ferry Cruise contributed to the growth of Noosa 

Harbour as a key tourist destination, bringing tangible 

benefits to retailers, market operators, restaurants and 

cafes along the Noosa River. 


Sport and Recreation Award 

Kristy Ellis (nee Munroe) Maroochydore 

In 1988, Kristy joined Alexandra Headland Surf 

Lifesaving Club as a six-year-old nipper. While now 

one of the best female surf life saving competitors in 

the world – captaining the Australian Surf Life Saving 

Team to victory at the 2008 World Championships – 

she remains a local member of the SLSC, coaches 

juniors, and is a member of the International Life 

Saving Federation. Kristy is a 2010 Australia Day 

Ambassador for the state and Sunshine Coast. 

Senior Citizen of the Year 

John Cooke Minyama 

John’s lifetime love of sailing and his role as President 

of Sailability Sunshine Coast adds up to a very special 

contribution to sailing on the Sunshine Coast. Each 

week John and his enthusiastic team of volunteers 

provide sailing experiences to more than 100 children 

and adults in 10 boats supported by his self-funded 

project. 

Young Citizen of the Year 

Bianca Bond Bli Bli 

Bianca’s outstanding, positive leadership shines in her 

roles as youth worker and organiser of Nambour High 

School’s Women’s Business Workshop for indigenous 

women. In 2009, Bianca attended the inaugural 

Indigenous Youth Parliament at Parliament House, 

Brisbane. She is also a member of the Cultural 

Board for the Noosa Biosphere and the Queensland 

Indigenous Youth Advisory Committee. 

Services to the Sunshine Coast Community 

Posthumous Award 

Allan and Kari Taylor 

Allan and Kari Taylor have been described as “father 

to the fatherless” and “mother to the motherless”. Allan 

was a passionate youth leader and mentor, and Kari 

a gifted dancer and conservatorium-trained singer 

who poured her life into others. They were loved by 

all age groups, impacting positively on all those who 

came in contact with their dance, faith, and tireless 

work for the people of their local area. The couple 

tragically died after being hit by a vehicle beside the 

Sunshine Motorway last August. This special award 

was created to honour their outstanding contribution 

to the Sunshine Coast community.

Green changes at 

Sunshine Coast Airport 

Ready for take-off 

Sunshine Coast Airport’s 

new look includes: 

► the unique rainforest 

walkway which provides a 

portal for public awareness 

for the Richmond Birdwing 

Butterfly 

► extensive use of solar tubes 

and skylights to maximise 

natural light 

► rainwater harvesting for use 

in toilets and on gardens 

► carpet made from recycled 

material 

► waste recycling bins. 

Any regular traveller knows that comfort and being able to move around easily are the keys to 

a great airport experience – and to be able to do this with plenty of sunlight and a rainforest 

walkway is even better. 

The Sunshine Coast Airport now 

offers all this on your doorstep. 

When opening the redevelopment 

of the Airport terminal in late 2009, 

Mayor Bob Abbot said significant 

improvements had boosted 

both the convenience factor for 

passengers and efficiency for 

airlines servicing the Sunshine 


”Our vision to become Australia’s 

most sustainable region is 

reflected in the design that 

incorporates the sustainability 

principles of reduce, reuse and 

recycle,” Cr Abbot said. 

“Council’s $3.5 million investment 

in this project also demonstrates 

our ongoing support for the tourism 

industry through improvements 

to vital infrastructure that will help 

build our regional economy.” 

“The Sunshine Coast Airport 

contributed more than $475 million 

to the Sunshine Coast’s economy 

last year and we know that figure 

will continue to grow.” 

Sunshine Coast Airport General 

Manager, Peter Pallot, said the first 

thing passengers and guests will 

notice is the new entrance to the 

departure lounge that is now via 

the rainforest walk to the security 

screening point. 

From that point, there is access 

to shopping, food and beverage 

outlets, toilets and the outdoor 

observation area. 

“The design incorporates green 

initiatives including plenty of 

natural light, use of natural 

materials and the harvesting of 

rain for our gardens,” Mr Pallot 

said. 

“There’s much less congestion 

now around security screening 

points and, once you’re inside 

the secured area, there are many 

new retail stores and food and 

beverage outlets to choose from.” 

“All of this adds up to a more 

enjoyable and green travelling 

experience for residents and 

visitors.” 

Sustainability principles incorporated 

into the new design 

Showcasing the 

Richmond Birdwing Butterfly 




8 

Cooroy Library: 

a new chapter in green design 

The Coast’s newest library 

– the much-anticipated $9.7 

million Cooroy Library – is 

due to open its doors in 

March. 

Nestled in the heart of the 

Cooroy Mill precinct, the library 

is the largest of council’s 

libraries, covering 1200 square 

metres. It is also the ‘greenest’, 

designed with a focus on 

energy efficiency to reduce its 

environmental footprint. 

Environmental sustainability 

formed a key component of 

the building’s design. A large 

section of the building is cut into 

the ground, providing thermal 

mass to help control the internal 

temperature and reduce the 

heat load into the building. 

Half of the library’s roof is 

covered in grass, further 

reducing power consumption. 

Photo voltaic cells on the roof 

help generate power and 

account for 40 per cent of 

the building’s internal lighting 

needs. 

Like all libraries, it will be a hub 

for the community with social 

spaces as well as a ‘Peaceful 

Place’ for quiet reading, 

reflection and study. High-speed 

broadband and online services 


will be available in the Global 

Connect Centre, as well as 

training facilities and community 

meeting rooms. 

Entertainment has not been 

forgotten in spaces such as the 

Children’s Discovery Area and 

Young Adult Infotainment Zone. 

Executive Director of 

Community Services, Lisbet 

Dean, said the opening of the 

new library was a significant 

milestone in the regeneration of 

Cooroy. 

“This library, like so many 

across the Sunshine Coast, is 

located in the centre of town to 

allow it to become a hub of the 

community,” she said. 

“It’s the result of the hard 

work of a dedicated group of 

individuals and organisations, 

who have worked with council 

to help deliver this new library. 

“The role played by the 

community groups, the local 

school children and many 

individuals over many years 

cannot be underestimated. 

“Their hard work has helped 

to provide a new community 

hub where people can gather 

together to read and relax with 

a selection of the best books at 

their fingertips.” 

In the swim 

Community feedback on 

council’s Regional Sport and 

Recreation Strategy and 

Regional Aquatics Strategy has 

unearthed some interesting 

findings. 

The main issues identified by local 

sporting clubs and residents were: 

► shortage of land due to the 

growing population and 

overuse of existing facilities 

► sporting clubs looking for 

homes for their increasing 

membership 

► lack of volunteers 

► cost of insurance. 

On a positive note, the community 

engagement and focus groups 

run by council found there 

was greater awareness of the 

benefits of physical activity and its 

contribution to a healthy lifestyle 

and the community was generally 

satisfied with council’s assistance. 

Community surveys are now 

being completed and are in the 

process of being analysed. 

The project team is working 

on developing drafts of these 

strategies for community 

consultation in June. 

If residents want to have a say 

please visit council’s website 

or contact Strategic Leisure on 

1300 734 626 or email 

scpools@strategicleisure.com.au

Pianos on the beach 

at Caloundra 

Music Festival 

Coast 

culture: 

a creative and 

artistic region 

The Sunshine Coast’s unique culture 

is treasured by locals – and it’s high 

on council’s agenda in 2010. 

To protect and strengthen our local 

culture, council is developing the 

region’s first cultural plan to be known 

as our Creative Communities Plan. 

The five-year plan will outline a shared 

vision of how communities across the 

region wish to experience and express 

their sense of place, culture and 

lifestyle. 

It will cover cultural facilities, festivals, 

markets, libraries, museums, art 

galleries, local historical societies and 

arts and craft. 

Executive Director of Community 

Services, Lisbet Dean, encouraged 

residents to have a say in helping to 

shape culture on the Coast over the 

next five years. 

“Many people think of culture as being 

about the arts or galleries, but it’s so 

much more,” Ms Dean said. 

“It’s the rich smell of food as you 

wander through the markets or the 

chorus of a local community choir. 

“The unique and diverse culture that 

exists within our many communities 

must be preserved and now is the 

time to do it by getting involved in the 

Creative Communities Plan.” 

Residents can get involved by 

completing the online questionnaire on 

council’s website or by attending one 

of the focus groups being held across 

the region over the next few months. 

A discussion paper and fact sheets 

on the Creative Communites Plan are 

available on council’s website. 

The online questionnaire closes on 28 

March. Hard copies are available at all 

Sunshine Coast libraries and customer 

service centres. 

For more information on the Creative 

Communities Plan or how you can 

have your say, visit council’s website or 

contact a customer service centre on 

5475 7272. 

The Creative Communities Plan will examine the following areas 

that make up the coast’s cultural landscape: 

► arts and crafts 

► architecture and design 

► cultural facilities 

► cultural heritage (including 

Indigenous heritage) 

► festivals and markets 

► libraries, literature, writing and 

publishing 

► museums, art galleries, local 

historical societies, archives 

and keeping places 

► media, film, television, radio, 

video and language 

► parks, open spaces, wildlife 

habitats, water environments 

► sports and leisure events and 

facilities. 

Just briefly 

Help for Maleny’s 

water woes 

Help is on the way to 

secure Maleny’s at-risk 

water supply. 

Sunshine Coast Water 

is laying a pipeline to the 

Maleny township from 

the water treatment plant 

at Landers Shute near 

Palmwoods. 

This will link Maleny 

to the same water 

supply as the rest of 

the Sunshine Coast, 

giving residents and 

businesses a permanent 

and secure water source 

instead of having to rely 

on the Obi Obi Creek as 

the town’s only source of 

water. 

The new pipeline to 

Maleny is expected to 

be completed by June 

2010. 

New funds for 

community groups 

Community 

organisations have until 

15 March to apply for a 

new source of funding 

from council. 

The Community 

Partnership Funding 

Program is aimed at 

community organisations 

whose operations 

or services make a 

significant contribution 

to the Sunshine Coast 

community and are 

closely aligned to 

council’s vision for 

the future. Applicants 

must be not-for-profit, 

incorporated community 

organisations. 

The partnership program 

is an adjunct to council’s 

already popular regional 

grants program. 

To apply, see council’s 

website. 



$$$$ 

How council monitors its 

BUDGET 

Managing a budget of more than $750 million of 

other people’s money calls for strong financial 

management, and constant monitoring of what is 

spent and what is earned. 

Our focus on being financially sustainable and 

complying with Local Government Finance Standards 

requires council to amend the budget if there are 

material changes to expected revenue or expenses. 

In doing this, council produces a monthly financial 

report and if any emerging minor issues are identified, 

the budget is amended. Council also undertakes two 

full budget reviews each financial year with the first 

major review held towards the end of 2009. At present, 

council is working on the second and final review for this 

financial year. 

Financial Management Portfolio holder, Chris 

Thompson, said major budget reviews of all budgeted 

revenue and expenditure may result in council adopting 

changes to the 2009-2010 Budget. 

“For example, with the December review the net 

result was an increase in council’s operating deficit 

from $7.6 million to $12.7 million with our Operating 

Position Indicator standing at 2.8 per cent. This is still 

comfortably within the Queensland Treasury minimum 

indicator of 4 per cent,” Cr Thompson said. 

“However, council’s target is to have a balanced 

operating result for the financial year. And we adjusted 

all the known one-off or extra-ordinary items, including 

works funded from previous years (carry-overs) of $7.6 

million, works funded from reserves of $1.9 million and 

the early part-payment of the financial assistance grant 

(under the federal government stimulus package) of 

$2.8 million, the forecast operating result was a deficit of 

$400,000. 

“Council was also on track to achieve its efficiency 

dividend with the realisation of $4.8 million, or 36 per 

cent of the $13.5 million target.” 

Examples of possible risks 

► Lower than the forecast 2.4 per cent growth 

in rateable assessments. 

► The impacts of the economic downturn on 

revenue from development-related fees and 

charges. 

► Potential significant increases in legal 

expenses. 

► Increased costs associated with water 

reform. 

“With the community in mind, the significant 

benefit of this rigorous budget review process 

is that we are continually aware of our financial 

situation, which in turn assists in preparations 

for the 2010-2011 Budget,” Cr Thompson said. 

Steps in the budget review process 

1 Council receives and reviews monthly 

Board and Financial Management reports. 

2 Council’s budget is adjusted for emerging 

minor issues. 

3 The major reviews (October/November and 

February/March) are when all budgeted 

revenue and expenditure is reviewed to 

determine if material changes are required 

to council’s budget. 

4 Budget adjustments are collated 

and presented to council’s Executive 

Leadership Team. 

5 Budget adjustments are subsequently 

presented to either council’s Organisational 

Performance Committee or General 

Committee Meeting. 

6 The budget is formally amended by council 

at an Ordinary Meeting. 


10 

Other key changes incorporated into the 2009-2010 December review include: 

► Increased airport terminal 

revenue and recoveries from 

Sunshine Coast Enterprises. 

► The recognition of increased 

water base and consumption 

charges offset by lower than 

anticipated general rates 

and Tourism and Economic 

Development Levy income 


► Increased revenue and 

expenditure associated with 

additional trainees under 

the Green Army and a SEQ 

Catchment Grant. 

► Increased capital works of 

$2.8 million, taking the 2009- 

2010 capital works program 

to $306.4 million. 

“Council remains on target 

to achieve an adjusted 

balanced operating result 

after adjustments for impacts 

from prior years and reserve 

transfers; however, the final 

result is being closely monitored 

for changes in any known risks,” 

Cr Thompson said. 

$$$$

Street smart: 

Coast towns get a make over 

The Sunshine Coast is a 

community of communities, 

with each town and place 

having its own unique flavour, 

style and personality – and 

that’s how council would like 

to see it remain. 

With such a large region being 

governed by one council, many 

residents were concerned that 

the Sunshine Coast would 

become a one-size-fits-all 

place. However, council’s 

Major Projects Portfolio holder, 

Debbie Blumel, has articulated 

a “placemaking” approach. This 

is a key strategy to ensure the 

protection of the Sunshine Coast 

character, quality of life and our 

diverse range of communities 

and places. 

Cr Blumel said a number of 

placemaking projects currently 

underway demonstrated how the 

unique characteristics of each 

town were being protected and 

enhanced. 

“Whether it’s Maleny, Noosa or 

Nambour, council has developed 

a number of master plans that 

will improve the streetscape while 

retaining each area’s sense of 

style and character,” she said. 

“We can do this because all of 

the projects involve extensive 

community consultation to allow 

residents to have a say in how 

major Sunshine Coast centres 

and towns should continue to 

evolve.” 

For the status of any of the 

projects listed on this page, 

please log onto council’s 

website. 

Placemaking projects taking shape across the 

Sunshine Coast include: 

Caloundra 

A community reference panel is 

helping council develop a master 

plan for Bulcock Street, with the 

aim of reinforcing the streets 

village character and ‘green’ 

feel. Residents and traders will 

soon be able to participate in the 

community engagement program 

and have their say. Council aims 

to complete the master plan by 

June 2010 and start Stage 1 

construction in the 2010-2011 

financial year. 

Coolum 

The Coolum Village Centre 

Urban Design Master Plan 

takes not only streetscaping into 

account, but also parks and open 

space, pedestrian activity, village 

character, car parking, traffic 

and community facilities. For 

the most up-to-date information 

on this project, head to the 

community engagement pages 

on council’s website. 

Maleny (pictured at top) 

Stage 1 of the streetscape 

revitalisation is now completed, 

with a community space 

incorporating feature paving, 

landscape lighting, custom 

furniture, shelters and footpath 

works. 

Marcoola 

Over the Christmas holidays, 

council asked for feedback on 

the draft concept design for the 

Suncoast Boulevard Streetscape 

Revitalisation Plan and aims to 

have a completed master plan 

ready by April 2010. 

Mooloolaba 

The new look for Mooloolaba was 

unveiled in December, bringing with it 

more opportunities for outdoor dining, 

new shade areas and street furniture 

that also offer a relaxed place to enjoy 

a coffee and watch the world go by. 

Nambour 

In 2009, council completed the 

Nambour Streetscape Revitalisation, 

a milestone marked with a new 

town square, stage facilities, shade 

structures, artwork and an event space 

for civic celebrations and markets. 

Streetscaping has linked Lowe, Queen 

and Short Streets to the rail and bus 

interchange. 

Noosa Junction 

Council is engaging with the 

community to come up with a future 

design for Noosa Junction. The project 

aims to develop the character of the 

Noosa Junction shopping precinct and 

reveal the potential of the unique local 

qualities that define it as a destination. 

For detailed project information and 

to view past and current community 

engagement opportunities, head to 

council’s website. 

Sunshine Beach 

The Sunshine Beach Placemaking 

Master Plan will focus on delivering a 

unique, creative and functional design 

that heightens the user experience 

and builds on the existing lifestyle 

and character of Sunshine Beach. 

The draft master plan will soon be 

on display for further community 

feedback. A final design is due 

for completion in June 2010, with 

construction of Stage 1 works due to 

start in 2011. 



1 2 

What’s new in your neighbourhood? 

Council projects are delivering infrastructure and services to improve amenities and enhance 

communities across the Sunshine Coast. Here is just a sample of some of the work started, underway 

or finished since the last edition of Encompass. 


Division 1 

Bushcare partnership: 

Landsborough 

Gowen Drive Bushcare Group, a 

community group supported by 

council’s Community Conservation 

Program, is working to establish 

Richmond Birdwing butterfly vines as 

food and habitat for this endangered 

butterfly. 

Botanic planting: Glass House 

The Community Conservation 

Program also supports GMAN Wattle 

Soldiers, who have undertaken a 

bush tucker botanical garden planting 

in Settlers Park, Glass House 

Mountains. 

Bridge program: 

Beerwah and Bells Creek 

Council replaced two bridges on 

Roys Road. The most eastern bridge 

was replaced due to its structure 

sinking. The bridge across Mellum 

Creek, 300 metres east of the Bruce 

Highway, had reached the end of its 

serviceable life. 

Division 2 

Viewing decks: Moffat Headland 

Council’s $270,000 makeover of 

Moffat Beach headland has added 

beach timber viewing decks, seating 

areas, landscaping, artworks and 

wider footpaths. 

Community grants: 

Pelican Waters 

Council grants help community 

groups like Pelican Waters Probus 

Club do important work in the area. 

The club received funding to buy 

equipment for presentations and 

training. 

Conservation volunteers: 

Shelly Beach 

The Shelly Beach Conservation 

Volunteers work in partnership with 

council to regenerate the beach’s 

dunal system. New volunteers are 

welcome. The group meets at the 

beach on the first Saturday of each 

month at 8am (excluding January). 

Division 3 

Coastal Pathway: Wurtulla 

The new 1.3 kilometre Kathleen 

McArthur Park section of the Coastal 

Pathway was funded partially by 

a state government Sport and 

Recreation grant and council. It 

incorporates mosaic artworks, 

interpretive signage and a bike rack. 

Coondibah pathway connection: 

Currimundi 

The Coondibah Creek section of the 

Coastal Pathway from Buderim Street 

around Currimundi Primary School is 

an important link for the community 

and beachgoers. It also helps protect 

the local wetland and endangered 

frog population. 

Exercise equipment: Wurtulla 

High quality exercise equipment 

was installed in Moondarra Park 

at Parkhaven Drive, Wurtulla. The 

equipment allows users to get fit in 

a great environment overlooking the 

nearby waterway. 

Division 4 

Nelson Park plan: 

Alexandra Headland 

Consultation is underway for 

development of the Landscape 

Concept Plan for Nelson Park, 

Alexandra Headland. The local 

community’s ideas will inform the 

design process and the final concept 

plan. 

New seating: Alexandra Headland 

Three rusty park seats have been 

removed and replaced with modern 

aluminium seats in the park beside 

Alex Surf Club. 

Pilot Station Road Park: 

Mooloolaba 

An upgrade of facilities at Pilot 

Station Road Park has added picnic 

shelters, shade tree planting, murals 

on the public amenities and a themed 

children’s play facility. 

Division 5 

Conservation agreement: 

Booroobin 

A Voluntary Conservation Agreement 

will protect a significant parcel of 

rainforest on a Booroobin property. 

This contributes to a wildlife 

corridor connecting the Blackall and 

Conondale Ranges. 

Riverine restoration: 

Mooloolah catchment 

Council is undertaking a major 

riverine restoration project in the 

middle to upper reaches of Mooloolah 

River. The project, funded by the 

Environment Levy, focuses on weed 

removal, replanting and restoration of 

remnant rainforest. 

Park master plan: Montville 

Three stages of Montville’s Russell 

Family Park Master Plan are being 

designed for construction in 2010- 

2011. Works will include redesigning 

the lagoon edges, pathways, bridges 

and boardwalks. 

Division 6 

Neighbourhood Park: Glenfields 

Council has continued work at 

Glenfields Neighbourhood Park. A 

new junior playground, incorporating 

additional shade tree planting and 

park furniture, has been installed. 

Roundabout: Buderim 

The design of the new Dixon Road/ 

Karawatha Drive/Ballinger Road 

roundabout provides fauna fencing 

and underpasses to protect native 

fauna while integrating on and offroad 

cycling and pedestrian paths. 

12 


3 4 

5 

1 Best in BMX: New and improved 

tracks at Sundial Park. 

2 Building bridges: Two bridges 

replaced on Roys Road. 

3 Calm crossing: Buderim native 

fauna protected by a new underpass. 

4 New Nelson: Planning is underway 

for new developments at Nelson Park 

5 Weed whackers: Major restoration 

ahead for the Mooloolah river. 

Dogs off-leash area: Sippy Downs 

An area of parkland at Lakehead 

Drive has been fenced to allow 

owners to exercise their dogs. The 

park includes seating and new 

drinking fountains, one for dogs and 

one for owners. 

Division 7 

Road and traffic plan: Forest Glen 

Council has approved two signalised 

intersections on Mons Road, either 

side of the Bruce Highway at Forest 

Glen, to relieve traffic congestion in 

peak periods. The road under the 

highway will be widened to allow 

additional traffic flow to clear the 

intersections. Works are expected to 

start in March. 

Sports ground improvements: 

Maroochydore 

Council has extended the terracing 

around the clubhouse facilities at the 

Maroochydore multi-sports fields. The 

works provide terraced seating and 

pedestrian links to the netball court. 

Park improvements: Buderim 

Improvements identified in Stage 

2 of the Cumberland Way Park’s 

master plan have delivered new park 

furniture, pathways, landscaping and 

tree planting. 

Division 8 

Paths and pedestrian crossing: 

Cotton Tree 

New footpaths in Fourth Avenue, 

Cotton Tree and new pedestrian 

crossings where Second and Fourth 

avenues intersect with the Esplanade 

were completed. 

Nojoor Road: Mudjimba 

Nojoor Road was sealed. This project 

involved clearing, earth works, 

drainage, gravel and sealing the 

road. 

Park furniture and bus shelters: 

Pacific Paradise and Maroochydore 

New bus shelters and new park 

furniture were installed at Keith 

Royal Park at Pacific Paradise and 

Arana Park, next to Allora Gardens 

Retirement Village. 

Division 9 

Park master plan: Bli Bli 

The 2006 master plan for Muller Park 

will be revised this year. Concept and 

staging plans will be prepared, and 

detailed design drawings developed, 

with Stages 1 and 2 scheduled for 

construction in 2010-2012. 

Landscape master plan: 

Coolum Village Centre 

This master plan for park and 

streetscape upgrades and improved 

pedestrian/cycle access and safety 

is near completion. At the time of 

publication, it was expected the plan 

would be out for public feedback. 

Wetlands: Bli Bli 

A new section of boardwalk near the 

river end of the existing wetlands 

boardwalk was completed. Additional 

work is planned for the cooler months 

of 2010. 

Division 10 

Park upgrade: Nambour 

The drain at Rolling Meadows Park 

was cleaned out, timber edged 

and planted with shade trees and 

grasses. A park seat and a new 

rubbish bin were installed. 

Landscape master plan: 

Petrie Creek 

The Petrie Creek Open Space 

Landscape Master Plan aims to 

link open space areas along the 

creek corridor through Nambour. 

Community consultation results and 

master plan options will be presented 

at public workshops about March. 

Health precinct: Nambour 

A Nambour Health Precinct Working 

Group, including representatives 

from the public and private hospitals, 

business and community members, 

Member for Nicklin Peter Wellington 

and council officers, was established 

to look at planning matters and traffic 

management. 

Division 11 

Park furniture: various locations 

New park furniture was installed in 

various parks in this division. Existing 

park furniture, which deteriorated due 

to age, was replaced with new-style, 

low-maintenance, aluminium furniture. 

David Low Way: 

Peregian Beach South 

New landscape, turf and tree 

planting works along David Low Way 

complement the newly constructed 

roadworks, south of the Plover Street 

intersection. 

Culvert replacement: Doonan 

Council has recently completed works 

to reconstruct the existing culvert 

at Livistona Drive, Doonan that 

collapsed after the April 2009 flood 

event. 

Division 12 

BMX track: Tewantin 

The existing track facilities at Sundial 

Park were improved and new earth 

mounds installed. Landscaping and 

planting has also improved the area. 

Roundabout: Cooroy 

Council is constructing a roundabout 

at the intersection of Maple Street, 

Crystal Street and Tulip Street, 

Cooroy to improve road safety. 

Third Cutting: Noosa North Shore 

Council has realigned the Third 

Cutting and installed a track pad to 

allow easier access to and from the 

beach at the Third Cutting on Noosa’s 

North Shore. 




14 

Beerwah or bust 

– by bus 

A new trial bus service, connecting Landsborough and 

Beerwah, will improve travel between the two towns and 

across the region for locals using the Sunshine Coast’s 

growing public transport network. 

The seven-day-a-week 

service meets the Translink 

605 bus from Kawana to 

Landsborough via Caloundra, 

the 615 from Maroochydore to 

Landsborough via Mooloolaba 

and University of the Sunshine 

Coast and some Brisbane 

trains. 

The service also connects with 

Glasshouse Country Coaches 

daily services between 

Landsborough and Maleny 

which, as a result of this 

trial service have now been 

extended to include weekends. 

Regular commuters should 

check this timetable as some 

run times have changed. 

Integrated Transport portfolio 

holder, Vivien Griffin, said 

an effective public transport 

network was vital to council’s 

vision for a sustainable 

Sunshine Coast. 

“Sustainable living calls for 

innovation and change which 

makes this new hinterland 

service a great way to get 

around the Coast, reducing 

greenhouse gases and traffic 

congestion at the same time,” 

Cr Griffin said. 

“So during the trial phase I say 

‘all aboard’ and encourage 

hinterland residents to support 


the new service by telling their 

friends about it and using it as 

often as possible because the 

service needs patronage to 

succeed. 

“Catching the bus couldn’t be 

easier.” 

In addition to making regular 

stops, you can hail ‘n ride. 

This means that as long as it 

is safe for the driver to stop, 

you can board the bus after 

clearly signalling to the driver 

by placing your hand out as 

the bus approaches. 

The new bus service is a joint 

initiative of the Sunshine Coast 

Council and the Department of 

Transport and Main Roads. 

It is funded by council’s 

Public Transport Levy which 

is raised to improve local 

public transport services, 

infrastructure and patronage 

across the Coast. 

For more information on this 

service contact Glasshouse 

Country Coaches 5496 9249. 

For more information on 

connecting bus services to 

the coast and train services 

contact Translink 131230 or 

visit www.translink.com.au. 

Forget traffic smog: 

Is that popcorn I smell? 

Council will start using B20 

biodiesel in all its heavy 

vehicles and machinery from 

mid-2010 to significantly reduce 

greenhouse gas emissions. 

A tanker, capable of fuelling all 

council’s heavy fleet vehicles, 

is now installed at the Nambour 

depot, making Sunshine Coast 

Council one of the first councils in 

Queensland to introduce biodiesel. 

B20 diesel is a mix of 20 per 

cent biodiesel and 80 per cent 

petroleum diesel. It burns cleaner 

and faster, resulting in less wear 

and tear on engines, it reduces 

harmful emissions – and it 

apparently smells like popcorn. 

Council’s Fleet Management 

Manager, Kevin Jones, said that 

in November 2009 alone, council’s 

diesel consumption was a quarter 

of a million litres. 

“We’ll be using the fuel in 

everything from trucks and graders 

to excavators and tractors. Further 

down the line we hope to expand 

our use,” Mr Jones said. 

“B20 is sourced and produced 

in Australia from either tallow, a 

bi-product of the abattoir industry, 

recycled oil or seeds.” 

Council’s Assets Management 

Portfolio holder, Ted Hungerford, 

said the introduction of biodiesel 

brings us one step closer to 

making the Sunshine Coast 

Australia’s most sustainable 

region. 

“Because B20 contains 20 per 

cent less fossil fuel than ordinary 

diesel, we’ll be reducing our 

greenhouse gas emissions by 20 

per cent,” Cr Hungerford said. 

“We also hope to see some 

cost benefits when we introduce 

biodiesel and anticipate seeing a 

reduction in our fuel usage. 

“This initiative really does 

represent triple bottom line 

sustainability.”

Are you prepared for 

disaster? 

Taking the time now to discuss and plan for emergencies 

could help you prepare for, survive and minimise the 

impact of natural disasters. 

Late last year, council adopted 

the first disaster management 

plan for the Sunshine Coast 

region. 

This milestone document was 

the result of a partnership 

approach between council and 

a range of emergency and 

community services on the 

Sunshine Coast, as part of the 

Sunshine Coast Local Disaster 

Management Group (SCLDMG). 

SCLDMG Chair, Tim Dwyer, 

said the plan’s aim is to provide 

the Sunshine Coast community 

with the tools to ensure a timely 

and effective response, recovery 

and return to a safe environment 

after a disaster. 

He said with that plan in 

place, the emphasis now is to 

encourage individuals, families 

and businesses to view it and 

then begin preparing their own 

personal disaster plan. 

“We can all take steps before, 

during and after any disaster to 

help reduce potential loss of life 

and property damage,” 

Cr Dwyer said. 

“By being prepared, with a 

well thought-out plan, it is 

easier to remain calm and take 

positive, effective steps towards 

protecting yourself, your family 

and your business. 

“So I encourage our 

community to read the new 

Sunshine Coast Local Disaster 

Management Plan and then 

develop a simple plan of their 

own – so that they and their 

family are also well prepared 

for any disaster.” 

The Sunshine Coast Local 

Disaster Management Plan 

integrates with State and 

Federal disaster management 

arrangements, allowing 

district and state disaster 

management groups to provide 

assistance if required. 

It replaces the previous Local 

Disaster Management Plans of 

Noosa and Caloundra City and 

the draft Maroochy Disaster 

Management Plan. 

The plan and information 

on how to draft your own 

emergency plan are available 

via council’s website. 

Being prepared for a 

disaster includes having: 

► An emergency kit that includes 

non-perishable foods, bottled 

water, first aid kit, essential 

medications, torch and batterypowered 

radio (with extra 

batteries), clothing and footwear. 

► A list of emergency and related 

phone numbers: 

- Police/fire/ambulance: 000 

- SES: 132 500 

- medical services 

- local council 

- service providers 

- insurance providers 

- relatives 

- friends. 

► A list of all householder mobile 

phones, other phone numbers 

such as work, school, childcare 

providers, friends, neighbours 

and your household emergency 

contacts. 

► Details of the two meeting 

places you have nominated. 

► Details of any specific 

medical conditions, essential 

medications and dosages. 

► Details of your pets – 

description, photo, veterinarian 

contact details and medication. 

► Radio frequency of your local 

ABC radio station, Bureau 

of Meteorology website and 

telephone weather services for 

local warnings. 




16 

Blaze the new 

Noosa Trail 

Network 

You can go by bike, horse 

or foot – but whatever you 

do, don’t miss the two new 

hinterland trails that are now 

open. 

Council opened the new Noosa 

Trail Network in December 

to a crowd of more than 200 

trailblazers who were eager to 

brave the summer sun and give 

the new tracks a go. 

Autumn is an even better 

time to get outdoors, as the 

temperatures are less punishing 

to the active. 

The two new trails form part of 

the existing Noosa Trail Network 

and link Pomona to both Cooroy 

and Lake MacDonald. Both 

are relatively flat and can be 

completed as a day walk. 

The 15 kilometre Mac’n’Back 

Trail (Trail 7) extends from the 

Noosa Showgrounds located at 

Pomona, under the railway and 

across Yurol Forest Drive to the 

picturesque Lake Macdonald. 

The Cooroy Wanderer (Trail 8) 

is an 11 kilometre easy walking 

trail that also starts at the Noosa 

Showgrounds, and extends 

through the Yurol State Forest to 

Cooroy. 

Don’t forget to wear a hat, 

sunscreen and comfortable 

shoes if walking and take along 

a water bottle. 

An updated Noosa Trail 

Network brochure is available 

on council’s website. 


New campaign urges 

positive ways to drink at 18 

A new program that takes a realistic approach 

to encouraging responsible drinking behaviour is 

getting rave reviews from schools. 

Year 12 students from Sunshine 

Coast high schools are the focus 

of the program, My decision, 

My life, My responsibility, which 

aims to alert young people to the 

expectations and responsibilities 

associated with the privilege of 

being able to legally drink and 

attend licensed premises. 

Council’s Community 

Engagement and Governance 

Portfolio holder, Christian 

Dickson, said young people have 

been given lots of information 

about the dangers of excessive 

drinking on their health but not 

programs that talk about the 

realities of the 18-plus life they 

will move into. 

“At 18 they can vote, get their 

driver’s licence, legally drink 

alcohol and go into licensed 

premises – it’s an exciting time,” 

he said. 

“But there is a dark side – this 

mixture can be a catalyst for 

disaster. 

“The program hopes to imbed 

in these young people the need 

to make responsible decisions 

for the safety of themselves and 

their friends.” 

Council’s Community Programs 

Manager, Mike Lollback, said 

feedback from students who had 

taken part in the program so far 

was very positive. 

“They said it was the first 

program they had attended that 

treated them like adults able to 

make decisions for their own 

good,” he said. 

Unlike other responsible 

drinking campaigns, this one 

acknowledges that young people 

do have the right to drink at 18, 

but need guidance around how 

to do so. 

18 

“No one involved in this program 

is saying ‘don’t drink’, but if you 

are going out with friends to 

a licensed venue and you are 

going to drink, plan to get home 

safely,” Mr Lollback said. 

“Make the plan before you go out 

and stick to it. 

“Don’t take your car only to 

make a fateful spur-of-themoment 

decision to drive it home 

because you don’t want to leave 

it parked on the street. 

“These are the types of 

messages we want to get across 

to young people and show 

them that there are a number of 

transport options available on 

the coast. 

“The biggest part about growing 

up is taking responsibility for 

your decisions. So if you make 

a decision to go down a certain 

path – first ask yourself if it is 

worth it and, if so, be prepared 

to take responsibility for that 

decision.” 

My decision, My life, My 

responsibility is designed to 

provide young people with 

factual information in relation to 

the expectations, responsibilities 

and realities associated with 

alcohol, licensed venues and 

personal behaviour. 

It was launched last year at St 

John’s College and St Andrew’s 

Anglican College at Peregian 

Springs, with plans to expand it 

to more schools this year. 

The program is an initiative of CALM 

(Collaborative Approach to Liquor 

Management), and was delivered 

to schools by Queensland Police, 

Queensland Transport, Sunshine 

Coast Council, and proprietors of 

pubs and clubs. Sunshine Coast 

Street Angels also took part.

From super models 

to ceramics at 

Coast galleries 

Super models from the ’60s 

and ’70s and a look at how 

the Sunshine Coast’s built 

environment evolved are 

among the highlights of 

exhibitions at council’s three 

art galleries this year. 

The Noosa Regional Art Gallery, 

Caloundra Regional Art Gallery 

and the Cooroy Butter Factory 

have more than 30 exhibitions 

and events planned for the 

coming year, including free 

workshops, floor talks and public 

forums. 

Noosa Regional Art Gallery 

features a photographic 

exhibition of Australia’s young 

fashion industry in the 1960s and 

70s (see back page). 

The Caloundra Regional Art 

Gallery is celebrating its 10th 

year of operation in 2010. To 

celebrate, photographer Deborah 

Halls has documented the 

gallery’s exhibitions and events 

during the past decade through 

her exhibition Gallery Life, held 

from 10 March to 18 April. 

This will be followed by 

Greetings from Peregian Beach 

Roadhouse, from 21 April to 23 

May. This exhibition includes six 

stories charting the progression 

of our built environment on the 

Sunshine Coast from the turn of 

the century until the 1980s. 

On 29 May, a unique art project 

called TreeLine (pictured above) 

will have its official launch at 

the Maroochy Bushland Botanic 

Gardens and will signal the 

beginning of exhibitions in all 

three council galleries. TreeLine 

will celebrate trees and their 

storieswhile encouraging the 

coast’s communities to take 

action for the environment 

through art. This series of 

exhibitions will involve visual and 

new media arts, theatre, dance, 

music, sculpture and storytelling. 

Full details can be found at 

www.treeline.org.au. 

To coincide with the opening 

of the new library at Cooroy, a 

series of exhibitions will focus on 

ceramics at the Cooroy Butter 

Factory from 12 March to 24 

April. 

The Tamba Connection tells the 

10-year story of the Japanese 

Anagma wood fired kiln and 

include an exhibition of recent 

works created in the Butter 

Factory’s ceramics workshop. 

The Butter Factory will also 

exhibit works by Glen Manning 

and Kathy Daly, the artists 

commissioned to create Bunya, 

the public art piece featured in 

the new Cooroy Library precinct. 

Susan Lincoln and Andrea 

Higgins will present a dual show 

from 16 April to 16 May. The 

exhibit will be a combination 

of installation, sculpture and 

photography promising to 

manipulate the space and 

viewers’ interpretations. At the 

same time, last year’s winner of 

the Noosa Regional Art Gallery 

Travelling Scholarship Award, 

Catherine Fisk, will present her 

latest work which re-affirms the 

artist’s desire to return to the first 

principles of mark making. 

Keeping tabs on 

council’s vision 

A review of the Sunshine Coast 

Council’s first Operational Plan 

has made the document easier 

to understand, giving greater 

insight into council operations 

and how it aims to achieve its 

Corporate Plan vision. 

The Operational Plan prioritises 

the key projects and programs 

council will undertake in any 

given financial year to achieve 

its vision of becoming Australia’s 

most sustainable region. 

The annual Operational Plan is 

reported on four times a year to 

provide council with quarterly 

progress information on more 

than 160 projects and activities. 

It aligns with the organisation’s 

Corporate Plan 2009-2014. 

It also informs the budget 

process and the allocation of 

resources. 

Milestones already reached 

include: 

► the adoption of the Planning 

for a Sustainable Sunshine 

Coast – a Statement of 

Proposals, which is the first 

step toward the preparation of 

a new planning scheme 

► the establishment of 

a framework for the 

Sustainability and Innovation 

Group, to help council 

prioritise its sustainability 

initiatives 

► the development of a new 

water entity for this region. 

Council’s Annual Report, 

produced at the end of 

each financial year, reports 

on the financial status of 

the organisation and its 

achievements in a given 

12-month period. 

All these documents are 

available to the community via 

council’s website and also at 

local council libraries. 



Are you well connected? 

High speed broadband connections will be available to more 

Sunshine Coast residents from this year. 

www.connectingthecoast.com.au 

Check out the regularly updated 

website for further information and 

support in accessing improved high 

speed broadband. 

From July 2010, all new 

developments will need to 

provide for optic fibre as part 

of the National Broadband 

Network. This means that more 

people living and working on 

the Sunshine Coast will benefit 

from the Connecting the Coast 

project. 

In a partnership that secured 

more than $11 million in 

funding for much-needed new 

broadband infrastructure on 

the Sunshine Coast, the project 

has successfully introduced 

high speed connectivity to 

educational institutions and 

health-care providers and now 

the push is to reach the general 

community. 

So, if you are relocating on or 

to the Sunshine coast, consider 

asking your agent or developer 

the following questions: 

► Is the development/property 

National Broadband Network 

(NBN) ready? 

► Does the estate/property 

have optic fibre technology? 

► Will I get a choice of service 

providers on the network? 

► What will I be paying for 

these services? 

If you own or operate a 

business, you may like to ask 

the same questions in terms 

of lease arrangements and 

confirm that the building has 

optic fibre or is capable of being 

upgraded when the NBN comes 

to the Sunshine Coast. 

Economic Development 

Portfolio holder, Lew Brennan, 

said this high speed connectivity 

helps create a robust economy 

with everyone benefiting. 

“It enhances how existing 

businesses can operate as 

well as encouraging more 

companies to locate their 

businesses on the Sunshine 

Coast,” Cr Brennan said. 

“This in turn means more job 

opportunities for everyone 

- while living our preferred 

lifestyles on both the coast and 

the hinterland.” 


18 

Free fact sheets 

Free fact sheets are now available from council to 

help give you an accurate snapshot of who lives on 

the Sunshine Coast, the services available and the 

region’s emerging trends. 

The 14 demographic fact sheets provide reliable data 

sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 

and reveal statistics such as the latest population 

estimates – which is now more than 300,000 – for the 


The fact sheets reveal that 17 per cent of our 

population are 11-24 years old and that 16 per cent are 

65 years and older. They also report that a person on 

the Sunshine Coast is expected to live for an average 

of 81 years, with Australia having the second highest 

life expectancy in the world. 

The fact sheets, provided free of charge as a 

community service, are available on council’s website 

and from libraries and council customer service centres. 


The fact sheets cover the following categories: 

► Introduction to the 

region 

► Population 

► Indigenous 

population 

► Households and 

families 

► Youth population 

► Positive ageing 

► Active and healthy 

► Population health 

► Education 

► Cultural diversity 

► Transport 

► Access and equity 

► Community safety 

► Tourism.

Planning on target 

for the Maleny Community Precinct 

Work on the Maleny Community Precinct 

Master Plan project is well underway with 

a draft plan expected to be delivered to 

council by mid-April. 

The facilities proposed for the precinct include 

a community golf course, a rainforest park, 

walking trails, restoration of historic Pattemore 

House, a nursery, sports and recreation 

facilities and residential uses. 

Sunshine Coast Community Policy and 

Programs Portfolio holder, Jenny McKay, is 

predicting a great outcome with the project’s 

progress and the way everyone is working 

together, on target. 

“Building on all the work done to date, a multidisciplinary 

team of consultants will continue 

to work with the Maleny Community Precinct 

working group and council to develop the 

master plan,” Cr McKay said. 

“We expect the consultants to present the draft 

master plan to council by mid April 2010 and a 

final plan by June 2010.” 

Cr McKay said the concept plan for the 122 

hectare site, approved by the former Caloundra 

City Council in November 2007, is the basis for 

the work. 

“The master plan is the next stage in bringing 

the precinct to life – when it’s finished we will 

have a clear vision of what is actually feasible 

for the area. 

“It will finalise the detail and layout of the site 

as well as provide a cost estimate for the 

precinct and an assessment of the feasibility of 

the proposed residential areas. 

“Since the new year, we’ve had several 

meetings with the working group to nut out 

some of the issues in the master plan and the 

concepts are starting to take shape. 

“The individual stakeholders, who will operate 

on the area, have also been working with a 

consultant to develop their business case for 

the day-to-day running of the site. 

“We are making good progress and the 

feedback that I am receiving from the Maleny 

community indicates they are very grateful for 

all the hard work the working group and council 

are putting in. 

“This is a complicated project with multiple 

players and lots of issues but we are looking 

forward – this is all about the future and 

creating a space for the whole community to 

enjoy.” 



Libraries by the book 

Number of library members 130,000 (about 45% of the 

Sunshine Coast population) 

Library visitors daily 6500 

Library visitors annually 2 million 

Number of items in the 590,000 

collection 

Free internet use annually More than 100,000 hours provided 

through more than 70 computers 

Number of events annually 4500 activities, events and 

programs (from storytelling to author 

events and learning programs) 

Libraries: 

more to love in 2010 

Sunshine Coast libraries attract some of the country’s best speakers to the 

region, including leading authors, travel writers, surfers and social campaigners. 


Every year, the libraries put together a 

great program of events that bring top 

writers and experts in their field to the 

Sunshine Coast to conduct workshops, 

discuss their latest novels or simply 

entertain us with ripping yarns. 

Highlights from last year included 

award-winning Queensland author Nick 

Earls, former Big Brother presenter 

and author Gretel Killeen, author 

and actress Judy Nunn and river 

campaigner Steve Posselt. 

But it’s not all big names from 

interstate. One of the most popular 

events staged by libraries last year 

was a workshop on how to grow your 

own vegies by local gardener Rosina 

Buckman. Rosina is a winner of one of 

council’s Living Smart awards for her 

ingenious ways of growing everything 

from pineapples in pot plants to 

lettuce in sunny backyards (the secret 

is shadecloth). Such is the demand 

for her know-how that Rosina’s free 

workshops were booked out before 

council had the chance to publicise 

them. 

For 2010, libraries have another year of 

great visiting speakers and workshops 

to enhance living on the Sunshine 

Coast. Included in the line-up this year 

are further sessions on sustainability 

and creating your own vegie patch and 

a series of Living Well workshops. 

2010 highlights include: 

► Learn how seniors can 

become a whiz on a 

mobile phone, including 

texting, photographs and 

more. Most people have 

a mobile these days, but 

did you know they are 

capable of far more than 

a quick chat while on the 

run? Do you know how 

to take photos with your 

phone and send them 

to friends? How to text? 

Sometimes all you need is 

someone to show you. 

► Free legal advice on 

how to prepare a will and 

powers of attorney. 

► Plan your next holiday with 

Buderim author Antoinette 

O’Connor discussing her 

new book, Travelling the 

World. Written for those 

in between backpacker 

and five star jetsetters, 

it focuses on tips for the 

average traveller. 

► Reduce your landfill waste 

by up to 50 per cent in 

a series of free worm 

farming and composting 

workshops. One worm 

farm and one composting 

system will be given 

away at each session 

and with only 30 spaces 

available per workshop, 

the odds for winning 

are great. Workshops 

will demonstrate how 

to set up a worm farm 

or composting system, 

how an organic recycling 

system works plus any 

troubleshooting tips. 

► Why is it that food you 

grow yourself just tastes 

better? Rosina Buckman, 

winner of council’s Living 

Smart award - Edible 

Landscape category, 

will again visit libraries 

to teach Coast residents 

how to grow their own 

food in our subtropical 

climate, grow food when 

you don’t have a garden, 

ensure your vegie patch 

survives the summer, 

propagate cuttings and 

seedlings, and more. Book 

early because Rosina’s 

workshops are always a 

full house. 

20 


Smart 

management 

reduces bushfire risk 

Council will shortly resume its proactive fire 

management program, aimed at reducing 

bushfire threat to homes. 

Each year council conducts planned prioritised 

burns in bushland conservation reserves to 

reduce the fuels surrounding residential areas. 

Council works closely with Queensland Fire 

and Rescue Services (QFRS) and Queensland 

Parks and Wildlife Services (QPWS) to deliver 

the program, which focuses on planned burns, 

fire trails and training of council staff. 

Service Delivery Portfolio holder, Paul Tatton, 

said the fire program meets strict QFRS 

guidelines for responsible land management. 

“Planned burning is essential in protecting 

community and private assets and promoting 

fire regimes that our native vegetation has 

adapted to,” Cr Tatton said. 

In 2009, council completed 14 planned burns 

in urban and rural areas covering around 350 

hectares. This year’s planned burn program is 

scheduled to start in March/April depending on 

weather conditions. 

“An additional five kilometres of trails were 

added in 2009 to the existing 50 kilometre 

network. The trail program offers a fuel-free 

break between bushland and properties as 

well as providing emergency vehicle access,” 

Cr Tatton said. 

“Council has 35 staff trained in fire fighting 

operations and seven light attack vehicles ready 

to be deployed in the event of a bush fire. 

“Providing training to council staff is an 

important part of the fire protection program. 

“When bush fires break out, the state fire 

service needs all hands on deck and they 

can rely on council crews and fire fighting 

machinery to be ready.” 

For more information on council’s fire 

protection program, call the customer service 

centre on 5475 7272 or vist council’s website. 

Affordable 

living 

options for all 

The Draft Sunshine Coast Affordable Living 

Strategy is currently being finalised by 

council. 

The draft strategy identifies ways to match 

housing type to household size, improve housing 

choice, design accessible and resource-efficient 

neighbourhoods and improve access to essential 

facilities and services. 

Council’s Social Strategy Portfolio holder and Housing 

Affordability Task Force Chair, Anna Grosskreutz, said 

that community feedback on the discussion paper was 

very positive and supported the affordable approach. 

“Late last year we invited the community to comment 

on the Affordable Living Discussion Paper, which gave 

the community insight into where council is heading,” 

Cr Grosskruetz said. 

“Community feedback confirmed council is on the right 

track and made it clear the residents understand that 

affordable living goes hand-in-hand with sustainability 

of our region. 

“There were strong views in support of higher 

density living, good housing design and well located 

communities with adequate infrastructure and 

services, along with acknowledgement that cultural 

change is needed before people embrace higher 

density living. 

“Council has incorporated this feedback into the Draft 

Sunshine Coast Affordable Living Strategy. 

“The draft strategy examines diversity of housing 

choice, ensuring that housing is looked at alongside 

access to services, employment and transport, as well 

as getting smaller houses on the market. 

“With the community’s feedback and detailed 

discussion with key stakeholders, the final strategy will 

become council’s position on affordable living on the 

Sunshine Coast and guide council’s future operations 

on this issue. 

“I invite the community to check the website for the 

draft strategy and have their say on the future look 

and feel of the Sunshine Coast.” 

Visit council’s website in April for more 

information or to have your say. 



Have your say on 

Maroochydore and Palmview 

Don’t miss the chance to have your say on the planning for 

Maroochydore, the principal activity centre of the Sunshine 

Coast, and Palmview, the Coast’s first “bring forward” 

greenfield development. 

Council will soon be inviting submissions on the structure plans 

and detailed planning scheme amendments on both master 

planned areas. 

The proposed Maroochydore and proposed Palmview Structure 

Plans set out the broad environmental, land use, infrastructure 

and development for the areas and, once adopted, will guide 

their detailed planning. Both plans have been reviewed by the 

State Government and council ahead of this opportunity for 

community comment. 

Executive Director of Regional Strategy and Planning, Warren 

Bunker, said the almost completed plans paved the way for 

council to demonstrate its vision for sustainability. 

“The plans will help council to deliver great environmental, 

economic and social outcomes for both areas,” Mr Bunker said. 

“As the principal activity centre, Maroochydore is designed 

to incorporate opportunities for significant new business and 

employment necessary in providing jobs for the Sunshine 

Coast. The plan incorporates transport choices, active parkland, 

affordable living and community facilities, while Palmview aims 

to be a world class sustainable community with a focus on 

environmental protection and development which is linked to the 

delivery of high quality infrastructure including a public transport 

system. 

“Each draft plan was developed with input from stakeholders 

and the community so we anticipate more strong feedback. This 

will then be reviewed by council before the structure plans are 

resubmitted to the State Government later this year.” 

To find out more visit council’s website or contact the 

Strategic Planning Branch via council’s customer service 

centres. 

What is a 

structure plan? 

A structure plan forms part of a 

planning scheme and must: 

► be an integrated land use 

plan setting out the broad 

environmental, land use, 

infrastructure and development 

intended to guide detailed 

planning for the area 

► appropriately reflect the standard 

planning scheme provisions 

► include a structure plan 

area code (which states the 

development entitlements and 

obligations for the area) 

► identify master planning 

requirements for all or part of 

the area, including any master 

plans required to be made and 

whether the master plan is 

required to be assessed by the 

State 

► state the categories of 

development: 

- exempt 

- self assessable 

- development requiring 

compliance assessment 

- assessable 

- prohibited 

► identify or include codes for 

development. 


22 


Picnic anyone? 

The Sunshine Coast has many beautiful parks and open 

spaces dotted across the region, but how do you find them? 

To help residents and visitors 

find those special places 

tucked away across the region, 

council has been busy collating 

information into a searchable 

online database called ‘Outdoor 

Recreation Kiosk’ or ORK. 

Sunshine Coast parks that 

are worth packing the picnic 

gear for include: 

► Lions Park Noosaville 

► Kings Beach Caloundra 

► Cotton Tree Park 

Maroochydore 

► Kenilworth Town Park 

Kenilworth 

► Maroochy Bushland 

Botanic Gardens 

Tanawha (pictured at top) 

► Mary Cairncross Scenic 

Reserve Maleny. 

These parks are classified 

as regional parks, 

characterised by a range 

of features that appeal to 

different age ranges and 

interests and complement 

their surroundings, whether 

they be forest, beach or 

bushland. 

Eyes on the street 

ORK lets you search by suburb 

or by 32 different features and 

facilities that will guide you to 

that perfect recreation spot. 

Some of the searchable fields 

include boat ramps, wedding 

ceremony sites, exercise 

circuits, walking trails, dog 

off-leash areas and wheelchair 

access. 

ORK shows you the facilities 

available in each park, photos 

of the site and gives a brief 

summary. 

You’ll also find details on: 

► walking, cycling, heritage 

and environment trails 

► beach safety and 

information on council’s 

lifeguard service 

► dog exercise areas, 

including off-leash area fact 

sheets 

► wedding ceremony venues, 

with information on how to 

apply to book a site. 

ORK will be updated as new 

information or images become 

available. To access ORK, 

simply visit council’s website. 

Council relies on members of the community and our 

own field staff to let us know of anything that needs our 

attention. 

To help us keep community facilities in top shape, please let 

us know if you see: 

► graffiti 

► holes in footpaths or roads 

► trip hazards ► rubbish on roadsides 

► fallen trees ► spills on roads (such as oil or gravel). 

If you notice something that needs to be reported, please 

contact your nearest customer service centre. 

All about Encompass 

We hope you enjoyed the fifth 

issue of Encompass magazine. 

The magazine is designed to give 

residents a quarterly update on 

council events, activities, services 

and projects. Please contact us if 

you have ideas or questions you 

would like to see in future issues. 

Some facts about Encompass 

Delivery 

Encompass is delivered directly into 

residential letterboxes, even those 

bearing the “no junk mail” message. 

It is delivered as unaddressed mail 

to ensure both ratepayers and nonratepayers 

receive a copy. 

Cost 

Encompass is free to you, but costs 

about 50 cents per issue to produce 

and deliver. This is less than the 

cost of mailing a letter. Look out 

for an issue of Encompass in your 

mailbox four times a year. 

Environmental impacts 

Encompass is printed on 

environmentally-certified paper 

stock that is produced using 

responsible forestry practices and 

other controlled sources. The inks 

used are soy based, not petroleum 

derived. 

For more information about council: 

www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au 



what’s on 

The Encompass What’s On guide features council owned or 

sponsored events. While this list is not exhaustive, it gives you a 

taste of the range of events held across the region. 

For further details, phone council on 5475 7272 or visit 

www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and tap into 

the About the Coast section – What’s On. 

30 January-4 July 

TreeLine – People, art, 

science and nature program 

Caloundra Regional 

Art Gallery 

5 February-7 March 

Namatjira to Now – 

Queensland Art Gallery 

touring exhibition 

Noosa Regional Gallery 

1-31 March 

Living Smart ‘with a low 

carbon diet’ month 

Sunshine Coast wide 

1 March 

Green Flicks Night 

Nambour Civic Centre 

3 March 

Vegie Patch workshop 

Beerwah Library 

3 March 

Changing Habits, Changing 

Lives with Cyndi O’Meara 

Maleny Library 

5 March 

Green Zone Disco 

The J, Noosa 

6 March 

Kids Club Art Zone 


Art Gallery 

Strike a Pose ... with Lee Lin Chin 

Opening at the Noosa Regional Art Gallery from 12 March to 11 April, 

this exhibition features 89 images taken by Australian Government 

photographers during the 1960s and 70s to promote the burgeoning 

Australian fashion industry. With fashion icon and SBS broadcaster Lee 

Lin Chin as guest curator, the exhibition celebrates the emerging local 

fashion industry, along with its personalities, trends and influences. 

For more information contact the gallery on 5449 5340. Entry is free. 

10 March-18 April 

Gallery Life exhibit 


Art Gallery 

11-13 March 

Giant book sale 

Maroochydore Library 

12 March-11 April 

Strike a Pose ... with Lee Lin 

Chin – National Archives of 

Australia touring exhibition 


14 March 

Family Day with free 

children’s art activities 


23 March 

Worm farming workshop 

Nambour Library 

24 March 

Permaculture workshop 

Coolum Library 

25 March 

Building activity into daily life 

Maroochydore Library 

30 March 

Easter storytelling 


30 March 

Composting workshop 

Noosa and Coolum Libraries 

2 April 


The J, Noosa 

2-4 April 

The Great Noosa Campout 

Music Festival 

Doonan 

3 April 



Art Gallery 

6 April 

Holiday storytelling and craft 


7 April 

Easter Art School 


Art Gallery 

11 April 

Family Day and ART Park 

artists market 


21 April-23 May 

Greetings from Peregian 

Beach Roadhouse exhibit 


Art Gallery 

27 April-1 May 

Pet microchipping days 


1 May 



Art Gallery 

7 May 


The J, Noosa 

22 May 

Menopause the Musical 

The Events Centre 

24-28 May 

Pet microchipping days 


26 May-1 July 

Treeline – People, art, 

science and nature exhibit 


Art Gallery 

29 May 

Ripe Noosa 2010 

Music festival 

Doonan 

1-30 June 

GreenJune 


www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au 

Council encourages Sunshine Coast residents and ratepayers to contact their local office. 

Sunshine Coast Council enquiries ...................................... P 07 5475 7272 

...................................... P 1300 00 7272 Local calls only excludes mobiles. 

...................................... E mail@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au 

Local offices Caloundra ......................... 1 Omrah Avenue ........................................ P 07 5420 8200 ........ F 5420 8900 

Maroochydore ................. 11-13 Ocean Street .................................. P 07 5475 8501 ........ F 5441 8338 

Nambour ............................ Corner Currie and Bury Streets ......... P 07 5475 8501 ........ F 5441 8338 

Tewantin ............................ 9 Pelican Street .......................................... P 07 5449 5200 ........ F 5447 1062 

Office hours (Monday to Friday excludes public holidays) Telephone contact ................................................... 8am to 5pm 

Customer Service Centres ................... 8.30am to 4.30pm 

Administration buildings ................................ 8.30am to 5pm

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