State Facilitated Developments (SFD) – The Deputy Premier has recently advised that the SFD program has been paused for the foreseeable future, with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning continuing to assess the remaining applications, including the one at Noosa Junction. See our latest Noosa 360 update via www.bit.ly/40sAzwg.

Shark Nets – In response to our Question on Notice (QON), the Minister for Primary Industries has stated the government maintains its position that shark nets and drumlines will continue under the Shark Control Program until alternatives are proven effective at reducing shark attack risks. We are now awaiting further responses from Noosa stakeholders on the trialling of net removal during the winter whale migration to reduce entanglements, with Noosa Council recently voting to write to the State Government for this trial in Noosa. For more information, see our latest Noosa 360 update via www.bit.ly/4lIhEpP.

Noosa River Management – Stage six is scheduled to commence on 1 October 2025 which applies a limit of twenty-eight days per year for anchoring vessels over five meters in length on the lower half of the Noosa River system. As requested based on community feedback, Maritime Safety QLD (MSQ) has agreed to review the scope of this stage to ensure there are no unintended consequences, including for Lake Cooroibah and Lake Cootharaba, in its implementation. Please read further at www.bit.ly/4l1HK5Z

Shaping SEQ Regional Plan – Following our advocacy, the Deputy Premier has provided further assurances that they plan to work closely with Noosa Shire Council and others in the review of ShapingSEQ 2023 to reset the planning partnership. They also acknowledged key considerations that we have continued to raise on behalf of constituents regarding unsustainable population targets and other issues. For more information, visit our latest Noosa 360 update, via www.bit.ly/3IFxFy4.

Inappropriate Social Media Use in Schools – Following recent reports, we asked a Question on Notice requesting the Minister for Education advise what is being implemented to protect students and prevent further occurrences. They have since responded outlining the antibullying and cybersafety initiatives being pursued. We would appreciate any feedback from Noosa Electorate residents to inform our advocacy. Read the minister’s full response at our Noosa 360 update via www.bit.ly/4f6UVRG.

E-Bikes & E-Scooters – While the Parliamentary Inquiry into e-mobility safety is underway, we have continued to advocate for increased action before more injuries and deaths occur. In response, the Minister for Transport and Main Roads has committed to actively seek the support of other state ministers and the federal government, as well tasked the department with a range of initial actions to tackle this issue whilst the inquiry is underway. To read the minister’s full response, visit http://bit.ly/44QfeiP.

Noosa MP Community Grants – Another month seeing our grants at work! Noosa Vinnies are providing access to sport and recreational opportunities for our youngsters with their sports packs, and Tewantin State School is making a documentary on their history in readiness for the 150th birthday! Sunshine Beach State High School’s team of in-training tradies are building a tiny home to assist our organisations accommodate those in need, and Rise and Thrive Co. have produced their No Filters Needed workbooks giving students the tools to build confidence and resilience. Zonta’s care packs, filled with essential toiletries, are already making a difference for those in need, including those fleeing domestic violence. Thank you to everyone for the incredible work being done in our community.

More QLD Day Awardees – For those who were unable to attend the ceremony for their well-deserved awards, it was fabulous to celebrate with them individually! This included Val and Michelle from Noosa Little Athletics, Louise and Dan from the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective, Geoff from Noosa and District Landcare, and John from Sunshine Coast Riding for the Disabled. Also during the QCWA ‘DIY Divas’ craft morning to present ninety-nine-year-old Connie with her award. Combined these incredible volunteers have given over one hundred years of service to our community and are so inspiring!

Events Around and About – So much to share, not enough space! In amongst the many fantastic events, we celebrated the year’s work of the Noosa Red Cross and Cooroy Rotary, as well Tewantin Noosa Lions at their AGMs and Changeover Dinners. Care for our wildlife was highlighted at the Noosa Koala Connect Launch and at Claire Smith’s Speaking Tour on the threats posed to our furry mascots. The Bendigo Bank State of the Economy presentation provided good insights into the next three years, and a healthy lunch was made and devoured at the Spring Hub as part of a six -week course by OzHarvest. Then creative talents were highlighted at Noosa Alive where we enjoyed a bit of ‘rubbing shoulders’ with some fabulous celebs at the brilliant play Sleeping Dogs!

Meetings, Catch-ups & Mobile Offices – This month was jam packed, with everyone from the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health and Rise and Thrive through to the Noosa Dolphins, Lifeflight, and some very productive ‘round tables’ which are always invaluable. These included with Noosa Council and TMR regarding Beckmans Road, local frontliners on the Noosa North Shore Airfield, and Noosa advocates and stakeholder regarding shark nets. We look forward to updating the community on all of these coming up! We had a fantastic mobile office at Gympie Terrace this month, where we touched base with our local businesses and some residents on state-issues. It was so great to see so many familiar faces, as well decades-old friends.

Sandy 🙏

Independent Member for Noosa

Our Voice. Our Noosa. Our Future.