The 58th Parliament is Open!
A festive affair with a nineteen-gun salute fired from cannons at Kangaroo Point, announced the Governor’s arrival at Parliament House and her Opening speech in the former Legislative Council Chamber. This was followed by an afternoon tea with Members of Parliament, their families and guests. Indigenous and Islander dances balanced the rigidity of our parliamentary customs, a wonderful reminder of how traditions can be blended. We also celebrated the 100th female elected to the QLD Parliament with a photo on the Grand Staircase of all current sitting women MPs, and opportunity to welcome our newest members! Congratulations to all our new Ministers and MP’s, to the LNP for forming a majority Government, and to returning members. To those who did not return, we give gratitude for their dedication to their communities over the years and wish all well in their next journeys. With the first two sittings of the new Parliament now complete, and meetings had with some of our new Ministers, we look forward to the break and working with everyone in the new year for the betterment of our electorates!
L-R: Opening of the 58th Parliament and the 100th female elected
HOT & ‘COOLER’ ISSUES
Kin Kin Quarry
Noosa Council’s enforcement notice on the unapproved screening plant at the quarry was upheld in the Maroochy Magistrates Court. However, in the separate long-standing case, in which our community has been waiting for a decision for over two years, the Court dismissed the major contentions. This is an upsetting outcome for our community, given the trauma experienced in our hinterland villages from inappropriate levels of heavy haulage. However, this is not the end with the Minister for Environment having increased powers thanks to the Environmental Protection Bill passed earlier this year. We will be advocating to the new Ministers and to the State regulator to test these new powers regarding environmental authorities that are no longer ‘fit for purpose’ and that allow devastation to residents, wildlife, and infrastructure.
State Facilitated Developments
The Queensland Government passed welcomed legislation to allow the Minister for Planning to revise or revoke a State Facilitated Development (SFD) designation. This follows our continued advocacy efforts since Noosa first opposed the original Bill that facilitated the SFD process back in April and will address the inappropriate bypassing of local government planning schemes. For more information check out our latest update at www.sandybolton.com/state-facilitated-development-process-update-november-2024.
Lake MacDonald Dam Upgrade
Early site establishment works have commenced in preparation for major construction in 2025 including construction of office buildings and other facilities, as well an aquatic fauna survey and habitat assessment in the lake. A Community Reference Group has been established to ensure community needs and expectations are represented during works with relevant stakeholders such as Save Noosa Hinterland. We wrote to the new Minister for Water, informing her that whilst it is vitally important that the dam wall is upgraded to improve safety and resilience, efforts must be made to minimise impacts during construction. For the latest head to www.sandybolton.com/lake-macdonald-dam-upgrade-update-2-november-2024
L-R: SBSHS Awards; NDSHS Awards; Good Shepherd Lutheran College Awards
Borumba Pumped Hydro
Anything that happens upstream or otherwise in our catchment has an impact on Noosa, so it was great to attend the Mary River Catchment Coordinating Committee (MRCCC) AGM and learn more on the Borumba Pumped Hydro project. This included an alternative to mitigate potential impacts, such as sedimentation being washed downstream and loss of fish habitat, which we have raised with the new Government. For the latest Noosa 360 update, head to www.sandybolton.com/traveston-dam-october-2024.
E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety
With the Queensland Police Service issuing over 3,700 infringements relating to e-scooters and e-bikes in the first eight months of this year and with ongoing community concerns, our police have been taking action through both enforcement and education initiatives. Operation Zappo Stoppie saw multiple bikes impounded and twenty-four people charged with eighty-three offences, with more under investigation. In addition, QPS, along with the Tewantin Noosa Lions, organised an information day for parents and riders to learn about the rules and regulations and hear advice on how to keep children, drivers, and pedestrians safe. For more information head to https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/initiatives/pmd-rules
L-R: Noosa Pirates; Plastics Free Noosa, Kinetic Catch-up
FROM THE CHAMBER
Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Arrangements Bill 2024
This Bill hosted multiple unrelated amendments, without any appropriate process or community consultation which normally I would oppose. However, it contained for Noosa essential and time constrained powers for the Minister to revoke any SFD designations which we welcomed. The passing of this Bill also made changes to the Olympics Authority, and for the commencing a 100-day Olympic infrastructure review incorporating aspects of the united Crossbench Statement on Olympic Funding 23 May 2023, including a representative for the regions and regional benefits, and post-games utilization of athlete accommodation. However, the Bill also repealed the Path to Treaty Act 2023, discontinuing the Truth Telling and Healing Inquiry without providing an alternative. Using an urgency motion, this Bill was fast-tracked in a single day, which is disappointing as such a significant piece of legislation deserved full process and consultation and I have met with the Minister seeking an alternative for the sharing of all stories as part of necessary healing.
Making Queensland Safer Bill
This Bill bypassed standard scrutiny, with only five days for submissions, which was unacceptable for such important amendments which disregarded any credible evidence. With child and youth repeat offenders undeterred by sentences longer than their age when sentenced, in a system that does not rehabilitate, understandably concerns came from all sectors including Voices for Victims. Ultimately, an election slogan has become policy, and as I said during my speech, what we heard from Queenslanders was they wanted repeat offenders to be removed from their communities to a secure setting that provides the best chance to rehabilitate, to learn and work, and not to reoffend on release. Detention as it currently stands does not provide that as demonstrated by the 90% recidivist rate, nor do these amendments. That is not anywhere good enough in keeping communities safer now and into the future. See my speech on the Bill at https://www.sandybolton.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Making-Queensland-Safer-Speech.pdf
L-R: With the Queensland Timber Live Tree; Volunteers Afternoon Tea; McKell Institute
Before and After Hours
While in Parliament we attended a number of events including for our wonderful Queensland volunteers to celebrate their hard work and generosity, and it was fabulous to see our very own Harry and Justin from our Rural Fire Brigade there! With a soon to be launched inquiry into the decrease in volunteering across the state, we will post up as submissions open as we all know the many reasons why, including administrative overload! Gathering on the colonnade to hear more on our timber industry included that across Queensland we have 60,000 timber bridges, and within the next decade, demand for timber will quadruple. The live Christmas tree from Timber Queensland is a wonderful addition to the foyer, as was the lovely offcuts decorations. The end of year discussions at the McKell Institute evening incorporated the furthering of opportunities for women to enter politics, with Mary Crawford sharing an update on the scholarships available through Graduate Women Queensland.
L-R: Launch of Bendigo Rescue; Noosa Biosphere Awards; Sunshine Coast Business Awards
ON THE HOMEFRONT
Awards Season!
So much to celebrate, starting with the Noosa Biosphere awards with our eco-warriors and businesses working to pave the way for a more sustainable future, with special congratulations to Phil Moran who took out our office-sponsored Environmental Steward Award for his decades of conservation work. Then to the many dedicated, talented and hardworking Noosa businesses who were nominated for the 2024 Sunshine Coast Business Awards, as well those who emerged victorious. At our schools, we sponsored several awards, including Noosa District State High School’s Platinum Scholar Awards, the Good Shepherd Lutheran College’s Citizenship Award, and the Technologies Award at Noosaville State School. Noosa Youth Member Dylan was happily on hand to present when I was down with a ‘bug’, as well the Silver, Gold and Platinum awards to the Year 12s at Sunshine Beach State High School.
Remembrance Day
Every year on the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, we pause in silence for one minute to acknowledge, honour and remember those who have and continue to serve and sacrifice for our country. This year, services were held at Cooroy and Tewantin, where it was an honour to speak, release a peace dove, and lay a wreath to pay tribute to all our service men and women, as well to gather after with our veterans and their families to express our love and gratitude for their service. We must strive every day to honour and maintain their memory and legacy with their names in our heart for evermore. Lest We Forget.
L-R: Remembrance Day Service at Tewantin 2024
Pre-Christmas Fun and Festivities
From celebrating the staff and volunteers from Waves of Kindness who do an amazing job supporting and assisting our most vulnerable, to the Noosa Chamber of Commerce and Noosaville Business Association soiree with National Busking champions Frank and Louis as a perfect backdrop, as well with Permaculture Noosa where we met Mark from the Self-Sufficient Me podcast, Christmas cheer abounded! Then to fun with the volunteers from Parkyn’s Hut Visitors Information Centre, and judging Noosa Hospital’s incredible decorations by the staff, we were in serious ‘Ho, Ho Ho’ mode! Joining Santa, who swapped his sleigh for a beach buggy, as he and Mrs Claus came from the North Pole to Noosa Main Beach to surprise the Sea Horse Nippers with presents after their ocean escapades, was glorious, especially the joy on everyone’s faces. A wonderful start to the festive season, with many more to come, including the Noosa Chorale and Peregian Beach Carols, Kin Kin and Cooroy Christmas’s plus a ute ride across the electorate with Bilko!
L-R: Noosa Hospital Christmas Judging; Parkyn’s Hut Festive Party; Seahorse Nippers Beach Santa
Events, Openings and More
The fabulous Youturn hosted their Stronger Together event to thank all who continue to support their incredible work that began in 1989 as the Noosa Accommodation Project with just five volunteers who helped shelter our youngsters. Now, thirty years on, they have over two hundred and seventy staff assisting our youth and families at risk of homelessness, harm or disengagement, across the region. Sunshine Butterflies showcased their culinary superstars at the Farmyard Cooking School, who have been honing their skills to create delicious recipes and a line of goodies for their pantry range to support fundraising efforts. PTSD Dogs, who provide a lifeline to both our veterans and our furry friends, held a Community Open Day at their new home at McKinnon Drive and the team have lots planned for 2025! Noosa Council teamed up with partners including Headspace, YouTurn, and PCYC to deliver this youth-designed space at Tait-Duke Cottage. The hub is a great hang-out spot for twelve- to seventeen-year-olds to catchup, enjoy a wide range of activities, access support services, careers development and creative programs. General Manager Sharon and the local team took us on a tour of the new Noosa Radiology facility at Noosa Civic where we learnt much on new technologies being utilised to ensure diseases are detected as early as possible. Too much to share and too little room – congratulations and gratitude to all!
Bendigo Rescue Launch
We joined members from Coast Guard Noosa QF5 and Tewantin-Noosa Bendigo Community Bank to celebrate the launch of a state-of-the-art Naiad rescue vessel. This, along with Rotary Rescue and the $1.12m Marine Rescue Queensland vessels due to be launched in the new year, will help safeguard all who navigate our beautiful, yet at timeschallenging, coastline and waterways.
L-R: Sunshine Coast Radiology Noosa; Noosa Masters Swimming Club 25th Anniversary; Youth Hub Opening
Sporting Facilities Upgrades
With the aid of State Government grants, Noosa Council have delivered upgrades to local sporting facilities, including the outdoor area at the Noosa Leisure Centre, and an upgraded Peregian Beach skate park, which features zones tailored for beginners and advanced riders creating a space for all to enjoy.
25th Anniversaries
Over two hundred and fifty Noosans gathered to celebrate Noosa Hospital’s milestone and our incredible healthcare staff including those who received service awards, with the prestigious Employee of the Year going to Kat Nightingale! Another such celebration was had by the Noosa Masters Swimming Club, who have been meeting year-round at the Noosa Aquatic Centre for the last twenty-five years. The night was filled with fun and memories, and it was great to see founding members, Barry and Tony receive life memberships.
L-R: Noosa Chamber of Commerce Catch-up; Noosa Hospital 25th Anniversary; PTSD Dogs Community Day
Meetings, Drop Ins and Catch Ups
Far too many to mention, however they included with Noosa Pirates President Liam and Operations Manager Beau to discuss upgrade plans for the Club, Jen from Plastic Free Noosa regarding the Precious Plastic Pilot Program, which aims to reduce waste and promote a circular economy and James from Youturn on youth mental health services. With Council approving the Development Application for a new electric bus depot, it was good to catch up with Martin, Executive General manager of Kinetic and manager Keely on site to discuss progress on the roll-out of electric buses across the Sunshine Coast. We hope to share more in the coming months.
And finally…
Wow, so much in the last few weeks, where to finish? With some reminders to ensure everyone has a wonderful festive season! First – safety. Whether travelling to visit loved ones, enjoying our waterways or hanging at home, keeping yourself and others safe means being prepared, alert and slowing down. Helpful advice is available at https://www.getready.qld.gov.au/, https://disaster.noosa.qld.gov.au and https://bushfire-survival-plan.qfes.qld.gov.au .
L-R: E-Bike Safety Day; Noosaville State School Year 6 Graduation; Waves of Kindness Christmas Lunch
Now for those flying ‘solo’ this Christmas day, please join us for a complimentary lunch, Santa and some Christmas cheer, however you MUST book by December 18 as limited seats. Please RSVP with your name/s, phone number and ages/gender of any children to 07 5335 8500 or www.bit.ly/NoosaXmasLunch2024. Lastly, to ensure my staff get a well-earned break, our office will be closed from 1:30pm 20 December to 9:00am 6 January so if you are needing assistance, now is the time to contact us on 5319 3100 or via email noosa@parliament.qld.gov.au! Important contact numbers for over the break are available at www.sandybolton.com/keycontacts and should your issue not be resolved via these, please contact me on Facebook Messenger at any time! 😊
L-R: Noosa Leisure Centre Outdoor Area Opening; Sunshine Butterflies Lunch; Peregian Skate Park
Sending love, hugs and heartfelt wishes for a fantastic holiday season. Wherever and whoever you are celebrating with, enjoy the special moments, spread the magic by caring for others, sharing a smile, and most of all, be kind to all as that is the greatest gift you can give to our community. Noosa, thank you for all that you are. Merry Christmas, and the happiest of New Years!
𝙎𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙮🙏
𝙄𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙈𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙉𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙖
𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘝𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦. 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘕𝘰𝘰𝘴𝘢. 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘍𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦
HAVE YOUR SAY. BE HEARD.
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