MCU14/0106 Submission NPM Object- Jason Green

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and innovative culture that is connected to a unique environment. It should have a building connected to a

space that speaks to what the community values and cares about.

The point is we don't really have an iconic building or coherent place that defines who we are. Yes, we

have a number of places and venues that perform various functions but in my experience they are

fragmented and disjointed and often just cater for small select groups of older people. There is no one

place where people can go to get a big hit of culture. The reality is we don't have a building that

articulates what we value as a community. I believe a building that could do those things should be part of

a greater vision for Noosa Junction.

Such a building would form part of a community hub and cultural precinct. It would house our history,

exhibit our creative and performing arts and showcase our unique environment. It would be a mixed-use

facility that would foster education, creativity, collaboration and innovation. It would connect with the

environment and be spectacular, stunning and exciting. It would pay respect to our indigenous heritage,

display Noosa's journey and speak to our future.

Buildings can do all of these things, but this building will not work ifit sits in isolation. It must be

connect to a bigger vision for Noosa Junction.

I love the Junction and I hate to say it, but let's be honest; the Junction is tired and is in desperate need of

a total re-think ifit is going to be viable into the future, especially with impending competition. It's

functional but it could be amazing! Sadly, the shops are tired, the restaurants aren't appealing, the parking

is a pain and no amount of streetscaping is going to fix it. There's no point putting lipstick on a pig! We

don't need to look too far to find examples of other places that are reaping the benefits of rethinking

certain areas. Maroochydore's    Ocean Street and Farmer's Market is a good example of how an area can

be turned around to create value within a reasonable amount of time.




I acknowledge this is an ambitious project indeed and it would not be without its difficulties and

expenses. No doubt some businesses would close and people would lose their jobs. But, as you know,

sometimes its necessary to takes a few steps backwards for progress to occur. However, the long-term