Ordinary Meeting - January 2024
Date: Thursday, 18 January 2024 at 5:00PM
Location: Noosa Shire Council Chambers , 9 Pelican Street , Tewantin , QLD 4565 , Australia
Organiser: Noosa Shire Council
Duration: 00:24:03
Synopsis: Short Stay enforcement push via RAUSTRA petition, Council defending two planning appeals, Budget/finance updates noted, Procurements approved confidentially, Bounce Hostel conditions tightened, TAFE homelessness collaboration urged.
Meeting Attendees
Councillors
Clare Stewart Karen Finzel Joe Jurisevic Amelia Lorentson Brian Stockwell Tom Wegener Frank Wilkie Executive Officers
Acting Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Strategy And Environment Kim Rawlings (Via Microsoft Teams) Acting Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Director Corporate Services Trent Grauf Director Community Services, Alison Hamblin AI-Generated Meeting Insight
Key Decisions & Discussions Clare Stewart: Council approved remote attendance for Brian Stockwell under s254K Local Government Regulation (00:00–00:29; Attendance & Apologies). Frank Wilkie: RAUSTRA petition on Short Stay impacts received and referred to CEO; seeks strict enforcement, transparency, and timelines (00:57–03:35; Petition 4.1). Tom Wegener: “Save the Busstop Espresso” petition (3,007 signatures) received and referred to CEO; cites community benefit and prior Council engagement (03:55–06:14; Petition 4.2). Council: Bounce Hostel change approved to add a Food & Drink Outlet; refusal to delete Condition 5; Condition 8 deleted; new sunset Condition 62 set to 18 Jan 2025, extendable based on substantiated complaints (20:49–21:51; Item 6.1). Council: Agreed to defend P&E Court Appeal 3156/2023 re proposed Health Care Service & Hospital, Goodchap St, Noosaville (20:49–21:51; Item 6.2). Council: Agreed to defend P&E Court Appeal 3746/2023 re Short Term Accommodation (15 cabins) at 94 & 142 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads (21:51–22:29; Item 6.3). Council: Noted planning applications decided by delegation for Nov 2023 (22:43; Item 6.4). Council: Adopted Budget Review 2 adjustments for 2023/24 and new Noosa Holiday Parks fees for 27 Jan–13 Jul 2025 (22:43; Item 6.5). Council: Noted Dec 2023 Financial Performance incl. key sustainability indicators (22:43; Item 6.6). Council: Extended Timothy Cronin as Audit & Risk Committee Chair to 10 Oct 2025 (22:43; Item 6.7). Council: Noted QLD Remuneration Commission determinations (22:43; Item 6.8). Council: Awarded confidential contracts: Garth Prowd Bridge Upgrade (Marine & Civil Maintenance), Noosa Spit Nourishment (Hall Contracting), and established a Register of Prequalified Suppliers for pathways/kerb/drainage works; CEO delegated to execute/administer (22:43; Items 7.1–7.3). Contentious / Transparency Matters Frank Wilkie: RAUSTRA seeks real-time STA data disclosure, a “three strikes” regime, and deadlines with forfeiture for non-registrants, signaling pressure on enforcement transparency (00:57–03:35; Petition 4.1). Tom Wegener: Busstop Espresso petition frames prior decision as “effective closure,” asserting strong public value and Council’s own past reliance during crises (03:55–06:14; Petition 4.2). Debra Walz: Deputation describes community-led TAFE clean-up with police present and Kabi Kabi elders assisting; criticises perceived government inaction and divisive rhetoric (06:45–20:49; Deputations 7.1). Debra Walz: Calls out absence of Kabi Kabi in Council housing strategy reference group and urges broader consultation (16:30–20:49; Deputations 7.1). Council: Multiple significant contract awards handled in confidential session, with post-decision summaries; probity maintained via CEO delegation, but detail withheld (22:43; Items 7.1–7.3). Chair: Meeting streamlined with minimal debate on items, relying on prior General Committee deliberations, which may limit on-the-record scrutiny at the Ordinary meeting (20:49–22:43; 8.1 adoption). Legal / Risk Council: Two active Planning & Environment Court appeals will be defended; litigation risk includes costs and precedent impacts on health and STA intensification (20:49–22:29; Items 6.2–6.3). Council: Bounce Hostel approval includes Condition 62 sunset and complaint-based extension criteria, aligning with Planning Act s63(5) reporting and amenity safeguards (20:49–21:51; Item 6.1). Chair: Remote attendance resolution references s254K, evidencing compliance with QLD meeting laws (00:00–00:29; Attendance & Apologies). Council: Confidential procurements delegated to CEO; must ensure Local Government Act 2009 probity, value-for-money, and conflict controls are documented in contract administration (22:43; Items 7.1–7.3). Debra Walz: TAFE site activities occurred with police oversight and without entering buildings; residual liability concerns noted (vandalism, hazards), highlighting State asset risk management gaps (06:45–20:49; Deputations 7.1). Conflicts of Interest Frank Wilkie: Declared a prescribed conflict due to RACV sponsorship of Noosa Arts Theatre (he is President) and left the room for STA appeal item; process consistent with Ch 5B Local Government Act 2009 (21:51–22:15; Item 6.3). Chair: Vote on the item proceeded and carried unanimously without Frank Wilkie , satisfying quorum and transparency requirements (22:15–22:29; Item 6.3). Short Term Accommodation Frank Wilkie: RAUSTRA petition demands strict STA registration by 30 June 2024, public complaint logs, staffing uplift, neighbor challenge reviews, and curfews/occupancy standards (00:57–03:35; Petition 4.1). Council: Will defend STA cabins appeal (15 units) at Noosa Dr, indicating Council resistance to STA intensification at that location (21:51–22:29; Item 6.3). Council: Bounce Hostel Food & Drink addition allowed but tethered to amenity via a one-year lapsing condition linked to complaints on noise/parking (20:49–21:51; Item 6.1). Environmental Concerns Council: Awarded Noosa Spit Nourishment contract with completion due by 30 Sep 2024, addressing coastal erosion resilience (22:43; Item 7.2). Debra Walz: Notes TAFE site hazards (fire risk from green waste, exposed wiring, vandalism) and biodiversity/koala constraints limiting development to cleared footprint (06:45–20:49; Deputations 7.1). Homelessness and TAFE Site Debra Walz: Describes volunteer-led cleanup with Kabi Kabi elders, QBuild, and police present; adherence to instruction not to enter buildings (06:45–20:49; Deputations 7.1). Debra Walz: Urges Council-State collaboration to repurpose site, suggesting Olympic-era athlete accommodation transitioning to short-term homeless housing; seeks inclusion of Kabi Kabi in housing strategy partnerships (14:30–20:49; Deputations 7.1). Procurement and Infrastructure Council: Garth Prowd Bridge Upgrade awarded to Marine & Civil Maintenance (lump sum); CEO delegated to finalise (22:43; Item 7.1). Council: Established a prequalified panel for civil works (six suppliers) for two years with three optional 12‑month extensions to 31 Jan 2029; CEO authorised for refresh/additions (22:43; Item 7.3).
Official Meeting Minutes
MINUTES Ordinary Meeting Thursday, 18 January 2024 5:00 PM Council Chambers, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin Crs Clare Stewart (Chair), Karen Finzel, Joe Jurisevic, Amelia Lorentson, Brian Stockwell, Tom Wegener, Frank Wilkie “Noosa Shire – different by nature” ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 18 JANUARY 2024 1. ATTENDANCE & APOLOGIES COUNCILLORS Cr Clare Stewart (Chair) Cr Karen Finzel Cr Joe Jurisevic Cr Amelia Lorentson Cr Brian Stockwell Cr Tom Wegener Cr Frank Wilkie EXECUTIVE Acting Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Strategy and Environment Kim Rawlings (via Microsoft Teams) Acting Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Director Corporate Services Trent Grauf Acting Director Community Services, Alison Hamblin APOLOGIES Nil. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Joe Jurisevic Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That in accordance with Section 254K of the Local Government Regulation, Cr Stockwell is approved to attend the Meeting dated 18/01/2024 via Microsoft Teams. Carried unanimously. 2. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 2.1. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 14 DECEMBER 2023 Council Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel The Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 14 December 2024 be received and confirmed. Carried unanimously. 3. MAYORAL MINUTES Nil. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 18 JANUARY 2024 4. PETITIONS 4.1. PETITION: RESIDENTS AGAINST SHORT TERM RENTAL APPROVAL (RAUSTRA) Refer to Attachment 1 to the Minutes Council Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Joe Jursevic That the petition with 16 signatories submitted by RAUSTRA, requesting that Council take immediate positive steps to protect residents from the impact of properties used for short stay letting, be received and referred to the Chief Executive Officer to determine appropriate action. Carried unanimously. 4.2. PETITION: SAVE THE BUSSTOP ESPRESSO Refer to Attachment 2 to the Minutes Council Resolution Moved: Cr Tom Wegener Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That the petition of 3007 signatures (consisting of an e-petition with 2692 signatories & hard copy with 320 signatures), submitted by Robert Noy, requesting that Council "Save the Busstop Espresso", be received and referred to the Chief Executive Officer to determine appropriate action. Carried unanimously. 5. NOTIFIED MOTIONS Nil. 6. PRESENTATIONS Nil. 7. DEPUTATIONS 7.1. DEBRA WALZ TOPIC: QLD HOMELESS WORKING GROUP CLEAN UP AT TAFE SITE 8. CONSIDERATION OF COMMITTEE REPORTS ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 18 JANUARY 2024 8.1. GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING REPORT - 15 JANUARY 2024 COMMITTEE MEMBERS Cr Frank Wilkie (Chair) Cr Karen Finzel Cr Joe Jurisevic Cr Amelia Lorentson Cr Clare Stewart (via Microsoft Teams) Cr Brian Stockwell Cr Tom Wegener EXECUTIVE Acting Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Strategy and Environment Kim Rawlings (via Microsoft Teams) Acting Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray APOLOGIES Nil. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL 6.1. MCU18/0102.02 APPLICATION FOR AN OTHER CHANGE TO INCLUDE A FOOD AND DRINK OUTLET TO A DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL (VISITOR ACCOMMODATION TYPE 4 CONVENTIONAL) FOR BOUNCE HOSTEL AT 14-16 MARY ST, NOOSAVILLE That Council note the report by the Coordinator Planning to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2024 regarding Application No. MCU18/0102.02 for an Other Change to Development Permit for Material Change of Use – Visitor Accommodation Type 4 Conventional, situated at 14-16 Mary St Noosaville and: A. Refuse to delete condition 5 for the following reasons: 1. Condition 5 is reflective of the approved use definition for Visitor Accommodation Type 4 Conventional, does not further restrict the use and provides clarity for all owners/ operators. B. Approve the Other Change to include the Food and Drink outlet. C. Agree to delete Condition 8. D. Include a new Condition 62 to read as follows: 62. The Food and Drink Outlet approval lapses on 18 January 2025, unless written consent is provided by Council’s delegate to extend the approval. In assessing a request to extend the approval, Council will have regard to any substantiated complaints relating to noise, car parking and any other relevant matters associated with the Food and Drink Outlet use. E. Note the report is provided in accordance with Section 63(5) of the Planning Act 2016. 6.2. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COURT APPEAL NO. 3156 OF 2023 – APPLICATION FOR A MATERIAL CHANGE OF USE FOR HEALTH CARE SERVICE AND HOSPITAL AT 47 GOODCHAP STREET, NOOSAVILLE That Council note the report by the Manager Development Assessment to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2024 regarding Planning & Environment Court Appeal 3156 of 2023 and agree to defend the appeal. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 18 JANUARY 2024 6.3. PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COURT APPEAL NO. 3746 OF 2023 – APPLICATION FOR A MATERIAL CHANGE OF USE FOR SHORT TERM ACCOMMODATION (15 CABINS) AT 94 & 142 NOOSA DRIVE, NOOSA HEADS In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009, Cr Wilkie provided the following declaration to the meeting of a prescribed conflict of interest in this matter: I Cr Wilkie inform the meeting that I have a prescribed conflict of interest in this matter as RACV have been a sponsor of Noosa Arts Theatre where I serve as the committee president. As a result of this prescribed conflict of interest, I will leave the meeting room while the matter is considered and voted on. Cr Wilkie left the meeting. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Joe Jurisevic Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener That Council note the report by the Manager Development Assessment to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2024 regarding Planning & Environment Court Appeal 3746 of 2023 and agree to defend the appeal. Carried unanimously. Cr Wilkie returned to the meeting. 6.4. PLANNING APPLICATIONS DECIDED BY DELEGATED AUTHORITY - NOVEMBER 2023 That Council note the report by the Manager, Development Assessment to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2024 regarding planning applications that have been decided by delegated authority. 6.5. BUDGET REVIEW 2 (BR2) FOR THE 2023/24 FINANCIAL YEAR That Council note the report by the Manager Financial Services (Acting) to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2024 regarding Budget Review 2 for the 2023/24 Financial Year, and A. Approve the proposed changes to the budget for the 2023/24 financial year as outlined in the Revised Budget Financial Statements provided in Attachment 1 - 4 to the report; and B. Adopt the proposed general cost recovery fees and commercial charges schedule for Noosa Holiday Parks for the period 27 January 2025 to 13 July 2025 as detailed in the tables contained within the report. 6.6. FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT – DECEMBER 2023 That Council note the report by the Manager Financial Services (Acting) to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2024 outlining December 2023 year to date financial performance against budget, including changes to the financial performance report with the inclusion of key financial sustainability indicators. 6.7 AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP That Council Note the report by the Executive Officer Internal Audit and Corporate Performance to the General Committee meeting dated 15 January 2024 and extend the appointment of Timothy Cronin as the Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Committee to 10 October 2025. ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 18 JANUARY 2024 6.8. COUNCILLOR REMUNERATION UPDATE That Council note the report by the Executive Officer, Internal Audit and Corporate Performance to the General Committee meeting dated 15 January 2024 informing Council of the determinations of the Queensland Local Government Remuneration Commission, as detailed in the Local Government Remuneration Commission Annual Report 2023. 7.1. CONFIDENTIAL - CN00427 GARTH PROWD BRIDGE UPGRADE - TENDER AWARD That Council note the report by the Project Manager to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2023 and A. Award Contract No. CN00427 Garth Prowd Bridge Upgrade to Marine & Civil Maintenance Pty Ltd for the lump sum price of as provided in their conforming tender documentation; and B. Delegate to the Chief Executive Officer the power to negotiate, finalise and execute the Contract on behalf of Council. 7.2. CONFIDENTIAL - CONTRACT AWARD REPORT - CONTRACT NO. CN00511 - NOOSA SPIT NOURISHMENT That Council A. Note the report by the Project Manager to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2024; B. Award Contract No. CN00511 for Noosa Spit Nourishment to Hall Contracting Pty Ltd for a schedule of rates contract for the construction contract value as provided in the conforming tender documentation with works being completed on or before 30 September 2024 (“the Contract”); and C. Delegate to the Chief Executive Officer the power to negotiate, finalise, execute and administer the Contract on behalf of Council. 7.3. CONFIDENTIAL - RP00359 - REGISTER OF PREQUALIFIED SUPPLIERS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PATHWAYS, KERB, CHANNEL, DRAINAGE PITS & ASSOCIATED WORKS That Council A. Note the report by the Roads Infrastructure Coordinator to the General Committee Meeting dated 15 January 2024; B. Award Contract No. RP00359 for a Register of Pre-qualified Suppliers for Construction of Pathways, Kerb, Channel, Drainage Pits & Associated Works for a period of two (2) years commencing on 1 February 2024 to the following suppliers: i. Exceed Concrete Construction Pty Ltd ii. Pentacon Pty Ltd iii. Sunshine Civil Solutions Pty Ltd iv. The Trustee For Integral Concreting Services Family Trust t/as Assured Concreting Services v. Wilson Concreting Constructions Pty Ltd, and vi. Yeti Services Pty Ltd; C. Delegate to the Chief Executive Officer the power to negotiate, finalise, execute and administer the Contract on behalf of Council; D. Subject to satisfactory performance of the suppliers, authorise the CEO to approve the option to extend the contract at the expiry of initial term for ORDINARY MEETING MINUTES 18 JANUARY 2024 a further three (3) terms of up to twelve (12) months each ending on 31 January 2029; E. Authorise the CEO to approve the addition of new suppliers to Contract No. RP00073 for the Register of Pre-qualified Suppliers for Construction of Pathways, Kerb, Channel, Drainage Pits & Associated Works as a result of an advertised refresh at the expiry of the initial term and term extensions. Council Resolution Moved: Cr Joe Jurisevic Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That the report of the General Committee meeting dated 15 January 2025 be received and the recommendations therein be adopted except where dealt with by separate resolution. Carried Unanimously. 9. ORDINARY MEETING REPORTS Nil. 10. CONFIDENTIAL SESSION Nil. 11. PUBLIC QUESTION TIME Nil. 12. NEXT MEETING The next Ordinary Meeting will be held at Council Chambers, 9 Pelican St, Tewantin on Thursday 15 February 2024 at 5.00pm. 13. MEETING CLOSURE The meeting closed at 5.25pm
Meeting Transcript
Clare Stewart 00:00.000
I'd like to acknowledge that we are meeting on the traditional lands of the Kabi Kabi people and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging. I know that all Councillors are in attendance except for Councillor Stockwell who we have attending via Teams. Now we will need to have someone move a motion to have Councillor Stockwell attend via Teams. Joe Jurisevic 00:23.899
We approve Councillor Stockwell to attend the meeting dated the 18th 1st 2024 via Microsoft Teams. Clare Stewart 00:29.219
They have reached a certain number. Thank you. All in favour? Carried unanimously. Welcome Councillor Stockwell. Thank you. Good evening. Can I please have a mover for the confirmation of the minutes of the ordinary meeting 14th of December. Thank you. Councillor Finzel. All in favour? Brian. Yes. Yes. Thank you. There are no Mayoral minutes. I believe we have two petitions tonight. The first is from Councillor Wilkie. Frank Wilkie 00:57.215
Thank you Madam Mayor. I have a petition from the community group Residents Against Unregulated Short-Term Rent Approval, expressing concern at many aspects of the implementation of the short stay lent local law. Among their requirements is that they would like Council's priority to be protecting residents from the impacts of properties used for short stay letting through timely, complete and well-managed implementation of the existing local law, including the commitment that when considering approval and registration of properties for short stay letting, Council will always prioritise residents' needs and expectations. needs and expectations over investor and short-term accommodation management demands. expectations. They would like Council to take immediate positive steps including a deadline of June 30, 2024 for dwellings offered for short stay to be Forfeiture of short stay opportunities for those owners who do not apply for registration by June 30, otherwise the level of the law is meaningless. Forfeiture should include previously registered properties that have not renewed but continue to operate. Adequate staffing levels to achieve these objectives. An automatic review process by a senior council officer of all STA approvals challenged by neighbours before approval is finalised. A three strikes you're out policy to deal with properties where complaints are consistently lodged and upheld. A hotline website that in real time lists against property registrations, time and date of complaints lodged and complaints settled. A review of the operation of the hotline overall, including the effectiveness of security services engaged to meet the local laws requirement of a 30 minute response at all times. Total transparency of all data related to short stay, including real time numbers on the council website. numbers on the council website of all requests for approvals received plus addresses of approvals and registrations granted of applications declined and showed calls notices issued. A review of the code of conduct, refreshing it to include council. council's declaration of principle restatement of key issues impacting residential amenity including maximum of two persons per bedroom, 9pm outdoor curfews including pools and off-street parking. No more short-term approvals term approvals in medium and high density residential zones as recommended and short stay registration renewals to include consideration of complaints, registered owner manager response to them with submissions comments to be actively sought sought from neighbours. I ask that the petition with 16 signatures submitted by RAUSTRA, the question that counts to take these positive steps be received and referred to the Chief Executive Officer to determine the appropriate action. Clare Stewart 03:35.924
Do we have a seconder for that? Thank you Councillor Jurisevic, Councillor Stockwell. All in favour? Councillor Stockwell, I'm sorry I can't see you. That's not you, we can't, yep yep. Councillor Stockwell, arm up, yep all in favour? Yep. thank you. Councillor Wegener. Tom Wegener 03:55.623
Yes, Mr. Siegel, Madam Mayor, I'd like to submit this petition containing three thousand and seven signatures showing that Bus Stop Espresso has overwhelmingly Secretaries were invited to leave comments. Hundreds have done so, many referring to the time during COVID when bus stops opened and became a social lifeline for so many, which it still does today. Go on, maybe you can see this is a pie chart. Which it does today. Noosa Council itself recognised that value in contracting bus stops to reach out to affected residents for a six-week period by providing a free coffee attraction to hinterland residents impacted by COVID and the Black Mountain landslide. COVID is a word incidentally that does not appear in the Noosa Plan because the pandemic had not occurred at the time of writing. A chart analysing the geographic makeup of signatories by postcode is is also attached and it's on the table here. Identifying the huge support for the continuation of the business in its present form from hinterland residents but also is evident success as a tourist attraction. The chart more than 500 bus stop visitors from New South Wales and Victoria and Victoria alone signed the petition. Ironically, the same Council meeting in November last year where Council decided the effective closure of Bus Stop Espresso, Council also asked that Bus Stop continue to supply information on its trading and approval appeal. So Mr. CEO here it is. Clare Stewart 06:14.661
You could have a second for that petition? All in favour? Carried unanimously. Councillor Stockwell, sorry. Thank you. There are no notified motions, there are no presentations. We have one deputation from Deborah Walsh. Walsh. Good evening. Good evening Ms. Walsh, would you like to come up to the podium? And you have 15 minutes for your deputation. So welcome, it's nice to see you again. Debra Walz 06:45.401
Debra Walz: It's lovely to be here, thank you. Can I talk about the Queensland Homelessness Working Group clean up at the TAFE site? There's been a lot in the media about that. But first I wanted to identify some historical context as it seems a lot of people have differing perceptions on what has happened over the years in relation to the TAFE site. So we know that the construction was in 2004. It opened in 2006 with 716 students enrolled. It closed in 2014 with 256 students enrolled. believe in conjunction with many art subjects being offered online and the fall in enrolments, the State government decided to close the TAFE. So the TAFE was operational for eight years. Back in 2004, according to Hansard documents of a presentation Parliament by Kate Lloyd, the then member for Noosa, the construction cost budget was $7.55 million. Ten years later, and what was a state of the art facility has fallen...absolute and total disrepair due to lack of maintenance, adequate security, vandalism, theft, government and council inaction. There have been many excuses used over the past ten years, not least council indecision, caretaker mode during the State election campaign period... period, environmental protection, native title and uncertainties caused by COVID. Under council's new Noosa Plan and state koala conservation plan, the site is identified as an area of biodiversity significance and a koala priority area, limiting to the existing cleared footprint of the current TAFE campus. It's fairly clear now that council do not want to purchase the facility even after the 2018 formal offer to purchase, the reason given a reluctance to enter into an indigenous land use agreement with the traditional owners, the Kabi Kabi. The Minister for Training and Skills confirmed last year the operating costs over a seven month period of the TAFE totalled to $88,900 which included council rates, electricity and water, maintenance costs for buildings and grounds, employee and security costs. No one has addressed the obvious and that is how has this facility come to be in such a bad shape and what is the liability to the public with such hazards present. So there was a cleanup, we all know that. At the conclusion of the cleanup many of these hazards had been eliminated and the facility looks and feels a lot fresher. The much cleanup for homeless at the colloquially referred to community village in Tewantin was a big success. The selfless determination of volunteers of which there was a steady stream starting at 8:00am. through to 3:00pm. Work got started following a mandatory site induction. Workplace safety considerations included a first aid kit on site, a qualified nurse on site, safety gloves hand sanitizer, insect repellent, sunblock etc. Present at the site induction were police officers, QBuild representative, the Kabi Kabi traditional elders, media and state representative. Community members from all walks of life were present and keen to get started. The The Kabi Kabi elders pitched in to clean up with which demonstrated their connection to land and love of community. An extraordinary connection to land was formed between all volunteers and nothing could dampen that enthusiasm for the community project and the eagerness of the people to clean up. To clean up. The attending police officers were in attendance due to a local neighbour expressing concern at seeing multiple vehicles entering the site. The site was unlocked and has been for some time. The officers confirmed the community's right to be present on the land and to clean up. However, we're very clear that nobody should enter the buildings and this request and this request was adhered to. There was no intention to ever enter any buildings. Goals set and achieved on the day were to come together as a community with a long-term intent to benefit the lives of others less fortunate, to take responsibility for the role we play in the community by engaging constructively, experience firsthand the neglect upon land, buildings and community that has occurred since 2014. Being mindful of personal limitations, avoiding injury and damage to land, self or others. Debris clean up around the site and buildings to improve access and appearance. Painting over the substantial amounts of offensive graffiti and weeding garden beds. The total cost of the clean up would be measured best in smiles and feelings of satisfaction. However, there was a dump fee of $75 incurred by one of our local volunteers. A community barbecue was enjoyed by all generously donated by the hub Barts IGA Market Garden Tewantin and the Tewantin Butcher. The Queensland Government and Queensland Police were instrumental in ensuring access to the site was not impeded for the cleanup event. fuel, Volunteers cleaning equipment, paint, gloves and all incidentals out of their own pockets. This was the first cleanup day scheduled for 2024 and it is hoped that there will be more. The cleanup day was not intended as a political exercise however it is now clearly political agenda. If you were to speak to locals the TAFE site in its current condition is of great concern and there is a sentiment that all levels of government and council have acted acted apathetically, which I'm sure you can understand. When people in official positions fail to act on a community issue, then community members go ahead and take action. This is what was experienced with the cleanup. It was enough is enough. Naturally this type of community action can appear to go against the political narrative and even bruise people's egos, but by no means was this a deliberate intention of the community. It must be remembered that inaction makes certain people look bad in the eyes of the general community. Keeping the community Keeping the community updated of the continual demise and vandalism of a facility is not taking action. A knee-jerk reaction to the goodwill of community to clean up has been to label it by vigilantes, calling them conspiracy theorists or crazy Christian cultists. All this is totally misleading and untrue. In fact, it's laughable. This has been the narrative if you have followed comments on social media, including comments from so-called reputable community members. It's not only disturbing, but it's very divisive. Disturbingly, the volunteer community identified the accumulated garden waste on site as the fire hazard. water tap leakage waste wasting water broken into areas external to the building were destroyed air conditioning external compressors have exposed wires all buildings walls had been graffitied outdoor ceiling light fixtures smashed broken glass in all common areas and no prevention of weed growth had been undertaken that water tap Not consulted directly with the members of the community has resulted in a lack of local and state government solutions for for the reinvention of the TAFE facility in conjunction with the homeless as a result of this crisis financially limited options for the homeless comprise of cars, vans, tents and caravans being used many of which are parked in public spaces The community village model addresses the need for access to safe accommodation and aims to overcome a lack of connectiveness with family, friends and the community and lack of control over one's environment. When someone in a place of authority says we come across homeless people, bring them to me and I'll take care of them. That's not a solution. This is seen as disingenuous, Insulting insolent, and somewhat controlling. Just ask a homeless person. We all know the crisis of affordable and accessible housing and accommodation across Australia and I've spoken to this before in another deputation. It is contributing to a growing number of men, women, children and families having nowhere to live. The continuing negative effect of economic factors and lack of structured community-based solutions will continue to lead vulnerable families and individuals into desperate life-threatening circumstances if measures are not taken towards prevention. The mission of The mission of the Queensland Homelessness Working Group is developing solutions that are aimed at prevention, reduction and support for those who are most vulnerable in the community. Their values embrace the formation of an active advisory board from the combined resources of homeless community groups and the utilisation of unused government facilities. crisis housing solutions. This group works closely, very closely with the Kabi Kabi elders, respects and acknowledges their land and their commitment to support homeless people. You may ask who is involved in the Queensland Homelessness Working Group. It's simply a group of community members committed to helping the homeless. People across the Sunshine Coast, not just Noosa, because we all know homeless aren't confined to council boundaries and in fact move from place to place. Obviously the Sunshine Coast is a huge The focus of this group was initially on the Noosa region, the intention and focus being on the land, hence the connection with the Kabi Kabi elders and the TAFE side. It was agreed by Council in 2020 to adopt an advocacy role for potential suitable users for the TAFE side, but was limited to the education or training sectors. It is highly unlikely to be used again for what it was initially designed, due in part to the very nature of decentralisation. privatisation of the training sector. Despite this, there was an offer from Council to facilitate the activation of the site, acknowledging that this is a valuable community asset, or was. at The TAFE now is a monument to 21st century waste. It was purpose-built in 2004 as a TAFE college. It included a short-term accommodation space for artists' This is a suggestion from me to council to consider and also to think more broadly about the potential use. Given the increase in the need for short-term accommodation which is indisputable and the prospect of the Olympic of the Olympic Games with a need for accommodation in 2032, only eight years away. Could council utilise their advocacy influence and commitment to consider the TAFE as a suitable athlete village initially? Then transitioning to short-term homeless accommodation post-Olympics. Just one of those thoughts to think about. Noosa Shire Council housing strategy is now out of draft. It identifies the success of the strategy to the strong partnerships with the State government, with community housing providers, private housing developers, and with the Noosa community. The Kabi Kabi traditional owners don't appear in the reference group as a partner. This This impacts on Council's social justice charter significantly where it is acknowledged everyone has a role to play in ensuring that Noosa Shire continues to prosper and thrive as an inclusive community both now and into the future. There is absolutely no discredit intended by me today. Only the hope that this council and any future council will consider and respect the community suggestions through consultation processes that enables every voice to be heard. I want to thank you and I want to wish you a happy new year. I should have said that first up. Thank you for your time. Clare Stewart 20:49.040
Thank you, thank you very much. We are now up to item eight, consideration of committee reports. We have no planning environment, committee reports and no services and organisation as is the practice every January. We don't have those smaller committee meetings, so we'll go straight to general. Item 8.1, general committee report. 6.1 MCU18/0102.02 application for another change include food and drink outlet to a development approval visitor accommodation type four conventional for Bounce Hostel at 14 to 16 Mary Street, Noosaville. 6.2 planning and environment court appeal number 3156 of 2023 application for a material change of use for healthcare service and hospital at 47 Goodchap Street, Noosaville. Application Applications 6.3, Planning Environment Court, appeal number 3746 of 2023, application for material changes of use of short-term accommodation 15 cabins at 94 and 142 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads. Councillor Wilkie. Frank Wilkie 21:51.461
Councillor Wilkie, inform the meeting I have a prescribed conflict of interest in this matter as RACV have been a sponsor of Noosa Arts here where I serve as the Committee President. As a result of this prescribed conflict of interest, I will leave the meeting room while the matter is considered and voted upon. Clare Stewart 22:15.340
Can I have a mover for the RSVP? Thank you, Councillor Jurisevic. And a seconder, Councillor Wegener. All in favour? Councillor Stockwell. Brian Stockwell 22:26.900
Yes, great. Clare Stewart 22:29.200
Thank you. Carried unanimously. Thanks, Kenneth. Thanks, Mr. CEO. Larry Sengstock 22:36.058
Thank you. Clare Stewart 22:43.280
Item 6.4, planning applications decided by delegated authority, November 2023. Item 6.5, budget review 2, BR2 for the 2023-2024 financial year. Item 6.6, financial performance report, December 2023. Item 6.7, audit and risk committee membership. Item 6.8, council remuneration update. Item 7.1, confidential CN00427, Garth Prowd Bridge upgrade tender awards. 7.2, confidential contract award report, contract number CN00427. CN00511, Noosa Spit Nourishment. Item 7.3, confidential RP00359, register of pre-qualified suppliers for construction of pathways, kerb channel, drainage pits and associated works. Can I have a mover you, Councillor Jurisevic. Thank you, Councillor Finzel. All in favour? Carried unanimously. Thank you, Councillor Stockwell. We have no direct to the ordinary meeting. We have no confidential items. So this brings us to the end of the agenda. The next ordinary meeting, which will be our last for this term of council, will be held at council chambers on the 15th of February at 5pm. I declare the meeting closed at 5.25. Related Noosa Council Meetings
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