GC&M News will be running a series of ‘Meet the Candidate’ editorial features over a three week period leading up to the March 16 Sunshine Coast Council election.
Our aim is to provide a ‘level playing field’ platform to give all of our declared mayoral and divisional candidates running in the Sunshine Coast Council election the opportunity to present their pitch and provide responses to key issues raised by our Hinterland readers.
The series will be featured in both our print and online publications.
Each candidate has been approached and asked to provide a response of no more than 250 words.
Question to the candidates
Question 3
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland is known for its natural beauty. How do you plan to balance development with environmental conservation, and what is one measures will you implement to protect and preserve our local ecosystems and natural environment?
Question 4
Every division has its own set of challenges. What do you see as the most pressing issues in the Hinterland region, and what concrete steps will you take to address these challenges during your term?
Jenny Broderick
Question 3:
We are incredibly blessed to live in an area surrounded by a unique, iconic landscape ; from the incredible Glasshouse Mountains to the beauty of the Pumicestone Passage.
Wow! I love where we live!
Growth is inevitable however, it will need to be managed and balanced in a way that ensures the protection of our stunning environment, natural assets and green spaces.
We need to ensure balance and sustainable future growth, while protecting everything that makes our home the special place that it is.
The upcoming Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme is going to be an essential part of this process.
This new plan will have significant bearing on the vision we have for our homes for the future.
If elected, I will be ensuring you are aware of the changes in the scheme that may potentially affect our the way we grow and our natural environment.
Effective communication is essential and will ensure you have the opportunity for you to have your say.
There will be significant issues that arise over the coming years, including the potential development of Halls Creek and Beerwah East.
I will be committed to ensuring that I hear how the community feels about all of this and give you the representation you need.
Question 4:
Every division has its own set of challenges. What do you see as the most pressing
issues in Division 1, and what concrete steps will you take to address these
challenges during your term as a representative?
Division 1 is wonderfully diverse! Not only is it geographically large, our communities
vary from rural lifestyle to coastal living; small blocks to large farms. However, there
are some things that remain the same right across the Division – that we all want to
feel like we’ve been seen and heard. Many feel that the Southern end of the Coast
hasn’t been given as much ‘love’ as many other parts of our Sunny Coast, and that
needs to change. We need a Councillor who knows our Division intimately, is
passionate and driven, and is actively involved in the community we live in.
I continue to talk about ‘Community Connections’. Not only does this refer to our
need for social connection with each other, but to the essential need we have for
transport and infrastructure connectivity. We need to plan better! The disaster that
awaits us regarding traffic, and only one access in Turner Street Beerwah just one
example. We will need solutions for that situation already.
I will be advocating strongly for an essential footpath and cycle way network
throughout Glasshouse Country. This includes the essential connection between
Glasshouse and Beerwah, and the completion and maintenance of essential
footpaths and roads. I will also be advocating for a bus service from Beerwah via
Aura through to Caloundra now that Roys Road has opened to the Arterial.
For further comment on what issues we are facing throughout Division 1, please
check my website and socials.
Kristy Taylor-Rose
Question 3:
Balancing development with environmental conservation in Division 1 is crucial to ensure the preservation of our natural beauty.
I would like to implement the protection and conservation of the biodiversity of the region by preserving natural habitats, creating wildlife corridors, and promoting the conservation of endangered species. Increasing the availability of green spaces and parks within Division 1 to provide residents with access to nature and improve air quality.
Implement water conservation measures to protect local water sources, reduce water usage and prevent pollution of water ways.
Educate the community about the importance of environmental conservation and promoting sustainable practices through workshops and campaigns etc.
Enforce strict environmental regulations and monitoring compliance to ensure that development projects adhere to environmental standards and do not harm local ecosystems.
By implementing these measures we can effectively balance development with environmental conservation in Division 1 and preserve the natural beauty of our region for future generations to enjoy.
Question 4:
In Division 1, there are several pressing issues that need to be addressed to improve the quality of life for residents and ensure sustainable development.
Infrastructure – aging infrastructure such as a roads, bridges and utilities, that require upgrades and maintenance to meet the needs of growing population. Advocate for funding and support for improvement and upgrades of projects.
Affordable Housing – the need for affordable housing options for low-income families and individuals. Work with housing developers and organisations to increase the availability and support programs.
Economic Development – attracting businesses to create job opportunities and boost the local economy. Collaborate with local businesses, chamber of commerce etc to create job opportunities.
Environment – balancing development with environment conservation to protect and preserve the natural beauty of the region. Implement policies and initiatives that promote sustainable development and protect natural habitats.
Public safety – support community policing initiatives, collaborate with law enforcement to enhance public safety measures and address concerns within Division 1.
Kerbside pick up – engage with the community to gather feedback on kerbside pickup services, address any concerns or issues and promote participation in waste management initiatives. By promoting responsible waste management practices, Division 1 can enhance the quality of life for residents, reduce environmental impact and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable community.
By taking these concrete steps and working collaboratively with stakeholders and the community, we can address the pressing challenges in Division 1 and create a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable environment for all residents.
Stan Nawrocki
Question 3:
Balancing development with environmental conservation in Division 1 necessitates a multifaceted approach, which respects our natural resources while fostering sustainable growth. Here’s how I plan to achieve this balance:
1. Comprehensive environmental impact assessments: Thorough assessments will evaluate potential effects on ecosystems, water sources, air quality, and wildlife habitats before any development is approved. This ensures environmentally responsible practices.
2. Respecting traditional knowledge: Integrating the wisdom of traditional landowners into conservation strategies enriches our understanding of local ecosystems and sustainable practices, benefiting from their expertise.
3. Promotion of sustainable practices: Encouraging energy efficiency, waste reduction, recycling, and renewable energy adoption among businesses, residents, and government entities is vital for minimizing environmental impact.
4. Preservation of green spaces: Protecting and preserving green areas, parks, and reserves maintains biodiversity and provides essential recreational opportunities for community well-being.
5. Implementation of green infrastructure: Integrating green infrastructure such as green roofs, permeable pavements, and rain gardens manages stormwater runoff, mitigates urban heat, and enhances community aesthetics and sustainability.
Question 4:
In Division 1, preserving the unique character and environmental integrity of areas like Beerwah, Beerburrum, Glasshouse, Landsborough, and Peachester amidst major development projects such as Beerwah East and the heavy rail from Beerwah to Caloundra is crucial. The most pressing issues include environmental conservation, infrastructure strain, and community preservation.
During my term as Councillor for Division 1, the concrete steps involve conducting thorough environmental impact assessments for the heavy rail project and associated developments. This includes advocating for sustainable practices and mitigation measures to protect sensitive ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
Collaboration with relevant authorities is vital to plan and invest in infrastructure upgrades that can accommodate increased demand while minimizing disruption to existing communities. Prioritizing sustainability and resilience in infrastructure projects is key.
Engaging with residents, community groups, and indigenous stakeholders is essential throughout the development process. Encouraging participation in decision-making and empowering local voices can shape the future of Beerwah East while preserving the unique character and heritage of Beerwah town centre, Beerburrum Glasshouse, Landsborough and Peachester
Implementing policies and initiatives aimed at heritage conservation, green space protection, and sustainable development practices, such as ensuring minimum 700sq metre house blocks in Beerwah East, will help preserve the area’s charm. Establishing mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and evaluation ensures compliance with environmental regulations and community expectations.
By prioritizing environmental conservation, sustainable development, community engagement, and proactive planning, we can navigate the challenges posed by major development projects while preserving the integrity of Division 1 and surrounding areas for generations to come.
