By Sonia Isaacs
THE campaign to protect the Beerwah Co-Op has moved to the Queensland Parliament, with a new e-petition calling for proper community consultation over plans linked to the Beerwah Rail Station upgrade.
The Heart of Beerwah Community Action Group is urging residents to sign the parliamentary petition, open on the Parliament of Queensland website until May 10, 2026.
Local State Member Kendall Morton declined to sponsor the petition, so instead it will be formally tabled in the Legislative Assembly on May 12 by the Clerk of the Parliament, with Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg required to provide a ministerial response within 30 days.
Unlike earlier petitions focused on saving the Co-Op and the neighbouring Shell Service Station, the latest petition addresses concerns that the community has not been adequately consulted about plans to demolish the site and build a multi-storey commuter car park.
The initial campaign has already gathered strong support, with nearly 7,000 signatures collected through a Change.org petition and hard-copy community petitions launched late last year.
Community Action Group representative Frances Ross said organisers hoped the scale of that backing would be acknowledged in Parliament.
“This e-petition is about making sure the community is properly consulted before decisions are made that could permanently change the heart of Beerwah,” Ms Ross said.
Heart of Beerwah chair Peter Boyle said the group was surprised the local member had not sponsored the petition but remained appreciative of her engagement.
“While we’re disappointed our local member did not sponsor the e-petition, we still value her support,” he said.
Caloundra MP Kendall Morton said discussions with stakeholders were ongoing.
“We are focused on exploring options that balance the needs of the Wave Rail Project, the Beerwah Co-Op, and the concerns raised by the Heart of Beerwah group and the wider community.” Ms Morton said.
“We appreciate the constructive engagement from all parties as these conversations continue.”