By Mitch Gaynor
THE controversial proposal to turn a 150-hectare property at Coochin Creek into a large outdoor music and exhibition venue faces a fresh test after Deputy Premier, Jarrod Bleijie, wrote to the developer demanding significantly more detail on economic, environmental, traffic and safety issues.
The Comiskey Group’s ‘Coochin Fields’ development was formally called in by Mr Bleijie in July on the grounds that it was a major tourism and economic opportunity for the region. If the festival site were to proceed the precinct would host up to six events a year, drawing up to 35,000 patrons a day.
In a letter to the Comiskey Group, signed on Tuesday, August 5, Mr Bleijie (pictured), said the proposal lacked key information to properly assess the project.
The correspondence identified deficiencies across economic claims, tourism benefits, traffic, waste, water, land use, bushfire and safety.
The Deputy Premier also focused on the project’s impact inside the Northern Inter Urban Break — a key concern of the Sunshine Coast Council prior to the call-in.
“Demonstrate how the proposal located within the NIUB responds to the intent and core values of the NIUB as articulated in ShapingSEQ,” he wrote.
Regarding economic claims, the developer’s Economic Impact Assessment estimated 682 full-time jobs and a $71.3 million boost to Gross Regional Product would result from the project. However Mr Bleijie has asked for justification of these figures including to: “Provide details of how the expected GRP was derived to support the purported financial benefits associated with music festivals and exhibitions.”
On amenity, the submitted Noise Impact Assessment “needs more detail” on how noise will be mitigated, including background levels and sound modelling.
The state had also sought information on potential impacts from dust, odour and lighting on surrounding areas. Concerns were raised about the absence of an Operational Event Management Plan — essential for managing traffic, parking and pedestrian safety — and the adequacy of traffic plans, including site-access intersections. A full Traffic Management Plan was also requested.
Given the site’s bushfire risk, the government has called for detailed evacuation procedures, including the capacity of Roys Road.
It also found the submitted Bushfire Management Plan inadequate, saying on-site refuge or assembly areas must be separated from hazardous vegetation and supported by a Bushfire Emergency Management and Evacuation Procedure.
Proof of adequate static water supply, and emergency services coordination was also required. The state further queried proposed wastewater servicing, particularly for peak festival days of 35,000 patrons.
A spokesperson for Mr Bleijie told GC&M News the company had three months to respond after which public submissions would be sought.
