‘Forgotten again’: anger over six-year delay to Nambour projects

A flood of angry responses from hinterland residents has followed Div 10 Cr David Law’s condemnation of Sunshine Coast Council’s decision to delay Nambour’s  promised library and community administration centre.

Speaking at Council’s budget meeting on July 7, Cr Law said the six-year deferral sent the wrong message to the hinterland, especially after millions had been found to fast-track similar projects in Maroochydore and Caloundra.

“This major investment in Nambour would signal to the hinterland community that ‘we believe in you’,” he said. “It’s not okay to move that major investment by six years — because in Nambour, we need that now.”

While Council cited a $20 million budget shortfall as the reason for the delay, residents say it’s part of a pattern.

The Gazette’s Facebook post about the delay prompted an immediate response, particularly given Council’s 7.4 percent rate rise. Said Janine: “What caused the shortfall? Who voted for these people?”

“Typical council,” wrote Wendy. “Hinterland ratepayers pay for the coastal strip. No infrastructure in Nambour… it’s forgotten again.”

Ros said: “The usual. The hinterland pays rates but the coastal strip gets all the benefits.”

“Shame on you Sunshine Coast Council,” added Steve. “They are happy to increase rates by 7.4% though. Nambour just gets left out again.”

Jojo summed up the sentiment: “Everything for the coastal strip and nothing for the hinterland, as usual.”

Long-time local, Samantha, said Council had ignored previous plans to expand Nambour’s civic precinct in favour of “revamping Mooloolaba over and over.”

“Nambour is a town everyone wants to forget and run down,” she wrote. “Two steps forward and eight steps back. It’s time Nambour and surrounds say ‘enough is enough’.”

Some questioned Council’s priorities. Daniel wrote: “They can afford to spend millions pumping sand back onto beaches … yet actual community facilities for our hinterland communities are delayed again.”

Jay suggested rates boycotts: “Everyone should stand together and stop paying rates until it’s rectified.”

Others suggested drastic change. Rebecca asked: “Is it time for Nambour and the hinterland to break away from the Sunshine Coast Regional Council?”

Jeff said: “Nambour has become the black sheep of the Sunshine Coast. Coast-centric thinking and decisions are palpable.”

“Good on you, Cr Law,” wrote Denyse. “This is unacceptable.”

Many residents demanded greater equity and accountability. As Mark put it: “Nambour is third class. Council isn’t interested in fixing it. Out of sight, out of mind.”

Cr David Law speaks to Council’s budget meeting on July 7, as covered in the Gazette (July 9).