Police Beat coming, housing teams move in as Nambour grapples with homelessness

Nicklin MP Marty Hunt hopes to get a Police Beat in Nambour by year’s end.

Public frustration over escalating homelessness and safety concerns in Nambour is increasing, as Nicklin MP Marty Hunt vows continued action.

The issue flared again last fortnight after Sunshine Coast Council suspended bushcare activities at Namba Creek and Quota Park bushcare sites, citing threats and verbal abuse directed at staff and volunteers by people experiencing homelessness. The issue sparked an influx of comments on local Facebook group ‘Living in Nambour’, with residents expressing their frustrations about the impact the issue was having on community safety and morale.

 Mr Hunt, pictured, acknowledged the community’s  concerns and outlined steps already underway.

“I see it, I hear it, and I agree – the current situation is not good enough,” Mr Hunt writes in his column this edition. “Keeping our community safe and supporting vulnerable people is one of my top priorities.”

Mr Hunt said years of underinvestment in social housing had left communities like Nambour under pressure, a problem made worse by Brisbane and Moreton Bay councils recent decisions to clear out similar camps.

“Additional Housing Critical Response Teams have now been deployed locally to connect with those sleeping rough and help them into accommodation,” he said. “Though many people continue to refuse support, these teams are working hard to build trust and deliver long-term solutions.”

Mr Hunt also confirmed that a permanent “Police Beat” shopfront would be established in Nambour’s CBD by the end of the year, with an officer allocated to foot patrols in and around the town and local parks.

Meanwhile, comments on the ‘Living in Nambour’ page captured the intensity of local frustration.

Cassandra asked: “How safe are the school kids that walk through there if the bushcare people are in danger? Seriously someone step up and fix this problem.”

“Why is the Council not stepping in to protect the volunteers and their own employees?” asked Tracey. “Come and walk along here yourself. See what’s actually happening in your backyard!”

Another resident, Helen Tagg, who has started a petition (see separate story this edition) said: “So let me get this straight? Council admits Nambour isn’t safe, moves on their own staff to protect the known offenders, and still does nothing to protect residents?”

Others called for stronger enforcement, with calls to “move them on” and increase police presence. One poster described the creek area as a “tent city rubbish tip” that was “destroying Nambour”.

Not all comments were unsympathetic. Many pointed to wider housing shortages, mental health and addiction issues.

However Marie summed up what many were expressing: “The Council has a somewhat warped duty of care to residents. I can no longer walk my little dog in the public parks due to the approaches by unsavoury park occupants. I drive through town of Nambour in daylight and have half clothed, mentally absent females and males staggering at traffic lights. The council can allocate an unbudgeted extra $20 million to new chambers building budget. (They should) employ cut backs to the chambers and redeploy the funds to protection of residents. The issue won’t go away and each year is increasing. Put our safety before your shrine.”

Mr Hunt said while Council was responsible for policy around camping in public spaces, he would continue to work closely with them and police to improve safety and housing outcomes.

He also praised local support services for their tireless efforts.

“These services are making a real difference, and we must never underestimate their vital role,” he said.

The issue rose again this week with Bushcare coordinator Norm Morwood saying in his regulat column, this edition, that people were uprooting plantings put in place by volunteer Bushcarers over the past 12 years.

Residents are encouraged to share their views via Mr Hunt’s survey at www.martyhunt.com.au/survey.

Cr Law ‘personally saddened we can’t be confident of safety’

Cr David Law

Division 10 Councillor David Law said Monday he was “personally saddened” by the suspension of bush care activities, citing safety concerns after troubling incidents in local parks. 

“Council is working hard to look after our staff, volunteers, and the wider community. The decision to suspend bush care activities was made to ensure their safety after some concerning incidents.  As someone who volunteers with the Bushcare team a couple of times every year, I’m personally saddened that we can’t be confident for our personal safety in our parks right now. These spaces should be safe and welcoming for everyone and I really understand the frustration and concern for our safety.  

“I am working closely with MP Marty Hunt, police, and support services to help find long-term solutions to homelessness and safety concerns in Nambour.  But I must be clear that ratepayers and Council do not fund homelessness services or policing. These are state government responsibilities, but we’re doing everything we can to collaborate and support Marty and state agencies.

“This are challenging issues, and I am working hard with Council teams and all stakeholders to ensure our parks are safe again and accessible for all.”