‘Incredibly proud of our town”: Nambour Now chair

Helen Tagg ... "This was about making sure the right decisions are made in the right locations and that the long-term viability of our CBD is protected.”

Nambour Now chair Helen Tagg has welcomed news the proposed sale of the Howard Street car park is off the table, describing it as a strong result for community advocacy. “I’m stoked,” Mrs Tagg said. “The purpose of Nambour Now is to champion community causes, and we are so proud to see the community step up in the way it has on this issue.”

Mrs Tagg said the response from residents, business owners and community groups had been clear, united and constructive from the outset. “This wasn’t about opposing housing. We’ve always said housing is important,” she said. “This was about making sure the right decisions are made in the right locations and that the long-term viability of our CBD is protected.”

She said the outcome showed the strength of a community willing to engage respectfully but firmly when it mattered. “We’ve seen people from all walks of life come together: business owners, seniors, patients, families, volunteers. All speaking with one voice,” she said. “I’m incredibly proud of our town.”

Mrs Tagg said the focus now should be on working collaboratively to finding an alternative and more suitable location for social and affordable housing. “Nambour is growing and we want to see that continue,” she said. “But we need to get the balance right. That means protecting essential infrastructure like parking while planning for the future.”

She said Nambour Now would continue to advocate for outcomes that reflected the needs of the community. “This shows what can happen when a community is heard,” she said. “Now it’s about building on that and working together to get the best for Nambour.”