Residents raise key issues with MPs at Palmwoods forum
PCBA secretary Paul Brandenburg, Marty Hunt, Andrew Powell, and PCBA President Fraser Austin.
Palmwoods residents turned out in force this month for a community forum giving locals the chance to speak directly with state MPs Andrew Powell and Marty Hunt about the issues shaping the town’s future.
Hosted by the Palmwoods Community & Business Association, the forum covered traffic, flooding, housing, heritage and the pressures that come with growth. PCBA secretary Will Mundy prepared the following report on the meeting and the views put forward by the community.
1. Palmwoods Speaks with One Voice: A Community Forum That Showed Our Strength
Palmwoods is a town defined by its character — not just the timber homes and heritage shopfronts, but the people who live here and the way they show up for their community. That spirit was on full display at the recent forum organised and hosted by the Palmwoods Community & Business Association (PCBA), where residents filled the hall to engage directly with their state representatives.
The PCBA created this event for one purpose: to give Palmwoods residents a clear, structured, and respectful platform to raise the issues that matter most. And the community responded with honesty, insight, and determination.
2. A forum built by the community, for the community
The PCBA has long served as the bridge between Palmwoods residents, local businesses, and all levels of government. This forum was another example of that role in action. The PCBA coordinated the agenda, facilitated discussion, and ensured that every voice in the room could be heard.
The attendance of both state representatives — Andrew Powell MP and Marty Hunt MP — demonstrated the importance of Palmwoods within the hinterland. Their willingness to participate in a joint session reflects the strength of community advocacy and the PCBA’s reputation for constructive engagement.
3. Traffic, safety, and the underpass: Palmwoods’ most urgent challenge
Residents spoke clearly about the pressure on Palmwoods’ road network. The underpass remains a bottleneck, and recent storms highlighted the vulnerability of having only one reliable entry and exit point. When fallen trees blocked the road, hundreds of cars were stranded with no alternative route.
The community is not asking for quick fixes. It is asking for a long term plan that reflects the reality of a growing hinterland town.
The PCBA welcomes the news that intersection concept plans will soon be released for public consultation and encourages all residents to participate in the feedback process.
4. Heritage buildings: protecting what makes Palmwoods unique
Palmwoods’ heritage is central to its identity. Residents raised concerns about several heritage listed buildings that have fallen into disrepair, attracting antisocial behaviour and creating safety risks.
The PCBA supports a balanced approach that protects heritage while enabling owners to maintain and revitalise their properties. Adaptive reuse — preserving historic facades while allowing modern use — offers a pathway that respects both history and practicality.
The forum made it clear: Palmwoods wants to preserve its character, not freeze it in time.
5. Housing & affordability: growth with care
Housing affordability is a challenge across the Sunshine Coast. Residents asked whether developers could be required to include affordable housing. State representatives explained why previous mandates stalled development, but also outlined new programs aimed at increasing supply, supporting first home buyers, and partnering with community housing providers.
The PCBA recognises the need for affordable housing while ensuring that growth does not compromise safety or community cohesion.
6. Flooding and drainage: the hidden infrastructure issue
Long term residents described rising water levels, blocked creeks, and stormwater systems struggling under the weight of new subdivisions. Flooding is not just inconvenient — it is dangerous. The PCBA supports coordinated action between state and council to ensure that environmental protection and flood mitigation are balanced responsibly.
7. A milestone year ahead
As the PCBA approaches its 50th anniversary, the organisation continues to demonstrate why it remains one of the most effective community bodies in the hinterland. The forum was a testament to decades of volunteer effort, local leadership, & a commitment to Palmwoods’ future.
8. Palmwoods is ready for partnership
The message from the forum was clear: Palmwoods is engaged, informed, and ready to work collaboratively with government. The PCBA will continue to advocate for:
• safe and resilient infrastructure
• thoughtful and transparent planning
• protection of heritage character
• balanced environmental management
• community safety and wellbeing
Palmwoods has spoken with one voice. The PCBA is proud to carry that voice forward.