HERE is a look at some of the recent big wins we have achieved whilst in government.

Schools 
Our teachers do an incredible job, and they know their students learn if they feel safe, supported and experience limited disruptions. Our Behaviour Boost funding program helps schools respond to behaviour challenges effectively. Based on its success, we have made it permanent so that each year $45 million will be shared across state schools to roll out the resources. Schools can also apply for an extra grant of up to $2000 to support the professional development of staff.

Get your $200 Play On! Sport Vouchers NOW for children aged between five and 17, and your $150 SwimStart voucher for 0–4-year-olds. We want every kid in Queensland to have the opportunity to participate safely in the activities they love.

Health 
More than 12,300 Queenslanders have come off the elective surgery wait list since the introduction of our Surgery Connect Surge program. In other good news in the health and welfare sector, up to three Disability Parking Permits are now free for eligible individuals.

Police 
Hot on our pursuit to improve community safety, I am pleased to report that the Crisafulli Government has added an extra 350 police officers to the frontline in the last nine months, more than double that recruited in the past four years. This figure doesn’t include the 23 new highly trained police dogs we welcomed to the team.
Business
In the latest round of the Crisafulli Government’s Business Basics Grants, 15 local businesses each received $7,500 to boost their growth. Sectors such as health and wellbeing, literary and coaching, catering, travel, industrial, eco fashion and even pet accessories were in the mix.

We have launched an online Cyber Security Hub to help small and family businesses protect themselves from threats. This package of resources includes free cyber wardens training, education on safe use of digital ID schemes and weekly cybersecurity webinars.

Keep in touch 
If I can be of any assistance, please visit my office at 11 Heathfield Road, Coolum or phone on 5406 7900 or email at ninderry@parliament.qld.gov.au

GREAT news for Peregian Breeze, Peregian Beach and Coolum residents. The Crisafulli Government has invested $2.3 million to deliver a shared pedestrian and cycle pathway that will link Old Emu Mountain Road to the David Low Way roundabout. A new crossing on David Low Way will make it safer for students to get to and from school.

The Crisafulli Government’s 2025-2026 Budget has delivered for the people of Ninderry. All infrastructure promises I made have been funded, as well as $300 in vouchers for every child’s education essentials and sport participation, more healthcare than ever before, more social housing and more police.

As promised, we can look forward to a new interchange at Mt Coolum that will connect the Sunshine Motorway to Council’s planned extension of South Coolum Road. Once constructed, this will ease congestion and pressure on the intersection at Coolum State School.

Safer pedestrian access in Bli Bli has been a great concern, and $250,000 has been guaranteed to begin addressing it.

A brand new multi-sports facility and home base to the Coolum Beach Breakers Junior AFL will be delivered on the grounds of Coolum State High School, thanks to our $5 million investment for Stage 1.

Peregian Springs State School received $25,000 towards the upgrade of the school tuckshop. North Arm State School received $1 million towards parking and school drop-off upgrades. Kuluin State School and Eumundi State Schools can now deliver access and safety upgrades as part of the $70.668 million School and Education Boost funding.

A nation-leading home ownership scheme will help first home buyers to enter the market by reducing the deposit gap. Stamp duty on all new homes for first home buyers has been abolished, and the First Homeowner Grant has been extended for 12 months.

This Budget delivers better access to healthcare with additional funding to grow the healthcare workforce, more hospitals and hospital beds, funds to perform more elective surgeries to reduce wait times, and funding to meet legislated midwife to patient ratios. Kindy kids will also receive free vision, hearing and speech development checks.

Emergency Management Levy axed. 
A STATEWIDE review by the Queensland Fire Department resulted in a letter to some property owners about an increase to their Levy. Even though the review and the Levy change are consistent with the Act, the Crisafulli Government decided to axe the scheduled increase as a cost-saving measure for impacted owners. If you received a notice of increase from July 1, don’t worry, you will soon receive a letter advising that these changes will NOT come into effect.

State funding to protect local business   
The cost of a break-in to a small business isn’t just the value of what’s been stolen, it’s also the repairs, rising insurance and lost turnover from being closed. A new $40 million funding program has been set up to help deter crime against small and family businesses. Councils can apply for up to two grants worth $400,000 each to fund crime prevention measures to improve the security of business strips. This includes CCTV, security lighting, alarm systems, bollards and lockable fencing. I continue to work closely with local councillors and police to address the safety concerns of businesses and all residents.

Attention First Home Buyers  
Over the past ten years, Queensland has earned the reputation of having the lowest rate of home ownership of any state in the nation at 63.5%. Finding and keeping a roof overhead has become far too hard, and thousands of young home buyers are unable to get into the market.
I am proud to announce that the Crisafulli Government is reversing this trend. New laws have come into effect that abolish stamp duty on new homes for first home buyers, slashing tens of thousands off the purchase.

Domestic and Family Violence Reforms  
As a former Detective and in my capacity as Police Minister, I know that police spend more time addressing DFV call-outs than any other. New laws have now been passed that give police the powers to issue on-the-spot 12-month Police Protection Directions, immediately protecting victims without going through lengthy court processes.

Premier’s Anzac Prize 2026 
I JOINED with you all to honour our returned service men and women on Anzac Day. Whether I hear the Last Post at the Coolum Peregian Dawn Service or at one of our local schools, I am overcome with pride and gratitude. If you are a teacher or a student in Years 8-11, consider applying for the Premier’s Anzac competition for 2026. You could win a once in a lifetime experience to explore WWI memorials across England, France, and Belgium.

E-devices Safety 
My office has been inundated with concerns about the dangers of these devices. Between 2021 and 2024, there was a whopping 112% rise in injuries to riders, passengers, and pedestrians. Tragically, eight users of personal mobility devices died last year. Last week in Parliament, it was announced that a Parliamentary Inquiry will be established to consider the benefits of e-mobility devices; safety risks; current rules and how they compare with other jurisdictions; enforcement approaches; importation laws; communication and education; and stakeholder views.

Small Business Month 
Thank you to the many hundreds of small businesses working hard locally to support our local community and economy. The month of May is about celebrating and supporting you, and this year’s Business Queensland’s theme is Renew, Recharge and Rebuild. There are so many online events, workshops and webinars that offer support and guidance.

Bullying  
As a father of two young daughters and married to a teacher, I am deeply aware of the bullying epidemic we face in our schools. I am proud to share the announcement that we have committed $33 million to fund five new anti-bullying initiatives. Designed to prevent, respond to, and reduce bullying, we are rolling out a dedicated crisis support hotline, new Rapid Support Squads, a Stakeholder Reference Group, additional chaplains, and wellbeing staff, as well as teacher support.

Students could win $15K 
The ‘Savvy Shopper’ Buy Smart competition aims to help students in years 4 to 2 become more informed and safe shoppers. Previous winners have presented board games, music videos, TV shows and story books. Be as creative as you can. Entries are now open and close on 19 September 2025

Get in touch 
Contact my office for more information about any of the Queensland Government programs mentioned on 5406 7900 or ninderry@parliament.qld.gov.au.

The Coolum Wedge, April 25-27 
MY FAVOURITE national body surfing festival is back and is in its fifth year at Tickle Park, Coolum. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to register or simply come along and be a part of this fantastic community.
Local tourism business boost
Tourism is important to our economy, and every bit of support is welcome. The State Tourism Business Digital Adaptation Program has $3 million in rebates available to help local operators become more tech-savvy.  Eligible businesses can apply for a rebate of up to $2,500 until November 2025. To learn more: www.qtic.com.au/tourism-business-digital-adaption-program/

Amping up the local Live Music Scene 
The second round of the state government’s Growing Gigs Fund and Live Music Venue Business Grants is now open. Grants of up to $100,000 are up for grabs. Find out more: www.arts.qld.gov.au/aq-funding

Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco and Vapes 
My office has received many emails from locals concerned about the sale of vapes. The good news is that Illegal operators will now be hit with on-the-spot fines of more than $160,000 for the supply of illicit tobacco, vaping products and nicotine pouches (also known as ‘zyns’) in Queensland. The Crisafulli Government has implemented the nation’s toughest fines for the commercial possession and supply of these dangerous substances.

Adult Crime, Adult Time expansion 
The latest Sunshine Coast QPS figures show that between December and February, there were 120 fewer cars stolen and a 15.4 per cent reduction in unlawful use of motor car offences compared with the same time last year. We know the laws are working, and last week, twenty more offences were added, including arson, torture, aggravated attempted robbery, rape and attempted murder.

Jack’s Law is now permanent 
I was proud to introduce in Parliament last week permanent laws that allow police to use hand-held scanners to detect deadly weapons such as knives in all public places. Jack Beasley was murdered in 2019, and Jack’s Law had been a trial, restricted to certain precincts until now. I introduced this law on the day that Jack would have turned 23. Since Jack’s Law was introduced more than 100,000 scans have been conducted, and more than 2,804 people charged, with 1,058 weapons taken off the streets.

TC Alfred 
I WOULD like to thank the community for heeding warnings and following preparation advice during the Tropical Cyclone Alfred weather event. In particular, I thank our hardworking SES, RFS and QPS for keeping us safe. It has been a harrowing and anxious time, especially for our vulnerable members.

Free Flu Vaccine 
Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting a state government-funded flu vaccine, available to all Queenslanders aged six months and older until September 30, 2025. Thanks to $25 million funding allocation, flu shots are now available at GPs, pharmacies and community vaccination centres.

Cost of Living Relief 
The Crisafulli Government has axed stamp duty on new builds, saving eligible first home buyers $9,096 on a median-priced house-and-land package.

School Funding 
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a $44 million boost to help tackle bullying and violence in schools. Every state school will receive funding to go to teacher aides, speech pathologists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. It can also be used for professional development for teachers and teacher aides.

Connect Kids Mentoring Program 
Help change the direction of a young person’s life and increase your own sense of purpose by spending two hours a fortnight with one of 80 children who need a positive role model. If you think you can offer friendship and encouragement, call 1800 367 543 or visit www.connectkids.com.au.

‘Journi’ For Kids 
Did you know that road trauma remains the leading cause of death for children aged 1-14 years? Primary students aged 11 and 12 years will learn about safety on and around roads, including e-scooter and shared pathway education, via an animated interactive video platform called ‘Journi’.

Police Resourcing Boost 
More than 12,000 Queensland Police officers on the frontline will be supplied with body-worn personal first aid kits, including tourniquets, increasing their ability to respond quickly to medical situations before other emergency services arrive. The Crisafulli Government has also delivered $31.1 million for high-visibility police operations in crime hotspots with extra patrols, more marked cars, mobile police beats, and foot patrols.

New Pedestrian Bridge for Eumundi  
I HAVE worked with locals to get the funding for the Seib Road Pedestrian Bridge since being elected. The 3-metre-wide bridge separates pedestrians from vehicles making a much safer link between Seib Road and Albert Street. Not only has it been one of my top priorities, but the Eumundi community has also been fighting for it for more than 20 years. Construction is expected to be completed in mid-2025. It is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments, with Council leading the delivery of the project.

Community Wins 
Under the SEQ Community Stimulus Program funded by the state government, $2 million dollars has been granted to build cycle lanes at Petrie Creek; $1.2 million for the South Coolum Road foot path, $550,00 for the Coolum Pump Track and $600,000 for Eumundi footpaths.

Multicultural Queensland Awards
Recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations working towards an inclusive multicultural Queensland. Nominate today at: https://www.qld.gov.au/MQA. Nominations close at midnight on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

It’s in the bag
Share the Dignity’s March 2025 Dignity Drive is on. Your involvement is vital in helping us provide essential period products to women, girls, and those who menstruate across Australia who do not have the means to access the necessary products. My office is a collection point, so please drop your donations into the pink bin at reception.

Clean Up Australia Day: Planning is already underway for Sunday, March 2
Now in its 35th year Clean up Australia Day is a great way to get involved in our local environment and build pride in where we live. Register NOW for your free Clean Up Kit, or find out more information online or by calling 1800 282 329.

Parliament News 
I am proud of the Crisafulli Government’s investment in the Queensland rapid response policing unit, with an integrated State Flying Squad of 58 specialist officers. In other news, the Crisafulli Government will deliver critical child safety reform with an Inquiry into the failed Blue Card Child Protection System, and good news for small businesses with the announcement that Queensland’s Chambers of Commerce will work with the Small Businesses Commissioner to reduce red tape to make it easier to operate a business.

Happy New Year!  
I HOPE you all had a lovely and safe Christmas. The Sunshine Coast is still bustling with holidaymakers enjoying our pristine beaches and parks. Including Coolum’s reinvigorated Lions and Norrie Job Park with a new shelter, barbeques, furniture, pathways, fitness equipment and pedestrian bridge. I am proud to have partnered with Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez and Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O’Brien to secure the combined funding for this valuable community asset.

Scrub Road lighting update 
I met with TMR officials on site on Christmas Eve to discuss how the new safety lights at the pedestrian crossing are impacting residents. I once again appealed to them that something needs to be done. Potential improvements and possible solutions are on the table for discussion.

Got a new phone for Christmas? 
Don’t throw out the old one! DV Safe Phone is a program that collects old phones to help victims escaping domestic and family violence. My office continues to be a collection point for these donations. DV Safe Phone’s Christmas appeal received $23,500 to support this important program.

Calling all not-for-profit community groups!  
The Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) is Queensland’s largest one-off community grants program, and Round 122 will open mid-January and close on February 28, 2025. Recipients can receive up to $35,000 in funding towards a range of items, including equipment, community events, facility improvements and marketing. For more information visit: www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants.

St Andrews Anglican College Principal Mr Chris Ivey retires 
Thank you to Mr Ivey for eighteen incredible years of remarkable service. Chris has overseen the growth of one of Ninderry’s largest private schools and is to be commended for his dedication and achievements. I look forward to working closely with incoming Principal Ms Karen Gorrie and heralding in a new era for the school.

Parliament News
The LNP Crisafulli Government have just launched the largest rapid response policing unit in QPS history – an integrated State Flying Squad. This will mean a squad of 58 specialist officers will be deployed to high-risk areas in a timely manner without other officers being taken offline.

IT HAS been a big year for Ninderry with a number of important local road and school upgrades completed, community and sporting group funding distributed and the promise of more to come, as my election commitments come to fruition.
Congratulations to all students who have completed another year of learning. A special shout-out to those school graduates who received an award for their hard work, and their teachers who helped them achieve their goals. Each year, I am pleased to sponsor an award at each participating school to reward and encourage students to be the best they can be.

Safety over the holidays 
With personal mobility devices such as e-bikes, e-scooters and e-skateboards becoming more popular, it is important that parents ensure their young people know and abide by the rules, as heavy penalties apply. Parents can also be fined for not ensuring children are doing the right thing.

Urban Angels Christmas Appeal 
Please drop off any non-perishable food items to my office before COB, Thursday, December 19, and be someone’s secret angel this Christmas. Every month, two hundred Urban Angel volunteers and staff deliver an average of 13,000 meals, and at Christmas time, they deliver hampers to those most in need.

Shop Local this Christmas 
Did you know that small and family businesses make up 70 per cent of all Queensland’s businesses? By supporting any of our unique local businesses, you will avoid the scams and invest in our local economy.

News from Parliament 
The Making Queensland Safer Plan was passed in Parliament last week, which means the new Adult time for Adult crime laws can be enforced. The Government also set up a taskforce to cut teacher red tape, freeing them to spend more time with our kids; announced boosts for social housing and domestic and family violence shelters and launched a public submission portal for the Olympic and Paralympic Games 2032. Visit www.gamesreview.com.au to have your say.

I would like to wish you all a safe and merry Christmas. Please drive safely on the roads and ensure you secure your property and lock up your valuables.

Principal Round Table 
OUR Local schools are insightful barometers of the health and safety of our community, and I am meeting with local Principals from Coolum State High School, Peregian Beach and Coolum State Schools to discuss a range of issues, including youth crime. As the Member for Ninderry and the Minister for Police and Emergency Services, I am focused on making laws to introduce consequences for actions.

E-Scooter and E-Bike Safety Days 
Queensland Police Service, together with TMR, Queensland Ambulance Service and QHEALTH Trauma Service, are running a number of practical 45-minute training and demonstration sessions to highlight the dangers of misuse and associated penalties. The sessions are for parents and e-riders and will be held at Coolum State High School on November 30 and Good Shepherd Lutheran College, Noosa, on December 7. Sessions at both locations are between 10 am and 2 pm. Call my office for more information.

Road Upgrades 
The new traffic lights engineered by TMR at Coolum State School continue to be monitored for improvement to traffic flow and pedestrian safety. I was able to work with TMR and the school community to secure the extension of crossing supervisors until the end of the term to help in the transition.
Talks are underway to kick-start the next step to ease traffic congestion on our local roads. I am meeting with Sunshine Coast Councilors to speed up the construction of the South Coolum Road Link to the new interchange at Mount Coolum, for which the state government has funded $40 million to connect to the Sunshine Motorway. Once completed, this will significantly ease congestion on our local road network.

WITH the State election just around the corner, I wanted to take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thanks to everyone in the community I’ve had the privilege of working with since I was first elected in 2017.

It has been an honour to serve as the local MP for the area, and I hope I can continue to serve in that role after the election, as part of an LNP government.

We’ve achieved a lot in Opposition, and while there’s lots more yet to be done, I couldn’t have done it without your support.
In the past decade, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the cost of living, families and the vulnerable forced out of the housing and rental market, and a shocking increase in crime. Our hardworking local police are operating on a third of the number of officers they had 10 years ago, and coupled with weaker laws, it’s no wonder victim numbers are the highest in the country.

In my other role as the Shadow Minister for Police and Community Safety, I’ve been advocating for stronger laws and more resources for police, as well as putting the rights of victims ahead of offenders, and we will ensure the Making our Community Safer plan is legislated by Christmas.

I look forward to delivering local commitments, including $40million for a second interchange on the Motorway at Mt Coolum, new sports fields at Coolum High, upgrading the tuckshop at Peregian Springs State School, and fixing the intersection at Diddillibah Road and Nambour Connection Road.

Having spent the last week speaking to locals at prepoll, there’s been plenty of positive feedback about our plans, and I appreciate the support I’ve received.
Locals rightly deserve their fair share, and I look forward to being part of a government that delivers that for our region.

State Election 
THE STATE Election is fast approaching, on October 26 of this year. Most residents should have received an application for a postal vote in the mail.  This is the best option if you are unable to get to a polling booth on election day, or to a prepoll location, which will be open from October 14, for two weeks leading up to the election.
At this stage, we can confirm there will be a prepoll booth at the Coolum Peregian RSL on David Low Way, open Monday-Friday from 8am-6pm, from Monday, October 14. There will also be a second pre-poll location, at Diddillibah Hall, located on Diddillibah Road, Diddillibah.
If you have any questions about the election, including postal votes, please give my office a call.

Coolum State High School Award  
A special congratulations to Coolum State High School, which recently took out a very prestigious award at the Showcase Awards for Excellence in Schools. The award recognises their exceptional approach to senior schooling, which recognises and values every individual student by providing meaningful pathways that are supported and nurtured. This is such a fantastic outcome for the school, their leaders, teachers, support staff and parents, who have long been committed to helping every student reach their potential. It’s just another example of the high standard of educational facilities that are available in our community.

Public Child Sex Offender register
Locals will know my background as a Detective in the Child Protection Unit has shaped my strong views on law and order, which is why I am proud of the LNP’s commitment to establishing a Public Child Sex Offender Register if we form government.
The laws will be known as Daniel’s Law, in recognition of the tireless campaigning of child safety advocates Bruce and Denise Morcombe following the abduction and murder of their son Daniel at the hands of a known pedophile.
The LNP will establish a new three-tiered Register to protect children from sex offenders, as well as introduce new offences to prevent the misuse of any information from the register.
For more information about the register, and the LNP’s Making Queensland Safer policies, please get in touch.

Ninderry News 
DID YOU receive my latest newsletter in your letterbox? As well as the latest news on local priorities, it’s your opportunity to have your say in the lead-up to the state election in October. It also outlines some of the big projects funded in the electorate and where funds have been allocated. If you missed it, give me a call on 5406 7900.

National recognition for Breakers Junior AFL
Congratulations to the Coolum Beach Breakers Junior AFL Club, who have been recognised with two impressive awards. As well as being awarded the best Qld AFL Club for 2024, club volunteer and team manager Amy Sheehan also took out the Toyota AFL National Volunteer of the Year (media category).  This is fantastic news for the Club, which has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, including securing $500,000 earlier this year for new changerooms. Exciting times ahead!

Paint the Town Read 
If you happened to see dozens of Coolum State School students roaming the streets of Coolum last week, you would have also noticed them weaving in and out of local businesses, on a magic reading journey. It was all part of the school’s third annual Paint the Town Read event, a fantastic initiative where local businesses get the opportunity to host the students and read a story. Unfortunately, the event, which is part of Book Week, always falls during a Parliamentary sitting, but it doesn’t stop me from proudly supporting it. Lucky for me, my team in the office were only too happy to fill in to read the book and answer their many questions! Congratulations to the school and all our local businesses that support this great learning experience.

St Andrews Foundation Day 
IT WAS an honour to be part of St Andrew’s Anglican College’s annual Foundation Day Service recently. This is an important event celebrating the college community, and staff and student achievements. Most notably, this year the service recognised the incredible contribution of Principal Chris Ivey, who will be leaving later this year after 17 years of faithful and dedicated service.
Reverand Ivey has had an enormous impact on the College, successfully guiding it from success to success over the years, and while he will be sorely missed, we wish him all the best for the next stage of his career.

Adult Crime, Adult Time 
One of the biggest concerns in our community is, without a doubt, crime. Rarely a day goes by without someone contacting me about this escalating crisis. Last year alone, there were 289,657 victims of crime in Queensland.
Recently, the LNP announced our Adult Crime, Adult Time policy, to restore consequences for actions and hold repeat juvenile offenders who commit serious and violent crimes accountable for their crimes.
It forms part of our Making Queensland Safer Laws, which also includes:
Delivering gold standard intervention programs to divert young people away from lives of crime.
Providing victims with automatic updates to their cases removing the burden on them to seek out information about their cases.
The Staying on Track program, which will provide up to 12 months of intensive support for youth transitioning back into the community after detention.
Reopening the Children’s Court, removing the provision excluding victims and their families  and allowing greater media scrutiny.
Fixing the broken residential care and child safety systems to stop the pipeline into youth crime.
I welcome your feedback on these important policy announcements, which will be rolled out before the end of the year if the LNP forms government.

Road construction news 
EXCITING news for locals, with works now underway on the $5million upgrade of the roundabout of School Road, Yandina Coolum Road and South Coolum Road.  This work will involve replacing the roundabout with a signalled intersection and a new concrete footpath connecting the drop-off zone on Barnes Lane to School Road.
This project, which has been one of my top priorities since being elected, is a critical step in our ongoing campaign to bust congestion and improve safety in Coolum. It is expected to take up to four months and will involve disruptions to the normal flow of traffic, so I thank you for your patience. The result will be worth the short-term inconvenience.

These upgrades have generated a lot of feedback about the need for a second access point to the Motorway. As I mentioned in a previous column, a number of years ago, Council completed the design for the South Coolum Road link to connect it with Suncoast Beach Drive and create the second access to the Motorway.
This design, which remains unfunded, includes:
a new 2-lane extension between South Coolum Road and Suncoast Beach Drive
a roundabout connecting South Coolum Road and Suncoast Beach Drive
a connection to a new interchange at West Coolum Road
As I mentioned in a previous column, I’ve met with the new Mayor and Division 8 Councillor to stress the need to fast-track this project, as it’s the missing link in our road network, and a critical step in our ongoing congestion-busting campaign.

Active Clubs funding 

Congratulations to the following local clubs who’ve received funding in the latest round of Active Clubs Round 4. This funding will help the clubs to support volunteers and new equipment in order to increase sport and recreation participation.
Coolum Beach Breakers
Coolum Dolphins
Coolum Colts
Coolum Physie Club
Bli Bli United Football Club
Kuluin Netball Club

Norrie Job Park upgrades  
I’M REALLY looking forward to work getting underway on the makeover of Norrie Job Park, which is also known as the Lions Park. For those who don’t know, the popular park is getting a $1.6million transformation, thanks to Council, the State, and the Federal governments.
The first stage of work will include replacing the existing shelter with new BBQs, fitness equipment and softfall, and new pathways.
Hopefully, the upgrades will encourage both locals and visitors to get out and explore and enjoy our many open spaces and beautiful coastal environment. Thank you to Cr Suarez for ongoing advocacy and support for this significant investment.

Petition to fix the lights 
Just a reminder about the petition to replace the lighting on David Low Way, near the Scrub Road intersection. Earlier this year, as part of the safety improvements, TMR replaced the lighting with new lighting that’s completely inappropriate for the area, resulting in it being lit up like a stadium at night. Local residents raised their concerns, and despite pleading with the Department of Transport and Main Roads and the Minister to fix it, our calls have fallen on deaf ears.  To sign the petition, head to queensland.typeform.com/fixthelights.

Local priorities 
Last week I had the opportunity to meet with our new Mayor, Cr Rosanna Natoli, to discuss some of our local priorities. The top of the agenda was funding for a long-overdue project to link South Coolum Road and Suncoast Beach Drive.  Despite Council having finalised the design some years ago, this critical piece of the road network, which will eventually connect to a new interchange at West Coolum Road, remains unfunded. I’ve also spoken with the new Division 8 Councillor, Taylor Bunna,g about this project in his division, so fingers crossed the new council recognises the importance of this vital piece of the local road network.

Petition to replace lighting 
EARLIER this year, TMR installed a pedestrian refuge on David Low Way adjacent to the Scrub Road intersection, and while this has been welcomed, the large floodlights that have been installed have not.
These lights are the type you would find in a stadium or on the highway, not in a low-impact, highly sensitive coastal environment. Not only are they completely out of character for the area, but they also sit adjacent to turtle nesting sites.
Neither TMR nor the Minister would listen to our concerns, so we’ve started a petition calling for the lights to be replaced. Please sign, share and show your support. Visit queensland.typeform.com/fixthelights.

Speed limit under review 
Following lots of complaints, I’m pleased to advise that TMR is looking at the speed limit on David Low Way, adjacent to the Coolum Sports Complex.
Locals have told me they want the speed limit to be reduced for better safety and access.  This section of David Low Way is currently 80km/hr, and it can be close to impossible to get safely in and out of the sports complex at peak times.
This is not the first time we’ve raised this issue. Last year, the State government provided funding to Council to upgrade the entrance to the sports complex, and while this has helped, it hasn’t solved the problem.
The speed limit review will consider the section of David Low Way north of Stumers Creek bridge, including the entrance to the sport complex, with the results to be considered by a committee that includes representatives of Council, QPS and TMR.
Fingers crossed, we get the result we’ve been waiting for.

Coolum Beach Breakers Junior AFL news 
FANTASTIC and long overdue news for one of Coolum’s fastest growing clubs, Coolum Beach Breakers, with funding finally secured for new amenities.
Up until now, the club has lacked these basic facilities, and despite their success on the field, there’s no doubt it has impacted on their ability to continue to grow to cater for the increasing demand, particularly amongst female players.
I am also working closely with the club on a new masterplan, part of an MOU with council and the state government that will eventually deliver new multipurpose fields at their Coolum State High home grounds.
In the meantime, congratulations to the club on this great news. I can’t wait to see their brand-new  amenities, funded through the state’s minor infrastructure and inclusive facilities fund, installed as part of the first step of the bigger redevelopment of the site.

Coolum Wedge 
Some of the country’s best bodysurfers will be heading our way soon for the annual Coolum Wedge bodysurfing festival. The event, to be held April 26-28, has grown from strength to strength in just a few short years, and now also attracts competitors from around the world. A huge shout out to Whites IGA and Matsos Sunshine Coast, who have also come on board this year to sponsor the welcome event.

Anzac Day 
Other important events include our annual Anzac Day commemorations on Thursday, April 25. I look forward to joining our local community at the Dawn Service at the Coolum Peregian RSL, from 5.10 am, followed by a Gunfire breakfast at 6.30 am. I will then head to the service at Bli Bli at the Bli Bli Cenotaph on Parklakes Drive at 9am.
The Verrierdale community will host a Dawn Service from 5.45am, and there will be the usual services at Eumundi (7.30am), Buderim (5.15am and 8.15am), Maroochydore (4.15am and 8.30am), Mudjimba (5.15am and 10.30am) and Yandina (10.40am). For a full list of service times and locations, visit rslqld.org

EXCITING news this week, with funding secured to relocate Coolum State School’s Stop, Drop and Go area.
During the upcoming Easter school holidays, work will be done to move the drop-off area further down School Road, to stop the traffic trailing back onto the roundabout during peak periods.
This project is an essential step in our ongoing campaign to bust congestion and improve safety, preceding the $5million upgrade of the roundabout on Yandina Coolum Road, School Road and South Coolum Road. The roundabout is set to be replaced with a signalled intersection later this year, improving safety for the many students (nearly 50%) who use active transport to get to school.
The project complements other work currently underway on the $3million business case to duplicate the Sunshine Motorway, which will include a new interchange at Coolum, and a new on-off ramp at West Coolum, and also forms a critical part of the school’s new Masterplan that will eventually deliver a new building with 12 classrooms, a new administration and tuckshop.
A huge thank you to Coolum State School Principal Anthony Ryan who, together with the P&C, parents and the wider community, has been working hard to get this project across the line.
Thanks also to those residents who raised concerns about the new lighting on David Low, installed as part of the pedestrian and safety upgrades at the Scrub Road intersection. I agree that something needs to be done.
The new lighting is nothing like what TMR had indicated, and last week I wrote to them to ask for it to be reconsidered. Not only is the lighting excessive and intrusive for neighbouring residents, it will also be very detrimental to the turtles that nest straight across the road at Coolum Beach.
I’m hopeful TMR will listen to the community’s feedback and act on it. Watch this space!

Meals on Wheels needs our help  
It was alarming to read earlier this week that one of our most valued community services, Meals on Wheels, has reported a $3m loss in revenue and nearly 10,000 volunteers in the past year.
It seems the essential service, which provides nutritious low-cost meals to seniors and the disadvantaged, has not been immune to inflationary pressures. Combined with the drop in volunteers following COVID, and increasing demand from those aged under 65years, Meals on Wheels now needs our help.
Locally, we are perhaps more fortunate than some, with a wonderful crew of around 150 dedicated locals who, together with the amazing staff, help deliver more than 21,000 meals every year to our community. But the grim news is a timely reminder of just how important volunteers are to the daily operation of this service. If you have any time to spare, please give a thought to helping out.

Youth Justice Reform Select Committee 
In case you aren’t aware, next week the Youth Justice Reform Select Committee, which I am part of, is holding a public hearing on the Sunshine Coast. The committee, chaired by Noosa MP Sandy Bolton, has released seven priority areas for phase 2 of the inquiry, and I look forward to hearing from local stakeholders. If you would like to contribute to the inquiry, submissions close at 10 am on Frida,y 1 March. More details can be found on the Queensland Parliament website.

Gambling Grants 
Congratulations to the recipients of the latest round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.  Collectively, groups in the electorate secured more than $220,000 in this round, which I think is a record! Local recipients included:
Coolum Colts $18,944
Maroochydore AFL & Roos $32,062 each
Maroochy Sea Serpents $34,341
Hoofbeats Sanctuary $34,997
Altitude Scholarships $4210

Congratulations to those successful groups, and to those who weren’t so lucky this time, make sure you don’t miss out on the $30million super round, which opens next month.

Happy New Year! 

I HOPE you’ve had a great start to the year. Just days before Christmas, I was honoured to be appointed to the role of Shadow Minister for Police and Community Safety, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to hear directly from victims about how the crime crisis has impacted them.

Law and order is an issue I’ve always been passionate about, and I will continue to advocate on behalf of our hard-working police to ensure they are given the resources and laws they need to keep our community safe.

Despite my new role, my priority remains listening to the concerns of locals, and fighting for those issues you’ve told me are the most important – the cost of living, housing security and affordability, access to health services, and of course, crime.

Escooters 

My office is receiving lots of complaints from locals about escooters and motorised bikes, with many users, particularly youth, showing complete disregard for the rules, including speeding and riding on footpaths, not wearing helmets, and generally risky behaviour. This is not acceptable, and it’s only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured. Our police are doing the best they can to enforce the rules, but I urge everyone who owns a mobile device, or parents of teenagers who regularly use them, to become familiar with the rules. In the meantime, proposed new regulations to further strengthen them are due to be debated in Parliament in the coming months, and I welcome feedback from our community on what more we can do to better protect pedestrians and riders. Details about the current rules are available at

https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/rules/wheeled-devices/personal-mobility-devices

Marquees

The Coolum Boardriders have started the year off with sun safety in mind, with their brand-new marquee. I’m taking orders for the next round of sponsored marquees, so if your club is looking to replace old marquees or in need of a new one, please get in touch.