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.