The destination
I note that most LG Focus Councillor Profiles begin with a geographical description of their whereabouts. That’s something I probably don’t need to worry about? Noosa is one of the most iconic tourist locations, with a strong local and international brand awareness.
On being asked what makes this place so special, most people respond by listing Noosa’s attributes: the beaches and national parks, the low-key development and lack of big city symbols. But I am more inclined to suggest that it is impassioned, visionary locals that have made Noosa exceptional.
All the elements that underpin the Noosa experience were hard won. More than half a century of pitched ideological battles has resulted in a shire that is renowned for its natural environment, sophistication and intrinsic approach to human development.
Looking forward
Noosa prides itself on being forward thinking. To that end, we have established a zero emissions target, under the amusing acronym of ZEN (Zero Emissions Noosa). This year we will also be rolling out our electric bus trial, a partnership with Translink.
The Council is focused on expanding the local economy to be less reliant on tourism. To that end we are set to begin work on a Digital Hub at Peregian Beach. Developed in consultation with the community, the project will support existing and start-up IT businesses and will cement Peregian’s new status as Silicon-by-the-Sea.
We are currently a third of the way through developing a new planning scheme. Plainly that will have significant impact on how Noosa develops over the coming decade.
One of the more difficult debates we need to have is how we idealise the carrying capacity for the Shire. A so-called population cap for residents was long ago established for the shire, and we are still well short of that maximum figure. Of greater urgency, however, is determining how to manage the many visitors who want to drive into Noosa during peak holiday periods. As well as traffic snarls, there may be a broader danger of Noosa being loved to death?
Tourism economy versus resident needs – it’s always going to be a balancing act.
A curious journey
My professional background has been as a film-maker, author, lecturer, artist and photographer. Hardly the usual route to becoming a mayor!
I found myself caught up in politics thanks to the 2008 forced amalgamation of Noosa with neighbouring Maroochy and Caloundra. Being part of the movement to first prevent that amalgamation, and then bring about a de-amalgamation, was a great way to cut my political teeth.
In 2012 I was elected – on a de-amalgamation platform – to the Sunshine Coast Regional Council. Half-way through that four year term, the political planets aligned, and Noosa was de-amalgamated. I was then elected to the new Noosa Council under Mayor Noel Playford. At the 2016 local government elections, when Noel stepped down, I was elected to replace him as Mayor.
Is this a role I feel completely comfortable performing? Definitely not. Every day pushes me out of my comfort zones.
I am blessed to have terrific councilor colleagues and an excellent CEO. That latter relationship is critical to both Council’s success and my sanity.
My best days begin with an early surf at one of Noosa’s renowned point breaks, ideally followed by a few laughs with colleagues in the corridors of the Tewantin Council building. We try to keep the workplace relaxed, informal and friendly.
I enjoy a knockout view of the Noosa River from my office, and I like to joke that’s the only reason I stood for the top job. But really, I’m in this role because I care deeply about my home of Noosa. And to steal a quote from famed architect Le Corbusier, home is a “treasure chest of living”.
