2015 set to be a cracker

 By Joanna JonesBusiness confidence on the Sunshine Coast has risen to its highest level sisiness confidence on the Sunshine Coast has risen to its highest level nce 2009, according to the latest Sunshine Coast Business Confidence Survey.The survey in its sixth year reveals that more than half the businesses surveyed expected an increase in profitability over the first half of 2015 and 53% reported that their business had performed stronger over the past six months compared to the previous survey period.  33% of businesses expected an increase in staffing levels during the first half of 2015, and 30% expected an increase in capital investment in the same period.“The business confidence index has risen to 116 points, which is an all-time high since surveying began here in 2009 and nearly 20 points higher than the rock-bottom depths of April 2011 after the Queensland floods,” Mayor Mark Jamieson said.“Results from the first half of 2014 showed a trend of optimism returning to the Sunshine Coast business community and these latest numbers clearly show that confidence is continuing to rise.”More than 220 businesses responded, including hinterland businesses from the Sunshine Valley Gazette distribution area.  The Gazette contacted some local business owners from a variety of industries for comment, and found the majority were very hopeful for a strong 2015 business year, particularly in the property sector.Real Estate Principal Mike Burns from Elders Palmwoods/Woombye said buyer enquiries were the best in four years, "Prices have not moved much in recent years but confidence levels are certainly very good," Mr Burns said. "Rental returns are very good and investor enquiries are increasing with many of them buying now and planning to move to the Hinterland in a year or so. Compared to the coastal areas there is bang for buck with Hinterland properties and the demand will increase this year for sure.The revitalisation of pockets of the Nambour CBD with the opening of pop-up businesses, two wine bars, and continued success of the new supermarkets certainly suggests some positive signs for Nambour traders – attracting more people to spend money and patronise Nambour businesses benefits the town, enhancing prosperity and opportunity.Local bookkeeper Carlee Webber of Queensland Bookkeeping Services deals with many small and medium size local businesses and says the survey results are not a surprise to her.“From a bookkeeping point of view I agree with these results as many of my clients have experienced an increase in turnover towards the end of 2014. This has then flowed onto their profitability which has impacted on their business decisions. They also have positive expectations of what 2015 is going to bring to their business,” said Carlee.The full survey results can be perused at: www.boardroombusiness.com.au/sunshinecoast.