Safety boost and new investments: Mayor looks to Nambour’s future
New Small Change owners Suren and Sarena Thapa with Amanda, Rajat, Eddie and Jojo and Mayor Rosana Natoli, centre.
by Cameron Outridge
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli has committed to addressing long-standing concerns about safety and anti-social behaviour in Nambour’s CBD. The Mayor told local business owners she would work alongside newly-elected Nicklin MP Marty Hunt to bring about tangible change.
Speaking at the Nambour Chamber of Commerce Coffee Catchup at Small Change Espresso, Mayor Natoli acknowledged the challenges faced by businesses in Nambour, including increased graffiti, anti-social behaviour, and a high number of vacancies in the CBD.
“Within the last fortnight, I was invited to Nambour by local business people, and I did a walk-around to understand the issues,” she said. “The perception of safety is a challenge, and we’re already talking with MP Marty Hunt about initiatives to address that. We need his support, and we won’t be waiting long for it,” she added, lightheartedly pressing the newly elected MP to act swiftly. Mayor Natoli emphasised her dedication to ensuring that the concerns of local businesses were heard, describing the relationship between the council and state representatives as “absolutely vital.”
Mayor Natoli highlighted the importance of collaborating with the LNP, whose members she said have made significant promises to invest in Nambour and the Sunshine Coast. “We will hold them accountable every day,” she said.
Div 10 Cr David Law told the meeting he was also looking forward to working with Mr Hunt (LNP) and to “seeing what we can do to continue to build Nambour into a really great place that we all know it is and that we will continue to change those perceptions (concerning safety) that still are there in some parts of our community.”
The Mayor also acknowledged the challenges of owning a small business, sharing her own experience of financial hardship when her family lost their home. “I know how tough it is to be a small business owner,” she said. “I am determined to make sure council supports you.” She urged those facing difficulties to reach out to the council’s Economic Development department, which offers coaching and various support initiatives for local enterprises.
In a bid to boost Nambour’s economy, Mayor Natoli pointed to some promising investments in the town, including the significant revamp of the C Square building by Sydney-based landlord Sandran. She also welcomed the reopening of the Nambour Cinema & Event Centre, calling it “great news” for the town’s cultural scene.
“The Sunshine Coast is set to grow, and we need to be ready,” she said. “We want to welcome people here, and for that, we need the right infrastructure and vibrant community spaces.”
Mayor Natoli also spoke about the opportunities presented by the upcoming 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, suggesting that the event would help draw investment and focus global attention on Nambour and the broader Sunshine Coast region.
Mayor Natoli encouraged the audience to feel optimistic about the future. “Growth brings challenges, but it also brings fantastic opportunities. It’s up to us to harness those opportunities and run forward.”
She reassured business owners that she remains accessible and committed to addressing local issues, urging them to reach out and share their concerns.
Place Activations
Upcoming place activations, such as the monthly Nambour Rummagers Market on November 17, the Town Square Christmas markets on November 19, and the Tramfest on November 30, were highlighted as part of the council’s efforts to improve the vibrancy of the area. “I love Christmas, and I love a street party,” Mayor Natoli said, hoping to attend the festivities.
“I hope you feel as excited about our future as I do,” she said. “The Sunshine Coast is ready to go, and I’m ready to be with you on this journey.”