The next phase of Scenic Rim Regional Council’s multi-stage revitalisation of the Beaudesert Town Centre has begun with drainage works on Short Street and the Gateway Precinct parklands.
Following extensive rain and flooding in Beaudesert in 2021 and 2022, Council’s engineers carried out a comprehensive assessment of Short Street to ensure the scope for this stage of Beaudesert’s revitalisation remained accurate and feasible.
Additional geotechnical investigations revealed that the foundation beneath Short Street was of an extremely poor quality and exacerbated by the rain and flooding requiring the excavation and rebuild of the road subgrade to enable the installation of new stormwater infrastructure.
Council was also required to amend its designs for Brisbane Street to include raised pedestrian crossings following the introduction of Queensland Government guidelines to improve pedestrian safety.
This had a major flow-on effect, requiring design changes for construction, electrical works and landscaping and major changes to the scope of the stormwater works.
Like many businesses in the Scenic Rim, Council has faced tough decisions during the delivery of projects, including the Beaudesert Town Centre Revitalisation, with supply chain disruptions, labour and material shortages and rising costs.
The Short Street drainage project will address a longstanding issue, delivering major drainage improvements which are vital to businesses in the Beaudesert town centre and the safety of the community during major rain events.
Council has assured the community that the Gateway Precinct project will be well worth the wait, creating a green community meeting place that reflects the Scenic Rim’s local history, stories and culture.
The project will feature local stories told through artworks, a walkway spine, a public toilet block with disability access, public safety lighting, and two Yarning Circles honouring First Nations’ residents and their ongoing connection to Country.
The centrepiece of the precinct will be the new grassed amphitheatre and events stage, a multi-use space where people can meet, gather and celebrate.
The project is supported by $4.1 million from the Australian Government.
For further information visit Council’s website scenicrim.qld.gov.au/beaudesert-town-centre
Supplied image: Aerial view of works under way in the next stages of the Beaudesert Town Centre revitalisation project.
PLEASE, come and sit, sip, taste, hike, swim, picnic with an alpaca, kiss a camel and smell the flowers because the Scenic Rim is OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
Parts of the Scenic Rim have faced some wild weather over the Christmas period. We are thankful for the support and patience our visitors have shown for residents and local businesses at our beloved Tamborine Mountain and surrounding areas, as we work to restore what makes this part of the world so very special. While they recover, the Scenic Rim is a BIG BEAUTIFUL REGION and it’s ABSOLUTELY OPEN FOR VISITORS!
Tourism operators across the central and western areas of the region are open and waiting to welcome visitors with open arms and a wide Scenic Rim smile 🤗 and there’s operators on Tamborine Mountain and the surrounding areas that are already back OPEN.
Here’s some great ways to show your love for the famous Scenic Rim, the place the Lonely Planet placed in the top 10 regions of the world in 2022, and the region Qantas Travel Insider has deemed one of the coolest ‘must visit’ places in 2024 (and it’s just an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast):
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN AND SURROUNDS:
Trees and powerlines are still down at Tamborine Mountain and the surrounding areas and a very big cleanup is still underway with many properties still without power, internet and water.
If you have a visit planned to support a local business, please check each operator’s websites and socials before venturing up the mountain.
And please, don’t be a sticky beak. To give locals the space to recover and allow local communities and emergency services to work as efficiently as possible, we ask that visitors please stay off the roads when possible.
Please show your support for the small businesses on the mountain by booking accommodation or a winery tour for next year, buy from their online stores or plan a trip to the gallery walk shops when they are back open again 🥰
Sort your playlists and roll down the windows because here’s 12 great ideas for the ultimate family road trip, from kissing camels to picnics with alpacas.
If you’d like to sip the Shazza, the Digga, Fat Man or the highly recommended PharQue beer, head to the Scenic Rim Brewery, if it’s gastro menus and signature dishes from an acclaimed chef, then you’ll need The Roadvale Hotel, and if you’re a Palmy fan, drive directly to The Canungra Hotel and order the ‘Parmegedon’. These are just two of the 11 classic Queenslander pubs that call the Scenic Rim home.
If you are a pet owner, then you know – holidays and day trips are better when everyone can travel. So cancel the dog-sitter, grab a leash, call ahead, and set the GPS for the Scenic Rim because here’s a PAWSOME list of pet-friendly accommodation, activities, parks and eateries.
EPIC ADVENTURES, WALKS, RUNS, PADDLES AND SWIMS HERE
At the Tamborine Mountain Men’s Shed end-of-year function, held at the historic St Bernard’s Hotel on Tuesday 5th December, several members were recognised for their contribution to the Shed throughout the year and honoured with awards, which in the main, were decided by peer nominations and votes. Jimmy Dunn, who joined the Shed early in 2023, was acclaimed ‘The Shedder of the Year’, which recognised his tremendous contribution, above all others, to the Shed in all areas. Jimmy Craggs was recognised as the Volunteer of the Year for being the first to volunteer when needed. The Loyalty and Commitment award was presented to Brian Save for his contribution to the Shed over a long period. Although not a foundation member, Brian joined the Shed in late 2010 and has since been a continuous member. In a special category, in which the Shed, President Bernie Day, acknowledges a member who he believes worthy of recognition because of his attitude and willingness to help others, Paul Summers was awarded the President’s Award – for him being ‘Helpful beyond Measure’.
Also recognised were three members achieving the significant milestone of being members for 10 years. Keith Dippelsmann, Steve Pinder (not present on the night) and John Schoonbeek were presented 10-Year Membership pins, which are attached to their name tags. The Men’s Shed, located at 88 Beacon Road, is open from 8.00 AM to 12.30 PM every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Men seeking a venue in which to share a yarn over a cuppa or undertake individual wood-, metal- or leatherwork projects are very welcome. Previous experience in manual arts is not necessary.
Officially opening the Tamborine Mountain Library are (from left): Uncle Steve Watson who provided the Welcome to Country, National Emergency Management Agency Director George Hodgson, Cr Virginia West, Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen, Queensland Reconstruction Authority CEO Major General Jake Ellwood (Retd), Deputy Mayor Jeff McConnell, Cr Amanda Hay and Cr Michael Enright
Scenic Rim Regional Council has thanked the Australian and Queensland governments for funding which has transformed the Tamborine Mountain Library into a vibrant community hub.
Catering for all ages and interests, the library was officially opened today by Mayor Greg Christensen, Councillor Amanda Hay and Queensland Reconstruction Authority CEO Major General Jake Ellwood (Retd) joined by National Emergency Management Agency Director George Hodgson representing Minister for Emergency Management Senator Murray Watt.
An investment of more than $2.14 million through the Local Economic Recovery (LER) Program to support areas impacted by the 2019 Queensland bushfires has delivered a new facility almost three times the size of the former library space on the site of the former IGA supermarket within the Main Street shopping centre at Tamborine Mountain.
Mayor Christensen said the new library had been wholeheartedly embraced by the Tamborine Mountain community with a 30 per cent surge in attendance soon after it opened to the public in July. More than 20,000 visitors passed through the library’s door during the first quarter of the 2023-2024 financial year.
“We’ve seen a marked increase in borrowings as well as the use of computers within the library and its use as a study space,” Mayor Christensen said.
“Members of the community have welcomed the availability of the new meeting rooms and children adore the loft reading space.
“New events are being held in the maker space and the library now has a staff member dedicated to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) activities.
“In addition, the Friends of the Library have been able to boost their fundraising through their Book Cabinet shop front near the library’s outdoor area, which provides a space for community events and school holiday and group activities.”
Major General Ellwood said the new Tamborine Mountain Library embodies the resilience of the Scenic Rim and its people.
“This official opening is a reminder of how communities pull together following disaster events, not only to recover but to rebound better and stronger than before,” Major General Ellwood said.
“The QRA is proud to have played a part in making this facility a reality through the state and federal Local Economic Recovery Program.
“In total seven Scenic Rim projects have been funded through the LER Program, representing an investment of more than $3.6 million into the region.
“This library revitalisation is a wonderful outcome for the community, delivering a facility that will continue bringing people together for years to come.”
The new library features:
* a wider range of books and resources
* dedicated areas for children and young people
* meeting rooms and study areas
* an expanded customer service area
* a dedicated space for the Friends of the Library group
* a new makerspace
* new furnishings including seating for casual gatherings, and
* a wheelchair accessible toilet and baby change room.
Division 1 Councillor Amanda Hay said the need for an expanded library space to meet community needs was first identified in 2016 and community consultation in 2021 had been key to the planning process.
“This new facility has exceeded the expectations of many library users and Council is grateful for the funding support which has enabled us to realise our vision for this space as a focal point for community life,” she said.
“We look forward to welcoming community members of all ages and abilities to the range of events to be hosted by the library during the December holidays.”
Assistance for this project has been provided through the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen welcomes Queensland
Reconstruction Authority CEO Major General Jake Ellwood (Retd) (left)
and National Emergency Management Agency Director George Hodgson (right)
to the new Tamborine Mountain Library
The spirit of entrepreneurship and the rising stars of the region’s business community were celebrated at the 2023 Scenic Rim Business Excellence Awards on Friday evening.
Almost 200 guests gathered at The Centre Beaudesert where veterinary pharmaceuticals enterprise Plasvacc Pty Ltd received the highest accolade, the Regional Prosperity Award, after winning the Excellence in Business Award as an employer of more than 20 staff.
Competition was keen with 43 businesses and four individuals competing for awards in 11 categories, which Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said recognised the dedication and determination of those helping to drive the region’s growing economy.
“Building a successful business requires passion, determination and resilience and the ability to continue to adapt and evolve to meet customers’ needs and an ever-changing economic environment,” he said.
“These awards provide an opportunity to recognise those who go above and beyond in customer service and innovation and who remind us all of the stellar success that can be achieved through vision and purpose.”
The awards were presented in the categories of: Excellence in Tourism and Accommodation; Excellence in Hospitality – Food and Dining; Excellence in Retail, Excellence in Trades and Construction; Excellence in Agriculture; Excellence in Transport, Logistics, Manufacturing and Mining; Excellence in Professional Services; Excellence in Community Services; Most Outstanding New Business; Excellence in Business (20+ staff); and Trainee/Apprentice of the Year.
The overall Regional Prosperity Award was presented to the business that has achieved outstanding results, exhibited sound management and demonstrated all-round excellence.
Judges Melissa Johnson Morgan, Associate Professor of the University of Southern Queensland’s School of Business, and John Hale, the Mentoring for Growth Program Mentor from the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, commented on the high calibre of entries in the 2023 awards.
In judging the business nominations they considered a range of factors including outstanding customer service, environmental awareness, understanding of target markets, well-defined and understood business strategies, rigorous systems, effective risk management, financial performance and a clear commitment to excellence in all facets of their operations.
Mayor Christensen said the awards also recognised the trainees and apprentices who represent the future of the Scenic Rim.
“One of the challenges for our region, and indeed other communities, is that we often lose talented young people to larger urban areas once they graduate,” he said.
“Our schools and local businesses are to be congratulated for offering our young people an insight into the opportunities available for them to succeed and grow their careers in the Scenic Rim.”
Mayor Christensen said he was proud of the contribution of local businesses which has seen the steady growth of the Scenic Rim’s economy, whose GRP is now some $2.09 billion annually.
“As well as showcasing our industry-leading businesses, the biennial Business Excellence Awards send a strong message to potential investors and jobseekers that the Scenic Rim is a region of great opportunity,” he said.
“The achievements of our awards recipients should inspire others to strive for similarly high standards of excellence which are building the reputation of the Scenic Rim as a great place to do business.”
The winners of the 2023 Scenic Rim Business Excellence Awards are as follows:
Excellence in Tourism and Accommodation Mount French Lodge Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Mount French, this luxurious lodge features eight beautifully appointed apartments accommodating just sixteen guests. The business model is innovative in that the property is let to only one group at a time, attracting families, friends and corporate clients for special celebrations and providing a motivating space for business planning workshops. Recent improvements include additional accommodation and a stunning outdoor pavilion.
Excellence in Hospitality – Food and Dining Picnic Real Food Bar Picnic Real Food was established in 2021 in the North Stores precinct at North Tamborine. Its menu, with a focus on wholesome food, features fresh produce from local growers and changes seasonally. Environmental sustainability is a key feature in its food packaging and goal of zero waste, which sees 20 kilograms of kitchen food scraps reduced to two kilos of nutrient-rich compost overnight. An Environ Waste Management system manages all on-site waste water and supports an on-site vegetable, herb and fruit tree garden.
Excellence in Retail My Country Escape From a meticulously renovated historic building in Canungra, My Country Escape showcases a carefully curated range of merchandise supporting local products and artisans, from stylish homewares and body products to sustainable clothing, all in a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere. It was judged an outstanding local business which gone from strength to strength, contributing to the community and supporting local events. Collaboration with Griffith University design students has seen the Canungra store expanded to include an outdoor space for community workshops.
Excellence in Professional Services Honni Hayton Counselling Honni Hayton Counselling was established five years ago in response to the need for accessible and specialised mental health services within the Scenic Rim. As a sole practitioner, Honni aimed to create a safe, local haven providing expert counselling and tailored support to enhance emotional and mental well-being. She has grown her business and her business skills during difficult years of the pandemic, successfully pivoting to provide a valuable online counselling service to the community.
Excellence in Trades and Construction Totally Flooring, Beaudesert Totally Flooring, a family-owned and operated retail flooring store which opened in Beaudesert two years ago, is a great example of a sole trader taking a leap by utilising trade skills to start their own independent business in what is a largely franchised industry. Providing a high level of customer service, Totally Flooring has its own team of installers and has extended its product line to include window furnishings, tile products and trade accessories. It is a great supporter of local community sport, aims to employ staff who live in the region and also supports other small businesses.
Excellence in Agriculture Aquis Farm Achieving a perfect score of 100 in the awards judging, Aquis Farm is a world-class business with a team of experienced vets, trainers, breeders and industry experts to ensure the well-being and success of racehorses. Established in 2015, it is dedicated to sustainable practices in equine management, environmental stewardship and social responsibility and aspires to be the premier global destination for horse training and racing with bloodlines dominating world events. Water conservation, pasture improvements, paddock rest and use of renewable energy are at the heart of its sustainability practices.
Excellence in Transport, Logistics, Manufacturing and Mining Beaudesert Exhaust Established in 1982,Beaudesert Exhaust has grown from providing basic exhaust and radiator parts to large-scale manufacturing and supply chain production. Beaudesert Exhaust provides services to a range of Australian businesses and manufacturers including 3D scanning and modelling, specialty coatings and the supply of pre-production components for a broad range of applications. It is at the forefront of automotive manufacturing, catering to customers whose passions include 4WD activities, camping, caravanning, fishing and off-road adventures.
Excellence in Community Services McAuley College Beaudesert McAuley College opened in January 2017 as a direct result of community advocacy for a Catholic secondary school and enrols a diverse range of students. It offers rural heritage values and supports creative, contemporary and innovative learning through quality teaching in an environment of engagement and community partnership. McAuley College has developed a Senior Program to engage with local businesses to provide work experience and works closely with Mununjali House and Amy Blow to build a space for First Nations students to celebrate their history and story.
Most Outstanding New Business Neds Restaurant The family-owned and operated Neds Restaurant aims to be the destination of choice for steak connoisseurs and those seeking a memorable dining experience in the Scenic Rim. It sources the finest quality ingredients from local suppliers, supporting the regional agricultural and food production sectors, and actively engages with other local businesses in the hospitality and tourism industry to forge strong community partnerships. Its environmental impact is lessened by monitoring energy consumption, reducing waste and sourcing sustainable products.
Excellence in Business (20+ employees) Plasvacc Pty Ltd Plasvacc Pty Ltd manufactures high-quality blood plasma products for horses, camels and dogs was judged as an extremely well-run business with caring staff, an holistic approach to animal welfare and high ethical standards. Of the 27 staff at its Kalbar headquarters, 23 are women and most are Scenic Rim residents who have enjoyed long-term careers in fields of science, manufacturing, biopharmaceuticals, animal husbandry and administration in a family-friendly workplace. Plasvacc’s employees have grown in number worldwide, partly driven by the acquisition of its United Kingdom division.
Trainee/Apprentice of the Year Award Kasey Payne – Boonah State High School A dedicated, hardworking and community-minded young woman, Kasey Payne has been a school-based trainee at Hayes and Co, where she is currently undertaking a Certificate III in Business. Kasey has demonstrated exceptional commitment to her studies and the agricultural industry, actively participates in the Boonah State High School Cattle Club and is President of the Junior Show Society. She is an aspiring ambassador for vocational training, having also completed Certificate studies in Sport and Recreation and Tourism alongside her school responsibilities.
Regional Prosperity Highly Commended Boonah State High School Boonah State High School’s strategic approach to rebuilding its connection with the community has seen enormous benefits for the school, the students and the community. As regions such as the Scenic Rim often lose talented young people to larger urban areas once they graduate, the school is doing all it can to expose its students to the availability of valuable opportunities and industries in the region. The school sees itself as a training ground for the next generation of young people who will help Scenic Rim businesses to succeed in the future through the leadership of Dan Marrone, the enthusiasm of Kelly Skewes and the dedication of its teachers and students.
Regional Prosperity Award Plasvacc Pty Ltd With its Kalbar facility the only one of its kind in Australia, Plasvacc operates in three countries and is at the forefront of the veterinary industry. It exports to fifteen countries and helps to ensure the welfare of animals in Australia and abroad through the production of pharmaceuticals that contribute to a high standard of care. Plasvacc has been operating for 25 years and its global success and recognition attests to the company’s achievements as an innovator in the animal health and agricultural industries.
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