Concerns Rise Over Lack of Transparency and Communication from SRRC Regarding 122 Long Road
Mount Tamborine Winery
Dear TMAP Supporters,
The Tamborine Mountain Arts Precinct (TMAP) continues to face obstacles in arranging direct discussions with Scenic Rim Regional Council (SRRC) and Mayor Tom Sharp regarding the future of 122 Long Road. In recent communication, Mayor Sharp proposed holding the meeting as a public forum. Given the tight timeline before the auction date, TMAP requested a private meeting, as it could be arranged more quickly. However, Mayor Sharp insisted on a public setting.
TMAP has consistently clarified to SRRC, both in writing and with records, that it is not a commercial bidder, but rather pursuing a state-backed arrangement to secure the property as a community asset, addressing the council’s debt. Despite multiple written explanations, SRRC has not acknowledged this correspondence.
Mayor Sharp initially assured TMAP that Cr. Hay would coordinate the time and location for the public meeting “in due course.” TMAP agreed to the public format on the condition that it be held before the auction date to ensure meaningful dialogue. After not receiving follow-up details, TMAP reached out directly and learned that Cr. Hay, who has been a long-time advocate of TMAP, was unable to arrange the meeting. TMAP immediately updated Mayor Sharp, requesting if another SRRC representative could step in to arrange the meeting, emphasising the urgency of the situation. To date, TMAP has not received a response.
Further complicating matters, TMAP has now confirmed that Mayor Sharp has since subsequently instructed Cr. Hay not to proceed with arranging the meeting, claiming SRRC could not be seen talking to “buyers.” Disappointingly, Mayor Sharp has yet to officially inform TMAP that the meeting is not going ahead, leaving TMAP to believe it was still in progress. This lack of transparency raises pressing questions: Is Mayor Sharp intentionally delaying the meeting to prevent it from happening before the auction date?
TMAP remains committed to advocating for the community’s interests and securing the property for the benefit of the Scenic Rim Community. It is hoped that SRRC will prioritise transparency and constructive engagement in decisions impacting this valuable community asset.
Blue skies,
Team TMAP