TMAP Asks the Question: Why aren’t community-focused initiatives receiving the support they need?

Dear TMAP Supporters,

The Tamborine Mountain Arts Precinct (TMAP) is deeply concerned about the Scenic Rim Regional Council's (SRRC) decision to proceed with the auction of 122 Long Road on November 22. This decision disregards TMAP's efforts to establish a collaborative and mutually beneficial arrangement with both the Council and the Community.

Despite the strong support from local businesses, residents, and state-level representatives, SRRC has not engaged with TMAP meaningfully. This raises a fundamental question: why is the Council not actively pursuing a solution that aligns with community interests?

TMAP recently had a highly constructive meeting with Shadow Arts Minister Dr. Christian Rowan MP, facilitated by Scenic Rim MP Jon Krause. Following this, TMAP promptly informed SRRC about the positive meeting with the Minister, confirming that TMAP now has the support of both state parties to continue pursuing efforts to secure the site for the Community. However, instead of responding, SRRC scheduled the auction date just days later. Disappointingly, after 12+ months of talks SRRC did not extend the courtesy of notifying TMAP of the new auction date, leaving TMAP to learn about it through their own proactive efforts. Further highlighting the Council's lack of transparency and communication, as well as its reluctance to pursue a collaborative solution.

TMAP has made two formal attempts to meet with Mayor Tom Sharp to discuss potential solutions. The Mayor agreed to hold a public forum but has declined a private meeting. A private meeting could have facilitated a quicker resolution, but with the auction date rapidly approaching and SRRC’s history of delayed communication, organising a full community forum seems increasingly unlikely. If the property is sold before any meaningful discussion takes place, it raises a fundamental question about the purpose of delaying talks in the first place. 

TMAP urges the Mayor and Council to pause the auction, engage with the new state leaders and work toward a solution that preserves this vital community asset. The SRRC needs to work with us, not against us, to secure a lasting benefit for the Community.

Blue skies,

Team TMAP