Similar to the plot of Footloose, a movement has formed to keep music and dancing alive in Noosa Junction.
Two businesses, New York Minute and Mr Drifter, have already been banned from playing live music due to noise complaints, which has left some wondering, ‘Where’s Kevin Bacon when you need him?’
Well, Noosa Junction Association marketing and PR manager Judi Lalor’s ready to fill those shoes, and plans on working with key stakeholders to come to an agreement that can keep all parties happy.
New York Minute owner Antony Crowther said in a statement online that while the ban was a significant setback, it was not the end.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the temporary pause of our live entertainment,” he said.
“Unfortunately, a small group of serial complainers, campaigning against any form of nightlife or entertainment, has led to increased restrictions from liquor licensing and law enforcement, particularly here in the Junction.”
Judi said Mr Drifter being banned from music from six months was devastating.
“That’s a real impact on their business but also on the performers they have booked,” she said.
Near-by residents who are being affected by the noise are looking to come to a compromise, with petitioner Peter Stuehrenburg telling the ABC, “I’m not against live music … we love the live music, but at a level that is good for the venue and good for the residents.”
Peter started the petition due to Noosa Council considering changing its planning scheme, with proposed changes listing extended trading hours for Noosa Junction food and drink outlets, and new definitions around “acceptable outcomes” for both acoustic and amplified music.
Noosa Junction resident Robyn Seamer said, “I am all in favour of the beautiful talented guitarists and singers gently performing in the Noosa Junction streets, with appropriate amplification that just goes to the nearby restaurants, as they have done for many years.”
“But please stop the threat of Noosa Plan proposed changes to the Junction, for longer opening hours till midnight, seven days a week, and increased amplified noise levels that we are currently hearing, from Noosa Junction bars trying to outdo each other to attract customers with DJs and street parties.
“The Noosa Junction residents are asking to keep the 10pm curfew on the noise, and to reduce the current level of recorded music offered by DJs that is often blasted out, with the thumping of the base reverberating up Noosa hill currently sometimes until 11.30pm, even with the current curfew of 10pm.
“This is unacceptable. Research shows that strong low-frequency bass sounds produces stress reactions and are detrimental to health in the long term.”
The Noosa Junction Association, along with industry, artists and local businesses are arguing that music is key to a successful nighttime operation in small village economies such as Noosa Junction.
They say the rules are out of touch and outdated, with minimal complaints seeming to be able to trigger Council and the Office of Liquor And Gaming Regulation (OLGR) to act.
Judi said, “The current proposed Council Amendments this petition refers to actually have very little to do with music, although it is mentioned.”
“Just because a business can operate food service until midnight, does not mean they can have live or amplified music – unless it is within the provisions of their licence.”
The association’s next step will be broader stakeholder engagement, with hopes to engage with the newly appointed first Queensland Night-Life Economy Commissioner John Collins.
The Powderfinger legend told ABC Radio last week the state had an opportunity ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to create “vibrant and safe” nightlife precincts.
He said his role would involve extensive consultation with venue operators, before bringing recommendations to government.
Judi said, “Outdated noise and licencing regulations, and a minority of highly motivated nearby residents, are making it very challenging for small bars and restaurants who are already struggling in a cost of living crisis.”
“Nambour has an entertainment precinct – our aim would be to create an acceptable model that works in Noosa Junction and a trial that businesses, council and key stakeholders agree to.
“We have asked for feedback from our local nighttime venues and have received a number of positive suggestions we’ll incorporate into our approach.”
Noosa resident Greg Smith wrote in a letter to Noosa Today, “Where is the common sense and council support around shutting down live music in Noosa Junction?”
“Council appear to get one or two complaints and they become reactionary. So minorities now rule the roost. Businesses are struggling and where is council support?”
Mayor Frank Wilkie said Noosa Council supports live music in Noosa Junction and residents’ rights to peace in their homes at a reasonable hour.
“Live music is intended to give entertainment, energy and life to Noosa Junction in a way that does not unreasonably impact on the surrounding residents,” Cr Wilkie said.
“Councillors and staff will be having a briefing from OLGR staff to get an understanding of the causes of their recent action.
“We’re committed to the challenge of finding the right balance and we’re receiving advice from musicians, residents and business owners.”
