By MEGAN OGLE
AN online debate has reached boiling point after a recent story by Noosa Today was posted on a social media site.
Noosa residents took to the Noosa Today Facebook page to voice their opinions on the issue of permanent residents living in holiday accommodation with one local calling for a public forum.
The original story outlined concerns of local accommodation managers wanting to see action taken by the council in regards to owners permanently residing in holiday accommodation which they feared would impact theirs and Noosa’s income from tourists.
Debbie Schwerin commented on the Noosa Today post, saying the volume of comments “proved there are some real community issues [here] which need to be solved”.
“Great to see so many have an opinion on this issue,” Ms Schwerin wrote.
“However, instead of shouting at each other and making it an Us versus Them thing, the new council should consider a public forum where those who are really interested in this problem can have their say once they have heard all the facts from all sides.”
Noosa River Retreat Resort manager Andrea Stokje agreed with Ms Schwerin, saying the issue was “thought provoking” for “all residents” and urged residents to “work together” on issues.
A council candidate weighed in on the issue with Elaine Williams saying owners should have a “right to live” in a residence “if they choose to”.
“I support our local residents,” Ms Williams said.
“Tourists are important; however we must remember that Noosa Shire is not just for tourists.
While the Tourism Noosa Annual Report estimated over 1.9 million tourists visited Noosa between 2014 and 2015, spending over $703 million with $77 million spent on day trips alone, Ms Williams said the local dollar was not to be overlooked.
“Last night when out to dinner in Thomas Street, everyone dining at our chosen restaurant was a local (which) is often the case during the week and in non-peak times,” Ms Williams said.
“Before going out to dinner, we spent time and money at our sporting club along with many other locals.
“Without the locals as active members, there can be no clubs such as RSL and sporting etc.”
