These generously sized, ready-to-build elevated quarter acre homesites, averaging 1,025m², offer the perfect canvas to design your dream home with plenty of room to suit your lifestyle. Nestled in the heart of the Mooloolah Valley hinterland, you’ll be rtlessly connected to everything you need:
•Close to shops, cafes, and schools.
•Scenic nature views from spacious elevated lots, ready for you to build on.
•Just a 25-minute drive to Sunshine Coast beaches.
•Hiking and bushwalking trails right at your doorstep.
•Only 5 minutes from Mooloolah train station.
•Brisbane is a convenient 80km away via the M1 or accessible from Mooloolah train station.
Queensland’s housing plan
Crisafulli Government will ensure Queenslanders have a
By Andrew Powell MP
IT’S not news to anybody; Queensland is in a state of crisis when it comes to housing.
Hundreds of Queenslanders have been and in local parks, falling behind in their rents, and are locked out of owning their home under Labor’s Housing Crisis.
It has never been more or keep a roof over your head as it is right now in slowing construction and fewer homes being built now than a decade ago, we do not have the homes to house Queenslanders.
Not only has Labor failed to release the land for new homes, but they have also failed to build the infrastructure needed to get Queenslanders deserve the choice to buy their own
rental options.
The Crisafulli Government is committed to securing our housing foundations and has the Right Plan to ensure Queenslanders have a place to call home.
To help address this issue, our government has partnered with BlueCHP to address a critical gap in our housing shortage, with construction underway on social housing complex in Beerwah.
Once completed, these units will be allocated to Queenslanders in need of housing.
In addition, we’ve abolished Stamp Duty for First Home Buyers who build a new home, and we’ve permanently homeowners being able to rent out a room. Now, to rent a room without
home buyer grants and concessions.
Our Unlocking Homes for Queensland’s Future policy has also recently been announced and will address the lack of housing supply that has ultimately led to our state’s housing crisis. This policy involves new Regional Plans, matched with Infrastructure Plans for every corner of Queensland, to deliver one million homes by 2044.
Some of our current Regional Plans are 15 years out of date. We’ve already commenced working with communities to update these plans and have clear outlines of where housing will be delivered across the state.
I’ve met with many locals in the Glass House region who have expressed a desire to subdivide their properties and help meet housing demand, but are hindered by outdated zoning regulations in the Southeast
Queensland Regional Plan (SEQRP). It is essential that we unlock these properties with a change of zoning and increase housing availability. Like other Regional Plans around the state, we will review the SEQRP.
we’re committed to scaleup housing approvals by 25%, before ramping up further to ensure we reach one million extra homes by 2044.
We know our targets are ambitious, but we are a government that has respect for your money, and we are working hard to deliver on time and on budget.
Balancing sustainable growth
Hinterland transformation ahead as region balances lifestyle and growth
By Sonia Isaacs
THE Sunshine Coast community is about to get the chance to have their say on one of the most important planning projects ever released on the Sunshine Coast.
At stake will be finding the right balance between lifestyle, environment and maintaining affordability with the reality of catering for a population of 565,000 - an extra 190,000 residents - by 2041.
The State Government last week conditionally approved the Sunshine Coast Council’s 2025 Planning Scheme, which will set in stone key projects and planning policies that aims to find this balance.
While the scheme is yet to be made public, GC&M News has previously reported on the tension between local and state authorities about how to achieve dwelling targets.
In September last year the council was told it simply wasn’t doing enough to create development opportunities. In fact, Australian Bureau of Statistics data showed just 3290 of an annual target of 4000, were approved in 2023/24.
The coast is a key region as part of the state’s commitment to deliver 1 million new homes by 2044.
Glass House MP and Tourism and Environment Minister Andrew Powell stressed the need to strike the right balance between development and sustainability.
“The lack of supply in the
region is driving up prices and making it harder for buyers and renters to keep a roof over their heads,” he said. “At this stage, we’re not enabling sensible development.
Change is a scary thing, but we need to properly consider higher-density housing near transit hubs like Beerwah.
“Cities and towns across Europe and the globe have done this exceptionally well. One example is introducing apartments near transport hotspots, even with vibrant farmland and natural environments on their doorstep. We can learn from them and, in doing so, have the best of both worlds.”
Key planning scheme
The new scheme, expected to be completed in 2025, will replace the current Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2014, which sets out development guidelines until 2031.
With increasing numbers of people choosing to move to the region, Council says careful planning is essential to balance urban expansion with environmental conservation.
The new scheme will regulate land use, guide infrastructure development and manage the impacts of population growth.
Following preliminary consultation in 2022, Council submitted the proposed planning scheme to the State Government in December 2023 for a State Interest Review (SIR) .
This recently completed review ensures the scheme aligns with state planning priorities before moving to
formal public consultation.
Key objectives of the scheme include ensuring sufficient land for housing, business, and public spaces, integrating land use with infrastructure planning, and strengthening resilience to natural hazards such as floods, bushfires and coastal erosion.
Beerwah East
One development that looks to be staying on the backburner is the longawaited Beerwah East project.
The 5200 hectare site - currently subject to a 99year forestry lease between the Bruce Highway, Steve Irwin Way and Roys Road - could one day house 50,000 people across 7000 dwellings.
However GC&M News understands there is little appetite to fast-track the project, especially ahead of final plans for the Sunshine Coast Direct Rail
Line, which will head east from Beerwah. Ultimately it appears the government wants the Beerwah East plan to align with broader land use goals and avoid fast-tracking decisions that could impact transport planning.
In saying that, it said it would allow the development of a “small parcel” of land in the area.
A spokesperson for the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning said: “The framework within the draft planning scheme acknowledges the long term outcomes for the area and takes into consideration any complex matters (such as native title, land use and otherwise) that need to be worked through before the majority of the area can be opened up for development.”
Division 5 Cr Winston Johnston said the SIR
From backyards to housing blocks
LONG-time Beerwah
resident Roger Reilly says the town’s gradual gentrification over the past two decades was always inevitable.
Having purchased his property in 2007, Mr Reilly was drawn to Beerwah’s central location and country-town charm but was well aware of its growth potential. “At the time, I was still working in Brisbane, and Beerwah offered
the perfect mix—an easy commute by both private and public transport, while also being close to the beaches and the range,” he said. “You could see that it was going to be a growth area. Also in the back of my mind was that the capital gain was obviously going to be here.”
Previously living on the Blackall Range, Mr Reilly said Beerwah ticked all the boxes, and property prices
at the time were attractive.
“Another big drawcard for me was that the town had excellent educational facilities and well-serviced shopping and amenity options, while still maintaining that countrytown friendliness,” he said.
One of the most significant changes Mr Reilly has witnessed firsthand (pictured below) is the rise of higher-density housing.
“I’ve seen so many
complexes go up in Beerwah—especially in the last few years,” he said.
“Large backyards will be a thing of the past.
“This complex used to be a one house block. You have to accept that community living is the going to become the only way viable for many people as housing gets more expensive.
“Living on a 1/2 acre block is going to become a thing of the past.”
indicated the state government was still committed to the Beerwah East Development Area, however at this stage not the entire development.
“The development of the Beerwah East as an Emerging Community Zone has been put on the backburner until state government acquisition of land from lease holders and native title is finalised,” he said.
Division 1 Cr Jenny Broderick said the review still supported a first release area within the Beerwah East SEQ Development Area.
She said the state recommendations were now under review and assessment by Council’s planning team, who would be putting together recommendations to be discussed with Council over the coming weeks.
“We’re looking forward
to bringing the new draft planning scheme back to the community so they will be able to have their say,” Cr Broderick said.
The question remains as to where 4000+ dwellings each year will ultimately be built.
Let’s get moving
The state government gave council clear advice on steps to achieving this last year, including:
* Supporting small lots (down to 300sqm) in the low density residential zone;
* Lowering the level of assessment for dual occupancies to accepted developments;
* Removing minimum lot size requirements for secondary dwellings;
* Reviewing and amend the proposed zoning throughout the Sunshine Coast to provide greater residential density of land in proximity to high amenity areas and district, local and
The Rowlands family from Glass House Mountains.
Beerwah resident Roger Reilly.
Housing and Liveability
growth and liveability
neighbourhood centres.
Town planner, Adrian Raedel, said he was pleased that “finally” the State interest review had been released allowing the Council to progress their new planning scheme.
“The previous state government took so long to do the review that things changed dramatically in the interim,” the Arc Planning Director said.
“Now that the new State Government has cleared the bottleneck, I encourage the Sunshine Coast Council to get on with the business of progressing the planning scheme, fast, so that private enterprise and Sunshine Coast residents can do their bit in ensuring the vibrancy and the growth of the Sunshine Coast continues to flourish.”
Mounting Pressure
With a rapidly growing population, coast policymakers must prevent housing demand from outpacing infrastructure and services.
But they are also under pressure to balance development with environmental conservation and green space preservation.
The region has experienced significant growth, with the population increasing by more than
79,000 between 2011 and 2021.
“This level of growth and visitation continues to place significant pressure on the Sunshine Coast’s housing, transport, employment patterns, social infrastructure, and environment,” a council spokesperson said.
Sunshine Coast Mayor, Rosanna Natoli, said her focus was on managing growth for current and future residents.
“The new planning scheme project is a vital step in ensuring our community remains connected, liveable, and thriving—both now and into the future,” she said.
Striking a Balance Stockland General Manager for Stockland Halcyon QLD, Scott Ng, supported these sentiments, highlighting the importance of blending new developments seamlessly with the region’s character and community spirit.
“It’s important to us that these communities such as Halcyon Coves in Nirimba and Halcyon Dales in Beerwah compliment the area’s surroundings and combine the best of the Sunshine Coast lifestyle with resort-quality living,” Mr Ng said.
“When designing these communities, we aim to
provide quality homes and communal facilities that enable our homeowners to lead more sustainable lifestyles.
Meanwhile, BlueCHP, the developers behind a five-storey affordable and social housing development in Beerwah said they were committed to responsible planning.
“All BlueCHP developments are designed and approved in accordance with the provisions of the town planning requirements, ensuring appropriate design scrutiny and consideration of community character before they are approved to proceed,” a spokesperson said.
As the Sunshine Coast prepares for its next stage of development, all eyes will be on how policymakers and developers navigate the delicate balance between growth, sustainability, and affordability.
Lifestyle is key
Carly and Leigh Rowlands and their four children (Connor, Oliver, Elliott, Maddison) moved to Glass House Mountains 10 years ago for the lifestyle.
The family are currently building on acreage where they say they will be away from the ‘busy-ness’ of town but still close to services.
“We wanted to have the small town feel, and the safety of a small town, and just wanted to move out of the city,” Carly said.
“We love the area because of the mountains ... I love that we are still close to the highway but far enough away from it and close to the beaches.
“We really are close to everything.
“You’re half an hour away from big shops, the hospital and the beach but we still feel remote.”
Lifestyle and community calls
THE Webb family, Jesse, Tahnee, and their three children—relocated to Beerwah in 2023, seeking a balance between affordability, lifestyle, and proximity to family.
Mr Webb said they moved back from Brisbane, drawn by the town’s charm and accessibility. “We actually grew up here and decided to come back after a number of years, as our two youngest boys were quite small,” he said.
“It’s a beautiful area, it was more affordable
(marginally!) than Brisbane where we were living. It’s a good place to live as you have access to everything while also being in close proximity to world-class natural beauty—mountains, beaches, and hinterland.”
Mr Webb said Beerwah’s small-town appeal and easy city access via the train line were also drawcards.
“We love that it still has community and small-town charm,” he said.
“It was important to be able to get in and out of the city. There are plenty
of services.” However, he expressed concerns about future development.
“We definitely think there’s an opportunity to consider what makes each town here unique before we potentially become just another suburb,” he said. “There’s room for both modern suburban development and infrastructure planning that maintains a walkable, liveable environment while preserving a boutique, bustling main street and township ”
Community push for sustainable living solutions
RELOCATING to Maleny
was a long-held dream for community leader Madonna Hampson and her husband, drawn by the region’s stunning natural beauty and strong sense of community.
After considering locations from northern New South Wales to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Maleny stood out as the perfect place to embrace a slower, more connected way of life.
“The sense of community here is exceptional—locals genuinely look out for one another, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere,” Ms Hampson said. “This strong sense of connection makes Maleny not just a beautiful place to live, but a place where you
feel truly welcomed.”
Ms Hampson’s commitment to community led her to the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre (MNC), where she plays a vital role in supporting locals in need and strengthening the town’s social fabric.
“Each day, I am fortunate to witness the generosity of our community and connect with remarkable individuals who contribute to its rich fabric,” she said.
“The Centre plays a vital role in supporting those in need, bringing people together, and advocating for our community.”
As the Sunshine Coast Council’s new planning scheme becomes set to enter the public
consultation phase, Ms Hampson said she was keen to ensure Maleny’s future growth aligns with the town’s core values.
Her priorities include protecting green spaces, fostering social inclusion, and addressing key infrastructure concerns.
“Maleny’s natural environment is what makes this place so special. Preserving our green spaces must be a priority,” she said. “At the same time, we need to ensure all voices are heard in the planning process.”
A key issue is the need for a dedicated youth space.
“For years, the lack of a supported youth drop-in centre has been a growing concern,” she said. “A
multi-generational, all-abilities district park with a youth hub would be a valuable addition to the Hinterland.”
Another challenge is housing affordability.
“Many people in our community are struggling to find affordable housing,” she said. “Council should explore sustainable solutions, including utilising council-owned land for affordable housing initiatives.”
Improving access to public transport is also critical. “Better transport options would improve access to essential services.” she said.
Jesse and Tahnee Webb with Pilgrim and Ransom.
Construction of Beerwah’s first five storey development is underway.
Madonna Hampson and husband Scott Paine.
Hinterland Property Boom
Why buyers are choosing the Sunshine Coast
By Tamara Hazelden
The Hinterland’s Rising Appeal
The Sunshine Coast Hinterland continues to experience strong real estate activity, with more focus towards areas like Beerwah, Landsborough, and surrounds. The region’s mix of lifestyle investment potential has made it a standout in the current market.
Recent data reveals that median house prices in Beerwah have risen to $850,000, marking a steady increase despite national past six months, Hazelden Realty has successfully facilitated sales across the region.
Optimism for the Future
Looking ahead, the next 5-10 years are expected to bring continued growth to the Hinterland property market. With population growth surging, many buyers are moving from Brisbane and southern states, drawn to the relaxed lifestyle, natural beauty, and larger property sizes at competitive prices.
such as transport upgrades and new housing developments, will further enhance the region’s appeal.
Key suburbs expected to experience the most growth include Beerwah, Glass House Mountains, and Landsborough, where new estates and lifestylefocused properties are in high demand.
What’s Driving Demand?
The recent interest rate cut has encouraged and investors to enter the market, seeking both value.
A major trend we’re noticing is the growing interest in acreage properties and sustainable living, as more people look lifestyles.
With more professionals working remotely, Hinterland homes with parcels, and modern renovations are selling quickly.
Hazelden Realty: Leading the Way At Hazelden Realty, we pride ourselves on
providing a boutique, relationship-driven approach to real estate. Unlike traditional agencies focused on market share, our mission is to help buyers and sellers make the best decisions for their future.
Our unique Pre-Sale Concierge Service helps sellers maximize their property value through expert project management, arranging everything from staging to minor renovations. We also provide in-depth market insights and personalized strategies, ensuring our clients achieve the best outcomes.
Thinking of Buying or Selling?
Now is a fantastic time to enter the Sunshine Coast Hinterland market. Whether you’re looking to sell your property for top dolla your dream home, Hazelden Realty is here to guide you every step of the way.
Building the dream
AFTER almost 40 years of marriage, Susan and Steven are preparing for an exciting new milestone – moving they’ve built together.
“We love our home in Brisbane, but the constant upkeep of the pool and large garden is a lot,” Susan explains. “When Steven retired, we started thinking about downsizing to something that would make life easier.”
The couple explored several options but couldn’t
discovered Halcyon Coves on the Sunshine Coast.
“As soon as we walked just looked at Steven, and we both knew this was the Susan says. “Why shouldn’t life feel like being on holiday for the rest of our lives?”
Halcyon Coves ticked every box for the duo. Close to the Sunshine Coast’s beaches, pet-friendly for their beloved King Charles Spaniel, Charlie, and part of a vibrant, community-
had everything they were looking for.
For Susan and Steven, the opportunity to design their own home from scratch was particularly exciting.
“We’ve only ever lived in established houses, so this was a whole new experience,” Susan says. “We’ve loved choosing all the little details and our lot has a beautiful outlook. We picked stackable doors to connect the living areas to the patio, so the space will with natural light.”
Susan and Steven were also drawn to Halcyon Coves’ location within the masterplanned community of Aura.
so Aura’s 200 kilometres of bike paths were a huge selling point for me,” Steven
access to dedicated paths right outside our front door. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people.”
With a lagoon-style pool, clubhouse, pickleball courts, gold class cinema,
and a bowling green, the couple is looking forward to all the opportunities to connect with like-minded people and stay active.
“Where we live now, if you join a club, it’s usually a weekly thing, so it’s harder to keep in touch with people. But once we move to Coves, there’ll be something to do every even join Susan for a tai chi class,” Steven says with a laugh.
“We can’t wait to be part of a community that’s
social, active, and fun,” like we’re moving into a resort, and we know this is a decision we won’t regret.”
With new friends to meet and adventures to share, Susan, Steven and little Charlie can’t wait to start their exciting new chapter at Halcyon Coves.
Halcyon Coves lifestyle, and the latest homes available please visit: https://www. stockland.com.au/halcyoncommunities/qld/halcyoncoves/homes
Coast living with contemporary homes and resort-quality facilities.
Every home comes with luxury as standard, turnkey options.
Cnr Aura Boulevard and Central Avenue, Nirimba QLD 4551 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday (appointments are recommended)
Susan and Steven can’t wait to call Halcyon Coves home.
