26-05-2025
Queensland government backs LNP donor's court fight for tourism venture
The Queensland government is backing an LNP donor's appeal against a council decision to reject his luxury tourism development.
In January, the Sunshine Coast Council knocked back Geoffrey Thomas's controversial plan to build 38 new short-stay units at an award-winning wedding venue in Maleny.
Council officers recommended rejecting the development because it would block hinterland views, require major earthworks, and did not fit with the rural area.
The proposed buildings were within allowable height limits, but the site was not a sewered area, so toilet wastewater would have to be stored then pumped out for disposal.
In a tight debate, councillors voted 6-5 against the proposal.
Those voting against it warned of setting a precedent that could allow similar developments in rural areas.
Mr Thomas is a prominent Queensland businessman and former government trade advisor.
He has been a long-term LNP supporter and donated $56,000 to the party in 2020.
He appealed the rejection in March, with a hearing to take place in the Planning and Environment Court.
The government has since applied to join the proceedings on tourism grounds.
It means the Queensland government will join Mr Thomas in his court fight against the council.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell, who is also a local MP, said he had supported the luxury project since he was first briefed on it two years ago.
"I'm acutely aware of the need to grow eco-tourism offerings and we desperately need more accommodation on the Sunshine Coast," Mr Powell said.
"I'm always happy advocate on behalf of locals, especially with developments that could increase jobs and visitors to Glass House."
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie denied he had used his powers as planning minister to overrule the council's decision.
"We've simply applied to be a party to the proceedings so we can represent the state interest," he said on Monday.
"It's important that we do support projects across the state — ecotourism particularly.
"We have not overridden any council process.
"The planning department is simply applying … to be a part in the proceedings so the state interests are better served."
Earlier this year, Mr Bleijie used his powers to revoke approval for two affordable housing developments in the region, while a third is under review.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she respected the court process and "it would be inappropriate to comment further".
Opposition Leader Steven Miles said the government's decision to appeal against the council's decision was inconsistent with its decision to cite community sentiment in cancelling a large wind farm.
