Media statement from Mayor Greg Christensen on Tamborine Mountain Household 'Plebiscite' Survey

The following statement may be attributed to Mayor Greg Christensen.

"You may be aware that a private 'plebiscite' is asking Tamborine Mountain households to indicate their preference for Tamborine Mountain to belong in either Scenic Rim Regional Council or City of Gold Coast. What you may not know is this is not a formal process of Council, and has no endorsement or involvement by Council. In fact, it hasn’t even been tabled for any discussion since the 2020 election.

The State Government alone has the authority to change local government boundaries, so I would expect a proper and balanced process to enable all our residents to make an informed decision before any proposals for change were considered.

I assure you that Council values all communities across the region and the unique character that each of them contribute to the Scenic Rim's enviable lifestyle. I am proud that we remain committed to sustaining our spectacular scenery and healthy environment and to ensuring our region's growth is managed carefully to enhance our lifestyle and preserve our natural assets.

For example, we reinforced our commitment during preparation of our first integrated Scenic Rim Planning Scheme 2020 by adding and retaining specific protections for Tamborine Mountain, such as  limiting the creation of new residential lots and considering groundwater extraction as an inconsistent development. We also continue to champion critical improvements to State-owned infrastructure serving Tamborine Mountain - as we do for all areas within the Scenic Rim.

It is important to understand this so-called 'plebiscite' is not binding. I encourage residents to make sure they do their research and seek out factual information. In an attempt to assist residents and respond to questions received, Council will publish known facts on its website. 

Changing Council boundaries is not as simple as moving a line on a map. To make such a significant change involves following a stringent State Government process and the decision is ultimately made by the Local Government Minister.

A change of this nature would impact all Scenic Rim residents, not just those on Tamborine Mountain.

On 20 April 2020, all Scenic Rim Regional Council Councillors swore an oath of office to "faithfully and impartially fulfil the duties of the office, in accordance with the local government principles and code of conduct under the Local Government Act 2009". These commitments require Councillors to serve the entire Scenic Rim not a selective part of it.

I intend to stay focused on fulfilling my Oath of Office, and while I can't speak for all Councillors, I believe the majority of Councillors are also focused on working together to secure a strong future for the Scenic Rim."