Public Notice: Official Council Safety Advisories and Community Updates

Public Safety Alert: Floodwater Risks and Driver Awareness

Sunshine Coast Council has issued a critical safety advisory following recent weather patterns, reminding all residents that 'your car cannot protect you' from the dangers of floodwater. Official data indicates that as little as 15cm of moving water can cause a vehicle to lose traction and be swept away. With intermittent rainfall expected throughout the region this weekend, motorists are urged to avoid all flooded roads and causeways. The 'If it’s flooded, forget it' campaign remains in active effect for all local government areas. Residents are encouraged to monitor the local Disaster Hub for real-time updates on road conditions and potential hazards.

Health and Wellbeing: Autumn 2026 Bright Magazine Release

Sunshine Coast Health has announced the official release of the Autumn 2026 edition of 'Bright' magazine. Available from Sunday, 8 March, this edition provides essential seasonal health advice, including new precision surgery options for skin cancer now available at local facilities. The publication also highlights healthy habit strategies for families as the school term progresses. Physical copies are being distributed to community centers and health hubs across the region, with digital versions accessible through the official health service portal for residents seeking the latest medical news and wellness tips.

Community Recognition: 2026 Biosphere Awards Nominations

Official nominations are now open for the Sunshine Coast Biosphere Awards 2026. Council is seeking to recognize individuals, businesses, and community groups that demonstrate excellence in sustainability and environmental stewardship. As a UNESCO-recognized biosphere, the region continues to prioritize projects that balance conservation with sustainable development. Categories for this year’s awards include Climate Action, Biodiversity Conservation, and Sustainable Business Practices. Submissions will be accepted throughout the month, with further details regarding eligibility criteria available at municipal customer service centers.

Infrastructure and Traffic Management Notice

Commuters are advised to exercise caution on major arterial routes, including Nicklin Way and the Sunshine Motorway, as the 2026 Traffic Guide enters its second week of implementation. While no major road closures are scheduled specifically for this Sunday, ongoing maintenance works continue to impact travel times during off-peak hours. Reduced speed limits remain in force near the Caloundra Road interchange. Additionally, advance notice is provided for the Mooloolaba Triathlon scheduled for the following weekend, March 15, which will involve significant transport diversions.

Planning and Compliance Statement

Sunshine Coast Council has reaffirmed its commitment to the Planning Act 2016 following recent inquiries regarding land-use enforcement. The Council continues to monitor compliance across the region to ensure that all business operations align with the 2014 Planning Scheme. This oversight is maintained to protect local amenity, public safety, and operational equity for all regional business owners. Residents are reminded that development applications and enforcement notices are public record and can be reviewed via the official Planning and Projects register.