Eumundi Voice Issue 120, 26 June 2025

COMMUNITY

Terella Brewing launches court appeal

Terella Brewing Pty Ltd has launched a court appeal against an enforcement notice issued by Sunshine Coast Council (SCC), which could potentially force the brewery to close. The appeal, filed on 5 June with the Planning and Environment Court, challenges the notice issued on 8 May regarding the use of the 27.68-hectare site at 196 Bunya Road, North Arm.

The enforcement notice states that the property was being used for an event, specifically Oktoberfest, without the necessary development permits. The council's inspection on 12 October 2024 observed the event, leading to the notice. The property had development approvals from 2016 for various uses, but the operation had since evolved into a medium impact industry. The notice demands that all events at Terella cease by 30 June, and the production of alcohol and serving of food and drinks stop by 31 July, unless a relevant development permit is obtained.

Terella's appeal argues that the council's notice does not specify the assessable development being carried out or the particular development approval that has been contravened. It also states that Terella was not given a show cause notice before the enforcement notice was issued. The council's development database includes a show cause notice dated 15 October, outlining complaints about excessive alcohol consumption, noise, and traffic.

The brewery has been operating for the past 8 years. The owners of the venue applied for a Material Change of Use with SCC earlier this year to upgrade the venue to include a restaurant, boutique vodka and gin distillery, gazebos, bitumen car parking, infrastructure improvements and acoustic measures.

Despite the challenges, Terella Brewing remains a popular destination for tourists and locals, with substantial community support indicated on social media platforms for its continued operation.

McDermott Aviation expands regional firefighting capabilities

In a significant move to enhance its aerial firefighting capabilities, Cooroy-based company McDermott Aviation – Australia's largest, private natural disaster responder – has announced plans to introduce fixed-wing firefighting aircraft. Subject to CASA approval, the company will operate 3 Transall C-160 aircraft, known for their high-wing configuration, long-range endurance and heavy-lift performance. These aircraft are designed to operate in rugged and remote locations – both in Australia and overseas – where McDermott Aviation supports firefighting and other natural disaster responses. The Transall C-160 aircraft have been fitted with a world-first tank system developed in partnership with Qld-based Helitak Firefighting Equipment. This innovative tank system sets a new benchmark in aerial firefighting, allowing the aircraft to deliver precision, power and safety during fire season. The Helitak FT Series tank –designed specifically for the C-160 platform –integrates seamlessly with the aircraft’s frame and provides rapid-fill, high-volume water and retardant delivery. The aviation company aims to have all 3 aircraft mission-ready before the 2025/26 fire season.

Founder and President of McDermott Aviation John McDermott emphasised the strategic importance of these aircraft, "These aircraft are built for tough jobs in tough places. They’re part of our broader strategy to grow our fleet, scale our international footprint, and bring new technology to the frontline of firefighting both at home and overseas, including Europe and North America.”