Get to the chopper!

Extension of accommodation fee waivers

SUNSHINE Coast Council will continue to waive permit fees for those having to temporarily live in a tent, car, caravan or mobile home who, due to extenuating circumstances, find it difficult to pay.

The council said it recognised the impact of the housing crisis and increasing cost of living pressures and was aiming to provide reassurance to vulnerable people who were living in some form of temporary accommodation.

“Earlier this year we could only reduce the fees associated with temporary dwellings for the current budget cycle, but I want to highlight that those reduced fees will continue into the new financial year,” Councillor David Law said.

By Kirra Livingstone

their eyes firmly in the sky last week when a former student dropped in for a visit.

Lieutenant Colonel Commanding Officer, 5th Aviation Regiment, Andrew Lean, touched down in his CH-47F Chinook helicopter (Tuesday, May 30) after flying in from his Townsville base.

It was Andrew’s first visit to Beerwah after his highschooling years and he used the opportunity to speak to students interested in a military career.

“Its good to be here after 25 years, I bring a Chinook back in here and show the kids here what is possible opportunity that was a

“Kids have asked questions about different jobs in Defence… having the team behind me they’ve all served in different corps previously, so having the ability for them to draw on their experience

Beerwah State High School principal, Lyn McDonald, said the school was thrilled to host

Andrew and his flight crew, especially as a great example of their successful alumni.

Current Beerwah High year 11 student, Shaila Casey, was among a number of students keen to pursue a Defence career and said Andrew’s visit was inspirational.

“It’s so cool I’m so excited he is here, I’ve never seen anything like this,” she said.

“I’ve had family in the defence force so it’s just something I’ve always wanted to do.”

Check out Andrew’s pinpoint landing on our Facebook page.

The reduced fee of $0 came into effect from February 24, 2023, and information on Council’s website can assist applicants in understanding and navigating the approval process.

Approval is for a limited duration, depending on the type of temporary home:

• less than three months for a tent

• six months for a car

• 18 months for a bus, caravan, or mobile home.

Where more time is required, the fee to reapply for a temporary home approval is $392.

However, where Council has previously waived the fee, Council will again take into account any extenuating circumstances.