Tree clearing at a renowned Sunshine Coast conference centre is under investigation by the state government.
A spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development said authorities were looking into the removal of vegetation at the Alexandra Park Conference Centre – a long-running facility that hosts camps, conferences and retreats.
“The department is currently investigating the matter,” the spokesperson said, before adding “it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time”.
The operator of the centre, the Uniting Church of Australia (Queensland), told Sunshine Coast News that trees were removed to mitigate bushfire risks.
“These works were carried out as part of our responsible land management practices,” the group stated.
“These actions reflect our ongoing commitment to safety, environmental stewardship and the wellbeing of our community.”
The investigation comes amid some community concern.
One local resident, Bill Allard, outlined his worries to SCN.
“These were huge, old trees and there aren’t that many of them around this part of the Coast,” he said. Mr Allard said he believed gums were among the trees removed.
“There were a number (of trees) on the western side (of the property), a number in the north-eastern corner and I believe there were some on the southern side.”
Mr Allard said he made inquiries with Sunshine Coast Council and that other locals had contacted local state MPs.
The Uniting Church of Australia said the works were carried out “following recommendations from an environmental management consultant and in accordance with provisions for exempt clearing under bushfire management regulations”.
“Given that a significant portion of our site is forested, we regularly engage experts to assess bushfire risk and implement measures to reduce potential hazards. This proactive approach is essential to safeguard our guests, neighbouring properties and the site itself. It also plays a vital role in protecting the adjacent Alex Forest Conservation Area, which we are privileged to enjoy.
“In preparation for the upcoming high-risk fire season, our arborist team has undertaken targeted tree and ground works based on professional advice.”
A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson also commented on the works.
“Council has confirmed that the vegetation clearing undertaken by the landowner at 13 Mari Street, Alexandra Headland, is exempt work carried out for bushfire protection purposes,” they said on January 7.
“These activities are permitted under state government legislation and do not require council approval.”
The state government told SCN the next day that it was investigating the clearing at the centre. The department did not say the clearing was unlawful and has not made any findings.
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The centre has accommodation areas, meeting rooms, auditoriums and dining rooms.
The centre’s website stated that its roots can be traced to the 1930s, when the Presbyterian Young People’s Fellowship Association held its first Easter camp at the Alexandra Hostel.
The Queensland Presbyterian Camps purchased the hostel in the 1940s. The Uniting Church “let go” a portion of the property to fund a significant build in the 1980s. A purpose-built facility was built and it has been upgraded and expanded since.
