COMMUNITY NEWS - Glass House Mountains update

The Sunshine Coast’s environmental challenges have garnered global attention with the launch of soghm.org.au. Save Our Glass House Mountains (SOGHM) is expanding its reach as it intensifies efforts to protect the region.

Heidelberg Materials, a multinational mining company, has applied to expand its current quarry at the base of Mount Coonowrin (‘Crookneck’). The proposal would allow blasting an additional 66 meters in depth, near the National Park that surrounds this environmentally and culturally significant site. 

In response, SOGHM has joined the upcoming court case as a co-respondent to oppose the quarry expansion application. By the end of 2025, all parties had submitted their arguments to the Planning and Environment Court. In recent weeks, SOGHM has focused on presenting clear, balanced arguments that reflect both the planning framework and strong community concerns. 

Key concerns include visual and scenic impacts—particularly views from Mt Ngungun and across the broader landscape—protection of the Inter Urban Break (the green corridor separating urban areas), and recognition of Indigenous landscape values as outlined in regional planning policy. SOGHM’s reasons for refusal are closely aligned with those of the Sunshine Coast Council, while also incorporating specific issues raised by local residents.

Following a Review Hearing on December 12, the Court ordered SOGHM’s lay witness statements to be submitted by January 27, 2026. In Queensland planning cases, lay statements allow community members to share personal experiences and describe the real impacts of proposed developments in plain language. These statements help the Court consider not only expert reports but also the lived experiences of those directly affected. 

Community gatherings at Glasshouse Community Hall on January 11 and 14 gave supporters the opportunity to volunteer as witnesses. A further Court review was scheduled for January 29, 2026, so more updates to come.