FEATURE - LOCAL ARTIST HELPS NO QUARRY EXPANSION MOVEMENT

Local artist Dean Reilly has joined the Save Our Glasshouse Mountains (SOGHM) group, using his art to support efforts to protect the Glass House Mountains. 

SOGHM, formed in July 2023 as a grassroots response to MCU23/0197 application by Heidelberg Materials to the Sunshine Coast Council. The development application seeks to expand the Hanson quarry at 22 Mt Beerwah Road, Glass House Mountains. 

The expansions would double hard rock extraction and deepen the quarry to 48 metres below sea level. The quarry situated at the foot of iconic Mt Coonowrin - often referred to as ‘Crookneck’ - is visible from the popular walking track and scenic viewing point, Mt Ngungun.

There has been strong opposition from the Glass House Mountains community, with residents’ concerns ranging from fears for the stability of Mt Coonowrin, the effects of blasting on local flora and fauna to the impact of increased trucks, air pollution and noise along the haulage route through the small township. 

There are ongoing concerns that, despite the mountains' National Heritage status, the proposal hasn't been referred under the federal EPBC Act.

On 1 September, Heidelberg Materials appealed to the Queensland Planning and Environment Court after a ‘deemed refusal’ by Sunshine Coast Council. 

SOGHM has joined as a co-Respondent to the Appeal, and is fundraising for legal and expert costs. This community group has run a highly visible campaign, attending SCC Ordinary Meetings throughout 2025, community meetings and local events. 

Reilly’s artwork has become central to the group’s visibility and fundraising efforts; a key symbol for the campaign, with Reilly stating “The Glass House Mountains are more than an iconic backdrop. They are a living presence that shapes our wellbeing and connects us to something greater than ourselves.”