There’s a welcoming theme across the Sunshine Coast this week in a variety of forms.
As the region looks to shape a more inclusive future after being recognised as a Premium Member of the national Welcoming Cities network, it will also welcome patrons to the new Caloundra Library, which opens its doors today (September 22).
Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said the Welcoming Cities milestone built on years of work to create a community where everyone felt they belonged, no matter their background, language or journey to the region.
Cr Bunnag said Welcoming Cities was a national initiative of Welcoming Australia, supported by the Scanlon Foundation, with 94 member councils involved the represented more than half of Australia’s population.
He said the network helped communities plan for greater social, cultural and economic inclusion also expanded the ways in which the Sunshine Coast welcomed and supported international guests, investors and skilled migrants to the region.
“With 21 per cent of residents born overseas and more than 150 nationalities represented, it’s vital we continue to build a community where everyone feels welcome.”
Cr Bunnag said Council had already embedded Welcoming Cities principles into its work, from refreshing the Sunshine Coast Community Strategy and 5-year action plan to hosting multicultural job seeker events and expanding staff training.
“With population growth and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, being a Welcoming City helps position the region as a destination for international visitors, skilled migrants and investors.”
Those visitors will also be able to enjoy state-of-the art community facilities at the new Library+ Caloundra.
In a statement, Council said the doors at 1 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra, would be open on Monday, September 22, with an opening celebration from 10am.
“Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a curious kid, a budding podcaster or just someone looking for a fresh place to think, Library+ Caloundra has something new waiting for you,” it said.
Council said with the new library spread across two levels, it was designed to meet the diverse needs of our community.
