Voice on the Coast Question #2 What are the barriers to more nightlife on the coast and how will you overcome them?

I have found this question to be the hardest of the three to answer. I have never experienced barriers to social life and entertainment on the Sunshine Coast. From 1978-1993, I was very active in the arts scene here both as manager of the Sunshine Coast Arts Centre and as a member of the Sunshine Coast Arts Council executive. The prevalent philosophy at that time was, “If you want something to happen, make it happen!” And we did. Whether it was fine films, jazz, dance, performance art, literary events or folk dance and ethnic food, we seized the opportunities available through the non-profit venues on the Coast and cultivated a large volunteer and audience base. Our shows usually sold out and people clamoured for more. All of my and my friends’ entertainment needs were met through the arts.

I guess I have to turn the question around and ask you, the younger generation what is missing for you and what barriers have you experienced? Then we can begin the conversation about how to break down those barriers and look at what role local government can play.

There is also a chicken and egg dilemma here. Young people say it is too boring here and they head off for brighter lights. So we don’t have enough young people to populate the venues and events that appeal to young people…and on it goes. But I do believe that there are things we need to tackle as local governments to create a platform that makes it more likely that younger people will either come here from away or return here after they have had some higher education or seen some more of the world. We need to make sure we have a diverse housing stock which includes housing young families and working people can afford, interesting and well paying jobs, good transportation networks so people can get around without cars, and lively neighbourhoods where people can walk to services, meet their neighbours, and recreate.

One idea that I think would do a lot for this community would be to develop a fulltime residential university. This would not have to encompass the full range of university programs but could be one that offers specialty programs that take advantage of the exceptional environment and resources we have here. In addition to our spectacular natural environment we are blessed with some outstanding professional people with skills in the fine arts, technology, and environmental sciences. With a residential component, we would attract a new coterie of young people who would want to participate in off campus activities as well.

I look forward to continuing this dialogue with you.