Terella Brewing to Close Amid Council Dispute
Terella Brewing, located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, has announced its closure next month. The decision follows a prolonged dispute with the Sunshine Coast Council concerning land use approvals.
Timeline of Events
The rural venue, which commenced operations in 2019, regularly hosted outdoor markets, family events, animal encounters, and live music.
In 2023, a neighbor filed a noise and traffic complaint, four years after the venue opened. Owners stated they subsequently provided information and reports to the council.
In late 2024, the brewery applied for a material change of use for its site. The council issued an enforcement notice last year regarding the venue's permits, leading Terella to appeal the decision in the Planning and Environment Court.
After more than 12 months in the development application process and incurring over $169,000 in fees, Terella withdrew its planning request.
A letter to the council dated February 17 indicated the company's intent to operate within its originally approved rural industry (brewery) use. Nine days later, the owners announced the closure via social media, citing ongoing financial and legal pressures and criticizing the council's actions.
Council's Position
Sunshine Coast Council chief executive John Baker stated that the conflict stemmed from the brewery's lack of appropriate approvals. Baker clarified that operating busy weekend food markets or live music venues in residential areas without proper approvals, insurances, traffic management, or safety controls is unfair to neighbors and other businesses that comply with regulations.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli acknowledged the court dispute and expressed sadness, emphasizing the council's focus on fairness, safety, and a level playing field for businesses within the community.
Brewery Owner's Response
Terella Brewing owner Brandt Bamford disputed the council's claim of insufficient approvals. Bamford stated that the company possesses necessary insurances, has conducted traffic management studies (witnessed by a council compliance officer), and received approval for its liquor license from the council.
He also specified that the enforcement notice required them to cease food trucks, other additional activities, and brewing by a particular date. Bamford indicated that 40 staff members would lose their jobs, and highlighted the venue's efforts to collaborate with the council on traffic and acoustic noise monitoring.