Fifty years ago, it was a sleepy seaside community with only a handful of local shops, but fast forward to 2018, and Coolum has now come of age, with the first state parliamentary office declared officially open last night. 

Ninderry MP Dan Purdie was joined by the State Deputy Opposition Leader, Tim Mander, community leaders, elected officials and local residents to mark the occasion, cutting a ribbon and celebrating with a barbeque at the new office, at 11 Heathfield Road, Coolum.

“This is certainly a historic moment not only for me, but for the entire community,” Mr Purdie said.

“It’s a real honour to represent our local area, and I am pleased so many community members, including elected officials, emergency services personnel, small business and school leaders, and of course local residents, have been able to join me for this momentous occasion.”

Mr Purdie said it made sense to establish his office in Coolum, which is located in the middle of the Ninderry electorate, a new electorate created following a redistribution of electorate boundaries last year.

In acknowledging his colleagues and other elected officials, Mr Purdie paid particular tribute to the Member for Maroochydore, Fiona Simpson, whose electorate included the Coolum community prior to the redistribution.

“I am fortunate to have been handed the ropes by one of the Coast’s most experienced, hard working and respected elected officials, and I am grateful for the advice and insight Fiona has given me.

“I look forward to continuing to work with Fiona and our other community leaders, elected officials, community groups and residents to ensure we achieve positive outcomes for our local area.”