Sunshine Coast Open House Program Launch 2026

Sunshine Coast Council, Mayor, Councillor Rosanna Natoli and Councillors; Representing the Mayor of Noosa Shire Council, Councillor Karen Finzel; Sunshine Coast Open House Committee Co-Chairs, Mr Madgy Youssef and Mr Ron Scott, Ambassador, Dr Noel Robinson OAM, staff and supporters; General Manager Operations, Sunshine Coast Airport, Ms Kate McCreery-Carr; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by thanking Mr Brian Warner for welcoming us so warmly to the Kabi Kabi lands on which we are gathered this morning, and I acknowledge and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people who join us today.

As Patron of Sunshine Coast Open House, it is my great pleasure to be with you here in this unique setting to officially launch the 2026 Program.

While Open House Sunshine Coast is proudly celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, it is part of a much larger story. Founded in London in 1992, Open House has grown into a global movement spanning more than 60 cities, from Athens to Zurich, and beyond. Combined visitor numbers make it the largest celebration of the urban landscape in the world.

It is interesting to contemplate why the concept has been such a success. Simple human curiosity must surely drive the popularity of these events. Stepping through a door that is normally closed, down a path that is usually gated, is an intriguing prospect.

However, the real joy, I believe, is not only to see but to hear; to have the reasons for the building, or the garden, explained, and made real. To be told the story of what was needed, and why — and how architects, engineers, builders and passionate owners adapted, designed and invented to make it work.  

Crucially, these sights, and this knowledge, are available to all, at no cost, meaning everyone who is interested can enter and learn. Nobody is locked out.

Open House events, therefore, offer much more than the satisfaction of curiosity. There is a tremendous depth to what is on offer — a crossover between expert knowledge and public interest — allowing us all to understand the challenges and triumphs behind our built environment.

In less than two months, doors will open right across the Sunshine Coast region, granting behind-the-scenes access to both returning favourites, and a variety of exciting new locations. Gracious hosts will allow public access to their private homes and gardens, for which I thank them, especially.  

Hardworking volunteers and speakers—without whom the scale of this event would not be possible—will be ready to welcome, guide and inform.  

Visitors will come to hear the stories, to understand more fully how their community works. I have no doubt that Sunshine Coast Open House plays a strong role in fostering pride in the heritage and character of this wonderful place, which you are lucky enough to call home.  

The noble aim of broadening the public’s understanding of the life-enhancing aspects of design excellence will be emphasised this year with a particular focus on public areas — on gardens, art, and cultural spaces that enrich lives and strengthen community identity.  

This year’s theme — Sustainable Inclusive Design — is particularly relevant in our changing world, and in this region. The demands of our intensifying climate generally, and of the Sunshine Coast’s key challenges — its rapid population growth, the diverse demands of its beach-to-bush landscape, and the strains of tourism in this much-loved region — make this a compelling and important theme.  

I acknowledge and congratulate those who have brought this wonderful event to life through giving generously of your time, expertise, and support: the Sunshine Coast Open House Committee; the building owners; industry partners and sponsors; local councils; and volunteers.  

Together, you have built something valuable, and sustainable into the future.

It now gives me great pleasure to officially launch Sunshine Coast Open House 2026.

Thank you.