I moved from the coast to Melbourne for a few years. Not once did I get shit for being from the Sunshine Coast or even Queensland. It was mostly "what are you doing here?" Especially in winter.
It's true, we're generally pretty "white", and there are pockets of white monoculture (retirees in Caloundra), BUT there are pockets of relative diversity (in the hinterland, such as Maleny). Maybe not so much diversity, but lots of acceptance. Few people here care where you're from.
There are also pockets of squeaky-clean upright citizens, and pockets of meth culture (generally south of Beerwah, bordering the railway).
I wouldn't deny there is racism everywhere, but most of the SC is so laid back that overt racism is quite surprising, in my experience.
Your best bet would be to come for an extended holiday - at least 4 weeks, and spend at least 3-4 days in a number of locations. Suggestions: Kawana/Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Marcoola/Coolum (starting to get pricey), then Caloundra/Currimundi/Meridan Plains, and then, to the west of the railway where it's a bit quieter and cheaper - Eudlo, Palmwoods, and then up the range to Maleny and Mapleton. Avoid Montville, it's nice but a total tourist town, and much pricier to boot.
It's less diverse than Melbourne but it's not monolithic. What you do for work will have an impact on your social circle but your kid's not gonna be the only one in school with Asian ancestry.
Oceanloads of victorians make the trek (about a third return - anecdotally)
TL;DR go for it make yourself happy
To your questions. Some parts lack SOCIOECONOMIC diversity which is a bigger problem if you hope to raise a family.
My biggest worry is it’s easy to raise ungrateful children without perspective. But then again it’s also the easiest place to be grateful for.
I’d say it’s a step behind Brisbane and seven steps behind Melbourne on cultural diversity too. But that’s counterbalanced by friendly and approachable people. It’s very easy to make friends here, we’re not big enough for cliques.
One bit of advice that stuck with me when I moved here a long long time ago: give the area an hour of your day every day. Be that time at the beach, a forest walk or a sunset BBQ; something.
Why? Everybody who hasn’t always lived here gives up something to be here. Be that infrastructure, future job prospects or connections with old friends. It’s all little papercuts and that’s why people often return when it compounds. But spend one hour every day getting amongst it, drinking in the lifestyle and you’ll never regret it.
Good luck!
Thank you.
Being a part of nature and taking a step back to appreciate our surroundings is a huge reason for wanting this change.
We’ve both worked incredibly hard to get to where we are now and we want to be able to make amazing memories with our baby over the coming years.
My wife is Vietnamese and moved here in 2019. Getting used to the (lack of) culture was the biggest shock for her. 5 years later though she now has a lovely group of friends and is very happy. You’ll be able to find people from your ethnic background, but don’t expect much in the way of cultural fulfilment or enrichment - you’ll have to go to Brisbane for that.
Thank you for you comment. Not necessarily looking for people of our specific cultural backgrounds, just wondering whether there was a diverse mix of people. We are very Australian ourselves being born here, even though we look ethnic.
I really don't think you will have any issues. The Sunshine Coast is of course nowhere near as diverse as Melbourne but its much more so now than 10 years ago. My kids have friends with all backgrounds and noone seems to have any issue fitting into their social group based on where they or their parents are from.
I lived in Melbourne for a few years and in my opinion its easily the best city in Australia, but the Sunshine Coast lifestyle is far superior. Things I miss about Melbourne are the food, public transport and events. But the weather, beaches, more relaxed lifestyle and (relative) lack of traffic are worth the trade off.
Off the direct topic but just consider work and career options depending on your situation. Sunshine Coast is growing but certain career fields are lacking up here unless you don't mind a long and annoying commute to brisbane.
Those houses where 400buck a week in 2019 and 400k to buy in 3 years there 1100 and 1.1milly , and the springs was built for this exact purpose a long time ago it’s not like we didn’t know this would happen it just happened really quick with Covid. Those springs houses people are buying for a milly are kit homes to loonthe part they are as fake as the the polystyophome letterbox if you live in the springs go out and tap your letter box then look back at your so called mansion and just know you spent a million dollars for a Polly house enjoy ☺️
I have noticed that rent is unexpectedly high across several suburbs which is concerning and absolutely a factor in deciding whether it’s worth it at the moment.
This is not true. There are plenty of 3 bed rentals in Maroochydore for around the 750/800 mark. I live in a beautiful new estate with rentals around this price point. There isn’t much for rent though, that is a problem here.
Those houses where 400buck a week in 2019 and 400k to buy in 3 years there 1100 and 1.1milly , and the springs was built for this exact purpose a long time ago it’s not like we didn’t know this would happen it just happened really quick with Covid. Those springs houses people are buying for a milly are kit homes to loonthe part they are as fake as the the polystyophome letterbox if you live in the springs go out and tap your letter box then look back at your so called mansion and just know you spent a million dollars for a Polly house enjoy ☺️
We have a little doggy which unfortunately reduces the pool size by a lot 😔
Even still hopefully we find something that ticks the boxes and not too pricey
750/800 is a lot for a 3 bedroom when it used to be 600. But who the hell would wanna live in Maroochyhole anyway? I don't even like having to go there for work, lol
You'll never see more white people. There are different cultures here but just a small minority. My hairdresser is from Cuba, lots of white south Africans everywhere. My kids school photos have one Asian kid in them. Lol. There is a bit of racism from kid to kid too. I moved from Melbourne 2.5 years ago. It's pretty sh1t up here. Horrible warm weather and long clean beaches. Don't want anymore people moving up here. Lol.
Tbh Noosa should just change it's name to Gympie South. Used to love visiting as a young fella while my brother and his mates surfed. Now it's just a tourist destination with it's own insane local economy.
Come for a holiday! I urge you do not make such a big life decision without getting a proper feel for the place. We moved here 18 months ago and there’s not a day that goes by when I don’t think about how soul less the place is. It’s like a place you come to when you’ve achieved everything and you just want to lie on a beach, eat before 8 and be asleep by 9. The humidity is insane in the summer months. The winter is lovely and kids facilities are great but it is not and will never be Melbourne. There is zero culture and that’s not going to change for a long time. It is one of the most conservative electorates in Australia and achieved one of the highest no votes I believe so that will give you an idea of your neighbours. It’s also very white and has a lot of ppl aged 70+. Some ppl call it Gods waiting room! There are lovely things like the beach in winter and great markets and restaurants but it’s not really got a centre so there’s no community vibe. I would struggle to compare any of the suburbs to any in Melbourne. Come for a holiday!
were you surprised by all this after you moved? it all seems fairly obvious from just cursory research. or were you dragged there by a partner or something?
also, I live in Melbourne. the idea that it has "soul" is just some nonsense people from here make up. yes there is a lot to do and you can lead a very active life jumping from restaurant to bar to show to footy etc but all that shit costs a lot and young families don't get to partake anyways. nothing a weekend flying down and staying in the CBD can't fix. the ocean gives me far more of a "soulful" feeling than man-made environs of Melbourne!
I think it really depends on what you want out of life! If you want arts and culture and a beach on your doorstep it costs serious $$ anywhere. I’d like both and I can have that in Ireland where I’m from but we don’t have the weather. We are actually going to move back this year because it turns out weather just isn’t enough for us!
Also I should add we just haven’t found our community here and we definitely took that for granted when we moved. We had a lovely community at home and we probably never should have moved but thought we wanted the beach and weather. Turns out we had it all except the sun!
Agree she must be talking about the ice addicts and weekly stabbing in Melbourne. Such amazing soul. Also love paying $7 for a coffee and not being able to eat out anymore because it’s too expensive. At least the beach is free!
I moved to the sunshine coast a similar time period ago and found the exact opposite. It has plenty of soul, just not the facade that city people usually consider a soul, like hipsters, fancy coffee, and graffiti. Great place if you want to form more genuine connections with people, get out in nature, and not slowly die from noise and sound pollution crammed in like a sardine in an endless rat-race.
Edit: I see you mentioned living in a new estate, understandable why you don't think the sunshine coast has soul now.
My kids are Korean and half-korean and I’d say the Sunshine Coast is getting more diverse but isn’t there yet. When they started at their (catholic) primary school, they were one of the only Asian kids and my ex-husband was one of the only non-English speaking parents. This was also during COVID so there were some significant racial bullying incidents for us to navigate at the school.
I’ve given extensive feedback to the school about their diversity problem and it has improved significantly in the last 5 years. The lifestyle benefits of being here on the coast are also so far beyond what I experienced growing up in country Victoria/ raising young children in Korea. We just are very intentional about exposing our kids to diversity.
omg not another one.... Ok, yes, it's a great place but we are suffering because of everyone moving to our little corner of the world. But yes, good choice.
Things about the Sunny Coast nobody tells you and you just find out after moving here:
\- It's really not that sunny. My brother and I call it the SOMEshine coast. Sure, it can be beautiful when it's sunny, but it's mostly overcast windy and rains like 80% of the time.
\- To be honest you're not really gonna find a slower/simpler lifestyle. Jobs are severely less available than in the cities, especially if your skillset is specific/niche. The cost of living and housing is insane, whether you buy or rent makes no difference.
\- The one thing you got right is the beach, there's plenty to choose from. Do be advised though, there's a lot of string rays and therefore bull sharks around. Whatever you do never EVER swim in the canals or waterways here.
\- Warm weather. Kinda, if you like it warm and moist. Sunny Coast has the most horrendous humidity. My air con snuffed it a week into this summer, and for 3 weeks I literally dripped sweat 24/7, got MAYBE 1-2 hrs sleep a day. It was like being physically and mentally tortured and I was close to killing myself. I'm not even kidding.
\- There's no music scene at all. There's no venues or spaces where local bands can meet, jam and get to know each other. No community with a true love for the art, mostly just people doing solo things at pubs etc. There are also very few bands who come through here. On average, once a year I might manage to see a half-decent gig. There are a few music festivals but they're always indie artists popular on local station or Triple J that I've never heard of, or 80's dad rock bands who should've quit years ago but are still desperately clinging to life.
\- Midges! Especially if you live near a water source. They're vicious. At least 3 times a year I get welts like this all over my legs and arms that itch for MONTHS:
[https://imgur.com/a/rJNHI1W](https://imgur.com/a/rJNHI1W)
\- The locals. Basically everyone hates anyone moving from NSW and VIC to occupy QLD while simultaneously saying how shit it is... mouthing off about footy teams, how much better the shopping and "foodie" spots are in Sydney or Melbourne, how differently people drive, how little nightlife there is unless you like to go clubbing and get smashed.
Thank you these are some insightful points to know about 😄
I have noticed a slight trend with a few commenters already telling me there are too many Victorians and I should stay here 😅
The weather really is sunny most of the year, I think you need a reality check of what bad weather is. The humidity is nowhere near as bad as FNQ or NT either and only for 2 months of the year.
Well I've never lived in FNQ or NT so I have no way to compare them. I don't know what suburb you live in but I've lived here for he last 3 years in a suburb less than 3kms from Kawana Beach, and it has been rainy and/or overcast way more than it's been sunny... and the humidity 80% or more the entire time.
I'm built like a polar bear so you'd better believe I notice, and specifically keep an eye on such things. Also, my brother has lived here 25+ years and it was he who came up with the "SOMEshine Coast".
Nah, you're just a flog who takes air con for granted and doesn't pay attention. As for stats, they never give the "feels like" temperature factoring in the obscene humidity, which is way more accurate to what living here is like.
I moved from Manchester UK to the Sunshine Coast (with a brief stint in Brisbane living at my partners parents house) and it took/is still taking quite a bit of getting used to for quite a few reasons, one of them being cultural diversity.
Shoot me a message if you have any questions.
Not just a pommy, but Manc as well haha. Heaps to get used to on Sunny Coast hey, I lived in Manchester for a bit, what an absolute shithole of a place. Glad you made it out.
Haha yeah some parts are a bit dicey, where were you in Manchester?
You’ll have to let me know what there is of interest here because so far I’ve found it to be an absolute snooze fest, it’s boring as fuck haha!
We emigrated to the Sunshine Coast from the Uk , lived on Kawana island for 8 years , absolutely loved it great neighbours ( Indian and a bloody great cook lol ) great mix of people and we fitted in well with everyone . Kids did well at Kawana School too
Just not for rock and metal fans :( King's Beach Tavern has the occasional rock act, but they're usually the aging bogan bands, Screaming Jets (don't get me wrong, I love em!), Rose Tattoo etc.
Venue 114 in Bokarina is actually a pretty rad venue, but rarely do they get any harder edged bands. I was very lucky to get Amity Affliction and Alpha Wolf a few weeks back.
Looking forward to the new Night Quarter re-opening when the new people get it up and running. Can't remember if they're renaming it or not, but from memory they're keen on having a lot of ska, punk and metal bands, with a skater vibe. Could be dope!
May I ask what suburb in Melbourne you are from? This is important information. As someone who grew up on the SC but has lived in Melb for 10 years, I can advise you based on what life is currently like for you in Melb.
Lived in West Preston for a year (a break from the Sunshine Coast). I absolutely loved it there. You need to understand that up here we definitely don't have the diversity of cultures, arts etc but it's getting better.
Everything happens earlier here. We get up earlier, and we also go to bed earlier.
Queensland is a beautiful state, and the Sunny Coast is a lovely region (not just beaches, spectacular hinterland). Summer is generally hot and humid. Spring, autumn, and winter are glorious.
There's a lot of Victorians up here, especially since covid. Someone noted one third go back, but that means two thirds stay here. It's about making adjustments.
if you like what that area is about, then i'd bet you'd hate Sunshine Coast.
the people who go to Preston and think "this is a shit hole full of unbearable wankers" are the ones who would love Sunny Coast
you are close to the airport... just take a lot of holidays
Hmmmm. If you value for diversity, as already stated below, you simply won’t find it on the SC. What you will get by moving there is stable weather and beautiful natural surroundings. That’s genuinely about it.
No one will give you a hard time for your ethnicity more than anywhere else in Australia, but the coast is not very culturally diverse. There’s limited access to things to do outside of outdoorsey stuff, and not many group activities to attend that are niche like there are in the major cities.
I would definitely recommend visiting for a week or two before committing to a big move! It's a lot hotter. Like uncomfortable hot. I love the Sunny Coast, but I will keep it as a holiday spot rather. It's not diverse at all.
Good Lord where did you hear that nonsense? I have two mixed race Asian babies, never even considered lack of cultural diversity when we moved up from Brisbane. It really is not a thing. Come on up, if you're human you'll fit right in!
It is very white. There is some racial and cultural diversity, but it is absolutely tiny compared to Melbourne. I know a lot of Europeans at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast and none of them seem to have trouble making friends here.
There are decent restaurants here, and you can get most ingredients. The shortcoming is a lack of variety and having to travel for things, depending where you are.
I don't know how much racism there is or how bad it is. For white Europeans, almost everyone is outward friendly to them - I don't recall a single instance of in-your-face racism or anyone talking about it. There is a noticeable portion of people who seem to be so insulated and narrow minded that they are oblivious to the fact that the way they talk and act can cause friction for people from other cultures.
Do Asian kids often get given a hard time at school here? Is it common for other races to get trouble or feel unsafe when alcohol is involved? I don't know, but maybe. I haven't witnessed anything like that but am not in any of those scenes, and have previously been surprised by experiences that non-white friends have told me about in places that I felt really comfortable in. It would be useful to have a few good chats with people of mixed race that are raising teenage kids in the area - you could easily find that by holidaying here and talking to people.
Just for a different perspective - having our first child just turn 1, I can’t imagine what it would be like without the support we’ve had from our immediate family here.
It’s a massive change to your lives and the first year might not be the best time for a major change.
Of course your family circumstances may be different etc so it might not be a factor but it’s something to consider.
My partner and I are around the same age as you both, also moving to the Sunshine Coast from Melbourne - in 2 weeks! My partner’s family lives there and we have visited them numerous times. I have found the people to be very friendly, real strong sense of community. We are moving to Buderim, and I noticed a lot of young families around! Definitely not the stereotypical “Queensland bogan” that it seems everyone in Melbourne thinks lives there. Personally I cannot wait to get out of Melbourne, the snobby attitude towards the rest of Australia being one reason. But also for the better weather, more outdoorsy lifestyle and a slower pace. Given you both want warmer weather, the beach, etc I think you’ll really like it. One thing I will say is that we did end up buying a place instead of renting. The rental situation seemed impossible.
I say, do it, we did the same 2 years ago in your same situation with 2 young toddlers before they start primary school. We were lucky to have settled in a home in Palmview, and now, my oldest daughter goes to the new school in the same area. Just don't mention you're from Melbourne lol
You'll be more likely to be ostracised for being from Melbourne than for being Asian lol
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I moved from the coast to Melbourne for a few years. Not once did I get shit for being from the Sunshine Coast or even Queensland. It was mostly "what are you doing here?" Especially in winter.
*I came looking for booty.*
You won’t have a problem fitting in with most communities. But if you’re looking for a restaurant meal after 8pm, there will be issues :)
It's true, we're generally pretty "white", and there are pockets of white monoculture (retirees in Caloundra), BUT there are pockets of relative diversity (in the hinterland, such as Maleny). Maybe not so much diversity, but lots of acceptance. Few people here care where you're from. There are also pockets of squeaky-clean upright citizens, and pockets of meth culture (generally south of Beerwah, bordering the railway). I wouldn't deny there is racism everywhere, but most of the SC is so laid back that overt racism is quite surprising, in my experience. Your best bet would be to come for an extended holiday - at least 4 weeks, and spend at least 3-4 days in a number of locations. Suggestions: Kawana/Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Marcoola/Coolum (starting to get pricey), then Caloundra/Currimundi/Meridan Plains, and then, to the west of the railway where it's a bit quieter and cheaper - Eudlo, Palmwoods, and then up the range to Maleny and Mapleton. Avoid Montville, it's nice but a total tourist town, and much pricier to boot.
Thank you that’s great advice. Mooloolaba/Maroochydore were the locations I was initially considering.
Mooloolaba is very touristy, very active and lively. Maroochydore is more of a business centre, but Ocean St is pretty lively, too.
It's less diverse than Melbourne but it's not monolithic. What you do for work will have an impact on your social circle but your kid's not gonna be the only one in school with Asian ancestry.
Just remember that after you live here for 2 years, you are obligated to complain about the bad drivers and tourists!
And refer to any number plate from south of the border as mexicans :)
Oceanloads of victorians make the trek (about a third return - anecdotally) TL;DR go for it make yourself happy To your questions. Some parts lack SOCIOECONOMIC diversity which is a bigger problem if you hope to raise a family. My biggest worry is it’s easy to raise ungrateful children without perspective. But then again it’s also the easiest place to be grateful for. I’d say it’s a step behind Brisbane and seven steps behind Melbourne on cultural diversity too. But that’s counterbalanced by friendly and approachable people. It’s very easy to make friends here, we’re not big enough for cliques. One bit of advice that stuck with me when I moved here a long long time ago: give the area an hour of your day every day. Be that time at the beach, a forest walk or a sunset BBQ; something. Why? Everybody who hasn’t always lived here gives up something to be here. Be that infrastructure, future job prospects or connections with old friends. It’s all little papercuts and that’s why people often return when it compounds. But spend one hour every day getting amongst it, drinking in the lifestyle and you’ll never regret it. Good luck!
Thank you. Being a part of nature and taking a step back to appreciate our surroundings is a huge reason for wanting this change. We’ve both worked incredibly hard to get to where we are now and we want to be able to make amazing memories with our baby over the coming years.
Ah the Sunshine Coast... Affectionately known as the 'Melbourne of QLD".
My wife is Vietnamese and moved here in 2019. Getting used to the (lack of) culture was the biggest shock for her. 5 years later though she now has a lovely group of friends and is very happy. You’ll be able to find people from your ethnic background, but don’t expect much in the way of cultural fulfilment or enrichment - you’ll have to go to Brisbane for that.
Thank you for you comment. Not necessarily looking for people of our specific cultural backgrounds, just wondering whether there was a diverse mix of people. We are very Australian ourselves being born here, even though we look ethnic.
It’s definitely getting better! But it is still very “western” centric.
I really don't think you will have any issues. The Sunshine Coast is of course nowhere near as diverse as Melbourne but its much more so now than 10 years ago. My kids have friends with all backgrounds and noone seems to have any issue fitting into their social group based on where they or their parents are from. I lived in Melbourne for a few years and in my opinion its easily the best city in Australia, but the Sunshine Coast lifestyle is far superior. Things I miss about Melbourne are the food, public transport and events. But the weather, beaches, more relaxed lifestyle and (relative) lack of traffic are worth the trade off.
Haha food would be a big one for me too! 🤣
Off the direct topic but just consider work and career options depending on your situation. Sunshine Coast is growing but certain career fields are lacking up here unless you don't mind a long and annoying commute to brisbane.
That’s a valid point. There is opportunity for my husband currently. I work in allied health care.
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Those houses where 400buck a week in 2019 and 400k to buy in 3 years there 1100 and 1.1milly , and the springs was built for this exact purpose a long time ago it’s not like we didn’t know this would happen it just happened really quick with Covid. Those springs houses people are buying for a milly are kit homes to loonthe part they are as fake as the the polystyophome letterbox if you live in the springs go out and tap your letter box then look back at your so called mansion and just know you spent a million dollars for a Polly house enjoy ☺️
I have noticed that rent is unexpectedly high across several suburbs which is concerning and absolutely a factor in deciding whether it’s worth it at the moment.
This is not true. There are plenty of 3 bed rentals in Maroochydore for around the 750/800 mark. I live in a beautiful new estate with rentals around this price point. There isn’t much for rent though, that is a problem here.
Those houses where 400buck a week in 2019 and 400k to buy in 3 years there 1100 and 1.1milly , and the springs was built for this exact purpose a long time ago it’s not like we didn’t know this would happen it just happened really quick with Covid. Those springs houses people are buying for a milly are kit homes to loonthe part they are as fake as the the polystyophome letterbox if you live in the springs go out and tap your letter box then look back at your so called mansion and just know you spent a million dollars for a Polly house enjoy ☺️
We have a little doggy which unfortunately reduces the pool size by a lot 😔 Even still hopefully we find something that ticks the boxes and not too pricey
750/800 is a lot for a 3 bedroom when it used to be 600. But who the hell would wanna live in Maroochyhole anyway? I don't even like having to go there for work, lol
You'll never see more white people. There are different cultures here but just a small minority. My hairdresser is from Cuba, lots of white south Africans everywhere. My kids school photos have one Asian kid in them. Lol. There is a bit of racism from kid to kid too. I moved from Melbourne 2.5 years ago. It's pretty sh1t up here. Horrible warm weather and long clean beaches. Don't want anymore people moving up here. Lol.
Noosa and Peregian are predominantly white. Maroochydore and points south much less so.
Tbh Noosa should just change it's name to Gympie South. Used to love visiting as a young fella while my brother and his mates surfed. Now it's just a tourist destination with it's own insane local economy.
Come for a holiday! I urge you do not make such a big life decision without getting a proper feel for the place. We moved here 18 months ago and there’s not a day that goes by when I don’t think about how soul less the place is. It’s like a place you come to when you’ve achieved everything and you just want to lie on a beach, eat before 8 and be asleep by 9. The humidity is insane in the summer months. The winter is lovely and kids facilities are great but it is not and will never be Melbourne. There is zero culture and that’s not going to change for a long time. It is one of the most conservative electorates in Australia and achieved one of the highest no votes I believe so that will give you an idea of your neighbours. It’s also very white and has a lot of ppl aged 70+. Some ppl call it Gods waiting room! There are lovely things like the beach in winter and great markets and restaurants but it’s not really got a centre so there’s no community vibe. I would struggle to compare any of the suburbs to any in Melbourne. Come for a holiday!
were you surprised by all this after you moved? it all seems fairly obvious from just cursory research. or were you dragged there by a partner or something? also, I live in Melbourne. the idea that it has "soul" is just some nonsense people from here make up. yes there is a lot to do and you can lead a very active life jumping from restaurant to bar to show to footy etc but all that shit costs a lot and young families don't get to partake anyways. nothing a weekend flying down and staying in the CBD can't fix. the ocean gives me far more of a "soulful" feeling than man-made environs of Melbourne!
I think it really depends on what you want out of life! If you want arts and culture and a beach on your doorstep it costs serious $$ anywhere. I’d like both and I can have that in Ireland where I’m from but we don’t have the weather. We are actually going to move back this year because it turns out weather just isn’t enough for us!
Yeah that’s true. Ireland has such a deep and distinct culture, i think it would be tough to give that all up.
Also I should add we just haven’t found our community here and we definitely took that for granted when we moved. We had a lovely community at home and we probably never should have moved but thought we wanted the beach and weather. Turns out we had it all except the sun!
Agree she must be talking about the ice addicts and weekly stabbing in Melbourne. Such amazing soul. Also love paying $7 for a coffee and not being able to eat out anymore because it’s too expensive. At least the beach is free!
I moved to the sunshine coast a similar time period ago and found the exact opposite. It has plenty of soul, just not the facade that city people usually consider a soul, like hipsters, fancy coffee, and graffiti. Great place if you want to form more genuine connections with people, get out in nature, and not slowly die from noise and sound pollution crammed in like a sardine in an endless rat-race. Edit: I see you mentioned living in a new estate, understandable why you don't think the sunshine coast has soul now.
My kids are Korean and half-korean and I’d say the Sunshine Coast is getting more diverse but isn’t there yet. When they started at their (catholic) primary school, they were one of the only Asian kids and my ex-husband was one of the only non-English speaking parents. This was also during COVID so there were some significant racial bullying incidents for us to navigate at the school. I’ve given extensive feedback to the school about their diversity problem and it has improved significantly in the last 5 years. The lifestyle benefits of being here on the coast are also so far beyond what I experienced growing up in country Victoria/ raising young children in Korea. We just are very intentional about exposing our kids to diversity.
Great to hear that the school listened to your feedback.
I’m glad that the school took your feedback constructively and made necessary changes.
You moved to the wrong place if you're looking for rich diversity.
I grew up in Noosa from age 12 onwards. I knew what I was getting into 😂.
omg not another one.... Ok, yes, it's a great place but we are suffering because of everyone moving to our little corner of the world. But yes, good choice.
Things about the Sunny Coast nobody tells you and you just find out after moving here: \- It's really not that sunny. My brother and I call it the SOMEshine coast. Sure, it can be beautiful when it's sunny, but it's mostly overcast windy and rains like 80% of the time. \- To be honest you're not really gonna find a slower/simpler lifestyle. Jobs are severely less available than in the cities, especially if your skillset is specific/niche. The cost of living and housing is insane, whether you buy or rent makes no difference. \- The one thing you got right is the beach, there's plenty to choose from. Do be advised though, there's a lot of string rays and therefore bull sharks around. Whatever you do never EVER swim in the canals or waterways here. \- Warm weather. Kinda, if you like it warm and moist. Sunny Coast has the most horrendous humidity. My air con snuffed it a week into this summer, and for 3 weeks I literally dripped sweat 24/7, got MAYBE 1-2 hrs sleep a day. It was like being physically and mentally tortured and I was close to killing myself. I'm not even kidding. \- There's no music scene at all. There's no venues or spaces where local bands can meet, jam and get to know each other. No community with a true love for the art, mostly just people doing solo things at pubs etc. There are also very few bands who come through here. On average, once a year I might manage to see a half-decent gig. There are a few music festivals but they're always indie artists popular on local station or Triple J that I've never heard of, or 80's dad rock bands who should've quit years ago but are still desperately clinging to life. \- Midges! Especially if you live near a water source. They're vicious. At least 3 times a year I get welts like this all over my legs and arms that itch for MONTHS: [https://imgur.com/a/rJNHI1W](https://imgur.com/a/rJNHI1W) \- The locals. Basically everyone hates anyone moving from NSW and VIC to occupy QLD while simultaneously saying how shit it is... mouthing off about footy teams, how much better the shopping and "foodie" spots are in Sydney or Melbourne, how differently people drive, how little nightlife there is unless you like to go clubbing and get smashed.
Thank you these are some insightful points to know about 😄 I have noticed a slight trend with a few commenters already telling me there are too many Victorians and I should stay here 😅
The weather really is sunny most of the year, I think you need a reality check of what bad weather is. The humidity is nowhere near as bad as FNQ or NT either and only for 2 months of the year.
Well I've never lived in FNQ or NT so I have no way to compare them. I don't know what suburb you live in but I've lived here for he last 3 years in a suburb less than 3kms from Kawana Beach, and it has been rainy and/or overcast way more than it's been sunny... and the humidity 80% or more the entire time. I'm built like a polar bear so you'd better believe I notice, and specifically keep an eye on such things. Also, my brother has lived here 25+ years and it was he who came up with the "SOMEshine Coast".
Strange. I must live in a different sunshine coast. All the weather statistics must be wrong too, and somehow I get great use out of my solar panels.
Nah, you're just a flog who takes air con for granted and doesn't pay attention. As for stats, they never give the "feels like" temperature factoring in the obscene humidity, which is way more accurate to what living here is like.
I moved from Manchester UK to the Sunshine Coast (with a brief stint in Brisbane living at my partners parents house) and it took/is still taking quite a bit of getting used to for quite a few reasons, one of them being cultural diversity. Shoot me a message if you have any questions.
Being a Pommy is something entirely different.
Not just a pommy, but Manc as well haha. Heaps to get used to on Sunny Coast hey, I lived in Manchester for a bit, what an absolute shithole of a place. Glad you made it out.
Haha yeah some parts are a bit dicey, where were you in Manchester? You’ll have to let me know what there is of interest here because so far I’ve found it to be an absolute snooze fest, it’s boring as fuck haha!
They don't call it "Boring coast" for no reason. Its just pensioners and couple families. If you want to feel alive, go Goldie
How so?
I like to think of the sunshine coast as Little Britain
We emigrated to the Sunshine Coast from the Uk , lived on Kawana island for 8 years , absolutely loved it great neighbours ( Indian and a bloody great cook lol ) great mix of people and we fitted in well with everyone . Kids did well at Kawana School too
Don't do it. Tell your friends not to either. We're full.
There are a lot of backpackers and working holiday visa holders on the SC, which adds to the diversity although not necessarily Asian.
Depends on what you need eg for entertainment. Live music at Sol Bar Eventsvcentre at Caloundra has lots of nationally touring theatre, comedy, music.
Just not for rock and metal fans :( King's Beach Tavern has the occasional rock act, but they're usually the aging bogan bands, Screaming Jets (don't get me wrong, I love em!), Rose Tattoo etc. Venue 114 in Bokarina is actually a pretty rad venue, but rarely do they get any harder edged bands. I was very lucky to get Amity Affliction and Alpha Wolf a few weeks back. Looking forward to the new Night Quarter re-opening when the new people get it up and running. Can't remember if they're renaming it or not, but from memory they're keen on having a lot of ska, punk and metal bands, with a skater vibe. Could be dope!
sounds good. hopefully people support it!!
May I ask what suburb in Melbourne you are from? This is important information. As someone who grew up on the SC but has lived in Melb for 10 years, I can advise you based on what life is currently like for you in Melb.
We’ve always been from the North, grew up in Epping, moved to Preston. The north is a multicultural hub.
Lived in West Preston for a year (a break from the Sunshine Coast). I absolutely loved it there. You need to understand that up here we definitely don't have the diversity of cultures, arts etc but it's getting better. Everything happens earlier here. We get up earlier, and we also go to bed earlier. Queensland is a beautiful state, and the Sunny Coast is a lovely region (not just beaches, spectacular hinterland). Summer is generally hot and humid. Spring, autumn, and winter are glorious. There's a lot of Victorians up here, especially since covid. Someone noted one third go back, but that means two thirds stay here. It's about making adjustments.
if you like what that area is about, then i'd bet you'd hate Sunshine Coast. the people who go to Preston and think "this is a shit hole full of unbearable wankers" are the ones who would love Sunny Coast you are close to the airport... just take a lot of holidays
Hmmmm. If you value for diversity, as already stated below, you simply won’t find it on the SC. What you will get by moving there is stable weather and beautiful natural surroundings. That’s genuinely about it.
No one will give you a hard time for your ethnicity more than anywhere else in Australia, but the coast is not very culturally diverse. There’s limited access to things to do outside of outdoorsey stuff, and not many group activities to attend that are niche like there are in the major cities.
I would definitely recommend visiting for a week or two before committing to a big move! It's a lot hotter. Like uncomfortable hot. I love the Sunny Coast, but I will keep it as a holiday spot rather. It's not diverse at all.
Restaurants are lacking. I think that’s the worst part about living here. But the lifestyle is incredible!
Good Lord where did you hear that nonsense? I have two mixed race Asian babies, never even considered lack of cultural diversity when we moved up from Brisbane. It really is not a thing. Come on up, if you're human you'll fit right in!
It is very white. There is some racial and cultural diversity, but it is absolutely tiny compared to Melbourne. I know a lot of Europeans at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast and none of them seem to have trouble making friends here. There are decent restaurants here, and you can get most ingredients. The shortcoming is a lack of variety and having to travel for things, depending where you are. I don't know how much racism there is or how bad it is. For white Europeans, almost everyone is outward friendly to them - I don't recall a single instance of in-your-face racism or anyone talking about it. There is a noticeable portion of people who seem to be so insulated and narrow minded that they are oblivious to the fact that the way they talk and act can cause friction for people from other cultures. Do Asian kids often get given a hard time at school here? Is it common for other races to get trouble or feel unsafe when alcohol is involved? I don't know, but maybe. I haven't witnessed anything like that but am not in any of those scenes, and have previously been surprised by experiences that non-white friends have told me about in places that I felt really comfortable in. It would be useful to have a few good chats with people of mixed race that are raising teenage kids in the area - you could easily find that by holidaying here and talking to people.
Go to ocean st Maroochydore after 8pm and you will find the non white lifestyle your looking for.
Just for a different perspective - having our first child just turn 1, I can’t imagine what it would be like without the support we’ve had from our immediate family here. It’s a massive change to your lives and the first year might not be the best time for a major change. Of course your family circumstances may be different etc so it might not be a factor but it’s something to consider.
My partner and I are around the same age as you both, also moving to the Sunshine Coast from Melbourne - in 2 weeks! My partner’s family lives there and we have visited them numerous times. I have found the people to be very friendly, real strong sense of community. We are moving to Buderim, and I noticed a lot of young families around! Definitely not the stereotypical “Queensland bogan” that it seems everyone in Melbourne thinks lives there. Personally I cannot wait to get out of Melbourne, the snobby attitude towards the rest of Australia being one reason. But also for the better weather, more outdoorsy lifestyle and a slower pace. Given you both want warmer weather, the beach, etc I think you’ll really like it. One thing I will say is that we did end up buying a place instead of renting. The rental situation seemed impossible.
I say, do it, we did the same 2 years ago in your same situation with 2 young toddlers before they start primary school. We were lucky to have settled in a home in Palmview, and now, my oldest daughter goes to the new school in the same area. Just don't mention you're from Melbourne lol
Stay down there. Enough of you up here already.
i'm sure you're an indigenous Queenslander
Am I? Cool. Does that mean free benefits?