Currimundi: A local musician has called out Sunshine Coast Council for destroying the grassroots music scene after a cafe and bar was again forced to close its doors to live music.

Clive Carter, from country rock group Bohemian Rogue, said support for emerging artists was “disappointing” after Thrills Espresso at Currimundi announced noise complaints had shut down music at the venue for a second time.

Picture: Bohemian Rogue.

“The music scene on the Sunny coast has some challenges,” the 62-year-old said.

“I have seen a growth in smaller venues trying to support local artists, but the last 12 months has been tough for some of these venues.

“(Thrills is a) small venue that for almost two years gave a platform for performers – not always making a profit – but always providing a great family friendly environment.”

Carter, whose 2018 song “Ode to Moffs” took out a gong on Noosa FM radio, said the coffee shop and sunset bar was struggling to keep customers since performances were axed.

“I really hope this can be sorted. The Coast seems to naturally attract talented artistic people.”

Council shut down the cafe’s popular weekend sessions in 2022, and in August issued a statement on social media: “Currimundi Arts has had to cancel the live music this afternoon; however, we will remain open for sunset cocktails and dinner.”

Festivals, music clubs, open mic events and live music venues, including two ukulele groups, have for years fought to remain open following noise complaints, with some taking to the street in protest.

The acoustic gatherings on the grass at Currimundi Lake have always been a family affair, with parents and their kids often found dancing at sunset while musicians play.

And while it has been confirmed that live music will go ahead at the lake’s Twilight Markets on November 17 it is still unknown whether the cafe can continue to hold its regular jams.

The markets are run by Caloundra Chamber of Commerce with a Council permit.

Councillor Peter Cox said Council had modified its busking permit area to incorporate the space in front of the cafe after going through a community engagement process. 

Thrills Cafe has been contacted for comment.

New music from Bohemian Rogue:

Carter’s band recently released stellar new alt-country rock song, “House on the Hill”, with guitar licks and drums which are as powerful as its compelling song lines.

“When listening to the lyrics you will be transported to a mysterious and dangerous place,” Carter said of the song he wrote about his friend “Jackson” Collins, who serendipitously asked him to be in a song only to sadly pass away soon after.

“The songwriting process stopped for a while until an overwhelming need arose to complete and dedicate the song to him.”

Carter, whose band Mirrors supported Skyhooks in 1979, said music helped him find meaning in the world.

“I find my music to be about personal expression like any art form,” he said.

“I hope to continue writing and performing expressing myself through music.

“We will continue on our path, enjoying the ride.”

Bohemian Rogue regularly plays at Moffat Beach Brewery, Your Mates Brewery, Kings Beach Surf Club, Mooloolah Vallet Country club and Rivershore.

Listen to their new song: