A local musician says Sunshine Coast Council is destroying its grassroots music scene.

It comes after a popular Currimundi cafe was forced to shut down its live music program due to noise complaints.

Clive Carter, from alt-country rock band Bohemian Rogue, says it’s “disappointing” for emerging artists to lose another venue.

It’s the second time the popular beachside spot, Thrills Espresso, has had to switch off its outdoor acoustic entertainment.

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

“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. It’s not always making a profit, but it always provides a great family-friendly environment.”

Clive says the popular beachside cafe and sunset bar has been 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 music sessions in 2022.

And in August issued this 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,” the statement says.

Sunshine Coast Council blamed for music closures

Festivals, music clubs, open mic nights and live music venues, including two ukulele groups, have been fighting against noise complaints for years. Some have been forced to the streets to protest, such as Maleny Lane and Peregian Originals.

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 says Council has 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

Clive’s band has just released a song, “House on the Hill”. It boasts 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,” Clive says.

The song is about his friend “Jackson” Collins, who asked Clive to be in a song, only to sadly pass away.

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

Clive, whose band Mirrors supported Skyhooks in 1979, says music helps him find meaning in the world.

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

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

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

Listen to their new song:

Catch Bohemian Rogue at Moffat Beach Brewery, Your Mates Brewery, Kings Beach Surf Club, Mooloolah Vallet Country club or Rivershore.