Sunny Coast Sleeper brings safe sleep to Nambour

A safe night’s sleep can change everything. For people sleeping rough, even one night of uninterrupted rest can make an extraordinary difference.

In 2020, Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre (MNC) raised more than $200,000 to deliver Queensland’s first Sleepbus to the Sunshine Coast. In March 2025, MNC took ownership of the service.

Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, the generosity of a philanthropic family, the financial support of the community, and a grant from TURSA Employment and Training, the service was relaunched in November under a new name – Sunny Coast Sleeper.

A collaborative effort between Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre, Sunshine Coast Council and local service providers will see Sunny Coast Sleeper operating in Nambour from early 2026.

MNC CEO Mark Ellis, said that while the bus is not a permanent solution to homelessness, it plays a vital role in supporting people sleeping rough. 

“Even one night of safe, uninterrupted sleep makes an extraordinary difference,” Mr Ellis said. 

“Volunteers have described the transformation as chalk and cheese. People may get on the bus exhausted, overwhelmed, and short in their responses and by the next morning, they’re a different person.” 

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the Sunny Coast Sleeper is a practical and compassionate response to a pressing issue. 

“Nambour is a community that cares deeply about its people – when someone is sleeping rough, it affects all of us,” Mayor Natoli said. 

“Sunny Coast Sleeper will give people a safe, warm place to rest and a chance to connect with support services. 

“We need volunteers to make this possible – roles are flexible, training is provided, and even a few hours can make a big difference. If you’ve ever wanted to help, now is the time.” 

The Sunny Coast Sleeper will operate in Nambour on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights and in Maroochydore Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights each week, with the support of trained volunteers and community partners. 

Join us for a community open day

Where: Ann Street, Nambour

Date: Thursday 18 December

Time: 9.00am – midday

What: Residents can meet the team, tour the Sleeper bus and learn more about how to help. The open day will coincide with the Nambour Town Square Markets. 

Division 10 Councillor David Law encouraged locals to take part in the event. 

“The open day is a great opportunity to see the Sunny Coast Sleeper up close and understand how it will help people in our community,” Cr Law said. 

“Come along, meet the volunteers, and find out how you can get involved. Together, we can make a real difference for those doing it tough in Nambour.” 

How to get involved

• Register your interest via the Sunny Coast Sleeper Volunteer email .
• Follow the Sunny Coast Sleeper on the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre Facebook and Instagram for updates.
• Purchase a Give a Safe Sleep Christmas voucher to support the initiative at givenow.com.au/sunnycoastsleeper

Join us on Thursday 18 December, in Ann Street, Nambour, to see the Sunny Coast Sleeper service up close, learn more about the service, or sign up for one of the many volunteer opportunities.