Local 19yo music sensation Marshall Hamburger is a contestant on this year’s Australian Idol with his audition airing this week on 3 February on Channel 7 and 7plus.
The son of musical parents Gavin and Kellie Hamburger – who own and operate Hamburger Music Productions in Doonan – Marshall describes himself as a self-professed nerd with a love of superheroes.
Music has always been a part of Marshall’s life. A singer and songwriter who plays the piano, his songs are described as a modern throwback blending retro vibes with a contemporary flair, that bring an old soul's depth to a young musician's creative spirit. Marshall also loves musical theatre, acting and film production. His band Instant Soup performs regularly – as anything from a duo up to a Cont. p3
Marshal Hamburger (sent from Channel 7)
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twelve-piece band –at the Canteen Kitchen and Bar in Coolum and corporate events such as Noosa Concours, Noosa Alive and the Noosa Come Together festival.
Speaking to Eumundi Voice, Marshall gave us some insight into his background, what makes him tick and advice he would give to other young people who were interested in pursuing a career in the music industry.
You said on Australian Idol’s promotional clip, “It’s time a geek won Australian Idol.” If you could choose any superhero, who would you be?
Superman, because even though he has super strength and super senses, he must do so much work to control them to have a normal life otherwise he would be overwhelmed. Superman is also kind and gives people hope. What would your superpower be?
Music sort of feels like a superpower, but categorically the best superpower to have would be the power to be able to do anything you want.
What advice would you give to young musicians thinking about choosing music as a career?
My advice would be when you walk into a space with other musicians – or with anybody really –show respect. No matter how good you are, if you don’t respect everyone in that room, you are not going to get any respect back.
If you are going to compare yourself to someone, compare yourself to your idol. Visualise where you want to be. Never compare yourself to the
person you are sitting next to. You don’t know what they have been through, or where they are at in their career. The person next to you may not have the same goal as you. Instead of competing with them, collaborate with them and be kind.
What are your dreams for the future?
To have recorded an album or albums of music, and to perform my music to a crowd of people who are interested. That is really every musician’s dream. To have affirmation that my music is good enough for someone to enjoy and listen to.
Follow Marshall’s journey on Australian Idol and wish him the best of luck. Visit: facebook.com/ AustralianIdol. Tania Watson
Get along to the courtyard at Eumundi Coffee Roasters (ECR) on 8 February for an evening of Burning Stars with musicians Mou and Milo Hunter. Isaac (Mou) and Kyle (Milo) have been part of the musical world for over a decade, playing in multiple bands, touring and producing.
ECR owner Tom said it’s hard to define their music, but he is thrilled to have them play at ECR’s first show of the year. Italian dinner options are available along with a full bar. The event is for over 18s with doors opening at 4.30pm. Tickets: events.humanitix.com.
Living Well
Cooroy Library is hosting an 8-week program of Noosa Council’s Living Well Workshops for 2025. It started in early February with some modifications based on feedback from last year’s workshops.
Workshops include a Creative Wellness for Youth Workshop – using art – from 11 February and a 4-week Mums’ Meditation and Resilience Workshop from 19 February.
Other programs at the Cooroy Library include parents and carers “Crafternoons” each Monday and Kids’ Yoga on Tuesdays. For the full list of classes visit the Living Well Program at noosa. qld.gov.au.
Belli Hall Charity Upcycled Fashion Show
Interested in learning a creative skill, reducing clothing waste and helping others? Belli Hall will be hosting a Charity Upcycled Fashion show on 1 March at 3.30pm.
The event aims to inspire younger generations to fix and reuse clothing and prevent clothes ending up in landfill, while at the same time raising much needed funds for charities. The fashion show will include clothes that have been sewn for victims of domestic violence. These clothes will then be donated to the Sunshine Coast Health service. Children and adults can enter items into the show that have been repurposed or remade. Be as creative as you like! Entry is $5 with a free beverage on arrival. There will also be light refreshments available and a range of clothes for sale, with all proceeds going to charity. Cash purchases are preferred. Funds raised will go to Sunny Coast Hospital, Rainbow House and Heartprint. To RSVP or lend a hand with sewing, contact Pauline on 0448 948 198.
Galapagos Duck
If you love jazz, you will more than likely have heard of Galapagos Duck. The band began playing at a NSW ski resort in the late 1960s and became an icon in the Australian music scene. While the members have changed over time, the band’s goal remains – to perform jazz that everyone can enjoy.
The concert is almost a sell-out with a few tickets remaining for mezzanine seating at the Majestic Theatre in Pomona on 27 February. Tickets: themajestictheatre.com.au.
WHAT’S ON?
Belli community events in 2025
The Belli Park community has several events planned for 2025 at the historic Belli Hall to assist with fundraising to cover maintenance costs of the hall.
On 22 February, The Haymakers Bush Band will lead a bush dance from 6pm. Entry is $15 and dancers are asked to bring a plate for supper. Other events throughout the year include yoga on Mondays at 6pm and Fridays at 9am, as well as Pilates on Tuesdays at 6.30pm. There is also “wine time” on the second Thursday of each month from 6pm and a crop swap on the first Friday of each month at 10.15am.
From April-November, join in some old-time dancing on the third Saturday of each month from 6.30pm. Mrs Brown's Diner markets take place on the fourth Saturday of each month from 3pm. For further details email: bellihall@ gmail.com.
The Pursuit of Ideal Content
The Pursuit of Ideal Content is a group exhibition which runs from 20 February to 20 March at the Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre.
Nine women artists from the Sunshine Coast investigate the social and personal consequences of the rise of social media and its impact on young women’s selfperceptions. Their works are accompanied by portraits produced in a photography workshop run by Christine Hall. The exhibition coincides with International Women's Day on 8 March, when the Butter Factory hosts a cocktail evening from 5-8pm with performances by Slim Jane and SCRAPS, and a cocktail bar sponsored by Your Mates Brewing Co. Visit: butterfactoryartscentre.com.au.
Noosa Summer Swim Festival
The Noosa Summer Swim Festival at Main Beach on 22&23 February is one of Australia’s most popular open-water swims and a bucket-list event for any keen ocean swimmer. The first days events will see 2 open-water clinics while Sunday’s events include a race for all levels and ages. Go early to cheer on the swimmers. Visit: worldseriesswims.com.au.
Havana Nights Markets
The Havana Nights Markets at Peregian Springs have moved to the first and third Fridays of each month in 2025. Find them at The Pool Cafe, 222 The Avenue in Peregian Springs from 4-8pm, with live music, food trucks, artisan stalls and fun for everyone. Visit: FB Havana Nights Markets.
Stevens St Gallery
The Summertime exhibition at Stevens St Gallery in Yandina captures just that – the landscapes, oceans and abstracts that reflect long summer days and warm nights. Visit the gallery to view a diverse collection of works by local artists until 29 March. Visit: stevensstreetgallery.com.au.
Artwork in progress by Jasmine Veronique.
WHAT'S ON?
Mardi Gras Streamed Live
Head to the Majestic Theatre Pomona on 1 March for a live streaming of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras on the big screen.
This year’s theme is Free to Be. Dress-ups are highly encouraged and dancing is expected. There will be pre-show dancing, door prizes for the best wig, best dressed and more. The doors and a licensed bar open at 6pm, and the screening runs from 7-11pm. Tickets are $15 with proceeds going to The Hope Fund. Bookings: themajestictheatre.com.au.
D.I.V.E Workshops
D.I.V.E Theatre Collective is a Sunshine Coastbased multicultural contemporary theatre company that aims to create thought-provoking productions. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion D.I.V.E stands for: diverse, investigative, visceral, enlightening.
This year D.I.V.E will run a number of workshops at The Black Box Theatre in Nambour. Dancing with Words will be held in 4 modules on 15 February, 26 July, 23 August and 8 November with a focus on creative writing, theatre and movement. The Art of Presence takes place on 15 March and will focus on physical theatre and storytelling. The Art of Devising will be held on 28 June and Theatre of the Oppressed from 29 September to 3 October. Visit: divetheatre.com.
Noosa’s Surfing History
Join TV personality Andy Phipps at The J on 11 March as he leads a conversation with surfers who knew Noosa from the 1960s-90s. What influence did those surfers have on today’s Noosa?
Noosa Libraries have been recording interviews with surfers and board makers from that era. The bar opens at 4pm and the discussion begins at 5pm. Noosa’s Surfing History: In Conversation lasts for 90mins and will be followed by refreshments on the deck. Bookings: thej.com.au.
Pomona Community House
The Pomona Community House (PCH) goes from strength to strength with a wide range of activities and community support programs in place. PCH has a new bimonthly What’s On newsletter located outside the PCH in a box made by the Pomona Men’s Shed to help everyone keep up with its many activities.
A new group for 2025, Adolescent Allies:
Parenting Beyond Childhood focuses on raising teens and meets monthly from 12 February at 4-5.30pm. The organisation also hosts regular support sessions, including advice on family law, finances, NDIS, accessing Services Australia and other matters. PCH has also organised a community pantry donation box for nonperishables, located outside the Pomona IGA.
On 22 February PCH has joined with The Spot social hub at 15 Diamond St, Cooroy to host a special evening of songs, stories and art called The Spotlight, with bookings through Humanitix. Visit: pomonacommunityhouse.org.au.
Photo by Manuel Freudenmann With thanks to Tourism Noosa
Coast View Parade, Doonan
Marlock Court, Doonan
Youngs Drive, Doonan
Whipbird Place, Doonan
COMMUNITY
Construction to start on new pedestrian bridge
Construction has begun on the $6M Seib Rd Bridge project funded by the Australian and Qld Governments. The new pedestrian bridge aims to make crossing the North Maroochy River safer for locals who currently commute along Eumundi-Noosa Rd.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has partnered with Sunshine Coast Council (SCC) to develop the design for the bridge, boardwalk and pathway. SCC will lead the project through the construction phase
and the new infrastructure will form part of the council’s local road and pedestrian network. The new bridge will run adjacent to the existing road bridge on Eumundi-Noosa Rd with construction
expected to be completed by mid-2025, weather conditions permitting.
SCC Div 10 Cr David Law expressed his pleasure that construction has started, and that council would continue to collaborate with TMR throughout the construction phase. “I want to acknowledge our community’s support to get this project to the next stage,” Cr Law said.
State Member for Ninderry Dan Purdie said, “Since being elected seven years ago, I have stood with locals in the fight to fund this vital pedestrian upgrade. Not only has it been one of my top priorities, but the Eumundi community has also been calling for it for more than 20 years.
Mr Purdie continued: “The town of Eumundi has always been a special place on the Sunshine Coast for locals and visitors alike. It is important that our local infrastructure keeps pace with the rapid growth we are experiencing here.”
Eumundi Writers’ Festival
Save the date for the inaugural Eumundi Writers’ Festival, which is scheduled for 22-24 August in venues throughout Eumundi, including Berkelouw Books.
There will be opportunities for writers to pitch their work to published writers and publishers/ agents, plus “In Conversation” sessions with notable authors, family storytelling sessions, writing workshops and a poetry slam with workshops.
The festival is supported by Berkelouw Books, Matso's Sunshine Coast and the Sunshine Coast Council. Any writers, volunteers or potential sponsors with queries please contact: director@ eumundiwritersfestival.com.au.
L-R: Cr David Law, Dan Purdie MP and David Perez (Eumundi Chamber of Commerce)
COMMUNITY
Learning studio now open
The Pavilion at 79 Memorial Dr has given space to homeschooled children on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the school term. At this time there are 14 children aged between 5-14yo engaged in diverse learning activities designed to cater for individual interests, learning styles and developmental stages.
Currently the activity happens on the ground floor space with organisers looking to increase numbers and move upstairs to the large open indoor space as well. The facilitators are Ben Streatfeild, a teacher who has spent a lot of time teaching in schools across the Sunshine Coast, supported by Chelsea who is an experienced home school tutor and passionate carer.
The learning experiences are designed to provide life skills as well as explore creative and mentally challenging projects – with help from our community.
Organisers hope to attract experts from the community to help initially with projects, such as mechanics, woodwork, entrepreneurship, the arts and languages. If you have skills in these areas or anything you feel you would like to pass on to another generation, this is an opportunity
If you see this as a great fit for your child or yourself as a mentor, please contact Jo on 0427 328 372 to register your interest. Janet Millington
Memorial bench update
Family members met with SCC representatives last week to discuss the removal of a memorial bench dedicated to Chris Walter as part of the council’s streetscaping works.
The family has been advised that the memorial bench will remain out the front of The Imperial Hotel, however it will take on a slightly different form to align with the streetscaping plans. A new timber seat will be installed by SCC and the words on the original plaque will be etched into the timber along with a guitar beside the wording.
Suzanne Walter said the family are pleased with the outcome. “We would like to thank the community for their support in this matter. To all who reached out to us personally, it really meant a lot. Thank you to Janet Millington for the story in Eumundi Voice. I would also like to thank Hayley Murphy from the council who has
BUSINESS NEWS
From Europe to Eumundi
If you had told Kylie and Jason Southon a few years ago that rubber ducks would inspire a business idea, they probably would have laughed. However, that’s exactly what happened during a family trip to London!
While visiting their daughter, they noticed the rubber duck craze taking over Europe. “Everywhere we went, there were quirky, fun rubber ducks,” said Kylie.
However, it wasn’t until Christmas of 2023, when their daughter and her partner visited them in Australia, that the rubber duck obsession really hit home. Her daughter’s partner – a selfprofessed fan – wanted nothing more than to take home a rubber duck as a souvenir. Sadly, he couldn't find one, and that's when the lightbulb went off! “Why not bring these whimsical, smileinducing ducks to Australia?”
With the idea of a rubber duck store brewing, they began searching for the perfect spot to bring their dream to life before carefully choosing Eumundi Square as their new home.
“It’s a place known for its lively atmosphere, high foot traffic and popularity with both locals and tourists. It’s the kind of place where you can stroll, shop and discover something unique.
“Our store isn’t just about rubber ducks – it’s about finding the one that makes you smile every time you see it,” said Kylie.
From quirky, limited-edition designs to rubber ducks that celebrate every season and occasion, there’s something for everyone. Shop in store every Wednesday from 7.30am-2pm, Friday 8.30am-1pm and Saturday 7.30am-2pm, or online at sunnysideducks.com.
Pomona Providores
Pomona Providores is the new kid in town. Located two doors down from the distillery on Reserve St, this fantastic addition to Pomona wouldn't be out of place in a big city.
The region is blessed with a plentiful supply of outstanding local producers and many are showcased here. Pomona Providores stocks popular local brands such as the delicious Bezel's Bagels, Pomona Distillery Co’s gin, vodka and their famous smoked meats, plus many more delicious treats.
When you're next in Pomona, we recommend popping in and savouring some local delights.
Mon to Fri 8.30am - 5.00pm
Closed Weekends & Public Holidays
Suite 6 / 2-6 Etheridge St EUMUNDI QLD 4562
Introducing Psychologist Debbie Lucas
Debbie is a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of experience in government and private practice. She has worked for Queensland Health in roles such as Clinical Educator and Senior Psychologist, focusing on mental health, pain management, and parenting. For the past 8 years she has practiced privately on the Sunshine Coast specialising in individual and couples therapy. She sees clients 14+ for individual therapy and all ages for couples and family therapy, both in-person and via telehealth. Her primary approach is Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), supported by training in Schema Therapy, EMDR, ACT, DBT, CBT, IFS, and trauma-focused methods. Her specialties include:
• Anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief, and loss
• Relationship issues, attachment trauma, and sexual well-being
• Chronic conditions, persistent pain, women’s health, and LGBTQIA+ care
• Perinatal and infant mental health and parenting transitions.
Mon to Fri 8.30am - 5.00pm Closed Weekends & Public Holidays
Suite 6 / 2-6 Etheridge St EUMUNDI QLD 4562
Dr Hoda Morris MBChB, MRCGP, FRACGP, DFSRH
Dr David Heppell MBChB, MRCGP, FRACGP
Dr Karen MacMillan MBChB, MRCGP, DRCOG, FRACGP
Dr Paul Baker BMBS, PhD, BSc (Hons), DipAppSci
Dr Simon Menelaws MA (Master of Arts), MBChB
Dr Gillian Cairney MBChB, MRCGP
Dr Carl Faldt MBBS
OUT AND ABOUT
Australia Day events
Locals and visitors attended the many Australia Day events that were hosted throughout the Sunshine Coast on 26 January.
A fun day was had by all who attended the Australia Day event held at Dick Caplick Park by the Eumundi District and Community Assn (EDCA). There were competitions for the kids with games such as thong throwing and sack races and the adults were entertained with the toe tapping tunes of the The Mason Rack Band. Eumundi Rotary provided the traditional sausage on bread and a true Aussie Day treat of damper with butter and treacle for dessert!
There was a vibrant community spirit at the Noosa Australia Day Festive held at the Lions Park along Gympie Tce by the Tewantin Noosa Lions Club, with plenty of live music, delicious food and rides to entertain the kids.
Other events included community celebrations at local halls including the Verrierdale Hall and Belli Community Hall.
Fairies at Fairhill
Fairies were spotted at Fairhill Botanic Gardens recently, checking out the delightful grotto which winds along woodland paths with stories about fairies throughout the world who care for the environment.
Visitors also enjoyed the guest speakers and the incredible selection of native plants to investigate or purchase. The cafe with its farm to fork menu was popular with fairies and humans alike.
EUMUNDI ROTARY CLUB
Helping local projects
Surplus funds generated from the production of Eumundi Voice have provided funds to assist many local community groups achieve their aims, with almost $50,000 donated since the publication’s inception. At a recent board meeting of Eumundi Rotary Initiatives Ltd (ERIL), grant applications were approved for another 6 successful applicants to the value of $4,683, covering a wide range of community groups in our area.
Welcome Back Students
Already creating and maintaining a healthy community, the Eumundi Community Garden located near the pool, applied for funding to spread the word about their workshops and courses. The group has received in-kind print and online advertising in Eumundi Voice to spread the word to the magazine’s 4000+ readers.
Helping those less fortunate through a range of activities, the Events for Greater Good (E4GG) received funds towards improving their website, to attract more donations and advertise their activities in domestic violence support and supporting disadvantaged children in Nepal.
The Tall Trees group based in Cooran, is wellknown for its promotion of the arts culture in our area. Eumundi Voice is proud to sponsor two prizes, for a winner and emerging talent in the youth section.
As part of a healthy lifestyle, Eumundi Magpies Futsal Club is working towards hosting its first official games at the Eumundi Showgrounds. Eumundi Voice has donated funds towards purchase of a branded marquee to help the 80
members make the most of the home-ground big day.
Riding for the Disabled Sunshine Coast has a strong history of supporting those with a disability gain confidence by interacting with horses. To keep volunteers sun-safe the donation by Eumundi Voice will be used to purchase caps and sunscreen.
Rotary clubs in our local area have a focus on mental health, and Eumundi Voice is pleased to support Kanyini Connection – better known as Hoofbeats – to provide a facilitator to conduct 2 day-long courses for Mental Health First Aid for up to 60 people.
A second round of applications for funding will open in May. Incorporated groups and charities are encouraged to apply. To find out about past recipients and view the application form visit: eumundivoice.com.au/fundraising-donations.
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DAY TRIPS FOR FAMILIES
Traveston Crossing is the perfect spot to cool down and relax on a hot summer's day. Situated 5mins from Traveston service station – home to Matilda from the 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games. There are no signposts on Traveston Crossing Rd for the swim spot, but you can access it by the bridge over the Mary River. If you have 4x4 you can drive down to the water's edge, if not you can park just off the road and walk down. There is plenty of space for everyone and you can even take your dog. Enjoy!
Lake Baroon Pocket Dam is a hidden treasure approximately 50mins drive from Eumundi. Located between Maleny and Montville, Baroon Pocket Dam is a picturesque lake worth visiting for a picnic or bbq. Situated at the southern end
of Montville, turn onto Western Ave. Follow this for about 3km, then turn right onto Narrows Rd. The dam adjoins the Obi Obi Gorge where you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, fishing or the various walks around the lake. There is a side track to the Obi Obi Creek Walk which allows visitors to experience the sheer vastness of this magnificent natural environment with spectacular views over the Obi Obi. There is also a 4km return walk through beautiful forest to a lookout. The entrance to the Great Walk is at the bottom of Narrows Rd on the right. The lookout is about 500m along the walking trail. Also worth a visit is the Lake House which is a beautiful colonial style building on the foreshore of Lake Baroon surrounded by stunning flowers, decks, rock pools, arbours, and a carved bar and servery. Visit: secretsonthelake.com.au.
LANGUAGE
Isabella’s Italian language class
If you are going to visit Italy, dream of living in an Italian village or just love the thought of learning a beautiful language, this is the opportunity for you to learn everyday conversational Italian. Isabella is offering a 10-week class in Italian Language for Beginners starting 11 February at the Leisure Centre, Wallace Dr Noosa.
Isabella is a Scottish-born Australian who went to Italy for a holiday and stayed 25 years! Living in Tuscany or any enchanting Italian village for a year or two is a life change many people dream about. Isabella was 18 on her first visit to Italy, she went again at 28 until finally, in her mid-40’s her dream came true, and she stayed.
Isabella says, “Italian is an expressive language, rhythmic and musical. Having the advantage of total immersion until fluidity may not be an option for you. But you can learn conversational Italian – it won’t take 25 years!”
Isabella is the author of Vanilla Beans & Brodo and 2 other books about Italy that describe life
in her village in Tuscany. She has also published a cookbook with the local ladies. Isabella is a wellknown guest speaker about the art, culture, history and social traditions of Italy.
“Having decided Italy was my new home, I was faced with the language barrier. Other than pizza, cappuccino and spaghetti I did not speak Italian, and I had no money for lessons. In any event, there was no one in my village who even spoke English, let alone could teach Italian.
“Immersing myself in the daily rhythm in a small community, observing and listening, I was brave enough to buy apples or ask train times in scrambled Italian, which led to many embarrassing encounters the locals thought were hilarious!” said Isabella.
For full details email isabelladusi039@gmail.com or phone 0481 192 868.
YOUTH
Seedlings Playgroup – the perfect way to connect and grow
Do you have a little one ready to play, grow and connect?
Seedlings Playgroup is a free, weekly event held
every Thursday from 8.50-10.30am at Eumundi State School (ESS) that will allow your child to discover a world of fun and learning. Children aged 0 to 5 are invited to explore, create and connect in a safe, stimulating environment. Coordinated by experienced educators, Seedlings encourages both indoor activities in a well-equipped classroom and outdoor fun in the Prep playground.
Parents can enjoy a chance to mingle as their little ones explore engaging activities which foster friendships and early learning skills. This community initiative not only enriches young minds but also aims to support a seamless transition to Prep at ESS.
Join Seedlings for their first session on 13 February. Enjoy the excitement on your children’s faces as they arrive and explore learning opportunities and watch their friendships flourish. Remember to bring a snack, hat and plenty of enthusiasm. For more information, reach out to Louise Hobson or Sarah McDonagh at playgroup@eumundiss.eq.edu.au.
KINDNESS COUNTS
Kindness on display
Sunshine Coast Cr Maria Suarez recently shared this story on Facebook and Eumundi Voice is pleased to share it with our readers.
Thank you to the mother and daughter in Peregian Springs for their display of kindness.
Yesterday the contracting crew who were placing asphalt humps at the new raised pedestrian crossings in Peregian Springs were struggling with the heat. It was around 55 degrees behind the paver.
A lovely woman and her daughter arrived with 3 bags full of ice and cold drinks for the workers. It was such a thoughtful and appreciated gesture. The workers were blown away saying, "It is nice to know that there is still plenty of kindness and generosity within our community." They did not get her name, and we cannot thank them properly. I hope this lady and her daughter see this post and know what a difference it made to the workers.
DOWN MEMORY LANE
Traveller’s Woes
I adore travelling. When I was ten, my mother put me and my toddler brother on ‘daytrip’ buses, with a bag containing food, drinks, our bathers, a towel and coins for ice cream. She waved us off as we toured England and Wales. Mum was there when we always managed to return to the bus station. My brother and I covered most of England by our late teens.
Another success story was travelling to Belgium, aged 11, with Granddad revisiting the scenes of his WWI traumas. The trenches, still with boots, rifles, helmets and other reminders of man’s inhumanity to man, plus Granddad’s tears and stories are etched in my memory.
But after these successful starts to my travelling, things gradually got worse…
A school trip to France prepared me for the
hiccoughs to come. My French teacher, the previous day, had got lost on the Metro but I escorted us girls – wearing our English school uniforms – on the right train, arriving hours before she appeared with the Gendarmerie.
As we were about to board our plane the following day for home my name was blared out on the public address system. “What have you done now?” she demanded. My passport photo taken at 11 years bore no resemblance to the 16yo before the immigration officer. “Hmm," she said, “some ugly ducklings do become swans.” The others all got the flight. Miss Northend and I travelled in silence on a later one.
Sometimes it’s a situation of my own making. During Uni holidays backpacking around Europe, I was arrested in Rome for taking coins out of the Trevi Fountain. Luckily, I was able to
The Suez Canal crisis delayed our ship to Australia for 2 weeks. The amended route around Africa included a terrible cyclone in the Bay of Biscay and our money stolen in Cape Town. Arriving in Melbourne 7 weeks overdue, our baby’s measles meant we were the last to leave the ship.
Rome was the focus for more dramas with money stolen in Rome (again). Then Rome airport caught fire. I persuaded Alitalia to put us in a hotel and feed us for 2 days. We'd lost all our UK bookings.
Even after winning a trip to the Solomon Islands, we were met with boarded-up shops and Aussie soldiers and police everywhere, warning us of violent riots. We were bundled into a tiny tinny and taken to a remote island. Our accommodation was a WW2 cement bunker with no electricity, occasional running water and human contact limited to one native village. Other hiccoughs included a sudden army coup in Fiji which saw one holiday transferred to
Mauritius and a French motorcycle cop who attempted to ‘fine’ us for stealing our hire car! We also experienced cyclones in Fiji, hurricanes in Florida and the Bermuda Triangle, and the Memphis police guarding the next room’s drug lab. Our anticipated adventure on the Indian Pacific train met with torrential rain, flooding and a collapsed track – the ‘train trip of a lifetime’ was completed on a bus.
Despite all these misadventures I am still looking forward to enjoying a trouble-free holiday … sometime!
Eileen Walder
Community News
Ready to make a difference in our vibrant community?
Council offers a range of grants and funding for community projects and artistic development. And guess what? Three exciting funding programs are open right now: Major Community Grants; Minor Community Grants and Regional Arts Development Funding. If you think you have a project that fits, visit Council’s website to apply or for further details.
Don't paws, help shape the region today
With local dog registrations expected to grow to more than 80,000 in the next 20 years it’s time to expand and enhance our dog exercise facilities. The draft Dog Exercise Area Regional Plan and Network Blueprint is designed to benefit our whole community and the natural environment – prioritising safety, wellbeing and liveability for people and pets alike. Head to haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au to share your thoughts until 28 February.
Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting
View online on Council's website or at Sunshine Coast City Hall Chambers on 27 February at 9am.
Rates are due this month
Your Sunshine Coast Council rates have been issued and are due for payment by 21 February. Check your rates notice to see all the ways you can pay, including BPAY and direct debit, and mark your diary to pay on time and avoid interest. Open a ‘MyCouncil’ account or login to pay at mycouncil.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.
Get the latest Council news delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for the OurSC enewsletter.
07 5475 7272 | sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
ENVIRONMENT
Recent fire ant find in North Arm
Multiple fire ant nests were found in January this year at North Arm, near Yandina. This is the most northern sighting on the Sunshine Coast. The small, localised infestation was treated immediately with a direct injection into the nest with fipronil.
Fire ant infestations should not be ignored as they have the potential to change our environment and make it difficult to use our properties as we have in the past. These tiny ants are opportunistic carnivores and although their bite is less painful than one bull ant, they act as an army and use their venom – not as a defence – but to take down meat. Insects, including other ants, ground-dwelling marsupials, lizards, pets, stock and people are all made of meat and therefore vulnerable to attack. The ants also feed on seeds, which can possibly cause major ecosystem changes over time.
Fire ants are an invasive imported species and do the same job as our own termites, which have evolved with our ecosystems to aerate the soil and create pockets of seeds and nutrients. Our compacted ex-cane and dairy farmed properties are the ideal habitat for fire ants to take over, so extreme vigilance is the key.
Fire ants make a mounded nest up to 40cm high with no visible entry points as they come in and out through underground tunnels. Nests may appear in our red clay soils, but the colour will vary with soil type.
Nurseries are on high alert, although authorities are confident the infestation did not come from this source. When a biosecurity zone is declared, anyone who deals with materials that can carry fire ants such as soil, hay, mulch, manure, quarry products, turf and potted plants, must check the fire ant biosecurity zones before moving these materials and apply fire ant safe practices. If you are unable to do so, you must apply for a biosecurity instrument permit. Visit: fireants.org. au/stop/movement-advice-tool.
If you are bitten by a fire ant, simply washing the bite is of no use as the venom is not water soluble. Experience indicates applying toothpaste is best or rub with lime juice or baking soda. Massage but never scratch the bite site.
Prevention is better than cure so check your property regularly, especially looking at dams and irrigation lines, edges of cultivated land, cropland, fence lines and piles of organic matter. Report any suspicious sightings immediately online at fireants.org.au/look/reporting or call 132 ANT (132 268). Janet Millington
Creeping lantana
Are there some patches of purple in your garden or on your roadside? Could it be creeping lantana?
Creeping lantana (Lantana montevidensis) is a high-priority, invasive plant on the Sunshine Coast. It looks similar to its relative Lantana camara but has smaller leaves and grows along the ground. It is on the priority list for the Sunshine Coast Council area as it is difficult to manage, but luckily there is not much of it. Together, we can still prevent creeping lantana from spreading in our region.
For control methods visit t.ly/pRSq7.
Lantana montevidensis
Life is Love
Tom Stodolka's new book Life is Love is the fifth instalment in the "Life is" series. The collection features 100 poems, with 70 new pieces and 30
Let's get it sorted
Keep your recycling loose when it goes in the yellow-lid bin, so more of it can be turned into new things.
Recycling in plastic bags cannot be sorted because the bags can damage equipment at sorting facilities and present a safety risk to staff.
Visit sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
selected favourites from his previous 4 books.
The book continues to explore themes of love, life, and human experience, offering readers a deep and reflective journey through Stodolka's poetic lens.
Tom Stodolka has been actively promoting his new book, with copies available at several Sunshine Coast venues, including Uncle Bearskin Gallery in Cooroy, the Maleny Book Shop and the Village Bookshop in Noosa.
In addition to his writing Tom recently recited one of his poems on ABC Radio, showcasing his talent and passion for poetry. Life is Love promises to be a captivating read for poetry enthusiasts and fans of Tom’s work. Visit: tomstodulkaauthor. com.
Start each day with a grateful heart
A good title don’t you think?
Found in my bedside notebook. And thinking this is a good look,
For some final writing of Tom’s Top 100. A new book, so close on the horizon, May even be your last, We know the die is cast. That is life.
As you try to deal with strife. And a challenge or two or three. You often run around like a busy bee, This way and that, All a bit old hat.
Though never bored, Still energised to take up your sword. And hopefully praying to the Lord. Still lots to achieve, No rush to leave.
Think fast but prefer slow. Every which way you go. As you travel along life’s highway.
Each and every day.
Hopefully with a grateful heart. Always guarantees a good start. There might be a loss or even a win. And always a smile and a grin.
Cheers you and others up, As you enjoy your first warm cup.
By Tom Stodulka
ART ABOUT
Calling all directors!
May 2025 marks the 48th year of Noosa Arts Theatre's National (and International) One Act Playwriting Competition and Festival. Three finalist plays are being assessed by 3 industry professionals and Noosa Arts Theatre should have those results in the next few weeks.
The search is on for 3 directors with the experience and creativity to bring these new works to the stage. Contact convenor Jenni McCaul for more information or to show an expression of interest on 0455 547 793.
In late January 1984, the world’s first commercially successful personal computer with a mouse and graphic user interface went on sale. The Macintosh cost $2,495USD – equivalent to over $7,300USD in today’s terms. The Macintosh had 128 KB of RAM, a 9-inch monochrome screen and a 3.5inch floppy disk drive. The developers were Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, founders of the Apple computer company. The Macintosh was aimed at the education and design markets but in subsequent years Apple targeted a wider market, including the corporate sector. The Macintosh was named after the favourite apple – the McIntosh – of one of the developers who worked at Apple. The name was used until 1999 when the iMAC G3 was introduced. The subsequent family of iMACs with their ultra-thin bodies and high-speed processors would be unrecognisable compared to the original. The parent company remains Apple. Rhonda Piggott
Early Macintosh computers
TRADES & SERVICES
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COUNTRY COTTAGE + MOUNTAIN VIEWS OFFERS OVER $1,250,000
Enjoy low maintenance living whilst taking in the big acreage vistas on this 4,000m2 fully fenced block. A beautiful Queenslander style home that sits nestled between some larger rural properties with expansive views over rolling paddocks, Point Glorious and Mt Eerwah. High ceilings and timber floors throughout the spacious lounge dining area + air-conditioning and fireplace. The wrap around deck goes from front to back and features an above ground pool to enjoy in summer. Complete with a 3-bay shed and fully insulated art studio.
EERWAH VALE Adam Kuczynski 0407 596 547
sales@noosahinterlandrealty.com.au EUMUNDI $900 PER WEEK FOR RENT
This c.1910 renovated, two-storey Queenslander is located only a short stroll to Eumundi town. The main level comprises lounge, dining, kitchen/meals, main bedroom and bathroom. The lower level comprises living area, 2 bedrooms, study nook, bathroom and laundry. Features include gas cooking, dishwasher, security screens, ceiling fans, fireplace, ample storage cupboards, blinds and curtains. Large upper and lower verandahs. Pool house and outdoor kitchen with two sinks, cupboards, BBQ, wok and small fridge. Double carport. Monthly pool service included. Pets considered upon application.
Property Management 07 5442 8333
EUMUNDI $750 PER WEEK FOR RENT
FULLY FURNISHED upper level of cottage set amongst beautiful gardens and birdlife. Rental includes shared internet and water. Comprising, open plan lounge/ dining, modern kitchen plus 2 bedrooms, bathroom, separate toilet and laundry. Features include airconditioning, ceiling fans, screens, blinds and robes. Fully furnished – just bring your own bedding and towels! Covered verandah on three sides ensures privacy. Exclusive use of grassed yard. Easy off-street parking with space for 2 cars.
