Edition 27 February 2024

Billions for new rail line

$5.5bn from Beerwah to Caloundra

A RAIL

connecting Beerwah to Caloundra has the

growth in the hinterland, delivering thousands of new homes at Beerwah East to accommodate up to 100,000 new residents.

THE State Government will stump up nearly $3 billion to fund a rail line from Beerwah to Caloundra, but needs Canberra to come on board with an extra $1.1bn to ensure the project happens in time for the 2032 Olympics.

Sunshine Coast Direct Rail Line into stages.

A $14 million business case study found the project could cost as much as $7bn just to reach Caloundra.

As such, the Government has broken the overall

Stage 1, estimated between $5.5bn and $7bn, will see the construction of two new lines from Beerwah: one at Nirimba and one at Caloundra. Stage 2 would extend to Birtinya and stage 3 to Maroochydore. Federal Labor had extended a $1.6bn commitment, first made by the LNP before it lost power in 2022.

The total cost of the project was initially estimated at about $3.2bn, but that has been dwarfed by delays and spiralling costs.

Story p10-11

Abbie

www.gcnews.com.au

WE all knew costs were spiralling, but estimates of a $5.5bn to $7bn to get the Sunshine Coast Direct Rail Line from Beerwah to Caloundra is still extraordinary.

This 19km stretch of rail will include the upgrade of Beerwah station and two new stops at Nirimba and Caloundra.

Now at the risk of oversimplification, that’s up to $368.4 million per kilometre of rail.

Should we get a second quote?

While there’s a lot to unpack, the good news is that State Government is finally throwing actual cash at what is a muchneeded project.

The bad news is, they have to go back to the Federal Government to ask for another $1.1bn.

I’m sure Canberra would have seen that coming from more than a mile away, but the ball is now back in their court.

There’s also the small matter of the rail line not extending anywhere near where it was originally promised and is needed - to the heart of the Coast, at

Maroochydore. It also makes a mockery of the original Olympics proposal, that included a rail line to Maroochydore to help ferry visitors around for the 2032 Games.

The good news for the hinterland is that it will likely fasttrack development of Beerwah East and increase housing stock. It will also see the upgrade of Beerwah station.

Perhaps the happiest person this week will be Caloundra MP Jason Hunt.

With an election looming, his slim margin and Labor’s hold on power looking pretty shaky. This announcement is pretty good timing.

The LNP has come out guns blazing, as to be expected.

Despite the shortcomings, this project will transform the region.

It will connect the hinterland to the coast, pave the way for new development and housing, create thousands of jobs and (hopefully) ease congestion.

While it is not the gold-plated rail line many were hoping for

ahead of the Olympics, it is a start and a legacy project that will serve the community for generations beyond the Games.

YOU can guarantee one thing regardless of which candidate wins Division 5: there will be NO nose-in parking along Maple Street.

In what was a relatively subdued meet the candidates forum last week, the suggestion by Richard Bruinsma that he was open to considering nose-in parking to try and alleviate some of the headaches on Maple Street, was met with general derision from the 150 attendees.

The candidates were pretty well behaved - I don’t know if that was because I was doubling as security on stage, or they were trying to make the best impression.

We cover both that meeting, as well as kickstart our three-week ‘meet the candidates’ Question Time, covering Div 1/5 and the mayoral nominees. Check it out on p16-17. We hope it helps you make an informed choice.

Mitch Gaynor

Wearable art festival set to soar

By Sonia Isaacs

THE Australian Wearable Art Festival soars into 2024, with entries open now for artists to showcase their boundary-defying creations.

Previous Hinterland based winners have included David Bongiorno and Viera Keogh, who won ‘Best Headpiece’ at last year’s festival for her stunning and extravagant work, which celebrated her Slovakian heritage.

Dam levels double in two months

SEQ water grid levels up

Veira’s winning entry involved a seven-month labour of love, as she designed and created a 2kg floral headpiece consisting of hundreds of native dried flowers,mostly sourced from her Reesville property.

“The festival is a wonderful opportunity for artists and creatives to test their boundaries,” she said.

It takes art to a different level and the event is absolutely a wonderful

Ewen Maddock dam

Reesville’s Viera Keogh at last year’s festival

Connection, culture and conservation

Dynamic event looks Beyond Bunya Dieback

By Sonia Isaacs

OVER 100 ecologists, conservationists and community members gathered at a unique symposium, organised to explore positive and sustainable approaches to Bunya conservation.

Hosted by Brush Turkey Enterprises at The Maleny Community Centre on Friday February 23, co-organiser Spencer Shaw said the death of the Bunya Trees had been observed in SEQ for nearly two decades,

the symposium was an opportunity for a wide range of knowledgeable presenters and participants to come together, to discuss solutions and find a way Beyond Bunya Dieback.

“We see the loss of these iconic Bunya across the Blackall Range as a call to action, to better management of our natural areas and wider landscape,” he said.

Speaking with GC&M News, Mr Shaw explained that Bunya dieback was

and also contribute to wider ecological decline.

“The simplest explanation is that exotic Phytophthora species (water moulds) have been introduced into our area.

“Trees that become infected and also subjected to a range of other factors, including soil compaction, loss of soil life diversity and climate change such as drought, flooding and temperature rises, can then die,” he explained.

Mr Shaw said he was thrilled with the response to the event, which provided

a variety of perspectives, an opportunity to explore the cultural significance of Bunya trees and address the challenges posed by Bunya dieback. He said he was pleased the event provided thought provoking discussions and workshops, and a positive platform which encouraged collaborative dialogue aimed at developing

The symposium featured a diverse line-up of speakers, including Traditional Owners, researchers including Professor Patrick Moss and soil pathologist Dr Louise Shuey and an international key note presentation from Tiakina Kauri.

Mr Shaw said while the symposium was still in its early days in providing a response to managing Bunya dieback, the goal was to bring together a knowledgeable group of people, to share experiences with dieback and ecological decline,and on a more positive note also put together solutions and guidelines.

“This will help us all, whether it be in your back yard or National Park, to keep Bunya on country for millennia to come,” he said.

Jake Smith-Moloney with Liz Capelin and Spencer Shaw

Professor Patrick Moss

Addressing the symposium

Heritage grants open now

QUEENSLANDS’s rich heritage is set to be conserved and celebrated with the State Government, allocating over $1 million in grants.

The funding is split between two programs, with $850,000 designated for Community Sustainability Action Grants for Community Heritage, offering up to $50,000 for projects preserving and promoting places on the Queensland Heritage Register.

The remaining $175,000 is allocated to the Showcasing Queensland Heritage grants, a new pilot program supporting events that encourage community appreciation and involvement with heritagelisted places.

These initiatives aim to actively engage community groups, local councils, and place owners in conserving and promoting the state’s diverse historical sites for future generations.

Division 5 candidates

Cr Winston Johnston, Richard Bruinsma and Tracy Burton.

‘Go local for new mayor’

Residents turn up to hear Division 5 candidates pitch for councillor

By Sonia Isaacs

INCUMBENT Division 5 councillor Winston Johnston OAM has unabashedly endorsed hinterland-based mayoral candidate, Wayne Parcell, for the top job.

Organised by Maleny Forums, the only Maleny Meet the Candidates event (held on February 20) ahead of the March 16 council election saw Cr Johnston face off against Greens candidate, Tracy Burton, and independent Richard Bruinsma, in what was a well-behaved and informative evening, in front of about 150 residents.

With a list of pre-prepared questions from residents

and asked by GC&M News Managing Editor, Mitch Gaynor, candidates were asked their opinion on everything from parking to paths, homelessness, youth engagement, as well as their environmental credentials.

Mr Bruinsma and Ms Burton did not name their preferred mayoral candidate, but Cr Johnston said anyone in the hinterland should be endorsing the Montvillebased Mr Parcell, saying he had the community focus and economic expertise to handle the job.

“He’s the only Hinterland candidate, and I say if you want to get things done in the

Hinterland you need to have a Mayor who understands the Hinterland,” Cr Johnston said.

Cr Johnston leveraged his extensive experience in local government and council process to offer pragmatic and fiscally relevant answers across the evening.

Cr Johnston said he had the ‘runs on the board’.

“I will to continue to progress Division 5 and Maleny from strength to strength,” he said.

Ms Burton presented thoughtful enquiry and proposed innovative, yet often measured solutions.

Ms Burton said her candidacy represented the

culmination of a seven year goal, and she would bring commitment and dedication to the role if elected.

Ms. Burton said she was passionate about wanting to represent the community.

“When you go to vote it is a vote for the future. You are looking at who you want to represent you over the next four years.

“I hope that I’ve instilled my commitment, my energy and my activation of the community that I will bring. I enjoy representing voices and I enjoy fighting for what is right, and I enjoy a challenge,” Ms Burton added.

Mr Bruinsma said many

of the initiatives discussed during the forum were long term, and he had the energy, capacity and willingness to learn to effectively lead these projects going forward.

“I’ve lived in Division 5 for 22 years, and been involved with every community.

My unique experience and understanding of the community puts me in the best position to be the candidate to serve Division 5.

“I’d be excited to lead the community and push forward to negotiate with the necessary people to bring forward these desperately needed initiatives,” he concluded.

Heritage listed

Mooloolah Hall

Naval cadets need you!

Desperate call out for new recruits to stop group folding

THE TS Centaur Navy Cadets Unit Maleny is calling out for new recruits to join the group, with dwindling numbers making for an uncertain future.

TS Centaur Unit Maleny president, Kylie Copas, said they are in desperate need of new recruits to join as soon as possible.

“Our cadets do so much within the community with things such as the ANZAC Day service at Maleny, Witta, Maleny Memorial Hospital and the RSL, Remembrance Day ceremony at the RSL, and so much more,” she said.

“As you can appreciate, it would be devastating for this unit to shut down due

to lack of numbers and not have our cadets in uniform at these important events.”

She said the youth club had essentially been put on notice that if recruitment numbers did not increase by the end of term one, then it was entirely possible the long running program would be forced to fold.

“Our association has a long and proud history here in Maleny and we’ve been running for well over 30 years. Our cadets dressed in their ceremonial uniforms bring an additional level of dignity and significance to our various memorial parades every year, and it would be a huge loss to the community to not have

our cadets as part of the catafalque party,” she said.

Kylie added that Maleny’s cadet program is not only a noble activity for kids to be included in, it is also a low cost program, with free membership fees.

“This youth club does not earn any money as they don’t charge any membership fees,” she said.

“They only charge a small weekly fee of $6 when you attend on Wednesday nights to assist in paying for the meal they provide weekly.”

The unit’s president said the reason the unit has been struggling so much with memberships for the past year, is due to its lack of exposure. She said

Junior landcare grants for local schools

SCHOOLS across Glasshouse Country and Maleny are being encouraged to apply for grants to get more kids involved in outdoor learning projects. Woolworths is offering over $1m in grants for schools and early learning centres through its Junior Landcare Grants program.

The grants support projects with a focus on sustainable food production, improving waste management, or enhancing native habitats.

Woolworths Group Manager Angelo Biro, said.

“It’s been great to hear how the funding has helped enhance local school communities and support students as they get outdoors and learn more about the local environment.”

Since 2018, the program has allocated over $5m to nearly 5,000 schools.

Applications are open until March 19, 2024. For more information visit www. juniorlandcare.org.au.

she sincerely hoped that parents and grandparents would realise the benefit of the group and encourage their young people to get involved.

The group offers a wide range of opportunities, including maritime based training including sailing, canoeing, seamanship, camping and sports. The group also participates in annual training camps, often held interstate and with other Training Ships.

If you are or have a boy or girl aged 13-18 years old and are interested in finding out more, contact Officer in Charge PO Jon Gutke on 0420 331 834. Or Training Officer PO Tayler Gale 0488 990 122

“Our store team across Glasshouse and Maleny have been proud to connect with local schools who have previously been awarded a grant,”

Recreation club seeks community feedback

THE Maleny District Sport and Recreation Club (MDSRC) is developing their 2025 Strategic Plan. Feedback is being sought at a grassroots level, with a call for input from Maleny clubs and community.

Technical Assistance and Research Analysis

Pty Ltd (TARA), on behalf of MDSRC, are leading the development of this plan Initially, local organisations are being

asked to share their thoughts via a series of six organised workshops running from 5-7pm on Monday March 4,11,18 and 25, and Thursday March 14 and 28 (6pm-8pm). Each workshop will be limited to 25 participants so all can be heard. If two representatives attend, we encourage representatives to attend different workshops. Bookings to register via trybooking.com

Happy birthday birthday Twinnies

By Kirra Livingstone

THE Twinnies are celebrating their golden jubilee, both turning 50 years old on February 21. To commemorate their special day, they invited the community to the Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue. Their mum, Helen, organised the special morning, providing a sausage sizzle, cold drinks, and a delicious homemade lamington birthday cake, shaped as a five and zero.

Paula and Bridgette Powers (the Twinnies) have been rescuing pelicans and seabirds for 16 years, rehabilitating thousands of birds throughout the years.

They joked they are now senior citizens, and weren’t fussed about working the rest of the day.

“We have some family coming from Sydney tonight, and then on Saturday we are going on a cruise at Mooloolaba,” they said.

Helen was glad so many

people could make it out to celebrate her twin daughter’s milestone birthday, and talked about what the Twinnies are most focused on at their rescue centre.

“We have been working on our new aviary for our seabirds and pelicans, we would appreciate if anyone could donate funds or materials such as timber to help finish the project,” she said.

Happy birthday to the Twinnies!

Wood Expo chops up 25

Much loved sustainable Wood Expo returns

By Sonia Isaacs

SINCE 1996, the Maleny Wood Expo, hosted by Barung Landcare, has celebrated the art of woodworking. Since its inception, the event has championed the extensive skills and knowledge of artisans and woodworkers and promoted sustainable practices.

Initiated by environmentalist Ashley Sewell, this event has become a much-loved annual gathering, attracting up to 10,000 enthusiasts each year. In 2024, the Expo marks its 25th anniversary.

Initially focusing on the sustainable use of native timbers, the Expo has evolved to include historical timber practices, heritage machinery exhibitions, First Nations knowledge, and farm forestry initiatives.

It now promotes the nurturing and growth of native timber species, and creative use of salvaged or recycled timber, and invasive weeds.

The Expo has become a staple in the Australian woodworkers’ calendar.

Over the years the Maleny Wood Expo has achieved

significant milestones, including the introduction of the Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize in 2004, which rewards innovative creativity and attracts talented woodworkers from across Australia.

With a prize pool of $19,000 in 2024, the Wootha Prize is a highly contested national woodworking competition supported by Sunshine Coast Council and a range of local community sponsors.

The Expo today boasts over 150 exhibits, selling a range of timber goods from beautifully crafted fine furniture, tools and

diversity of workshops with master woodworkers, talks with a range of experts, and is Barung Landcare’s biggest education and fundraising event for the year.

In 2024, the Expo will expand its youth programs, integrate a Sustainability Hub in collaboration with the Maleny Chamber of Commerce, feature a Tiny House exhibit, and enhance its environmental education program.

Now in its 25th year, the Maleny Wood Expo continues to guide communities towards a more sustainable future.

Tickets on sale now, visit

Timber Heritage Display at Maleny Wood Expo 2004

Communit y

Bee Day for Kindy Kids

By Sonia Isaacs

GLASSHOUSE Early Education and Care beelieves in providing its kindergarden kids with a native beehive, to increase interest in the environment, and is raising money to fund this dream.

On Tuesday, February 27, the centre will be hosting a Bee Day to help fundraise to

purchase a native beehive, aiming to raise $700 for the initial hive.

Bee Day will be jampacked with fun Bee-themed activities throughout the day and will be offering fundraising opportunities to parents, with its aim to teach kids about the environment.

“We will be doing lots of Bee activities on the day, the children will be dressing up and parents will be donating to our very own beehive,” kindergarden teacher, Shiree Vollbrecht said.

“We are aiming to raise $700 for our first hive and then aiming to get more for the centre, down the track, to teach all the children more about sustainability

Dog beauty pageant is back!

Contributed

Sunshine Coast Kennel Club

YES, our shows will be on again this year at Beerwah Sportsground.

We are holding 4 Conformation shows, which are basically ‘beauty contests’ judging the best dogs in each breed, to end up with a Best in Show.

Breeds being exhibited include the regular well known breeds plus a variety of rarer breeds. They are judged in groups (Toys, Terriers, Gundogs,

and environmental awareness.

“We are very excited about getting our own bee hive!”

Shiree added the kids have already been busy bees, making honey toast together and drawing and painting bee pictures.

She hopes the buzz ahead of the event will ensure Bee Day is a stinging success.

Hounds, Working, Utility and Non-sporting), in alphabetical order of the breeds in each of the 7 groups. For example in the Toy group Affenpinschers and Australian Silky Terriers are at the beginning while Pugs, Tibetan Spaniels and Yorkshire Terriers are at the end. We anticipate the total entry for each show to be between 400 and 500 dogs.

The first show is on Friday evening, the 22nd of March starting at 6.00pm. On Saturday the 23rd we begin

the Championship show at 9.00am and the Open show will run concurrently starting at 9.30am. The Sunday show starts at 8.30am.

Junior Handlers will be during the lunch break on Saturday. Junior Handler classes are for children and young adults to demonstrate their skills handling dogs in the ring. There are 3 age classes being 7 – U10, 10 – U13 and 13 – U19, which encourages participation in dog sports and the development of

Peachester Garden Club

By Rod Baldwin

THE outgoing committee were congratulated for their work and dedication to their positions. The incoming committee were then selected and congratulated on their acceptance.

New members were also welcomed. Long standing news reporter Trish Bradford stepped down and Rod Baldwin took the position. The club then celebrated her 80th Birthday with a cake.

She has been a staunch member of the club for many years.

The club also has a perpetual trophy for the Best Plant competition, and it was won by Suella, also for the past 2 years.

Congratulations!

The presenter was Denise Owan, the daughter of the original donating member. The meeting then turned

handling techniques. Many of these youngsters are superb handlers, often putting the older exhibitors to shame.

A canteen with delicious food will be operating and also a coffee van on site.

We welcome the community to come along and join us for these activities. Entry is FREE.

Do come and have a look, find your favourite breed, talk to exhibitors, enjoy the dog sport events and browse the various stalls with lots of ‘doggy’ paraphernalia for sale. For more information please contact Khylie on 0434 344 230.

into a most welcome and enjoyable get together, indeed most enjoyable.

Visitors and anyone wanting to join are always welcome.

Meetings are held on the third Thursday of each

Lois Aitchison. Gwen Welch daughter and the Star Trish Bradford.

Suella and Denise.

What do Lions do?

THE Maleny Blackall Range Lions Club are holding their Lions Awareness Week event on the Piece of Green (between Maleny Realty and the antique Shop on Maple Street) on Saturday, March the 2nd from 8am.

Come along to our marquee and find out

more about how the Lions International Foundation helps to make a difference in the world and how Maleny Lions help to make a difference in the community and the world.

We will have a collection box for you to bring in your old glasses and sun glasses, which are quality

tested, washed and dried, graded and sent to Lions Clubs Church missions and humanitarian groups in third world countries.

We will also have some fun with games, a spinning wheel (with prizes) and Lions bags for you to take home. We look forward to meeting you.

A space to dream

By Sonia Isaacs

An inspiring local creative has left a beautiful legacy, which is being honoured in the opening of a special community space at the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre on Saturday March 2.

‘The Dreamery’ is dedicated space for the community to meditate, rest, create and connect.

Inspired by the creative spirit of Jacklyn Irwin, who grew up in Maleny and attended the River School and Maleny High School, a gazebo has been erected at the centre and reflects Jacklyn’s poems and ideas.

For six years after she finished high school, Jacklyn attended a program based at the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, which celebrated creativity and music for people with a disability.

Sadly, Jacklyn passed away

in October 2022 at the age of 26. Despite facing the challenges of disability and being non-speaking, Jacklyn left a powerful and lasting legacy with her ideas and poetry. Jacklyn’s work demonstrates the powerful notion that disability does not equate to a lack of profound thoughts.

‘Messages from the Universe’ is a poignant collection of poetry, curated posthumously, to celebrate and honour her remarkable life. This anthology goes beyond the verses, as it includes heartfelt contributions from Jacklyn’s family and friends, offering a glimpse into the profound impact she had on their lives.

Through her words, she conveys a universal message that transcends barriers, urging us to

recognize the depth within every individual, regardless of their ability to verbalize.

The Dreamery encapsulates a bit of Jacklyn’s special essence, and the community is invited to a special opening event on Saturday, March 2 at 10am. For more information call 5499 9345.

THE Glasshouse Country Chamber of Commerce committee is dedicated to ensuring the Glasshouse region is a great place to run a business, whether it be a cafe, a farm or a national transport fleet. You may or may not be aware that the chamber committee comprises seven local business people who volunteer their time, services, and even their finances to meet this commitment.

The chamber wouldn’t survive without the ongoing support of our members, and especially our sponsors.

A big shout out to our incoming sponsors GC&M NEWS, CREST MARKETING, BASSETT BARKS, TOP NOSH MEALS, and TAXATION SERVICES-SOLUTION DRIVEN. We salute you! If you are interested in partnering with the chamber as a sponsor, send an email to info@ glasshousecountrychamber. com.au or give me a call. The local government elections are rapidly approaching and have become a personal focus for me over the past weeks. I have been attending as many meet the candidates forums as I can possibly squeeze in so I could listen

Update with Tamara Hazelden Chamber President

to the audience, more so than the candidates. I have sure learnt a lot about the expectations of our local businesses and community members at these forums. The chamber committee has responded to requests for a local setting to meet the candidates for mayor and Division 1 councillors, so we are hosting a free ‘Meetthe-Candidates forum’ at the Landsborough Sports Complex on Wednesday

come along. These events are very informal with a laid-back atmosphere. Networking works folks! It is a relaxed opportunity to meet like-minded business people and generate more business through word of mouth and meet ‘n greet. Follow us on our socials and subscribe to our monthly newsletter to see what else we have coming up. Details are on our website www. glasshousecountrychamber.

At one of last year’s networking events

Upcoming March events!

SPONSOR ANNOUNCEMENTS

WOMEN IN BIZ

6th of March

29th of February

Business Before Hours

Where: Club Glasshouse

6 Gardner St, GHM When: 7am

MEET THE CANDIDATES

6th of March

Open to the Community (Free Event)

Business Before Hours

Where: Landsborough Sport Complex, 15 Tunnel Ridge Rd, Landsborough When: 5:30pm -7:30pm

First Wednesday of every month

Where: Lookout Café

182 Glass House Woodford Rd, GHM When: 12pm

DISASTER MANAGEMENT EVENT

26th of March

Open to the Business & community residence

Where: Beerwah Community Hall, 25 Peachester Road, Beerwah When: 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Don’t forget to grab your tickets to RSVP via our website www.glasshousecountrychamber.com.au

Maleny Players Presents

Federal backing needed to get rail back on track

No chance of DSCR line running to Maroochydore by 2032

By Mitch Gaynor

A RAIL line connecting Beerwah to Caloundra has the potential to supercharge growth in the hinterland, delivering thousands of new homes at Beerwah East to accommodate up to 100,000 new residents.

Premier Steven Miles announced on the weekend that the State Government would commit $2.75bn towards Stage 1 of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line.

The 19km line would include the creation of two new stations, at Nirimba

and Caloundra, as well as a significant upgrade of Beerwah station to make way for a third track.

The outcome of a $14m business study found that Stage 1 of the project would cost between $5.5bn and $7bn.

But the project is contingent on the Federal Government stumping up a further $1.1bn, on top of the $1.6bn it had already committed towards the line.

Earlier estimates suggested the rail line could have reached Maroochydore –

about 38 kilometres from Beerwah - for $3.2bn.

Spiralling costs means there is no chance of a line to Maroochydore by the 2032 Olympics.

“A direct rail connection to the Sunshine Coast will unlock thousands of homes in the growing Sunshine Coast region and accelerate the release of new, affordable developments,” Dr Miles said.

“Without the rail line, that development would bring an unmanageable level of congestion to the local

road network, making this connection essential for new housing to be brought forward.

“The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is another record investment in Queensland’s rail network from our government, building on the multibillion dollar rail revolution currently underway.

He added Stage 1 of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line would be a significant enabler for new housing, including supply for 50,000 people at Caloundra South and up to 100,000 people at Beerwah East.

It’s expected the initial stage of the project will accelerate the delivery of more than 3,000 affordable and diverse homes already planned within the region.

The corridor will be realigned to allow for faster travel, with estimates that a trip from Brisbane to the Coast could be up to 45 minutes faster than by car.

“For the first time, residents in the region will have a direct, fast and reliable connection to the South-East.

“Direct Sunshine Coast

Rail will not only help ease congestion, but also help unlock future housing development on the Sunshine Coast,” Transport Minister Bart Mellish said.

Treasurer Cameron Dick said they had put the case to the Federal Government, for the extra $1.1bn in funding, to make the project happen.

“We look forward to the Federal Government hopping on board to match our commitment, so we can deliver this project, not just for 2032 but for decades to come,” he said.”

Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace, labelled the announcement as a “cynical” move to hang onto the seat ahead of the upcoming state election.

“The costings were done,” he said.

“The Federal Coalition Government came to the table with 50 per cent of the funding, plus a 10% contingency. This was half of the cost for a project which is 100% the State Government’s responsibility.

“The State LNP committed to their share of the funding at the time,

Olympics

while Labor dithered, delayed, and even derided the historic funding commitment. It took 18 months of sustained advocacy just to get Federal Labor to keep the commitment, and now State Labor are wantonly throwing 2/3 of it away.”

Member for Caloundra, Jason Hunt, said the people of the Sunshine Coast had been waiting on this rail project for the better part of 40 years.

“The project is the biggest infrastructure spend the Coast has ever seen, and anyone who thinks it is a cynical move must have been hibernating for the last 40 years,” he said.

“There has been a lot of naval gazing, particularly from the opposition up here, about this rail project.

“The only reason they got a commitment was at five minutes to midnight during the last election campaign, when they thought they were in trouble and plucked a figure out of the air.

“We now know that figure would have been flat out getting the rail line across the Bruce Highway, let alone

Artists impression of one of the stations the

More parks for people

Poll shows Queenslanders want more national parks

By Kirra Livingstone

QUEENSLANDER’S have made it clear they want the state to have more national parks. In a poll released earlier this month by the Protect Beautiful Queensland alliance, it was revealed 77% of people want more national parks and 71% of people want the state government to double the number of protected areas by 2030. Additionally, 94% of Queenslanders support national park’s role in protecting the state’s native animals and plants, and agree national parks

are important for recreation and way of life.

The polling coincides with the launch of Protect Beautiful Queensland, which is said to be “a new initiative of conservation organisations, the nature-based tourism industry, and the outdoor recreation sector.”

Sunshine Coast Environment Council advocacy and engagement manager, Narelle McCarthy, said the new alliance will help support the growth of national parks in Queensland.

“The Protect Beautiful

Queensland Alliance and campaign brings a collaborative focus, vision and representation to demonstrate the widespread support for doubling Queensland’s Protected Area estate,” she said.

“It gives a platform for a strong constituency who values the natural environment and the wellbeing these irreplaceable areas provide.”

The polling makes it clear that a majority of Queenslander’s support the expansion of the state’s national parks and protection

of species, and Narelle added communities have always had a way of getting the government to listen.

“Many of the celebrated and magnificent National Parks and Protected Areas of the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland, such as the Conondale and Mooloolah River National Park came about due to peoplepowered campaigns,” she said.

“With increasing population pressures and a deepening biodiversity crisis, the need for more conservation areas for wildlife and well-being is more

critical than ever - this is what SCEC and the community continues to call for.”

Pew Charitable Trusts Queensland Manager, Andrew Picone, said although Queensland is already a beautiful location for national parks, more parks need to be introduced.

“Our unique wildlife is under threat, doubling Queensland’s protected areas by 2030 is key in reversing extinction and building a world class protected area system,” he said.

Super Star Service Champion

THE team from Shell Beerwah attended the annual Viva Energy/Shell conference held in Brisbane last week, which saw 1300 Shell and Liberty stations represented.

This turned out to be an amazing experience, as Beerwah’s very own Karina Degen took out the Australian Service Champion of the year Award for 2023.

This means Karina now heads off to Singapore for the Shell Smiling Stars event and will be in the running for the world Service Champion title.

“If you ask Karina she would say - ‘but I don’t do anything special’ but we all know that she definitely does,” says her fellow Shell Beerwah team on their Facebook post.

“Please join us in congratulating Karina and in

Photo credit : Nicola Brander

Co-working space for business

By Kirra Livingstone

THE Glasshouse Mountains has recorded its most expensive single living residential sale.

Ray White Beerwah locked in the $1.725 million sale last week, for a fourbedroom property at 16 Crestwood Road.

The sale beats the previous record by $175,000.

Agent Donnie Plant said it was an incredible result and something that was almost unimaginable five years ago.

“This sale just shows the growth in the Hinterland’s market and how far we have come, to see those kinds of prices is unheard of, it’s phenomenal,” he said.

“I can’t put it into words,

I’m just still in shock now, it was a very good result.”

Donnie added the whole Sunshine Coast’s property market, specifi Hinterland, is red hot at the moment, with premium prices on the rise.

“The property market is performing extremely well, since that property has gone under and it was marked for sale, I’ve had so many requests for appraisals for the area, there is a high demand for premium property,” he said.

“It’s a pleasant surprise because its usually the Coast that has those premium prices, so it’s awesome for the area.”

The family home, which has breathtaking views of neighbourhood, only walking distance from the school, this property offers the perfect

embrace the serenity of the Glass House Mountains from multiple directions.”

of prime land, making this home the epitome of luxury and comfort, with plenty of space for the whole family.

According to real estate figures, the median price for a property in the Glass House Mountains has increased from $515,000 in 2018 to $878,000 this year.

However, Donnie said there is still value for first home buyers to enter the market, with a number of properties popping up for sale in the region worth around $600,000.

THE University of the Sunshine Coast’s Moreton Bay campus, in collaboration with the City of Moreton Bay Council, has unveiled a state-of-the-art co-working space, encouraging local businesses to leverage the innovation ecosystem.

The 10 available workspaces aim to foster collaboration between businesses, research leaders, and university graduates.

This initiative aligns with the campus’s expansion, featuring three new buildings in 2024.

UniSC Vice-Chancellor

Professor Helen Bartlett seeks expressions of interest from businesses matching teaching and research strengths.

The co-working space ects the city’s ambitious plans for economic growth and addresses the workforce needs anticipated with Moreton Bay’s projected 800,000 residents by 2046.

Interested businesses can apply online, embracing the opportunity to join a supportive and interconnected network on the cutting-edge modern campus. More details: www.usc.edu.au/ community/industryengagement/uniscmoreton-bay-co-workingspace/apply-to-join

2024 Council Election countdown lection

GC&M News will be running a series of ‘Meet the Candidate’ editorial features over a three week period leading up to the March 16 Sunshine Coast Council election.

Our aim is to provide a ‘level playing field’ platform to give all of our declared mayoral and divisional candidates running in the Sunshine

Coast Council election the opportunity to present their pitch and provide responses to key issues raised by our Hinterland readers.

The series will be featured in both our print and online publications.

Each candidate has been approached and asked to provide a response of no more than 250 words.

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Question to the candidates

Question 1

Community Engagement and Representation: Tell us about yourself and how you plan to actively engage with the residents of your division and ensure their concerns are heard in decision-making processes? What steps will you take to represent the diverse interests within our community?

Questions answered below

Question 2

Economic Development at the Local Level: What is one thing you would do to encourage local economic development, support small businesses, and enhance job opportunities within our division? Head to www.gcnews.com.au for answers to question 2

Mayor Candidates

I had some decades in business where my wife & I built a $1000 startup into a $12 million a year enterprise in a very competitive industry filled with ruthless multinational entertainment conglomerates.

That business became a leading, if not the leading, independent Australianowned movie wholesaler & distributor.

That experience in business ingrained into my DNA the pragmatism & persistence the new council will need to deal with issues & obstacles previous councils have created for it.

As your next Mayor, I am committed to rolling out a Mobile Mayor’s Office program. Once a month, I will set up a community location using council and community buildings, across the region to be open and accessible and allow any resident to come to me personally to raise their issues and concerns.

I don’t want residents in any part of the region to feel like I am not accessible to them to raise their issues and be part of interacting with me.

In addition to this, I will create a ‘Hinterland Portfolio’ that will consist of

I was born in Nambour, raised on a Eudlo pineapple farm, went to school in Nambour and have lived on the Coast at Wurtulla for the past 40 years.

I have built a powerful understanding of the region through my ongoing involvement in sport, community service, advocacy for men’s health and support to those in need.

I was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 2016, but in reality it is an award I accepted with pride on behalf of the networks I’ve pulled together to help raise millions of dollars for

I have for the last 8 years been engaged with the community through my social media, some may say too engaged, but there is no substitute for active interaction to refine our thoughts into an understanding of the reality being collectively experienced by our community.

For those 8 years I have advocated for the creation of Citizen Committees which are forums where particular matters being considered by the council can be debated & discussed. Each committee is formed only for that matter & disbanded after

the Hinterland Councillors and myself to engage with the Hinterland communities to solve Hinterland issues.

I want there to be a permanent structure in place to make sure that there is no more coast/ hinterland divide in our region.

The portfolio framework will facilitate addressing residents’ needs while directing essential focus towards the diverse aspects of the Hinterland region, encompassing its people, environment, economy, and community.

My first order of business for the Hinterland will be

charity.

I am very proud that my wife Sheila and I are life members of Sippy Creek Animal Rescue Service, I have been general manager of the Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club for the past 14 years, before standing down to run in this mayoral campaign.

My connection to the hinterland is through historical family links stretching back 120 years. My grandfather was a bootmaker in Palmwoods in a shop that still exists near the main street today.

My reach into the Hinterland also comes

the issue is decided this prevents them from becoming another level of bureaucracy. Local government is lucky because it exists within the community it is there to serve, other levels are remote from some or all of its constituents, so it can call on all the knowledge & expertise within its community.

The reports from the committees are published on the council’s website so the community gets to compare a wide range of ideas about the matter with the council’s final decision.

getting to work on the budget to seal the unsealed roads.

I want to get that budget from $5 Million today, to $7 Million in 2025, $8 Million in 2026, $9 Million in 2027 to $10 Million by the end of the first term in 2028.

The Hinterland is what makes the Sunshine Coast special.

This is why one of my policy pillars is based on delivery for the Hinterland. For anyone who wants to see my full policy platform for the Hinterland please go to www.jasonopray.com/ hinterland.

through my involvement as president of the Sunshine Coast Rugby League of which I’m a life member and as chair of the Sunshine Coast Falcons, which also fostered the Sunshine Coast Lightning establishing here through links with the Melbourne Storm.

As co-founder of the Island Charity Swim, I’ve also become connected with families from Nambour Special School, which along with Currimundi Special School has benefited from more than $2.3 million raised during the past 23 years.

I am an excellent communicator - I have been a journalist and presenter for 7 News for 29 years and a lecturer and academic at UniSC for 24 years.

During this time, I have immersed myself in our community, and served the Hinterland by volunteering with community and business groups for decades as an advocate, MC, and guest speaker.

Throughout this mayoral campaign, I have been listening to locals through my ‘Listening Tour’ and I have heard that you feel overlooked, that funding and revenue is not shared

Authentic: Growing up in challenging circumstances in public housing developed my resilience and perseverance. With hard work, and the help of others, I qualified as a solicitor, with a deeply ingrained sense of purpose about service to the community.

Leadership: A leader needs to be brave to pursue options that are difficult or untried. My service awards for authentic leadership qualifies me to negotiate complex issues for better outcomes. My leadership is tangibly demonstrated by my award of the Public Service Medal in the Queen’s Birthday

Min Swan

As an accessible Mayor who genuinely believes each part of our incredible region is a jewel in the crown, I will work alongside Division Councillors, Chamber of Commerce, Community Associations and other such organisations to reimagine the possibilities for each community, identify the hurdles to success and activate advisory groups that are representative of diverse interests.

As a people focused leader with a proven track record in collaboration, communication and engagement my natural and instinctive style is for

equally to the Hinterland; and areas like maintenance, weeds, roads and footpaths need urgent attention. Operational funding for these areas has been cut over the years, but I will turn the Council’s attention ‘back to basics’. We need to remember roads, rates and rubbish. I will investigate curbside rubbish collection and free tip vouchers. We must keep costs down by restructuring the organisation and eliminating wasted spending, while delivering basic services to locals – so we can be proud of where we live.

Honours List in 1996 for outstanding service to Australia in complex areas of government policy and operations overseas. Also, the Special Award in 1995 from the Australian Tourist Commission.

Experience: My 15 years’ government service in taxation, intelligence and security, defence and immigration included implementation of Royal Commission recommendations, supporting Ministers and diplomats, dealing with significant budgets, complex national and international issues, and

As Mayor, I commit to continuing to listen by holding monthly forums, one in each division – across all 10 divisions every year. I will be open, transparent and accountable.

Plus, it is in my very nature to be approachable.

I love hearing from my local community and I relish the opportunity to genuinely work for the people I represent.

negotiating with the ACTU, international agencies and foreign governments.

Over 12 years, I delivered exceptional immigration services from my business to global corporations; I spent more than a decade with the firm, including as a global partner overseeing a global team exceeding 1100 professionals.

Past performance is the best indicator of future delivery. My 40 years of experience means I can deliver performance and not politics.

inclusivity of views and ensuring people feel heard. I will implement community walk’n’talk sessions to remain connected to the community and be a true conduit between community and Council.

When I represent the region on a state, national or international level, I will be representing the entire region and looking for opportunities to promote and celebrate the uniqueness of the hinterland region.

I believe in vibrant and unified communities where individuals are valued and showcased for their

SUNSHINE COAST VOTES 2024

contribution, and where we come together to support those in need.

I am a small business owner with a corporate business background. I am a mother, community contributor, and a proud Sunshine Coast local of 32 years. My reputation of making things happen, delivering with excellence, developing creative solutions, and leading by example offers you a new era of leadership – where together we are better.

Michael Burgess

Jason Opray

Ashley Robinson

Rosanna Natoli

Wayne Parcell

As a dedicated long-term resident of Division 1, I am passionate about seeing our community thrive. My husband Mark and I have been in our wonderful region for 23 years, have raised 4 children, have been running our own business for the last 2 decades, and have been volunteering in our community for just as long. It would be my honour to continue to serve our community as your Councillor. Throughout my years here, I have been actively involved in various volunteer roles, including serving as President of the Glasshouse Country

I am a mum of two teenagers and an adult son and have been in the construction industry for over 20 years. I am a long-standing President of my children’s P&C and am an active member of the community, volunteering and participating in various organisations either as part of their committee, coaching or at events, to feeding the homeless, meals on wheels, to donating and packing Parcels of Peace packages and then delivering them around the Sunshine Coast.

I have no hidden agendas and I do not seek

I’m Stan Nawrocki, thrilled to announce my candidacy for Division 1 councillor. As your potential representative, let me share a bit about myself and my vision.

With nearly 51 years of marriage to Fay, our family is filled with love and joy, including four children and two grandchildren who keep life vibrant. My journey in community service started in 1998 as a Rotarian, now proud to serve with The Caloundra Pacific Rotary Club, including two terms as President. Professionally, I managed Caloundra

Chamber, organising community events; such as Street Parties and Christmas Carols. I also helped in the initial setting up the Glasshouse Country Disaster Management Network, demonstrating my commitment to the safety and well-being of our community. It’s time for us to have a Councillor who turns up, is authentic and available, who genuinely cares about representing the needs of our Division. I am committed to ensuring effective communication and keeping our community informed about important developments,

recognition or did it to get votes with my community involvement. I believe that volunteering is a selfless act that benefits both the recipient and the giver. It provides a purpose, helps meet new people, makes a difference, and is healthy for the mind and body.

Although I have no political background, I can relate to my community because I am part of it. I am a hard worker, passionate, wear my heart on my sleeve and am committed to taking action in Division 1.

My colour orange represents “action”. As I have lived in many different

Financial Planners until 2015, now running my own Mortgage Brokerage under CFP Homeloans.

Relocating from Ipswich to the Sunshine Coast in 2001, we fell in love with its relaxed lifestyle and vibrant community. We enjoy family time, travel, country music, and renovating.

To best represent our diverse community, I intend to:

1. Host regular community meetings for direct engagement.

2. Implement surveys and feedback mechanisms to gather resident input.

3. Establish advisory

Division 5 Candidates Division 1 Candidates

opportunities for you to have your say, and actively seeking feedback to ensure that their voices are heard. I will continue to host regular ‘Community Conversations’ so we can work on solutions and find opportunities together. I am dedicated to being accessible and available to residents, committing to designated office hours on both sides of the highway to ensure that I am easily reachable. I am here to represent you with integrity, respect, and humility.

I’m a long-term local resident, journalist by profession, and former adviser in federal parliamentary offices.

A key reason for me nominating is recognition of a widening engagement gap between those who are employed or elected to serve the people, and the people they supposedly serve.

It is difficult for an elected politician who fails to rub shoulders with everyday people, to understand the true needs of our communities.

I have always been very accessible (my direct

contact details are on all my election material) and I plan to remain accessible by meeting with people on their turf, chatting on the phone, attending events in person, whatever it takes for us to connect. I will do the right thing and assess all inputs on key issues before coming up with the best decisions for the community. I genuinely value talking and listening to anyone I meet – we won’t always agree but if we respect each other and work together, we can achieve good outcomes (at times, it’s the differences in people that help deliver better

results).

On the issue of diverse interests, just because there is diversity in a community, doesn’t mean that one interest takes precedence over another interest. There’ll be times when it’s not possible to address every need satisfactorily, but that is where the elected councillor comes in – it’s their role to consider all factors and use their knowledge to achieve the best outcome for the greatest number of people. I will always work in the best interests of Division 5.

communities, I can connect with each of them in some way.

I am not going to be based at the Maroochydore Office as my division is not in that area. Instead, I will be out in my division, holding regular community get-togethers to discuss any issues and provide feedback on Council decisions affecting both residential and business communities.

I will be continuing my door-knocking as I believe it’s an invaluable way to get feedback.

boards with diverse community members.

4. Utilize social media and digital platforms for realtime engagement.

Community engagement is a vital part of delivering effective representation for the residents of Division 5 and also to the entire Sunshine Coast community. Because Division 5 is an extremely large and diverse Division, residents find it difficult to travel to my council offices in both Nambour and Maroochydore. Therefore, the only way to deliver effective community engagement and representation is by spending all available time out in the community speaking with residents, attending meetings with community/business/

5. Partner with community organizations to address diverse needs.

6. Maintain transparent communication through regular updates. I believe these strategies will ensure I effectively engage with Division 1 residents and represent their diverse interests in decision-making. Thank you for considering me for this important role.

For the past 12 months, I have been actively engaging with and listening to the local communities across Division 5. It has been important for me to hear and understand what matters to you for your Local Council. I have found that engaging with the community is crucial in understanding their needs and concerns. By hosting regular events and being accessible through monthly pop-up offices in each town, I hope to create a space for open communication and collaboration between myself and the residents of

environmental and sporting groups, as well as continuously inspecting council assets such as roads, streets, parks, lookouts, amenities, cemeteries and sporting facilities. By doing this, I become aware of most emerging issues and I can take action to request officer attention and action to remedy emerging problems. In addition, I become aware of the need for infrastructure improvements and upgrades and then request design plans and or estimates of cost, prior to requesting officers to submit for inclusion in to

the Division 5 region.

In addition to these efforts, I also plan on utilizing social media platforms to keep the community informed about important issues and decisions.

This will allow for wider participation and feedback from those who may not be able to attend in-person events.

Furthermore, I am committed to actively listening to the diverse voices of Division 5 and working together towards finding solutions that benefit everyone.

By creating a platform for

10-year Capital Works Program. The Capital Works Program is considered at financial year budget discussions and where funds are available, are then allocated to works for current or future budgets.

All Councillors have a legal duty to act in the best interests of not only the Division they represent, but the entire Sunshine Coast Region. Therefore, it is important to keep abreast of regional issues, thus enabling informed input and voting when considered by council.

continuous dialogue and involving the community in decision-making processes, we can ensure that their needs are being met and their voices are being heard. My dedication to community engagement will be a continuous effort throughout my term as your elected councillor.

I believe that by working together, we can build a stronger and more inclusive community in Division 5.

Jenny Broderick

Tracy Burton

Stan Nawrocki

Winston Johnston

Kristy Taylor-Rose

SAID IT.... You

Council’s 1.2.3.

I’ve had three issues with Council recently: 1. In response to the article about public toilets in the Feb 20 edition, I completely agree that Council has completely dropped the ball on this issue. I remember during the pandemic, public toilets were regularly cleaned and fully stocked with handsoap, but now, I’ve been to three toilet blocks this week and there was no soap! It’s disgusting. 2. Council have been copping lots of complaints about the lack of mowing recently. Yeah, it’s been wet, but come on, the whole area is looking overgrown. Personally, I had a big email debate with them this week about the front of my property, which they claimed was a “verge” and said I was responsible for maintaining it. I argued that this “verge” is 20 metres wide (not a typical “nature strip”) and contains public assets like stormwater drains, a fire hydrant, and a Telstra manhole, plus

it runs along a major road and pathway to a primary school. The long grass was as tall as my bins and was obstructing views for oncoming traffic. Anyway, to cut a long story short (pun intended), after a week of email ping pong with someone in an office up the Coast, they finally sent a real person out to look at it who agreed it was Council’s responsibility and they will add it to the map for their mowing contractors to do. A win for the little guy! 3. Has anybody else noticed the full-time security guard at

the Beerwah Library? They seem pretty useless; just wondering around aimlessly whenever I take my kids there. How much is this costing Council? What’s the justification for it?

In conclusion, I hope our upcoming local government elections result in a common-sense Council that looks after the Hinterland and gets back to basics of looking after the rate payers who fund their wages by managing their budgets wisely, and providing good quality roads (watch out for potholes), rubbish service,

and public toilets! Jackson Marshall Glasshouse Mountains

“F” is for Footy

Well, here we go. The rugby league season is upon us again. This is Alf with the fudge jar idea – if you don’t remember, it is every time a footy player says the “F” word, we put a $1 coin in the jar throughout the whole season. At the end of the year, we find a good cause to donate the money to, which will be here before we know it. I encourage everyone who watches the footy to do the same. Footy players swear a lot when they make a mistake, so it’s a good way to raise money! And businesses in town can put a fudge jar on their counter with an explanation what it is for. Then at the end of the season, donate it to the GC&M News team to add to their footy tipping pool, which they give to a worthy cause. And by the way, I am going to win the tipping comp this year! Cheers

MY partner got pulled over yet again last week at school (for the second time in two weeks).

The latest offence was for driving into the staff car park to pick up our youngest.

Different cop, so he didn’t know her record (which readers may recall was described by one policeman as “shocking”) and let her go. More fool him. She

makes a great wife, but is an even better menace to society.

Communist mansplainer

A QUICK retort to the anonymous Caloundra Curmudgeon’s Shakesperian criticism of my brief commentary on questioning the public spend on air conditioning in social housing (You Said It, Feb 20) ‘Let them bake’ he wrote

(if ‘he’ is his preferred pronoun).

No, my socialist friend, the point was that air conditioning was no Godgiven right to anyone and why should the taxpayer be subsidising someone else to get it.

I’m told it would cost something in the realm of a (very) cool $500 million to fit out every social housing unit in the state.

I’m not going to waste any more of my “cold-hearted” time on someone who hides behind a pseudnoym, except to ask if the Caloundra Curmudgeon’s middle name is ‘Commie’? Has a ring to it. An eye for art Slithering through Turner Park last week I noticed a perfectly good rock covered in something resembling a slightly

Elected REPS

with Andrew Powell State Member for Glass House

First Response to the BHWA Submission

After making my submission on the proposed Stage 4 route of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative to the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, I recently received a preliminary response. It stated TMR had received over 800 community submissions – what a fantastic effort from all involved. They also said that all feedback will now be considered to inform next steps, revised project timelines and further technical investigations needed. This includes consideration of suggestions for alternate corridor alignments. TMR claim they will keep the community informed of early planning for Stage 4 and provide an update on consultation outcomes and next steps once feedback has been considered. Rest assured, if they won’t, I will.

Queensland Health Crisis Hits Rock Bottom

The Queensland Health Crisis has reached uncharted territory under Labor’s chaos and crisis.

New data for the

Multiple offender makes a great wife

unedifying mound.

On closer inspection it turned out to be art.

December quarter shows the worst figures ever recorded for the elective surgery waiting list and the specialist outpatient waiting list. Ambulance ramping in Queensland remains the worst in the nation, with the rate unchanged at 43%. The data shows that:

• Queensland’s ramping rate of 42.9% is the worst figure ever recorded for a December quarter;

• Ambulance ramping in Queensland remains the worst in the nation;

• The elective surgery waitlist has risen above 60,000 Queenslanders for the first time in history; and

• 291,507 patients are waiting to see a specialist – the highest number of patients on record in Queensland. Each of these dire numbers represents a Queenslander who can’t get the health care they need, when they need it most. These figures aren’t the fault of our hardworking health workers, they’re the fault of a failing and flailing government. Only the LNP has the Right Priorities for Queensland’s Future, including driving-down ambulance ramping and healthcare waitlists.

And on even closer inspection realised it was some sort of chainmail nod to our colonial heritage.

Unfortunately, or fortunately it was third times a charm for my misunderstanding when I was told it was an interpretation of Mt Beerwah.

Apologies.

CRANK CRANK CRANK the Croc the Croc

Art comes in many shapes and forms. Just like this column.

Time

World class show at Eudlo

Thought provoking exquisite harmonies

By Sonia Isaacs

HAILED by music critics as ‘the most exciting vocal group in a generation’, with a performance equally described as ‘sublime, remarkable and absolutely phenomenal’, American vocal group Windborne are touring Australia this March.

Booked to play across the country, including at the Blue Mountains Music Festival and the National Folk Festival, local audiences will also have the unique opportunity to experience this sensational vocal group, along with

when they perform at Eudlo Hall on Saturday March 9.

Supported by internationally renowned harpist Christina Tourin (USA) and local duo Andrea Kirwin and Claire Evelynn, this unique concert experience promises to be a transformative human enriching encounter, which celebrates the power of the human voice.

The Windborne tour has been organised by local singer-songwriter Andrea Kirwin, who runs Nambour based independent record label, agency and events

Records.

Speaking with GC&M News, Andrea said she first saw Windborne perform live at the World Music Expo (WOMEX) in Lisbon, Portugal in October 2022, where the American vocal group was showcasing. She said she was truly blown away by their impressive live performance, which was filled with exquisite harmonies, thought provoking originals and she said she also loved the historical context and stories that Windborne weaved into their set.

Andrea explained that from that moment she was determined to bring them out to Australia, and started working together with the group to organise and book their debut Australian tour.

Andrea said she chose to host a concert at Eudlo Hall because she felt the intimate heritage hall would suit the style of the concert.

“I believe Windborne’s music would resonate with the community of Eudlo and surrounding hinterland

towns,” she said.

“Peace Run Records has been hosting shows at Eudlo hall over the past two years and it’s a fantastic venue for listening concerts.”

Windborne’s captivating show draws on the singers’ deep roots in traditions of vocal harmony, while the absolute uniqueness of their artistic approach brings old songs into the present.

Known for the innovation of their arrangements, their harmonies are bold and anything but predictable.

Concert goers can expect

Windborne to perform a mix of traditional songs from across the globe, brought to life through their own unique arrangements, as well as their own original compositions based on the universal themes of social justice and the trade union movement.

Windborne have been crowd favourites since starting to tour in 2018, and have amassed a substantial following, with their performances garnering widespread praise from audiences and critics alike.

Supporting Windborne will be celebrated harpist

and founder of the International Harp Therapy Program, Christina Tourin (USA) and opening the show will be tour organiser Andrea Kirwin performing her Fijian folk and Island soul originals accompanied by her wife Claire Evelynn on the Celtic Harp.

Doors will open at 6.30pm for 7.20pm show. General admission tickets are $35 + booking fee with a $30 concession ticket, youth under 16 $15 and children under 5 free.

www.peacerunrecords.com/ ontour sonia@gcnews.com.au

Rosetta’s Great Reads

The Chocolate Factory

Reviewed by Lea Dodd

Mary-Lou Stephens sweeps us back to the past in this homage to chocolate and 1920s Tasmania. From the opening journey across the sea, to the streets of Tasmania the era alive with her meticulous research and sensory descriptions. Here we meet Dorothy Adwell, sent from Bourneville, factory in Australia. Together with mentee, Maisie Greenwood, a poor daughter of a war widow, they not only recipe that is coveted by all the local chocolate makers. Two very strong female characters who balance responsibility and love to make this a warm and sweet human story. If you enjoy history, intrigue and chocolate, this book is for you! RRP $32.99.

The Busy Body

Reviewed by Gabriel Curmi

The Busy Body is an intriguing mystery novel based in Maine, America whose narrator is a ghostwriter who writes books for celebrities. The ghost writer interviews Dorothy Gibson, an infamous woman at the time as she failed the American election. Dorothy accepts our narrator to write her story. When a neighbour commits suicide, the local police are not much help so Dorothy investigates and discovers that it was murder. The story also has a nice romantic touch to it. The author, Kemper Donovan, is the host of the All About Agatha podcast. His admiration RRP $32.99.

From terminal to remission

A remarkable story of triumph over adversity

By Sonia Isaacs

TEN years ago, Mooloolah resident Allison McMaster was dealt a devastating cancer diagnosis. Previously a fit and healthy 46-year-old wife and mother, Allison was told out of the blue that she had developed a rare and aggressive form of cancer and that she had less than two years left to live.

With no hope offered by traditional treatments including chemotherapy and radiation, Allison turned to an exploration of alternative treatments, including the controversial (and illegal at the time) cannabis oil.

Ten years on, Allison is now free from cancer and credits her remarkable remission on her decision to use cannabis oil as a treatment option.

Speaking with GC&M News Allison said it was originally her husband who had suggested she look into the possibility of using Medical Cannabis as an alternative treatment.

“Hubby had been

outcomes using the oil, and so I decided to try it as I had nothing to lose,” Allison explained.

Allison said she was prompted to write the book for many reasons.

“I had to share this story. I felt that to not let people know about my story of survival, would be selfish

GIFTS COFFEE

Horoscopes

PISCES

FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20

With the planetary posse of radiant sun, expressive Mercury, visionary Neptune and strategist Saturn orchestrating a celestial symphony in Pisces, this is your week to walk on the wild side and revel in the Festival Of You. If moods seem more intense than usual, be assured they’ll pass soon enough.

ARIES

MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

If this week’s steamy astrology has you too fired up to deal with emotionally-charged issues diplomatically, then step away from situations with inflammatory potential until you’re able to approach them with a cooler head. Treating challenges as gifts in work clothes has been known to help.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 – MAY 20

Is it feeling like time to readdress an unresolved issue? Instead of getting stuck on who’s right and what’s wrong, innovative Uranus in Taurus is encouraging you to open up this week’s discussions to a variety of perspectives and look at things from a range of different angles.

GEMINI

She has recently released a book entitled ‘Terminal to remission with cannabis oil: an Australian success story’; documenting her astonishing journey and recovery.

WEEK BEGINNING FEBRUARY 27

MAY 21 – JUNE 21

During your power planet Mercury’s introverted cycle, it’s worth taking a break from digital persistence and revisiting the organic technology of your own inner vision. Because this week offers support to actualize an artistic or philanthropic project and introduce it to the wider world.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 22

VIRGO AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22

The sensitive season of your fellow water sign favours accessing spiritual guidance, paying attention to dream messages, indulging your favourite creative outlets and considering ways of giving back to your community. This week’s note to self? Don’t waste time in no-win arguments: walk away till another day.

LEO JULY 23 – AUGUST 23

With volatile Venus, argumentative Mars, super-size Jupiter and unpredictable Uranus all in fixed signs like your own, short fuses and stubborn mindsets could see tempers flare and opinions clash this week. Ready to roar? Probably preferable to purr, so that peace and harmony can be more easily reestablished.

Proudly sponsored by

of the world. At the time Australia, hadn’t really touched the subject. There were a few people around selling cannabis oil, but it was all ‘black market’, “I had heard stories of people having successful

“My husband and I went through months of research. I wished there had been a book like this when I needed it. It would have saved so much time. Time I thought I didn’t have, and time I could have been spending with my loved ones. It made me angry there was so little information available at the time. Now it is fantastic there is plenty around. I really hope my book gives people hope. I want people to never give in and know life is so worth it!”

Allison will be doing a book launch at Rosetta Books on Saturday March 2 at 10am, book available online , Booktopia and Amazon.

Communication could become confusing when your mentor planet Mercury, under the dissolving influence of Neptune, starts blurring lines between fact and fancy. If you’re finding it hard to focus this week, don’t force things: a break and breather, let intuition be your guide.

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23

Business dealings could be dodgy this week, so think no-nonsense financial discussions and clear basic agreements. Yes, you love keeping things in the feelgood zone, but Saturn is insisting on eyeswide-open background checks before signing contracts or inviting someone into your world.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22

Stubbornness and determination are two faces of the same energy: stubbornness resisting what you don’t want, determination pursuing what you do. This week advises shifting focus from won’t power to willpower, a course which is currently supported by the abundance of fluid energy in a fellow water sign.

with Lilith Rocha

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21

Following the recent overload of stimulating ideas, this touchy-feely week is about process rather than goals, about embodying the concept that all the way to heaven is heaven. About slowing down and tuning in. About simplifying your busy life and finding the love. About listening...

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20

With this week activating Capricorn’s zodiac zone of communication, creative capabilities and community activities, expect to be expressing yourself with extra flair and eloquent artistry. Even better, your ruler Saturn is under instructions from sensitive Neptune to stay open to receiving as much as you give others.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18

If this week’s vague, indecisive or needy people have you wanting more personal space, then take it, because you know from experience it’s more energyefficient to refrain from rash reactions than deal with damage control. Venus and Mars, travelling together through your sign, are there to assist.

What’s

Glasshouse Muso’s - Four Act

Night

When: Tuesday February 27, 6.30pm

Where: Beerwah Hotel

Info: Our acts this month are Maleny Ukulele led by Tom Richter, Buderim Underground, the Dan Feguson Duo, and Deni and the Doc and friends. This is continuing our series of “four act night” events. It runs the 4th Tuesday each month at the hotel. Do try and get along to support local music as without an audience our events can’t run!

https://www.facebook.com/ groups/musosclub/

AI for Beginners - Worklinks QLD

When: Thursday February 29th, 9am to 11.30am

Where: Landsborough School of Arts Memorial Hall, 485 Old Landsborough Rd, Landsborough.

Info: Join us at Worklinks for an insightful AI workshop, where we’ll delve into the fundamentals of artificial intelligence. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover the transformative potential of AI in todays dynamic landscape.

For further information: https:// landsboroughhall.org.au/events/ ai-for-beginners-workshopworklinks/

Microsoft Teams and Planner workshop - Worklinks Qld

When: Thursday February 29th, 12pm to 2.30pm

Where: Landsborough School of Arts Memorial Hall, 485 Old Landsborough Rd, Landsborough. Info: Welcome to your guide to unlocking the power of collaboration and organization with Microsoft Teams and Planner! Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just getting started, this introductory guide will equip you with the essentials to work smarter, not harder.

For further information: https:// landsboroughhall.org.au/events/ microsoft-teams-and-plannerworkshop-worklinks/

Conflict Resolution Training workshop - Worklinks Qld

When: Friday March 1st, 8.30am to 1pm

Where: Landsborough School of Arts Memorial Hall, 485 Old Landsborough Rd, Landsborough. Info: Handling conflict and complaints is tough. The Worklinks Conflict resolution training will guide you through common challenges and provide you with highly beneficial and practical examples of effective conflict resolution techniques. For further information: https:// landsboroughhall.org.au/events/ conflict-resolution-trainingworklinks/

2

Glasshouse Country Uniting Church - Men’s breakfast & Speaker

When: Saturday 2nd March 7.30am

Where: Glasshouse Country Uniting Church, 29 Twin Peaks Rd, Beerwah

Info: All men welcome.

Beerburrum Country Markets

When: Saturday March 2nd 8am to 12pm

Where: Beerburrum Community Hall, 7 Anzac Ave Beerburrum

Info: Car boot sites and stall holders are welcome for inside the air-conditioned hall and outside shady grounds. Autumn is almost upon us so come grab some goodies for the loved ones in your life from our local creators - including jewellery, dolls, bags, bowls, paintings, free card making, pictures, baked goods, steering wheel covers, dog treats, scrunchies, plants, jewellery, hand towels, flowers, earrings, cutting boards, bags and various handmade creations – as well as many more!

The Maleny Blackall Range Lions Club - Lions Awareness Week Event

When: Saturday March 2nd, 8am

Where: Piece of Green (between Maleny Realty and the antique Shop on Maple Street)

Info: Come along to our marquee and find out more about how the Lions International Foundation helps to make a difference in the world and how Maleny Lions help to make a difference in the community and the world. We will have a collection box for

you to bring in your old glasses and sun glasses which are quality tested, washed and dried, graded and sent to Lions clubs Church missions and humanitarian groups in third world countries. We will also have some fun with games, a spinning wheel (with prizes) and Lions bags for you to take home.

The Dreamery Opening

When: Saturday March 2nd, 10am

Where: Maleny Neighbourhood

Centre

Info: The Maleny community is invited to celebrate the Legacy of Jacklyn Irwin. The Dreamery is a space for the community to meditate, relax, dream, rest, create & connect. For more information please call 5499 9345.

2024 Artist Exhibition series

When: Until March 3

Where: Vianta Arts, 3/70 Simpson Street Beerwah

Info: Hinterland artist Laurie Catlin features 17 mixed medium works, embracing a grey nomad lifestyle which has allowed her further exploration of her love for painting the Australian Bush.

Clean Up Australia Day

When: Sunday March 3rd, 8am to 10am

Where: Glasshouse Mountains District Park

Info: Join the Glasshouse Mountains Advancement Network for a local Clean Up Australia Day event.

Become an active Bystander!

When: Tuesday March 5, 8.45-1pm

Where: Maleny Neighbourhood

Centre Info: The Speak Up Now – Stop Domestic Violence group is offering community members and organisations an opportunity to gain active bystander awareness training. Further information, or expressions of interest for registration is available by contacting Val at speakupnowstop domesticviolence@gmail.com

Meet The CandidatesPublic Forum

When: Wednesday 6th March 5.30pm-7.30pm

Where: Landsborough Sporting Complex, 15 Tunnel Ridge Road

Landsborough

Info: Find out how the Mayoral and Councillor candidates

stand on important issues in the Glasshouse Region.

Club Acoustic @ Maleny RSL

When: Thursday March 7th, 6pm

Where: Maleny RSL

Info: 1st Thurs each month. Doors Open at 6pm, Fully Catered, Bar, Music from 6.30 - 8.30pm, Professional Sound, MC, $10 entry, $5 with Concession Card, Musicians need to book a spot at least one month ahead.

Intensive Job Coach workshop - Worklinks Qld

When: Thursday March 7th and Friday March 8th, 8.30am to 2.30pm

Where: Landsborough School of Arts Memorial Hall, 485 Old Landsborough Rd, Landsborough.

Info: Sign up for the Intensive Job Coach project. Free for eligible participants. You will be provided with the practical skills and resources to find work successfully.

For further information: https:// landsboroughhall.org.au/events/ intensive-job-coach-workshopworklinks-qld/

Trivia Night

When: Friday 8th March from 6.30pm

Where: Beerburrum Hall, 7 Anzac Ave Beerburrum

Info: Over $250 in prizes. $10.00 per person/ max 6 people per team. Snacks provided, BYO Drinks. Ph. 0418 321 895

QCWA - International Women’s Day Breakfast

When: Friday 8th March 7.00am9.00am

Where: Beerwah Meeting Place, Peachester Road Beerwah

Info: QCWA Beerwah invites you to a morning filled with inspiration, connection, and celebration at our annual International Women’s Day Breakfast.

Tickets include a light breakfast inspired by QCWA Country Kitchens recipes, lucky door prizes, an IWD 2024 tote bag and special guest speakers. $25. https://www.trybooking.com/ COKEX

Heritage Motorcycle ClubMaleny Swap Meet

When: Saturday 9th March

Where: Maleny Showgrounds from 6.00am

Info: Heritage Motorcycle Club 30th Annual Maleny Swap Meet. A Swap Meet is where people of similar interests gather, set up small stalls and sell all their excess parts and anything relating to their interests. Because ours is a Motorcycle Swap, then anything offered must be motorcycle related. That ranges from parts, complete motorcycles, clothing, riding gear, tools, and tyres. The list goes on. $10.00 entry fee. For more information call Keith on 0429 000 178.

CWA Peachester Village Markets

When: Saturday March 9th, 8am to 12pm

Where: Peachester Community Hall, 960 Peachester Rd, Peachester

Info: Hosted by Peachester Branch QCWA. Plants, crafts, baking, jams and chutneys, other favourite stalls. Canteen - sausage sizzle and drinks.

Monster Romance - Writer’s Workshop

When: Wednesday March 13th, 10am to 11.30am

Where: Maleny Library

Info: Join author Charlotte Powers for an introduction to the world of monster romance. Learn how to shape and expand your writing in this new space. Discover how to incorporate inclusivity and draft judgement free content. Hear about the big names in monster romance. Delve into psychology ideas behind this new form of writing and why everyone wants the beast. Free. Registration essential. Ages 18 and over.

Maleny’s Best Western Country Bash

When: Saturday 16th March from 3.00pm

Where: Maleny Showgrounds

Dairy Pavilion

Info: Tennessee Lights Band. Food trucks, mechanical bull, kids rides. $80.00 per person (includes one drink & food ticket), kids 13years and under FREE. Come in your best “Country Western” outfit.

Funky little shack living

adds great value to your property, and the trendsetting interior styling theme of your dreams.

A gorgeously crafted small home can make life more economical, social and sustainable for yourself or your loved one. You just need the proper knowledge and experts to help you create it.

mission is to give everyone the tools to design the perfect small home for their property.

The creative Funky Shack Design Formula is for families who don’t want a boring cookie-cutter granny flat. We design what YOU want.

We’ll guide you through a fun and structured design journey to create your perfect fl personalised design that

“My Shack has been the best investment ever. I’m now renting out my main house for $625 a week. so my return on investment is 17.2% a year” Phil P

“We are so impressed by how well your design works – very comfortable and efficient. Kitchen design particularly gets a big wrap. Also, the deck and the bathroom. Thank

These aren’t basic modular granny flats. Funky Little Shacks are modern, sustainable luxury small homes that help you live bigger and keep wealth

within the family unit. Building a luxury granny flat that complements the look and style of your existing home is the one of the BEST

Keep your loved ones safe and happy, or set yourself up for retirement, with a Funky Little Shack. Call Kath on 0418 193 312

Design book set to inspire

COUNCIL’S Sunshine Coast Design book has been developed to inspire and encourage quality place-based design on the Sunshine Coast into the future.

Sunshine Coast Design is a resource to help plan and design homes, buildings, parks, public spaces, streets and neighbourhoods on the Sunshine Coast.

It achieves this by using a set of simple and accessible values and design principles.

Sunshine Coast Council’s architects welcome the opportunity to work with the region’s residents or those that manage or own historic or iconic buildings on the Sunshine Coast.

The aim is to assist with the design process and help ensure heritage values are respected, enhanced and maintained where possible.

Make a free appointment with Council’s Senior Architect to discuss your project by emailing sunshinecoastdesign@ sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

To find out more visit website www. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/ sunshinecoastdesign.

Rasputin

Vincent Roxanne

Starting a building or renovation project

renovation project can be both thrilling and overwhelming, especially when faced with numerous decisions and paperwork.

Where do you start? The initial step is to assess your budget. Scrutinize your financial commitments, ensuring flexibility in case of unforeseen circumstances. Seek advice from financial advisors or lenders and research thoroughly to avoid underestimating costs.

For house construction, once your budget is set, focus on finding suitable land. Factors like size, slope, and soil type can impact construction costs. Consider future local development, nearby facilities, and any land-associated covenants or environmental regulations. Review contracts meticulously, consulting a solicitor before signing.

crucial. Collaborate with an architect or designer to refine your vision, exploring style and functionality within your budget. Discuss sustainable housing options, incorporating water, energy, and wasteefficient features from the outset.

Selecting the right builder is pivotal. Compatibility is key, given the substantial time spent together during construction. Prioritize qualities aligning with your preferences. Evaluate builders based on quote timeliness, references, previous work examples, and customer service.

Navigating these initial steps thoughtfully lays a solid foundation for a successful construction or renovation journey, ensuring that your vision aligns with practical and budgetary considerations.

Wealth of knowledge

IF you’re thinking about doing some renovation projects this year, then it might be a good idea to give Stefan Waskow a call. As a talented local handyman, Stefan has been running Glasshouse Country Handyman & Maintenance since January 2022, but has been in the building industry for over

20 years. With his wealth of knowledge and experience, Stefan can help bring your ideas to life to revitalise your home. Stefan prides himself on being honest and reliable whilst striving to get the best results for his customers with quality workmanship on all jobs. Stefan is passionate about providing a wide range

of services, from small to large internal and external projects; including decks, ramps and stairs, sheds, patios, and retaining walls, doors, walls, and windows, fencing and gates, plus pressure washing and general outdoor cleaning.

Check out the Glasshouse Country Handyman & Maintenance Facebook page

for examples of Stefan’s work, including some stunning before and after transformations, including new stairs, fences, decks and even a spa gazebo.

Fencing and gates can provide safety and privacy, and new ramps, stairs and handrails can rejuvenate an outdoor space to make it more functional. New walls, windows and doors can transform an indoor space to let in more light and open up a room.

Retaining walls can improve drainage problems and create nice garden edges, while pressure washing a driveway or roof will make your place shine.

No job is too big or too small, so if you need some work done around your home or business, give Stefan a call on 0407 026 486.

Designer

HAVE you ever noticed how dirty your windows are? Or how faded your driveway is?

It’s not something we usually think about but when Adam’s Windows & Softwash is finished at your place, you will be blown away!

It’s an often-ignored aspect of your home but you will be genuinely impressed by how much brighter and cleaner your place feels with clean windows and a nice driveway.

Adam says “it’s incredibly rewarding to work outdoors, interact with clients, and bring a fresh sparkle to their homes”.

Combining his expertise in pressure washing with window cleaning, Adam

offers a comprehensive service that enhances both the appearance and functionality of your property. From removing built-up residue, bugs, and mould to ensuring spotless windows, his meticulous approach guarantees an overall improvement to your home’s presentation.

Across the hinterland, Adam takes pride in connecting with residents and witnessing the positive impact his services have on their lives.

He explains “window cleaning is more than just a service—it’s a rejuvenating and therapeutic experience. By bringing in natural light and eliminating the stagnant energy of cobwebs, dust, mould,

Before After

and dirt, I create a fresh and inviting space for homeowners.”

Beyond window cleaning, Adam’s expertise extends to roof cleaning, solar panel maintenance, external house washes, driveway cleaning, gutter clearing, and repairing fly screens.

Adam is committed to delivering outstanding results tailored to your specific needs.

Contact Adam today to receive a no-obligation free quote for your home or business. Say goodbye to the hassle of cleaning and let Adam transform your space, leaving you with a clean and rejuvenated environment that exceeds your expectations. Phone Adam 0437 732 628.

knows paint.

Here are Anthony’s top tips for your next painting project:

1. Colour selection: Choosing the right colours is everything. Use the take-home colour charts available in the store to mix, match and contrast your colours to create the perfect palate.

2. Paint selection: Always use premium quality paint as it covers better, goes on easier and is a more durable finish.

3. How much paint: Measure your area to find the square metreage (length x height) divide by 12 to get

average litres per coat.

4. Colour test first: Buy a couple of sample pots and test the colours in different spots to see if the colours work on your surfaces.

5. Brush and roller selection:

Same as paint, use good quality tools as they will release the paint more evenly and give a smoother finish.

6. Surface preparation:

Make sure the surface is cleaned with appropriate cleaner (sugar soap), fi imperfections and gaps, and do a light sand.

rface aration: ke ce appropriate er , fill any rfections and and do a sand.

8. Is it a professional’s job?

If you think the job is too big Beerwah Paint Place can recommend great local painters.

9. Painting techniques: To avoid lap marks, roll the full height of the wall and keep a wet edge.

If in doubt, drop in to see Anthony and his team at Shop 3, 28 Simpson Street, Beerwah and let the experts guide you.

7. Other supplies: Don’t forget rags, drop sheets, scrapers, sanding blocks, masking tape, sugar soap, just to name a few.

r n’t t rags, sheets, ers, ng blocks, ing me a

•

•

planting seedlings for a spring display, it is timely to watch out for cut worms. This soil-borne pest chews through the seedling stem at ground level. At the first sign, spray with a pyrethrum or carbaryl product.

• Try not to plan any work

compacting the ground and churning up soggy soil – not a good practice.

• White cedar caterpillars are on the move. Wrap a hessian bag around the trunk and check underneath for the damaging insects as they’ll congregate there during the day. Squash, or spray them with a pyrethrum spray.

• Start planting broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower seedlings from midMarch. Watch out for

• If you have prepared the bed for sweet peas, you had better get cracking and build a trellis for them to climb up.

• If you haven’t done so, prune back your geraniums hard to stimulate fresh new growth. The trimmings can be used to propagate new plants.

• Watch the new growth of azaleas and if the veins stand out dark green with pale green or yellow tissue between, apply iron

Vegetables

Plant carrot, leeks, beans, cauliflower, lettuce, silver beet, spring onion, radish, capsicum, cucumber, eggplant, sweet potato, tomato, melons, pumpkin, okra, zucchini, broccoli, kale, cabbage, rocket, beetroot, garlic, celery, coriander, rosemary, fennel, potato, Plant alyssum, petunia, marigolds, sweet pea, ageratum, aurora daisy, nigella, calendula, cyclamen, delphinium, impatiens, dianthus, salvia, everlasting daisy, forget-me-not, gaillardia, foxglove, linaria, lobelia, lupin, nasturtium, polyanthus, schizanthus, Iceland poppy, primula, snapdragon, cleome, strawflower, verbena,

If you like sharing your backyard with the wildlife, like us, then a diversity of plants and resources is key to the diversity of wildlife you’ll see and be able to share your backyard with.

Nectar producing flowers such as Leptospermum and Melaleuca spp. provide food for birds, possums, bees, butterflies and a host of other insects. Fruits (even your fruit trees!) feed a whole range of native fauna and small native fruits such as Mutton wood - Myrsine variabilis, Silky Myrtle - Decaspermum humile and Midyim - Austromyrtus dulcis can attract a great range of small adaptable birds such as Lewins Honey Eater. Insects eating your plants is often looked upon as detrimental, but the insects in turn provide a protein boost to many birds, who in turn help with pest control - Spangled Drongo’s (pictured left) love Citrus Bugs!

The more diversity of plant types from grasses, herbs and small shrubs, through to vines and trees provides habitat niches for an even richer range of fauna. Nest boxes, piles of rocks and logs, frog ponds and bird baths add even more to the mix.

Planning and planting habitat for your garden not only enriches our local ecosystems, it enriches your life too.

Sweet Peas

Azalea with yellowing leaves

Buckle In In Woodford!

DESPITE the storm forecast, Woodford Rodeo 2024 was a hit this past Saturday, even attracting international visitors.

Featuring barrel races, bull riding, food stalls, clothing and leather stalls, vintage utes, and mullets,

attendees gathered around the arena with picnic blankets and camping chairs to watch the cowboys in action.

Youngsters of all ages could be seen showing

of international working holiday makers, couples and families.

Congrats to all competitors for their efforts and to the organisers for putting on a great rodeo for the community!

Barrell race

Jules, Ugo, Louisa, Gemma, Theo, Tia, Emily and Charlie - all international attendees

Emma and Samantha

Clay Hall

Ian and Sarah MIa and Mac

The Woodofrd Regional Ambassadors

Beach walking and stability

By Carly O’Donoghue Director/Podiatrist Stepping Out Podiatry

Booze buy song link

LA TROBE researchers identified that alcohol is referenced in around a quarter of popular songs and nearly a third of music videos according to an article published in Alcohol, Clinical and Experimental Research journal.

As part of this analysis, La Trobe researchers conducted a systematic review of 23 studies examining the prevalence of alcoholrelated content in music lyrics and music videos. They also examined

A long walk on the beach might sound relaxing, however your feet and legs may not agree! We need to make sure we protect our feet as much as we can when walking on sand, due to the instability of sand as it changes underfoot once we stand on it. The feet need to re-adjust constantly to ensure we stay upright, and the major muscles in our lower legs are having to work hard to support the feet and ankles.

Walking barefoot on the beach requires our small foot muscles (we have four layers of muscles under the foot!), and our larger leg muscles to work hard, and cope with. The tiny intrinsic muscles at the bottom of our feet can quickly get fatigued and easily injured. Beach walking requires stability, and sometimes the normal proprioception. If not careful, injuries such as heel pain, calf strains, and pain in the lower back can occur.

studies that tested the associations between exposure to music referencing alcohol and drinking behaviours.

La Trobe PhD student and project researcher, Gedefaw Alen, said 24 per cent of the 12,224 songs analysed contained at least one alcohol-related content in the lyrics or videos. These alcohol references or imagery (on music videos) included explicit mentions of alcoholic beverages, alcohol containers, drinking

behaviours, characters drinking, bar settings, and expressions of altered states.

“It is more important than ever to understand the influence of alcoholrelated lyrics on our drinking behaviour, because we found that both the number of songs that include a reference to alcohol and the amount of time people spend listening to music are increasing,” Mr Alen said.

Mr Alen said the review revealed that only three articles addressed the

association between alcohol references and drinking behaviour, which highlighted that more research was needed to understand how song lyrics could be shaping our relationship with alcohol.

The three articles that focused on the connection between alcohol references and consumption all reported that exposure to music with alcohol references influenced drinking behaviours. A 2011 study in bars showed

Beerwah Amcal Pharmacy

Here are three ways risk of injury from beach walking and continue to enjoy what the Sunshine Coast

1 – Walk on the harder sand rather than

2 – Wear running shoes to maximise stability and minimise foot strain.

3 – Stretch your calf muscles before and easily in sand, which can overwork the foot muscles causing toe, arch and heel pain.

many more walks in the future!

We are only a phone call away, or one click away at our website, to help you keep moving for longer. We welcome everyone to visit us to ensure your feet don’t stop you from doing what you want to do. Talk our Podiatrists if you are worried about your feet, phone 1300 881 082 or visit our

that playlists with alcohol references were associated with higher customer spending on alcoholic beverages than playlists featuring the same artists but no alcohol references.

Similarly, a 2014 study on young people (aged 15 to 23) found that high receptivity, and correctly identifying at least one alcohol brand referenced in the song lyrics were associated with an increased risk of lifetime alcohol use and binge drinking.

Super findings recommend less complexity

NEW research from the Super Members Council (SMC) reveals that Australians are spending all their super in retirement, often drawing down more than the minimum required.

The retirement income submission to Treasury outlines recommendations to simplify the system, while accommodating the diverse needs of retirees.

SMC Chief Executive Misha Schubert emphasises the changing landscape of retirement, calling for simplicity, ease, and flexibility.

The SMC submission counters the misconception that retirees underspend, with data showing that two in three people draw income above the minimum required. Moreover, 90% of women and 80% of men have no super left at their life-expectancy age.

The research combines consumer insights, identified super fund data, and publicly available information. It challenges prevailing commentary, indicating that retirees are actively spending their super.

Despite a stated retirement ambition of 67, a third access super by 63, and 25% work into their 70s. The median balance at retirement is $200,000, with expectations that a median 30-year-old will retire with $500,000.

Consumer research highlights limited understanding of super in retirement, with 73% wanting tailored advice from their super funds.

The SMC advocates for legislative reforms in financial advice, easing transitions into retirement products, and personalised information about eligibility for pensions and government supports.

Additionally, a comprehensive retirement test measuring various factors is proposed, with opposition to mandating annuities, affirming trustees’ role in crafting investment strategies for members.

GEMS Hinterland

Tracy Mellors

Tracy’s heartfelt belief is that we are all; so much more than any diagnosis, so much more than any particular problem, issue or life transition we may be facing. Tracy looks forward to working together with you in ways that are not only evidencebased, but in ways that are also personally meaningful and helpful to you, inviting more vitality and purpose to your life. Services may be funded through NDIS, private health and self-funded. Tracy also provides supervision to social workers and counsellors. Services are available in Maleny, Caloundra, Gympie and via phone/online.

Acupuncture @ Beerwah

Acupuncture is the strategic insertion, penetration and manipulation of needles on the body for therapeutic benefit. Recognised worldwide as a Chinese medicine treatment, acupuncture can also be delivered needle free using moxibustion (a herb used to heat an area of concern to relieve pain and improve circulation) to effectively and beneficially affect the acupuncture points. The benefits of acupuncture are; drug-free pain relief; can be effective in the treatment of acute and chronic ailments as well as the symptoms and assists in the prevention against disease and the maintenance of general well-being.

Victory Counselling Services

Welcome to Victory Counselling Services, where you’ll find a compassionate, experienced, and understanding partner in your journey toward healing and selfdiscovery. A qualified Counsellor, Sharon brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for helping others navigate life’s challenges. With 35 years of experience in the health and beauty industry, Sharon offers a unique perspective on holistic well-being. At your counselling sessions, you can expect a safe space where your concerns are met with understanding and expertise. Contact her today to embark on a journey toward personal growth and emotional well-being.

Karyna is the warm and deeply compassionate counsellor at Ceres Counselling. She provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals and couples seeking guidance in their personal and relationship journeys.

Whether you are facing stress, anxiety, depression, life’s upheavals or seeking to improve your relationship dynamics, she is here to help you build bridges between where you are and where you want to be. Karyna offers in-person and online services, providing timely and holistic support to anyone Australia-wide. Let Karyna walk with you on your own unique journey through life.

Glasshouse Country & Maleny News

Businesses don’t advertise because they are big … they’re big because they advertise! If you are looking for a proven way to grow your business in 2024, lock in a time to talk to Lewis about how Glasshouse Country & Maleny News can help you reach a wider local audience. Let us come up with a plan that suits your business and budget, and gets you noticed by our estimated 35,000+ loyal readers AND over 17,000 Facebook followers.

With both print and digital options, let GC&M News turn your ideas into solutions.

Church & Communit y

BC: Before Computers

MAYBE it’s just me, but did you ever try to record your whole vinyl collection on to tape? Nowadays we’re all about mobiles and tablets, but, way back when, in (my) teenage it all depended upon having the right hi fi. It all depended upon having exactly the right amplifier, but then you needed a perfectly balanced turntable with just the right needle, but then I remember being very impressed with a hi fi that had a double tape recorder that could fast forward, or backwards and select the next song automatically. Up until then you just had to keep stopping and starting until you reached the right break… and then CDs came along. It was pointless listening or recording anything else. The quality and purity of CDs was simply unbeatable. And, now we’re skipping past

downloaded music, vinyl is making a come back.

Now, of course, “half” a lifetime has gone and we might ponder what it would be like to be able to press playback and be able to live it all again. All of a sudden it might seem as though someone pressed fast forward and it all went so quickly. But, if you could, would you want to replay the past? Would you do anything different if you had the choice? It may seem that the memorable and important things in life have all passed by. We made all the big decisions back then.

But…. Wouldn’t it be incredible if there was still some great moment, some big achievement still to be made? What if life isn’t all behind us? Maybe there is still something grand waiting to be done. Maybe it’s time to press play and live this moment to the full.

with Paul Fletcher Anglican Church Glasshouse Country

Turn up the volume and revel and rejoice in high fidelity, stereophonic, in just exactly this moment and play the music.

Lent allows us that time. Lent is in the moment: now. Let’s explore the wonder and the possibilities of now: in God, for God and with God.

What might we do together? Let’s not press ‘fast’ anything. Let’s press okay and love in the moment.

History Group celebrates residency

At the recent Members’ Meeting of the Caloundra Family History Research group, we were treated to a fascinating talk by Shauna Hicks on finding Irish family history online. Shauna is a regular guest presenter at Caloundra Family History and we were delighted to have her back to share her much-valued and muchneeded research tips.

What a fascinating topic and hard to believe there is so much information available. Shauna will be providing a copy of her presentation to those who attended and reminded us

all – yet again - to always check out the online catalogues of information repositories as not all their collection has been digitised.

The afternoon was topped off by a celebratory afternoon tea to mark the 10th anniversary of our residency at the Sunshine Coast Turf Club.

Next Meeting: Thursday, 21

March 2024

Time: 1:30 pm (Members’

Meeting follows at 2:30 pm)

Guest Speaker: Les Clarke

Topic: “Clarke Family –Fisherman of Caloundra”

GLASSHOUSE COUNTRY

BEERWAH: Sunday 9.30am

Mary MacKillop Centre, 160 Peachester Rd

MOOLOOLAH: Wednesday 9am and 1st Sunday of month 4pm ST THOMAS, 31 Bray Rd

Local contact: Rev Tony Halstead 0455 554 930

Zonta Zonta Zonta!

ZONTA Blackall Range celebrated Valentine’s Day with a fun filled night of Trivia on Saturday 10th February.

Packing the RSL hall were 120 participants in teams of 8, skillfully orchestrated by Gerry from Trivia Time, doing their best to outscore each other. In between buying bonbon crackers to reveal their prizes, enjoying some very sumptuous nibbles, bidding on the silent auction, answering tricky questions and getting drinks from the bar they played Music Bingo and the very popular Fact or

Crap game. The Palmwoods Dragons took away the main basket of prizes. They were a tough table to beat but the Bleeding Hearts from Maleny came close.

The Zonta Club is hugely grateful for the huge generosity of Maleny, Montville and Palmwoods business and individuals who donated some great prizes and

vouchers. Check out our Facebook page for the list of donors.

See you next February!

WASTE ACTION MALENY

Safe Battery Disposal

How do you dispose of used batteries? NEVER put batteries in your general waste, garden waste or recycle bin. They are hazardous, flammable and can start fires in garbage trucks or waste facilities.

The safest way to dispose of batteries is:

• Fill a jar with your small used batteries (out of reach of children, especially button batteries)

• Take to a Council Resource Recovery Centre near you (including car batteries)

• Take to a battery collection point in your community – eg IGA, Woolworths, Mitre 10, Aldi, Officeworks.

The WAM Guide (on our website & Facebook page) shows Maleny drop off points, or the free Recycle Mate app shows where to dispose of batteries

(and other items) in your community.

https://recyclemate.com.au/

y

Welcomes you each Saturday at 27 Maleny Street

9.30am – All Age Small Group Meetings (Includes Children and Youth programs) 11:00am - Worship Service

1st Saturday each

WAM’s aims are to educate and empower people to take action on waste and related issues, at a personal and community level. To find out more, visit our website www.wasteactionmaleny.org , Facebook group WAM Waste Action Maleny or email us at wasteactionmaleny@gmail.com.

President Margy Henderson welcomes participants to the Zonta Almost Valentine’s Trivia Night Fundraiser

Palmwoods Dragons Celebrating their Win

More Queensland, for more Queenslanders

Let’s grow a better Queensland together

Let’s face it, life in Queensland is pretty sweet. We’ve got the great outdoors, and that famous sunshine-state-of-mind. And we’re not the only ones who think so, because Queensland is growing. In fact, over the next 10 years our state is expected to grow with over a million more people through both interstate and international migration, as well as natural increase. That’s great news for our economy and communities. But with all those extra Queenslanders, it’s important that government, industry and communities work together to plan and build for this growth.

There’s no place like Queensland

A million extra Queenslanders means we’ll need more homes. And because household dynamics are changing, the types of homes we’re planning and building for need to change too. People want different things depending on their personal circumstances. There are more single person and single parent households than ever before and there will be more in the future. Not everyone wants a big block with an equally big mortgage,

or lawn they need to care for. So now and into the future there is going to be more demand for attached housing and smaller homes.

We call this housing diversity and we’re baking it into our future long-term strategic plans. From duplexes and granny flats to townhouses, terrace housing and units, we’re planning for more housing types so that more people can find homes to suit their needs and budgets. A bigger range of housing gives people more options about where they live, such as being able to live closer to family, friends or places of work. Ultimately our goal of well-planned growth is to provide people with a better quality of life and more time to connect - because what’s good for Queensland, should be good for every Queenslander too.

More people means more benefits

But it’s not just more homes in the pipeline.

As Queensland’s population grows, so will its vibrant communities, and it’s our job to plan ahead - to meet current and future needs of a changing population. More homes and people means more community benefits, like improving transport infrastructure, with more public transport services. It means more hospitals and more upgraded schools. And with all those extra people, we’re going to need somewhere for us all to hangout, practise some of that famous Queensland sociability and maybe kick a footy around (go Maroons!). So it means more parks and places to meet too.

Of course none of this exciting growth would be sustainable without proper planning. Queensland’s planning framework continues to evolve as the state grows and changes, but how it works is actually pretty simple. The state government’s planning framework is there to help development succeed - by encouraging the development of more walkable neighbourhoods for instance, streamlining planning approvals, increasing transparency and giving every community a voice. Which is where you come in.

Take a closer look

In Queensland, planning is a joint effort between the councils and the Queensland Government. The Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works is the custodian of the overarching planning framework; working with Queensland’s 77 councils to ensure state and local interests are integrated into planning schemes to guide the future shape of our communities. Industry and the community also play a role in planning for the future, by getting involved when there is a new state or local government policy or plan, or when these instruments are being amended. The community can also have their say on certain proposed developments, when a development application is assessed.

So if you are interested in learning more about the planning process, what’s planned for your area, or how you can get involved, visit qld.gov.au/GrowingTogether and let’s grow a better Queensland together.

PAGE Puzzle

Q. What do you call a horse in his pyjamas?

A. A Zebra

Q. Who invented King Arthur’s round table?

A. Sir Cumference.

Q. Why did the barber win the race?

A. Because he took a short cut.

Q. Why did the bull wear a bell?

A. Because her horn did not work.

Q. What do you call a train loaded with toffee?

A. A chew chew train.

Q. What do hedgehogs have for lunch?

A. Prickled Onions.

Q. What do ghosts eat?

A. Goulash

Q. Why do cows lie down in the rain?

A. To keep each udder dry.

Q. Why did the golfer wear an extra pair of trousers?

A. In case he got a hole in one.

Q: If I tap, a lettuce, and a tomato sauce bottle had a race, who wins, who comes second and who comes third?

A: The lettuce came first because it was a head, the tap came second because it was running and the tomato sauce bottle came third because it had to catch up.

Q: What do you give a dog with a temperature?

A: Mustard… It’s the best thing to put on a hot dog!

Q: How did the pig go on holiday?

A: The swine flu

almond apple

avocado blood orange

blueberry canteloup

cherry

citrus

costard

currant fig

grape

jonathan

lemon

lichee

lime

lychee

mandarin

mango

melon

mulberry

navel orange

olive

papaya

pawpaw

peach

32 Fish eggs

34 Employs

pecan prune raisin tamarind tangelo Valencia zapote

Email: reception@gcnews.com.au or Phone: 5438 7445

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WANTED TO BUY CALOUNDRA

DIANNE Horsman and Lynette Evans played away at Bribie in the ricochet competiton on Tuesday. Joy Wright went down to Dianne 13 - 20 while Lynette lost to Jenny Walker 11 -15. With game scores equal Bribie pulled out their big guns with Gwen Connolly and John Burdinat winning a very competive game 14 – 11 to take the match 2 games to 1.

Wednesday saw play at home in the Lochwood competition against a Bribie team. Donna Manning played Greg Whymark beating him 26 – 15 while Nick Cram finished ahead of Lynda Davis 20 – 3. With the match already decided Sarah Widin and Nick played Greg and Lynda losing a very strategic battle at the death 12 – 15. Maleny took the match 2 – 1.

Social play on Thursday produced some interesting games. Carole Atkinson beat Dianne 10 – 7. Wallace Roy beat a combined team of Helen Andrews and Lynette 14 – 5. Donna Manning was just too strong for Sarah winning 9 – 7.

David Kerr and Wallace, potential partners in our potentially strong Bray team, could only manage six hoops against Sarah’s 12 on Sunday. This is a good result. The combination appeared to work well. A strong Bray team bodes well for the club in the future. Dianne played well without luck to go down to Ken Barker who played with luck recording a final score of 12 – 18 to Ken.

The attached photo shows Greg Whymark damaging long-suffering corner 4 while he negotiates a semi-cannon situation to get a ball to hoop 5.

Play days:

Follow us on Instagram g @gcmnews

Association: Thursday and Sunday. Please arrive at 2.00 pm for games to be arranged by 2.30 pm. Contact Sarah Widin 0417640704 for other days.

Ricochet: Tuesday. Please arrive at 8.45 a.m. for games to be arranged by 9.00 a.m.

Coaching: is available on Saturday mornings at 8 a.m.

Our web address is: https:// rangecroquetatmaleny.org.au. For details contact Sarah Widin 0417640704 (President)

homes are

Age: 4 years 0 months

Sex: Male

Adoption Fee: $125

Weight: 6 kg

Summary:

Breaker is a charming, confident cat that is always up for a chat. He will greet you when he sees you, and immediately come straight over for a cuddle. And if he doesn’t get a cuddle, he will make his own cuddles by rubbing outrageously against your feet and legs, talking to you the whole time. Breaker

need

an only cat and stay indoors because he is FIV positive. Being FIV isn’t as scary as it sounds, it just means that if he got sick,

Age: 7 years 1 month

Sex: Male

Adoption Fee: $300

Weight: 61kg

Summary:

Elvis

Dogue de Bordeaux

Glasshouse Country Bowls Club

Contributed by David Hayes

Dennis Hume 18 - 16.

Robi Dean, Mick Clark and Di Hume def Seija Munster, Annette Capern and Jonathon Orr 34 - 5.

Winners of the day were Di Hume’s team

Maleny Bowls Club

Contributed by Brett Gillis

OUR AGM was held on Saturday February 24, with Chairman Ian Porter presenting his report for the year 2023 detailing our strong financial position due to attendance at our club events being at 95 % pre-covid status. He also thanked our sponsors for their ongoing support: Brouhaha, Judi Coey Optometry, IGA, Maleny Hotel, RSL, Maleny Quality Meats, Purple Palate, Audika and Les

Maleny Bowls Club continues to have a strong community focus within the Maleny community. This can be seen through its involvement and support of worthwhile organisations such as the Rural Fire Brigade and SES by hosting functions for these groups to thank them for their work in the local community, as well as opening

its doors to host a range of events such as Christmas parties, birthday and post wedding events.

The success of these functions has only been possible by the tireless efforts of volunteers, however small or great and is greatly appreciated. We thank you!

A special mention for the ladies who assist in the catering of our signature events in the club and our ‘phantom’ greens keeper “Les” who works tirelessly to ensure our well-manicured playing surface.

Club Championships are well underway with Semi-Finals of Men’s Singles competition being played with Dave Robson def Basil Kapoulitsa and Brett Gillis def Ian Porter. Dave Robson plays Brett Gillis in the final. Mixed Pairs saw Les Bennett & Margaret Ginns def Karen Leslie & Doug Johnstone.

Share the details of your sporting club’s Bl d, Sweat &

Send it through to Glasshouse Country & Maleny News by 9am each Monday morning to ... editorial@gcnews.com.au

Ladies Fours Championship Winners. Rae Farrell, Marilyn Podmore, Noelene Annakin and Margaret Gibson

Bulldogs to launch season

THE Beerwah Bulldogs’ Launch Day is on March 2, and promises to be an exciting affair for footy players big and small.

At this event, the club will introduce their junior and senior teams for the 2024 season, from U6s all the way up to the A Grade Men’s and Open Women’s sides.

It will be a family friendly night kicking off at 3pm on the first Saturday of the month, with presentations to follow.

The club’s bar will be open to attendees, and there will also be live music, rides for the younger crowd, and a variety of food trucks.

From 3pm, food trucks on offer will include Ned Kellys, Coffee Van, Snowcones and a pizza van.

The band performing live will kick off from 7pm and finish up at 10pm, when the night will conclude.

There will be a dazzling fireworks display from 8pm too for all to enjoy.

The Beerwah Bulldogs encourage you to bring friends and family along!

P4AC cancelled for 2024

SUNCOAST Hinterland

Softball’s Play for a Cause (P4AC) charity masters event has been cancelled, after failure to re-secure enough teams for the rescheduled event in March.

The annual event, was initally postponed on January 13-14 after intense rainfall making the fields unplayable.

It is expected the event will be back up and running next year. The club has now announced its’ inaugural Suncoast Men’s Softball Masters on October 5 and 6. Expressions of interest are open until April 30.

Sophie brings home bronze in Deaf Games success

games.

“We went really well, we came back with a bronze medal, I unfortunately only played for two days

what team you’re in, where you come and everything, everyone includes you and supports you.” kirra@gcnews.com.au

with Kirra Livingstone

Abbie notches up 21st

BeeGees incredible anniversary

IT’S no exaggeration to say that Abbie Topfer has been a BeeGee for as long as she can remember.

The 26-year-old is notching up her 21st season with the hinterland football club that described her as the engine room of her team.

Starting as a Little Gee at the tender age of five, Abbie said it was hard to explain her commitment to the club, other than attributing it to the motivation provided by those around her.

“The girls motivate me to keep playing,” she said.

“It’s just such a good club to play for, and all the girls come back every year.

“I love the social side of it and spending as much time with the girls as well.”

Abbie said although she started playing football quite young when her parents signed her up, the sport has now become an integrated part of her life.

“I don’t really know what I love specifically about football,” she said.

“I just love everything about it, football is my life.”

The midfield player is described by the BeeGees as an “engine room on the field” and is known for her calmness under pressure as well as her exceptional plays.

“We’re proud to share that Abbie has joined the committee for the 2024 season and is also coaching one of our junior boys

teams,” the BeeGees club said.

Abbie added she will be much more busier now after becoming a committee member and is coaching the U11s boys team, her first team as a coach.

“They are a good bunch of kids and they are naturally talented as well, we just have to help them with the smaller things,” she said.

“It’s so different to go from being the player to actually coaching someone and trying to explain how to actually play the game.

“I joined the committee because I thought since I have been at the club for so long and basically grew up here, I could throw my opinion into club decisions.”

She added that she was still aiming to move from Women’s Reserves and be selected for the Premier Women’s team one day, but is aiming for silverware for whichever team she is selected.

“We just want to win it really, I think it will be good, we have always gotten so close to winning, we have got a whole new team this year and we’ve all bonded really well so we are all hungry for that win,” Abbie said.

“This season we are just focusing on communication and slowing down our plays, we have been learning to play it around the field are passing too.”

glasshousequarry.com.au

Sophie with her bronze medal (main) and in action (inset).Pictures: Simon Leonard

10 Layt Court, Landsborough

• Master bedroom with built-in robe with en-suite

• Main bathroom with both bath and shower

• Kitchen with electric cooking, and breakfast bar

• Open plan living and dining room

• Internal laundry with storage / linen cupboard

• Sun-filled outdoor entertaining area

• Remote double garage and large 7m x 9m shed

• 672 m² of land with side access

• Landscaped with low maintenance gardens

www.raywhitelandsborough.com.au

3 Cassia Street, Beerwah

• 4 bedrooms with ceiling fans (2 with built-in robes)

• 2 bathrooms

• Wrap-around kitchen with electric cooking

• Open plan living and dining room

• Home office/study/library

• Sun-filled outdoor entertaining deck

• Enclosed carport under the home with storage room

• 12m x 9m high clearance carport

• 794m2 of land with side access, plus solar

www.raywhitebeerwah.com.au

29 Brandenburg Road, Mooloolah Valley

• Spacious two-storey layout

• 3 bedrooms with ceiling fans, and built-in robes to 2

• 2 bathrooms

• Kitchen with electric cooking and breakfast bar

• Multiple living areas including a home office/study

• 2x outdoor entertaining decks

• Storage space under the home

• Double carport

• 2,023m2 of land plus solar

www.raywhitemooloolahvalley.com.au

45 Park Avenue, Nirimba

• Luxury master with robe, en-suite and balcony

• Bathroom with large glass shower, vanity and toilet

• Kitchen with electric cooking, stone bench tops, dishwasher, pantry, and breakfast bar

• Large open plan living and dining room

• Grassed backyard

• Double garage

• 165m2 of land

• Approx rental return: $640 - $660 p/w

www.raywhitebeerwah.com.au *

Jack

Alex Garden

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Michael

This recent sale has shown the demand for properties in Landsborough remains high and land in the area is in short supply.

We’ve got several eager buyers still hunting for opportunities in Landsborough. If you’re thinking of selling, contact one of our area specialists today!

www.henzells.com.au

mfay@henzells.com.au

Chris

csmith@henzells.com.au

JOHN MCGRATH – THE TRENDS DRIVING REGIONAL PROPERTY PRICE GROWTH

I can see many lifestyle areas performing as well or better than their city counterparts over the next decade. This capital growth will be driven by two main trends.

Firstly, as our population continues to age, more empty nesters will be purchasing premium houses and apartments in desirable seachange and treechange regional areas for their retirements.

Secondly, more young families that can work from home will seek areas, particularly those within a

90-minute drive of the capitals.

work/life balance that continues to inspire people to consider a areas.

I think these two groups will drive regional property prices materially higher over the next decade, and we’re already seeing this underway now.

Coastal towns remain the star performers of Australia’s regional markets, with empty nesters typically buying premium houses

or lifestyle apartments close to budget to buy their dream homes

held family houses in the cities. These highly desirable regional markets are popular with young families, too. However, younger buyers are typically restricted by what they can borrow from the bank, and rising interest rates have reduced their spending power.

As a result, young buyers who want to live in these popular areas are increasingly expanding their search to within a 30-minute drive, price growth. Other young families are targeting cheaper coastal areas. For example, demand has pushed local home values more than 10% higher over the past year in areas like Wongaling Beach in Cairns (median $295,000) and Forrest Beach, Townsville ($304,000).

yields and prospects for growth is outweighing the traditional psychological comfort of buying an investment close to home.

Last year, the best capital gains recorded across Australia were suburbs with median house prices below $500,000. Prices went up due to more demand for cheaper buyers, young families leaving the cities, and also local and interstate investors.

Since the pandemic, investors have become more open-minded about where to buy. The appeal

COMMERCIAL LEASING

Did you know we also manage commercial properties?

We currently have commercial leasing opportunities available in

out how our highly experienced team can assist with managing your commercial property, please contact Deb today! 0488 771 626

DEB FLEMING – NEW CLIENT CONSULTANT

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Our team of highly skilled property managers, combined with our unique McGrath leasing system ensures we deliver exceptional results, an outstanding customer experience and lifelong

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For example, we’re seeing some East Coast investors buying in Perth and regional Western Australia, where prices have been depressed for a decade and strong rental growth has materially raised yields. Brisbane and regional Queensland long-term investors.

While regional values have already years, I predict more growth going forward as work from home becomes part of the new landscape, baby boomers retire, and investors expand their horizons.

McGrath CEO & Founder - John McGrath

RECENT TESTIMONIALS

Exceptional Agent

I found Cassie’s industry experience extensive and approach professional, thorough and friendly. Cassie was always available to show my property to prospective buyers and always followed up. She gained insights on my unique property and walked through my 100 acres to understand its characteristics. Her team did a wonderful job with show casing the property through photos, video and written and verbal descriptions. I would highly recommend Cassi Nuske to any property seller or buyer. She sold my very unique property in a relatively short time.

Seller – Peachester

An experienced agent and great team!

It was a pleasure dealing with Cassi and the team. From the initial stages of photography and marketing all the way through to settlement, Cassi was extremely professional. Communication was good and Cassi provided helpful feedback along the way. She also has great local knowledge and is very team did for us. If you want an agent that is personable and professional with a great team working alongside her, Cassi is the one!

Seller – Mount Mellum

Excellence in Real Estate

Cassi and her team were a pleasure to work with in the purchase of our new property. They were communicative, responsive and helpful! I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to sell or buy on the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Buyer – Landsborough

15 Allan Avenue, Glass House Mountains

6 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Car

Situated on an elevated 2000sqm parcel in one of Glass House Mountains’ most desirable acreage estates, 15 Allan Avenue boasts family home; separate, one-bedroom dwelling; a heated pool; double bay shed and scenic views of iconic Mount Tibrogargan. This fabulous dual living opportunity is the perfect blend of everyday practicality coupled with a tropical resort vibe; you’ll never want to leave home!

44 Scotts Road, Glass House Mountains

4 Bed | 2 Bath | 4 Car

Boasting immaculate presentation and wonderful seclusion, this to dual-occupancy on a park-like 4.7acre parcel of level land only minutes from town services. Ideally suited to buyers seeking a very private acreage property with a permanent water source, 44 Scotts Road is ideal for horses, permaculture, hobby farming and those supplementary rental income.

2084 Old Gympie Road, Glass House Mountains

8 Bed | 4 Bath | Extensive Parking

2084 Old Gympie Road presents a unique opportunity to secure two beautifully presented residences, each with their own pool, plus an abundance of sheds and outbuildings. This dual living property comprises two full-size homes with thoughtful separation between them. Positioned on 21-acres of rural-zoned pasture dotted with eucalypt trees and views of Mount Tibrogargan, the site is perfectly suited to mixed farming, home business activities and has potential for eco-tourism ventures

If you would like to speak to our team regarding buying, selling or renting, we would be delighted to assist you further. For leasing and new client enquiries please contact our New Client Consultant Deb Fleming on 0488 771 626. For all sales enquiries please contact Cassi Nuske –0415 304 127. We look forward to being of service for all of your real estate requirements.