ILIKE APRIL. Slightly cooler weather (hopefully!) but still enough sunshine and warmth to enjoy the beach. School holidays are here - yes, I love them! But I only have one child to wrangle…I imagine I may feel very different with a household full of bored children to try to occupy.
April also means a visit from the Easter Bunny. The past two years we have spent the Easter long weekend at my mum’s house. She lives on a tiny island in Redland Bay in what was her mother’s house, which was built by my uncle. I spent a huge part of my childhood on the island and it is one of my favourite places in the world.
It is truly wonderful seeing my own daughter play on the same small beach that I played on at her age, and enjoying finding shells and chasing soldier crabs and digging in the sand just like I did.
People like to grumble about the younger generations being glued to their devices (which may be justified), but put a kid on a beach and they revert to
embracing the same simple pleasures that all the previous generations enjoyed.
Which brings us nicely to the Sandcastle Competition being held this month! Such a simple, nostalgic concept and always a great morning of good ol’ fashioned fun.
Have you planned your masterpiece yet? I love seeing people’s imaginations at work, it is amazing what people come up with. The classic upturned bucket of sand with a stick in top as a flag is about the limit of my creativity when it comes to sandcastles I’m afraid.
Hope you all have a fun, happy, prosperous, and wonderful month.
COVER PHOTO:
Ellie and Mo settling Topsy into place on the Rainbow Beach foreshore. Photo supplied by Mo Riggs. Want your photo on our cover? Email us or tag us on social media. Professional photography not required - just a great hi-res pic of our beautiful region.
COME AND JOIN US ON WEDNESDAY 5 APRIL ON THE BEACH NORTH OF THE SLS FLAGS FOR A MORNING OF FUN & CREATIVITY WITH SANDSHAPERS OF NOOSA
$20 entry per team
BYO buckets, spades and decorations
* REGISTRATION 8.30AM
* COMPETITION COMMENCES 9.00AM
* JUDGING 11AM BY ARRON FROM SANDSHAPERS
* PRESENTATION OF PRIZES 11.30AM
* PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
MAKE UP A TEAM OF FAMILY OR FRIENDS AND CREATE AN AMAZING SAND SCULPTURE TO WIN GREAT PRIZES SAUSAGE SIZZLE & DRINKS FOR SALE FROM 10AM FOR MORE INFORMATION
CONTACT RONNIE ON 0413 135 867
Proudly supported by Rainbow Beach Realty Cooloola Coast Realty, Michelle Agnew from Century 21 Rainbow Beach Community News
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Deadlines: News Items/calendar of events: 18th of the month
Advertising: Bookings 20th day of the month Copy deadline 23rd of the month
Printed by: News Limited
25APRIL IS THE national day of commemoration of Australia and New Zealand for victims of war and for recognition of the role of their armed forces. It marks the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.
The 25th of April was the day when Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (known as ANZACs) landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915 to set out and capture the peninsula in order to open the Dardanelles to the Allied Navies. This campaign was a disaster with more than 11,000 casualties and 25,500 wounded.
However, the bravery, endurance, and camaraderie shown by the ANZACs are not in doubt. The values and strong character of these young soldiers even in the face of adversity have been attributed to shaping both the Australian and New Zealand national identities, and the campaign is considered a defining moment for the countries.
One year later, on 25 April 1916, the first anniversary of the landing was observed in Australia, New Zealand and England and by troops in Egypt. That year, 25 April was officially named ‘Anzac Day’ by the Acting Australian Prime Minister, George Pearce.
Today we speak of an ‘Anzac tradition’, meaning the ideals of courage, endurance and mateship that are still relevant to this day.
To enable the community to attend and pay their respects and honour the service and sacrifices of all Service Men and Women and their families the Rainbow Beach RSL Sub-Branch will be conducting the following Ceremonies:
0530hrs - Dawn Service at the Cenotaph followed by a Gunfire Breakfast at the Surf Club
0945hrs - Form up for the Street March on the Centre Block followed by the Citizens Commemoration of Anzac Day.
25 April 1916
‘There was a memorial service at 9am at the Anzac Hostel in Cairo. After the service there was a procession to the Cairo cemetery and the flowers were taken and placed on the soldier’s graves.
I glanced up and saw one young laddie quite overcome in the gallery, but sad as it all was, one came away with the feeling of being drawn much nearer to those who gave their lives twelve months ago, that they were richer by far, and that their deeds are a lesson for all time.’
– extract from Anne Donnell’s diary, written on the day Anzac Day was commemorated for the first time, on the first anniversary of the landing in Gallipoli.
IN NOVEMBER 1914, Anne Donnell watched as a train loaded with Australian troops approached. ‘Hullo nurse, wish us luck; we’re off to France.’
Anne turned to her companion and said, ‘Who will look after our young men if they get injured? I too must go, to do my bit.’
On Thursday 20 May 1915, aged 39 years and seven months, Anne Donnell enlisted in WW1, joining the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) as a staff nurse of the 3rd Australian General Hospital.
Anne sailed on 26 May 1915, on the ‘Mooltan’ going first to England, then back to Egypt via Malta. Anne’s war service took her to Greece, Egypt, France, and England.
As war raged around her, Anne endured the heartache of loss, despair and illness whilst forming lifelong memories of travel, camaraderie, and friendship.
Anne wrote her personal thoughts, fears, and firsthand experiences by candlelight, often huddled up in her long coat, gloves, and balaclava with her frost-bitten toes curled underneath her. Stored away in a suitcase for decades, Anne’s diaries have now been published uncensored for the first time.
Deeply personal and eloquently crafted, Anne’s words offer a real-time perspective of the Great War, from Gallipoli to Western Europe, and the mateship, courage, and resilience of nurses on the frontlines from 19151919.
About the writers:
Redland Bay resident Graeme ‘Mitch’ Mitchell is the son of Anne Donnell’s adopted daughter Yvonne Annear. He has Anne’s full set of original diaries and recognised the importance of publishing them in full and uncensored.
‘Sometimes things happen that change your life, the discovery of an old set of diaries certainly changed mine,’ said Mitch.
‘Realising we had a major piece of women’s history temporarily in
our safekeeping, meant we also had the responsibility to ensure generations of young Australians had the chance to pay their respects.
‘Australia has a handful of remembered heroes and thousands that lie quietly, gently embraced by the earth in lands faraway. They might lie quietly but we have most certainly never forgotten them.
Because we focus on a few, does not mean we overlook the many.’
Mitch’s partner Jan Leader diligently transcribed the diaries over the past eight years, and from the diaries she has also produced a well-regarded children’s book ‘Anne Threw A Streamer’.
Formerly of the Sunshine Coast, Jan has fond memories of Rainbow Beach over the years.
‘My boys (two sons) and I have spent many a holiday at Rainbow Beach,’ she said. ‘Surfing, camping, driving on the beachand of course getting bogged at Double Island Point!’
Jan took her role very seriously in bringing Anne’s words to life for a wider audience, and after spending the better part of the last decade carefully typing up the precious diaries she is proud to be able to share Anne’s incredible story with the world.
Frontline Hero: The Inspiring True Story
Of An Australian Nurse At Gallipoli
Transcribed by Jan Leader and Graeme Mitchell
www.annedonnell.com.au
We have a signed copy of Frontline Hero to give away to one lucky reader. Simply email info@rbcn.com.au with the subject line: Frontline Hero.
Closes 5pm Thursday 27 April 2023. Winner will be notified by email and announced in the May issue.
REMINDER THAT applications are still open for artists, art groups, and collectives to participate in the Gympie Region Studio Trails 2023.
Studio Trails will take place over four weekends from 1-23 July 2023 and will offer the local community and visitors to the Gympie region an exciting opportunity to explore the studios, ateliers, and creative spaces of our region’s talented artists, artisans and creatives.
This initiative provides an exciting opportunity for artists in our region to share their work, skills, stories, and inspiration, while raising their profile to a wider audience and promoting their work and businesses.
Councillor Dan Stewart encourages local artists and creatives to submit applications to participate in Studio Trails 2023 via council’s website.
‘We would love to see the artists of the Gympie region get involved in Studio Trails 2023,’ Cr Stewart said.
‘I was amazed and inspired by the art in the studios of last year’s trail, and the artists brought great credit to themselves.
‘This is a wonderful opportunity to promote the arts and creativity in the Gympie region, and to also engage with and support the local community.’
The Studio Trails will be held in four areas:
Rainbow Beach’s mural trail (pictured here in progress by artist James R Ellis) was a part of last year’s Studio Trails. Get your application in now to participate in this year’s event.
Trail 1 – Tin Can Bay, Rainbow Beach and Cooloola Cove to the east
Trail 2 – Kilkivan, Goomeri, Woolooga to the west Trail 3 – Gympie and surrounds Trail 4 – The Mary Valley
For further information, contact council’s Arts and Cultural Development Officer on 5481 0774 or visit council’s website (https://www.gympie.qld.gov.au/ arts-programs-projects-initiatives).
Applications close Sunday 9 April 2023.
THE TRIAL ARTWORK is finally in place, with just a few touch-ups to come to repair some minor surface issues related to the unavoidable exposure to some unhelpful weather.
The piece, which has been attached to the purpose-built frame-work at the rear of the Community Hall, was commissioned as a trial collaboration by local artists as a stepping stone to realising the Rainbow Beach community’s dream of our very own water tower mural.
Water Tank and Silo art has become a massive tourist attraction Australiawide. An increasing number of towns and communities are attributing the
growth of visitors to tourists following the well established Australian Silo Art Trail, which has helped maintain the viability of their communities.
Visit australiansiloarttrail.com to view some of the wonderful examples of the amazing variety of colourful artwork on display.
When they begin their work on the water tower, our local artists will certainly have a treasure trove of inspiration to draw from the surrounding bush and beach landscapes of our area, from gorgeous flora and fauna, to the many unique geological features Rainbow Beach is famous for.
Although many of our area’s
Follow the journey of the water tower mural in our upcoming monthly updates
Come and see the trial artwork affixed to the rear of the Rainbow Beach Community Hall.
KEEP AN EYE on the sky towards the end of April for skydivers taking part in the 2023 Australian Skydiving Championships.
The Accuracy Landing and Sport Accuracy event categories of the competition are being held right here in Rainbow Beach.
The Landing Zone will be the main part of Rainbow Beach, along the bottom of Griffin Esplanade, but of course extends up and down the beach.
A coached skills camp is being held separately at Gympie Aerodrome in the days beforehand.
Dates:
• Skills camp: 25-27 April – open to all (not just competitors). Gold Rush Skydivers Landing Accuracy Skills Camp at Gympie Aerodrome. Search Facebook for event details and to register.
• Competition dates: 28 April-1 May – Rainbow Beach. Hosted by Australian Parachute Federation: afp.com.au
The event is subject to participation numbers for competition being met in registration.
geologically distinctive landmarks are quite well known nationally and even internationally; World Heritage listed K’gari for instance, there is a virtual treasure trove of equally jawdropping wonders in every land and
seascape, which can be depicted on the water tower by the brushstrokes of our culturally diverse and talented artistic community, ensuring that we too, will finally become part of the celebrated Australian Silo Art Trail.
THE THIRD CONSECUTIVE annual International Women’s Day Twilight Walk was held on Wednesday 8 March, along the Tin Can Bay foreshore, this year including the new boardwalk.
All thirty-two Twilight Walkers started and ended at Norman Point, gathering at the end rotunda by 6pm, departing at 6.12pm – the official sunset time for that day.
Groups of people U-turned around at different stages, depending upon their fitness levels and abilities. We expected the almost full moon which was to rise at 6.46pm to give us light, but the cloud cover was too dense.
BIG thank you to Kate Gregory for buying glowsticks and Mel for ensuring we all received at least one.
“On International Women’s Day we remember that as long as one woman faces discrimination, harassment, inequality or oppression, we all do.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2023 was ‘Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future’. This theme is based on the United Nations 67th Commission on the Status of Women priority theme ‘Innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls’.
The Women’s Social and Political Union in the UK started using purple, green and white to symbolise women’s equality as far back as 1908. Historically, purple was a colour
that denoted justice and dignity, and now it is used to represent women. Green is a symbol of hope. Today, purple is the colour of International Women’s Day, and combined with green represents the feminist movement.”
https://iwda.org.au/take-action/ international-womens-day/
Lots of participants wore purple, green or white or a combination. It was great that Jess Milne brought her daughters, Bonnie and Jackie. Maybe next year we shall see more children.
Fiona Hansen commented: ‘The Twilight Walk tonight is offering us a rare opportunity to catch-up and network with other women, whom we don’t see very often.’
Huge thanks to Tin Can Bay QCWA President Wendy Ritchie and her wonderful team of ladies providing icy cold water and cut fresh fruit for refreshments at the lighted rotunda close to the TCB Swimming Pool. Thank you Wendy, Gabriella, Jess, Judith, Vilma, and Linda M. Much appreciated.
THE 2023 SENIORS MONTH grants, a program that provides a funding pool to support community events during Queensland Seniors Month, is open for applications until 30 April.
Grants aim to connect older Queenslanders to inclusive events and activities and challenge preconceived ideas and reframe the conversation around ageing.
Queensland Seniors Month 2023 commences on 1 October, the United Nations International Day of Older Persons, and concludes at the end of the month following Grandparents Day on 29 October.
The theme for Seniors Month 2023 is ‘Social Connections’, and the Council on the Ageing Queensland (COTAQ) has adopted the tagline ‘It’s going to be a connect fest’ to promote the month.
Funded by the Queensland Government, eligible applicants can apply for a share in $100,000 to host Seniors Month events and activities by applying for a grant of up to $2,000.
To find out more about Queensland Seniors Month or apply for a grant visit: qldseniorsmonth.org.au
Does your organisation need more volunteers?
Does your organisation need more volunteers?
This workshop will cover the design of relevant and interesting roles for volunteers, recruitment methods and strategies, how to appeal to volunteer motivations and communication tips to attract more volunteers. There will be a mix of practical activities, group discussions and shared content that you can take away and implement within your organisation.
Does your organisation need more volunteers?
This workshop will cover the design of relevant and interesting roles for volunteers, recruitment methods and strategies, how to appeal to volunteer motivations and communication tips to attract more volunteers. There will be a mix of practical activities, group discussions and shared content that you can take away and implement within your organisation.
This workshop will cover the design of relevant and interesting roles for volunteers, recruitment methods and strategies, how to appeal to volunteer motivations and communication tips to attract more volunteers. There will be a mix of practical activities, group discussions and shared content that you can take away and implement within your organisation.
The workshop will be delivered by Volunteering Queensland in partnership with Gympie Regional Council. Volunteering Queensland is the state peak body and lead voice for volunteering in Queensland, supporting this essential industry to thrive.
The workshop will be delivered by Volunteering Queensland in partnership with Gympie Regional Council. Volunteering Queensland is the state peak body and lead voice for volunteering in Queensland, supporting this essential industry to thrive.
Date: Saturday 29 April 2023
The workshop will be delivered by Volunteering Queensland in partnership with Gympie Regional Council. Volunteering Queensland is the state peak body and lead voice for volunteering in Queensland, supporting this essential industry to thrive.
Date: Saturday 29 April 2023
Time: 10am – 1pm
Date: Saturday 29 April 2023
Time: 10am – 1pm
Venue: The Pavilion Conference and Reception Centre, 77 Exhibition Road, Southside
Time: 10am – 1pm
Venue: The Pavilion Conference and Reception Centre, 77 Exhibition Road, Southside
Cost: Free, registration essential
Venue: The Pavilion Conference and Reception Centre, 77 Exhibition Road, Southside
Cost: Free, registration essential
For more information and to register, contact council’s Community Development Team on 1300 307 800 or community@gympie.qld.gov.au
Cost: Free, registration essential
For more information and to register, contact council’s Community Development Team on 1300 307 800 or community@gympie.qld.gov.au
For more information and to register, contact council’s Community Development Team on 1300 307 800 or community@gympie.qld.gov.au
WELCOME TO OUR new office volunteers Vicki, Debbie and Linda. They will join our office regulars Penny, Pam, Elaine, Fiona, Rita, Ze, and Denise, as well as our ever-increasing band of nomadic and sporadic volunteers who do what they can, whenever they can.
We are always looking for volunteers to help maintain the hall, run the monthly markets, sell books, and help with events and activities.
We have events coming up that will require volunteers to serve food and/or sell alcohol so if you have a few hours
to spare and would like to contribute to the Rainbow Beach community, give us a call on 5486 3355, drop into the CIRS office next to the library Mon-Fri 8.30am4pm, or email cirssecretary@gmail.com.
Pictured is new CIRS office volunteer Vicki-Lynne Eadie.
ATOUR MOST recent general meeting, CIRS members moved that a letter be sent to Gympie Regional Council in relation to proposed future uses of Lot 1, 32 Rainbow Beach Road. This is the parcel of empty land on the corner of Rainbow Beach Road and Clarkson Drive.
Below is the letter sent to Planning Scheme Coordinator Simon Kinchington and our Division 1 representative Cr. Jess Milne on 14 March:
‘As Secretary, I am writing to you on behalf of the members of Community Information & Resource Service Association Incorporated (CIRS). CIRS was established in 2000 to provide information and access to government support services to residents of Rainbow Beach. We currently have 110 members and are located in the offices of the Rainbow Beach Community Centre and hall, a Council-owned facility on Lots 2 and 3, 32 Rainbow Beach Road.
Our volunteer staff handle bookings and maintenance of the hall and offices located within the facility under a Management Agreement with Council. We also have Council permission to use the public space on Lot 2 for monthly markets, which we renew every year with our public liability insurance cover.
At our most recent general meeting on 15 February, a motion was passed that I write to you on behalf of the CIRS membership to seek clarification on the Council’s future intentions and current zoning of Lot 1, 32 Rainbow Beach Road. Lots 1,2, and 3 form a land parcel locally referred to as “The Centre Block” and it has been the focus of community concern since 1992. In response to residents’ opposition
to a commercial development application back then, the Council acquired the entire “Centre Block” and zoned it for Community Purposes. It is obviously of great concern to our members and Rainbow Beach residents generally then to learn that it has since been rezoned Local Centre in a subsequent Planning Scheme.
Our concerns are firstly that we were not consulted on this change by Council planning staff at the time. Whatever happens on Lot 1 may impact our management of the hall and our events held on Lot 2. As managers of the neighbouring parcels, we should be considered stakeholders and kept informed of any Development Applications, Changes to Material Use or rezoning of any part of the Centre Block.
Secondly, we need this centrally-located green space to remain available for activities associated with our function as the designated evacuation centre for the Cooloola Coast. In the event of a natural disaster, this flat empty space will be utilized for accommodation overflow (evacuated campers and caravans), pet management, food and medicine drops, and other purposes as required.
Thirdly, this space has been used for community events such as rodeos, car shows, touch football matches, fetes and outdoor musical events. It is the last public open green space available in the heart of town. Once it is gone there will be no similar site to replace it.
Finally, CIRS members strongly insist that if any development of Lot 1 is proposed, it should be for a publiclyowned community asset accessible to all residents, not for private residences, tourist accommodation or commercial enterprise.
CIRS members want to know what precipitated the rezoning and what, if any, development proposals have been presented to Council for consideration. We also want to know if Council have planned any community consultations on this or any other planning matters relating to Rainbow Beach. We understand that there have been many changes within Council so we are offering to provide some valuable local insights to the Planning team, to contextualize the views or advice that you may have been provided with.
We therefore invite you to meet with CIRS members, and any residents who wish to attend, in the Rainbow Beach Community Hall at a time convenient to you. Please contact me on 0423 344 316 or reply email to cirssecretary@gmail. com to arrange a suitable date and time.
We await your considered response to the matters raised.’
IT’S EASTER AGAIN and CIRS are raffling a couple of gorgeous chocolate bunnies and eggs to help you celebrate.
Tickets are only $1 and available from our office. The winner will be drawn at the Rainbow Beach markets on Easter Saturday. So hop in and help us to raise funds for the hall.
You have to be in it to win it, so why not also get a number or two in our lucky number board? For only $2 you get a chance to win $100. The lucky number will be drawn at the Easter markets too, so get your tickets and numbers now so you don’t miss out.
Nicky Wilkinson
Buy
THINK YOU’RE FUNNY? Find out just how much more amusing you can be when the Funny Coast comedians teach you some tricks of the trade in a 2 hour stand-up comedy workshop in Rainbow Beach Community Hall on 9 May 2023.
It’s FREE but there are only ten spots available so call us on 5486 3355 to put your name down on the list at the CIRS office today.
To prepare for the workshop, Funny Coast recommends that you collect some funny stories about things that have happened to you or situations that you heard about, write them down and bring them as your comedy material.
At the workshop you will be given tips and training to fine-tune your delivery technique. If you are one of the lucky ten who get to do the workshop, you get to find out who else thinks you’re funny at the open mic event to follow in the hall at 7pm.
The workshop will start at 4pm and finish at 6pm, followed by the open mic show from 7pm to 9pm. There will be food and refreshments on sale to raise funds for community groups.
The comedy workshop and the open mic night are free of charge and open to Rainbow Beach residents of all ages. This project received funding assistance from Gympie Regional Council’s Community Grants program.
Nicky Wilkinson was a regular on the stand-up circuit in the UK after reaching the finals of prestigious comedy competitions ‘So You Think You’re Funny’ and ‘New Act of the Year’ in 2013, and now lives in Australia. She has a warm, likeable, down-to-earth style of comedy that instantly puts audiences at ease. Her impressive stage presence, witty charm and considerable comedy performance experience are ensuring she moves quickly through the comedy ranks here in Australia, making her ‘one to watch!’
In 2022, she was selected by Mary Tobin to be a part of the hugely popular ‘Best of the Edinburgh Fest’ show at both Adelaide Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Nicky is also one half of multiaward-winning physical comedy duo, The Kagools.
Mick Neven
Since 2003 when he first stepped on stage at the Gold Coast Arts Centre ‘Legends Of Laughter’ open mic competition (third place and $300 in his third gig ever), Mick has been making people laugh with his mix of clever joke writing and laid back charm. His material is observant, sharp and satirical, highlighting the foibles of modern life in a likeable and relatable fashion. Intelligent, hilarious and always good-natured, delivered with high-energy and a never-ending stream of punchlines that continually take his jokes to the next level.
Above: Nicky Wilkinson
Right: Mick Neven
Mick has headlined every major Comedy Club in Australia, along with regular tours through Asia, Canada and the UK. He’s performed five solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, ten solo shows at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, he’s a two-time winner of the Best Comedy Show Weekly Award at Fringe World Perth and completed three tours of duty with Forces Entertainment, performing shows for serving Australian Defence Force personnel.
In August 2020 with borders closed, Mick co-founded Funny Coast Comedy. Beginning with one regular monthly show, Funny Coast Comedy has grown rapidly, and in the last 12 months has produced more than 60 live comedy events around the Sunshine Coast and South-East Queensland, including stand-up comedy workshops and corporate events.
“Mick is one of the best writers on the Comedy Circuit. Every time I work with him, he pulls out new jokes that I wish I’d written” – Dave O’Neil, Comedian and Television Personality.
Ross Carruthers
ANZAC DAY is one of the major commemorative events for the Tin Can Bay RSL.
The Anzac Day programme will commence on 25 April with the Dawn Service in the area behind the RSL Hall at 5.30am, followed by a Gunfire Breakfast at 6.30am. The Anzac Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony will commence at 8:30am at Anzac Memorial Park.
Following the services, all are welcome to return to the Tin Can
Bay RSL for refreshments. The whole community is invited to attend our commemorative services so please come along and make Anzac Day 2023 a day to remember.
As I pen this article my thoughts shift to our current service men and women who have committed to Australia’s Armed Forces. Our own son, Ben, is currently a Captain in the Australian Army serving in Fiji.
The global agenda is becoming more complex with the war in Ukraine, diplomatic pressures between some of the most powerful nations in the
Katrina van den Brenk
MARCH IS A busy time in Probus Clubs around Australia as clubs hold their AGMs. Presidents are changed each year and Katrina van den Brenk will hold that position here in 2023-24.
Kaye Olson will be the Secretary and Barbara McKenzie continues as Treasurer. Welfare Officers are Ann and Daryl Christie, Tour Officer is Jo Said, and others with varying committee roles are Arthur Leggo, Val McClurg, Cherryl Mossman, and Marie Parker.
Plans are being made for the year ahead as we like to get out and about
as a group. The Probus motto is Fun, Friendship and Fellowship – and new members are welcome to join us.
Some members attended the AGM of the Combined Maryborough Club and its high tea, whilst we will have other Probus Club visitors to our Changeover Luncheon – report next month.
Meetings are held on each second Monday of the month at 2pm at the Sandcastle Motel in Tin Can Bay and include a guest speaker and a break for afternoon tea and a chat.
For more details contact President Katrina on 0407 637 691 or Secretary Kaye at cooloolaprobus@gmail.com.
world, and the future construction of nuclear submarines.
When you attend Anzac Day this year, please give a thought to our Armed Forces who may be required to serve our nation in warfare as others did who have served before them.
They do a tremendous job, home and abroad, and deserve our continued support. And so we repeat the mantra ‘Thank you for your Service’.
Last year’s Anzac Day Dawn Service at Tin Can Bay.
104
LAST MONTH I told of the devastation I witnessed whilst travelling through New South Wales and the Forbes area just before Christmas. Well midMarch I travelled home through the same area and stayed at a motel in Forbes and it stunk of being flooded.
I had left our van in Victoria as I towed a large trailer of farm implements to Gympie for a friend who has moved up to a property here. Forbes has been helped greatly by Lions International as I found out after meeting with the Lions President and so they no longer require our help.
Eugowra just east of Forbes is still in a bad way and due to road conditions I stayed out of there. 203 homes out of about 400 were either washed away or badly damaged and are still being assessed. Two people were drowned there also.
We have put $4500 into the area this month and will continue our help there through their Progress Association. The Gympie Homeless have also received our funds this
Right (top and bottom):
In the blink of an eye in November 2022, the small town of Eugowra was virtually wiped off the map. Rainbow Beach DroughtRunners are helping by making donations through their Progress Association. Photos from eugowrafloodappeal.com.au, printed with permission.
month with another donation of $1000.
I was sent many tales of survival from Eugowra residents and photos so if anyone wants to see what it’s like to be washed away in your house in the dark without warning you are welcome to read them. Hopefully no more disasters for a while now and we can get back to normal although history does repeat itself.
If anyone can help Eugowra with just a few dollars or a visa card please call me on 0408 767 930 or email: rainbowfishing33@gmail.com
Thank you all who donated this last month and especially Wayne Kerle with the cans and bottles whilst I was away.
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Right: Gwen with her clever ‘closet safe’ coat hanger covers.
Below: Teena’s beautiful whirlygig quilt helped to deplete her fabric stash!
Lesley McCarthy
Gabriella Field
ROBIN SINCLAIR, President of the QCWA Wondai Branch and our Gympie South Burnett Division’s Public Speaking Convenor, attended our March General Meeting to share the requirements needed for any member who wishes to enter in the QCWA’s Annual Public Speaking Competition.
HE MEMBERS of the Tin Can Bay Quilters have been busy with projects for 2023. The first one being a closet safe coat hanger cover. This would make a handy gift item as you can hide items within while travelling.
Our photos show Gwen with her hangers, and another lovely quilt from Teena Guy. Teena was trying to deplete her fabric stash with this quilt. Well done both girls.
The Tin Can Bay Quilters meet every Tuesday from 9am to 12 noon at the Community Hall, Amity Place, Tin Can Bay. Visitors are most welcome.
COME AND JOIN our singing angels!
We welcome all voices, high and low, lyrical and musical! Our sopranos, altos, tenors and basses will be pleased to increase our numbers and enjoy the surrounding sound with smiles!
We meet at the Vets’ and Community Hall in Cooloola Cove each Wednesday from 3 to 4pm. A mere $2 will pay for the hall hire and purchase of suitable sheet music! All that’s needed then is your voice! Call Pam: 0427 180 649 or email: kcisf327@gmail.com
The public speaking competition not only includes the usual speaking section but also categories for interpretive reading, bush poetry, original short stories, and original poems. Robin explained how by taking baby steps and speaking at branch meetings then slowly working towards a wider audience public speaking does not have to be a daunting task.
The QCWA has always challenged, supported and encouraged its members to broaden their skills. Other ways the QCWA challenges its members is through many competitions showcasing the members’ various skills.
Cookery, Knitting & Crochet, Photography and Handcraft are just a few examples of the competitions held annually. Sadly though, throughout the world some of these life skills are being lost as more and more people no longer know how to or wish to cook a meal from scratch or even darn a sock.
International Women’s Day on 8 March saw 32 women, girls and a dog take a twilight walk along the Tin Can Bay Foreshore. This walk is held annually and it is in support of women worldwide, acknowledging their achievements and fostering future accomplishments.
Most importantly International Women’s Day also raises the awareness of inequalities in many countries. At the end of the walk the Tin Can Bay Branch Members supplied fruit and water and all the money donated was put towards
Domestic Violence Kits.
Our ever-popular Hoy Morning is changing venue: from 19 April, Hoy will be held at Cooloola Coast Bowls Club, 4 Amity Place (cnr of Bayside and Gympie Roads) Tin Can Bay. A huge thank you to members for assisting and to the members of our community who support us at Hoy. We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy and Safe Easter.
CRAFT and COFFEE – 18 Whiting St, Tin Can Bay. 1st and 2nd Wednesday of the month, 10am to noon.
GENERAL MEETINGS – 18 Whiting St, Tin Can Bay. 2nd Monday of the month, 9:30am.
HOY – *Note new venue from 19 April* Cooloola Coast Bowls Club, 4 Amity Place, Tin Can Bay. 3rd Wednesday of the month, 9:30am for a 10am start.
ALL ENQUIRIES – Wendy 0412 547 043 or Judy 0402 769 392.
Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
4 English muffins, wholemeal
8 tablespoons tomato passata
Sprinkle of dried herbs
1 red capsicum, deseeded and diced
1 cup spinach leaves
1 cup canned pineapple pieces, drained
1 cup cheddar cheese, reduced fat, grated
Method
PREHEAT oven to 180°C.
SLICE English muffins in half.
SPOON tomato passata over each muffin half and sprinkle with herbs.
LAYER the capsicum and spinach onto each muffin and add the pineapple.
SPRINKLE each muffin with grated cheese.
GRILL for 5 minutes until lightly golden.
WHAT A JOY it was for the Cooloola Coast Christian denominations to gather again for our annual World Day of Prayer Service on the first Friday of March. This year the Tin Can Bay Anglican congregation coordinated and hosted it at the Cooloola Cove Veterans & Community Hall, led by Lay Preacher Lillian Lochel.
The country in focus was Taiwan; the theme: ‘I have heard about your faith’ from the First Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Chapter 1:15-20).
Fortunately Marie Parker knows Irene from Taiwan, owner of Coffee on Channon, and enquired about inviting one of the Taiwanese community in Gympie to be the Guest Speaker. We were delighted to be so privileged to meet and hear Chi Yang.
As Lillian commented: ‘An excellent speaker, Chi spoke straight from her own heart’.
We learnt about Taiwan, and also of
Chi’s life as an agricultural worker on a Temporary Visa in South Australia, and subsequent opportunities, sponsorship and studies in Brisbane, culminating in her career as a remedial massage and myotherapist and running her own business, Chi Body Work in Gympie.
Katrina van den Brenk said ‘It was a very friendly morning. Many seemed keen to talk with our Guest Speaker, Chi Yang, and Chi commented that she enjoyed her conversations with members of the congregation’, at the delectable shared morning tea afterwards.
Highlight of morning tea was Bubble Tea donated by Chi’s
WELCOME TO THE Cooloola
Cove Wheelie Walkers newest member, Larraine who joined us for our Saint Patrick’s Day walk in green. Joan Barnier and I noticed that even banksias wore green for 17 March, along Creekside Esplanade.
The CCWWs gather on Mondays and Fridays and often number fourteen walkers departing from the Shopping Centre Nautilus Drive Bus shelter at 8am. Most of us sit and talk over coffee afterwards.
Great to have so many of our One Step at a Time Tin Can Bay walkers participate in the third annual International Women’s Day Twilight Walk, as well as a few of the CCWWs. As always, the TCB QCWA President Wendy Ritchie and her wonderful team of ladies enthusiastically provided refreshments after.
Congratulations to Jane on achieving your first award on 25 walks with
Even the ducks enjoy a walk.
our Heart Foundation Walking group (yes I know you walk every day!) and to Annette for your 50 walks award. Check your letter boxes.
Recently the later walking group in Tin Can Bay has delighted in looking for, counting and watching
Taiwanese friend, Irene. I had never heard of Bubble Tea, nor did I realise it originated in Taiwan during the 1980s. I preferred the delicious iced lemon and lychee to the milk based bubble tea.
Lillian says ‘It was a really good roll up. Thank you to everyone who helped and who turned up, which makes the morning.”
We were blessed to have three ministers present, Fr Shaji Joseph from the Anglican congregation, Rev Gary McClintock of the Wesleyan Methodists, and Pastor Dawn Peel of the Arise congregation.
We are very grateful to Rev Gary and his team for their generosity and
technological skills in managing the powerpoint presentations, as well as the venue and the rousing live music and singing.
The generous offering of $238.55 will be used by the Bible Society in their work overseas.
Next year’s service is written by the women of Palestine on the theme ‘Bear with one another in love.’ On the Cooloola Coast, 2024 World Day of Prayer Service will be hosted by Rev Gary McClintock and the Cooloola Wesleyan Congregation at the Cooloola Cove Veterans & Community Hall at 10am on Friday 1 March.
the Burdekin (Radjah Shelduck) duck family of at least eleven. One morning as I drove out for CCWW, I saw maybe ten Australian Wood ducks heading for the Golf course! Even the ducks are enjoying walking.
One Step at a Time Tin Can Bay early group leaves the TCB Bakery
promptly at 6.30am whereas the later group departs at 7am.
Why don’t you join us? Walk Yourself Happy! It’s free, fun and a great way to improve our physical, mental, social and emotional health. Queries? Contact Judy Kiddle on 5486 2181 or myself on 0400 756 615.
RAINBOW BEACH and the Cooloola Coast is home of the Coloured Sands, the majestic Carlo Sandblow and gateway to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island.
You can feed wild dolphins in Tin Can Bay, visit a historic lighthouse via the Great Beach Drive or world-class scuba diving.
If you make the most of the outdoorsthen you’ll love our backyard playground. You can choose from extreme adventures and ultimate indulgences - a rejuvenating massage, secluded picnics beside a freshwater lake or delicious seafood and views in our eateries and clubs.
Our coast has abundant fishingwhether off a beach, on an estuary or from a deep sea charter, right on our doorstep! Birdwatchers, nature-lovers, bushwalkers, 4x4 enthusiasts and surfers call our corner of the world: ‘paradise’.
Our Great Sandy National Park hosts Queensland’s three most popular beachside campgrounds, and our friendly townships offer caravan parks, apartments
and holiday homes.
So stay with us, watch the sunset from Carlo Sandblow or stroll along Tin Can Bay Esplanade... you
’ll never want to leave!
Century 21 Platinum Agents
Paul Downman will help you on your property journey, Cooloola Coast 0407 181 404 Dolphin Shopping Centre, Tin Can Bay Email: paul.downman@century21.com
Tin Can Bay Tourist Park
New camp kitchen, cabins, pool-side BBQ hut, Family amenities, disability access. 54-74 Trevally St. Ph: 07 5486 4411 tincanbaytouristpark.com.au
AUTOMOTIVE & VEHICLE HIRE
Rainbow Beach Auto Electrics
Vehicle Electrical Repairs, Retail Sales, Radios, Batteries, Solar panels, Fridges, UHFs, 7 Karoonda Rd. 0499 144 678 rainbowbeachautoelectrics.com.au
EXPERIENCES & TOURS
Rainbow Beach’s finest Kayak, Surf & SUP 4WD Tour Adventures to Double Island Point info@epicoceanadventures.com.au
Gardiner Fisheries
All your offshore, inshore & beach fishing needs, live local beach & bloodworms daily. Cnr Carlo & Karoonda Rds. 0404 853 232 facebook.com/rainbowbeachbait/
Rainbow Beach Tourist Info Centre
One stop shop for information, bookings, souvenirs, beach gear, surf wear & gifts 6 Rainbow Beach Rd 07 5486 3227 rainbowbeachinfo.com.au
Rainbow Getaway Holiday Apartments
1, 2 & 3 bedroom self contained, air-con apartments, heated pool, central location. 4 Double Island Dr. 07 5486 3500 rainbowgetaway.com.au
Tin Can Bay’s Sleepy Lagoon Motel
24 air conditioned motel rooms, 3 bedroom house, centrally located for dolphins & pub 2 Groper St. 07 5488 0653 sleepylagoonmotel.com
Barnacles Cafe & Dolphin Feeding
Feed wild dolphins from 7am daily, fees apply. Breakfast, lunch, coffee, takeaways 7am-3pm Norman Point, TCB 07 5486 4899 barnaclesdolphins.com.au
Wolf Rock Dive Centre, Rainbow Beach
World class scuba diving on Fraser Island’s doorstep, Australia’s best shark & ray dive. 2 Goondi St. 07 5486 8004 wolfrockdive.com.au
Rainbow Beach Fishing & Camping
Cheapest prices on the coast, 7 days a week from 6am. 14 Rainbow Beach Road. 07 5486 8100 facebook.com/Rainbow-Beach-Fishing-and-Camping
Rainbow Beach Fishing Charters
Deep sea fishing off Rainbow Beach and Fraser Island at its best on a 38 ft Cougar Cat. 0409 775 070 rainbowbeachfishing.com.au
The Chandlery Bait and Tackle
Best range of fishing tackle, all the big brands! Bait, ice, 24h fuel, massive range of chandlery. For all your boating and fishing needs. TCB Marina, 07 5486 4744 tcbchandlery.com.au
FOOD, DRINK & DINE
Wood fired pizza, delicious pasta, coffee & cake. BYO, dine in, take away, home delivery 07 5486 8000. In the Post Office Arcade facebook.com/Arco.on.the.beach/
Ed’s Beach Bakery
Bread, cakes, muffins, the BEST pies in town! Open 4am-5pm, 7 days
Shell Servo Complex. 07 5486 3080
Rainbow Beach
Marina Bar and Grill
A la Carte dining, breakfast, lunch, dinner. Fully licensed. Closed Mondays
2 Emperor St, Tin Can Bay 07 5486 4400
Ocean Breeze Seafoods, Rainbow Beach
Fresh & cooked local seafood, fish & chips, burgers, laundromat, at the Big Marlin
Open 8am to 5pm Mon-Thurs & 7pm Fri-Sun 54 Rainbow Beach Rd, opposite QPWS Office
Soul Food, Rainbow Beach
Wraps, juices, smoothies, kebabs, coffee, souvenirs, natural products & cosmetics, clothing, tourist info Shell Servo Complex 0435 085 865 facebook.com/SoulFood
Tin Can Bay Butchers
Friendly team, quality meats, great prices
Weekly deals, freshly made snags & meals
Dolphin Shopping Centre, Tin Can Bay Rd 07 5486 4170 facebook.com/tincanbaybutchers
Remedial Massage, Rainbow Beach
Recovery & lymphatic massage, health cover rebates, 7 Turana St (at the Gym)
Corinna: 0400 613 139 rainbowbeachhealthandfitness.com
Spirit of Rainbow, Rainbow Beach
Massage, Meditation, Mindfulness, Workshops Pamper Packages, Day/Overnight Retreats Self Empowerment Counselling & Coaching 0408 637 639 spiritofrainbow.com.au
In the first month we received 4 call backs directly due to the advert ...
Rainbow Beach Pizza & Grill
Gourmet Signature Pizzas, A’ la Carte Menu, Take Away & Delivery. Unique Coffee blend. Open Wednesday to Sunday. 07 5486 3043 Menu: facebook.com/rainbowbeachpizza/
Tin Can Bay Country Club
Bar, Live Music, Chinese Restaurant 7 days Book: 07 5486 4231 Takeaway: 07 5488 0230
Lawn Bowls, Golf Course & Pro: 0409 727 577 Tin Can Bay Road tcbcc.com.au
“We couldn’t have been happier with the ad we placed with ‘Community News’. The team were great to work with in helping to create an ad that suited our branding and the key message we wanted to convey. Their team turned around artwork really fast and gave us pricing options based on a variety of marketing plans. In the first month we received 4 call backs directly due to the advert and word of mouth is definitely spreading! Highly recommend using Rhyll and her team to promote your business.”
IGA Rainbow Beach & Tin Can Bay
Locally owned & operated supermarkets, weekly specials. Rainbow Beach Rd, 6am - 8pm, Ph: 5486 8700; 46-48 Tin Can Bay Rd, 6am - 7pm. 07 5488 0084
Rainbow Beach Sports Club
Bistro 7 days, Bowls, Bottleshop & Bingo. 10am - 10pm Sun - Thurs & midnight Fri - Sat. Turana St. 07 5486 3191 rainbowsportsclub.com.au
Claire and Geoff Clark Clarks’ Cleaning, Laundry and Maintenance
National Parks are what they are, BECAUSE they exclude commercial and urban development.
Corporate business and State Govt. want to end this exclusion, and exploit Parks to sell high priced accommodation products.
Allowing this is reckless. It would degrade Parks’ capacity to protect nature and serve public needs.
Only 5% of Qld. is National Park.
Nature needs them, we need them, without commercial development.
The Queensland Government is acting to create commercial development leases inside Cooloola National Park and inside other National Parks across the State.
These private leases are to develop and operate private luxury accommodation.
The sites are located on fragile and significant sites within Cooloola including Double Island Point, Poona Lake, and Upper Noosa River.
10 large, 38sq. mtr. luxury cabins plus extra facilities would be built at DI Point and also at Poona Lake - a pavilion-style resort.
Calling it ‘Eco-tourism’ is a trick. The Government refuses to consult properly on this major change to our National Parks. It deals only with select insider groups, excluding all others. It refuses to answer crucial public interest questions. The secrecy employed in this process would continue for any future expansion.
Creation
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Patrolled Beach
Swim in the flags in front of the Surf Lifesaving tower. Walk via the steps or walkway near the lookout and surf club, or drive onto Griffin Esplanade. 4WD beach access begins here.
Coloured Sands
Visit the patrolled beach, near the surf tower or the lookout to see the 70 plus colours in our cliffs. From town, walk south 1km along the beach - for best colours 4WD or tour a further 9km. Remember it is a gazetted road.
Carlo Sand Blow
Park at the top of Cooloola Drive, and walk 600m up from the car park or bushwalk about 2km from the National Parks Office for spectacular views of the Coloured Sands, Double Island Point, Tin Can Bay Inlet and hang gliders.
Poona Lake
Drive to Bymien Picnic Area (2WD) via 3km gravel on the Freshwater Road, (off Rainbow Beach Road). It’s a 40 minute walk to reach the cool waters of Lake Poona through beautiful rainforest and carrol (grey myrtle) scrub.
Searys Creek
Only 7km from town towards Gympie, with 2 waterholes, boardwalks, bridges and history – do read the sign and spot the creatures. Always cool on the hottest of days.
Rainbow Beach Headland
A look out, a viewing platform, 2 playgrounds, a skatepark, BBQs and picnic facilities. See the whales from here in season and watch the surfers out the front. Take a photo at the Cherry Venture propeller.
Double Island Point
Access via the 4WD only Great Beach Drive or Freshwater Track. See dolphins, whales (seasonal), manta rays, turtles and walk up to our historic lighthouse. It has the longest break in Australia -when the swell lines up.
Mudlo Rocks
Wander here at low tide, play in rock pools and watch 4WDs navigate any exposed rocks. ALWAYS check conditions and ask locals before you 4WD - it is not always safe, even close to low tide.
Middle Rock
When tides and conditions allow, the walk to Middle Rock and back is a beautiful way to check out the Coloured Sands. From here, vehicle permits are required and dogs are prohibited.
Inskip Point
This peninsula is the gateway to Fraser Island, a favourite fishing spot and pet friendly camping grounds for generations. Only 15 minutes drive (2WD) from Rainbow Beach.
Freshwater Picnic Area
Walk to and swim in nearby Freshwater Lake, picnic or BBQ at the beautiful shady day-use area, found before Freshwater Road reaches Teewah Beach. 4WD only.
Tin Can Bay Foreshore
Walk 4km from Crab Creek to Norman Point, over picturesque bridges, signage of flora and fauna, through mangroves, playgrounds and outdoor gyms. It is mostly flat and very safe for children on wheels. Look out for 137 species of birds.
Tin Can Bay Wildflower Walk
Known for spectacular wildflower species, access this trail from the corner of Emperor St and Oyster Parade. Best in late winter and early spring.
Boat Ramps
You can launch your boat at Norman Point and Crab Creek in Tin Can Bay or Carlo Point and Bullock Point near Rainbow Beach. All except Bullock Point offer toilet and scenic picnic facilities.
Feed Wild Dolphins at Norman Point
Arrive from 7am, after feeding (fees apply), the dolphins leave for another day. A picturesque peninsula with public pool, playground, sailing, boat ramp and pontoon and picnic facilities.
Carlo Point
For spectacular sunsets over the water, take a cheese platter or fish and chips and watch the day’s end. This favourite fishing spot is only 3 km from Rainbow Beach.
Rainbow Steps
Reputably Rainbow Beach’s most
‘Instaworthy’ location - check out our colourful stairs and share a photo on our socials.
Great Sandy Strait
If you love the wonderful peace and relaxation of sailing or cruising, the sheltered waters around Tin Can Bay are for you. You may see dugong, turtles, dolphins and more in this section of the Great Sandy Marine Park.
Fraser and Cooloola Great Walks
A 90 km trail showcases natural
and cultural features of the world’s largest sand island between Dilli Village and Happy Valley. Or trek 102 km from Noosa to Rainbow Beach through sandblows, past lakes and spectacular views.
Fraser Island K’gari
World heritage listed, K’gari has over 40 lakes, rainforests, sand dunes, wildlife, four wheel driving and fishing! Take a 1 or 2 day tour, hire a 4WD or take your own. Cross the barge at Inskip Point, permits are online or at the Parks Office.
The Easter bunny has hidden eggs throughout this newspaper … how many can you find?
Answer on page 34.
THE MEN ARE well into their events leading up to matchplay having completed the qualifying 4B aggregate stroke round on 18 March. The Monthly Medals are being sponsored by Rob Downman Painting and Paul Downman Century 21 Real Estate for twelve months and the Club appreciates their continuing sponsorship.
The Vets 54 hole Stroke Championships final 18 holes will be played on 4 April. Several host days have been booked into our schedule for 2023 and our Club has received a lot of good comments congratulating Tin Can Bay for presenting a very playable course. Thanks to our Greens Staff for their ongoing hard work.
We have a number of new members, mostly men. We would love to welcome more ladies so we can have bigger fields in our Ladies Competitions.
Any person wishing to learn to play golf should get in touch with our resident Professional James.
He has a fully stocked Pro Shop and lessons can be booked by calling the Pro Shop on 0409 727 577 or drop in and talk to the staff so they can make the necessary arrangements for you. Monthly specials are written on the white Board outside the Pro Shop entrance.
On 26 February the Wide Bay Warriors competed at the Brisbane River Dragon Boat Club’s annual regatta at Lake Kawana. You might remember from previous articles that the Wide Bay Warriors is the name of the team that results when the Cooloola Dragon Boat Club and the Hervey Bay Dragon Boat Club join forces to compete.
The team raced over the gruelling two kilometre races and then on the less demanding 200 metre races. Having said, ‘less demanding’ you should bear in mind that the teams have to paddle over 200-metres before the race to get to the start line!
The Warriors had a successful regatta reaching the finals. As usual a great day of competition, fun, and friendship was had by all competitors.
It’s time for Cooloola Dragon Boat Club members past and present to put a note in their diaries for the club’s 20th anniversary. The event will be appropriately themed as a ‘Roaring 20s’ festivity and some outlandish get-ups can be expected.
The event will be held at the Tin Can Bay Yacht Club on 1 July 2023. All members past and present who wish to attend should contact Club Secretary Elaine Dimock (email: Secretary@coolooladragonboatclub. org or phone 0400 608 547) to book themselves in for the celebration.
Club Member Profile: Jan Hughes
Jan is one of the great personalities of the club. Words used to describe her often include ‘compassionate’, ‘humble’, ‘very caring’, and ‘family loving’. Jan joined the club in 2007 and has been a staunch supporter and competitor at regattas and training sessions.
She is a very fit person who regularly
cycles the four kilometres to get to training sessions and then home again. Jan was in the inaugural Grand Masters Queensland Team which was held in Adelaide in 2010.
She is an ardent calligraphist who takes care of much of the club’s signage needs. You may have seen the menu at the Dragon’s Lair Café which is a part of Jan’s work.
She also takes great pains to ensure that for the annual regatta the teams can view a well-presented drawboard so that visiting teams can instantly tell when they are due to race. In addition, Jan goes to a great deal of trouble to design and provide a personalised birthday card for each team member.
Finally, Jan is a keen gardener and, when time allows, she can be found in her beautiful garden. Well done Jan and keep the good times rolling and those beautiful birthday cards coming! They are very much appreciated!
Club Member Profile:
Jan Low
‘J-Low’ as she is often called has been a member of the club since 2004. She was very deservedly voted to life
membership of the club in 2021. Jan is a foundation member of the club’s Dragon’s Lair Café which is now in its eleventh year. She still coordinates the monthly café set-up which includes ordering supplies from local vendors and setting reasonable prices for the goodies that the café sells to the public.
Jan loves to attend the Wide Bay series of regattas (especially the sleep-over ones) and often organises the in-house food for the team. Her version of spaghetti bolognese has often been a culinary winner with the team and stirs fond memories for those who have been fortunate enough to sample this delight.
In one instance several years ago, Jan was involved in a dragon boat roll-over (not her fault) and she still paddles with a degree of caution. It’s hard for us land-lubbers to imagine what it feels like to have a 10-metre boat upside down in the middle of the bay.
Amongst all the duties J-Low has undertaken for the club, she was also a long-time organiser of the club’s fundraising raffles which involved a lot of work in preparing and wrapping prizes in fantastic arrangements suitable for presentation.
Jan, many thanks from every member of the club for all the hard work you have put in over the years!
THE TIN CAN BAY Yacht Club held its annual interclub ‘Olive Dish Trophy’ challenge on 5 March at the yacht club.
The trophy started several years ago when a challenge was proposed to have a competition between the yacht club, Dragons, and Sailability and generally involves a dragon race, a dinghy race, kayaks, li-los, thong throwing, boules, a few obstacle course races, finishing with an original/ adapted poem or song.
So, we gathered in the sheds on Norman Point, brought out the thongs to throw, the balloons to waddle or run with, one dragon boat to paddle, three BUGS to sail, three kayaks, three li-los and the Safety Boat to place markers at appropriate places out in Snapper Creek
There is often a lot of skulduggery and shenanigans happening with people being ousted from the kayaks and li-los and most people end up getting wet at some point. This year was no different. For example, an unnamed person over 6 foot tall ran through the water carrying his li-lo to get an advantage over those falling out of theirs on their way to the marker.
It was a day of fun and friendship though the competition was tough with each club vying
for the coveted trophy. But there can be only one winner and this year it was the Yacht Club though their complete adherence to rules was questionable.
We have had ‘serious’ sailing on Sunday with a well-attended fleet. Although there has been the odd mishap such as lead boats going the wrong way around the last mark resulting in them being last and not first. Also, a certain skipper tried to turn his vessel into a submarine by forgetting to put the bungs in. Fortunately, the only damage was to the skipper’s ego.
All are welcome to come and try sailing and learn to sail in our beautiful sheltered waters. Please contact: Russell 0405 063 894 or Kay 0447 631 479.
WHAT A MONTH – humidity, rain, humidity, heat, humidity, wind, yes we had it all.
Sunscreen was in high demand all month.
Congratulations to the 2023 Men’s Singles Club Champion Brad Mitchell. Brad fought out
a very tough game with Ross Lowrey in the final, some fantastic bowls were played. Playing our championship games on Sunday is proving popular with games well attended. Another successful barefoot bowls night was held, with the green once again full. Thank you to the volunteers who manage these nights.
Tin Can Bay has sent teams away to all the division games this month, thank you for your support. We have had compliments on the new shirts, looking pretty good guys. Hopefully things will start to cool down and we can all feel more comfortable whilst playing.
STAMPING OUT breast cancer one step at a time!
Did you know that in the last 10 years, rates of breast cancer diagnoses have increased by 33% and this year, it is expected that 9 Australians will die from breast cancer each day? However, since 1994, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer has increased from 76% to 92%.
The Women in Super Mother’s Day Classic is Australia’s largest fun run and walk for breast cancer research. Since the event’s inception in 1998, the Mother’s Day Classic community has donated $41.45 million to the National Breast
Cancer Foundation (NBCF) to fund life-saving breast cancer research.
The MDC supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s goal of zero deaths from breast cancer and everyone who participates in the Mother’s Day Classic is helping to fund essential research that will improve the lives of anyone touched by breast cancer.
If you want to take part in this national cause to step all over breast cancer then make sure you join the Tin Can Bay Mother’s Day Classic on Sunday 14 May. Online registrations
are now open so take advantage of the early bird specials until the 13 April with Adults $30, Concession $23 and Child $16. Go to www. mothersdayclassic.com and join the Tin Can Bay walk/run under Local Events.
Get your family and friends involved to be part of this fabulous cause and start getting your pink outfits together now! For more information or assistance with registering contact host Jess Milne on 0411 218 254 or email mothersdayclassictincanbay@ gmail.com
This favourite food of rabbits, said to be amazing for eyesight and the foundation of one of the greatest cakes ever conceived is a root vegetable that is full of vitamins and nutrition!
When people think of a carrot, it’s doubtless that the mind is immediately brought to the bright orange with the green foliage. But did you know that orange is just one of the many colours that carrots naturally come in?
There’s the purple dragon carrot that has a deliciously complex flavour, slightly spicy with a kid-friendly sweetness. There’s also a lovely yellow carrot.
How to Celebrate
• Eating carrots and more carrots is the easiest and tastiest way to celebrate by making sure that carrots are featured in every meal!
• Making a carrot cake while adding spice to the mix and topping it with cream cheese frosting is the perfect way to enjoy and celebrate this versatile vegetable.
• Plant some carrots as they’re not a difficult plant to grow, but they do require soil that is in good condition. They can also be planted from seed indoors in cooler months and then moved outdoors when the weather is warmer.
• Throw a carrot party by gathering some friends together and enjoying all of the lovely benefits and tastes of carrots. The menu will obviously be filled with multiple appetisers, snacks, and desserts all including carrots as ingredients.
Where does Christmas come before Easter? The dictionary.
What kind of music does the Easter Bunny listen to? Hip hop.
What happened to the Easter Bunny when he misbehaved at school?
He was eggspelled.
Why did the Easter Bunny go to the salon?
To cover up its grey hares.
Why won’t Easter eggs go out at night? They don’t want to get beat up.
In 1943, during World War II, a seven-year-old girl named Dorie Cooper visited her uncle, who was a wounded soldier in a hospital in England. While she was there, she asked him to draw a bird as she thought it might help to cheer him up but his attempt only had Dorie laughing which did lighten the mood.
He shared the story with his fellow wounded soldiers, many of whom also began holding contests for drawing pictures of birds. Tragically, Dorie was killed in an automobile accident just three years later.
And because the story of Dorie’s inspiration had been told, there were many drawings and pictures of birds at her funeral, brought by soldiers, nurses, doctors and others. Draw a Picture of a Bird Day was first celebrated on Dorie’s birthday, 8 April, in 1947, the year following her death.
How to Celebrate
• Use pencil, pen, felt pen, or chalk to simply draw a picture of a bird whether it be a chicken, kookaburra, peacock, penguin or willy wagtail.
• Get arty with friends, family, and co-workers. Perhaps it would be fun to have a competition to see who can draw the best or funniest bird.
• If you need a little help getting your drawing to actually look like a bird, why not borrow a bird drawing book from the library or check out a tutorial online.
What do you call the Easter Bunny the day after Easter? Eggshausted.
What kind of jewelry does the Easter Bunny wear?
14 carrot gold.
How does the Easter Bunny travel all over the world? Via hareplane.
What’s the best way to make Easter easier?
Put an ‘i’ where the ‘t’ is.
What do you call an Easter Bunny wearing a kilt? Hopscotch.
Why are you so tired in April? Because you just finished a March.
Blah Blah Blah Day aims to appreciate the pleasure of casual conversation. So, where did the phrase Blah Blah Blah come from? According to historians, it originated from ancient Greece, but the term was ‘bar bar bar’.
The day is also about listening to those nagging words and putting them to action. People also take the time to listen to others in their daily lives joining together for a simple talk.
How to Celebrate
• Do the things you wouldn’t normally do and put an end to those projects that you’ve been putting off. If someone needs you to do something today, listen, pay attention, and do them.
• Take the day to visit a friend you haven’t seen in a while and enjoy some nice chit-chat or catch up with your friends and family by getting together with them and spending time with them.
• One of the most important things is to complete those tasks that you have been meaning to do for quite some time now so it is the perfect kick you need to stop putting these things off and instead tackle them headfirst.
Lastly make sure that you listen to people intently on this day and tune into what everyone else is saying on this day. Don’t let those three little ‘blahs’ enter your head.
THE YEAR 10 HASS class (Humanities and Social Sciences), travelled to Brisbane for three days in February to visit the War Memorial as part of their learning on World War Two. While there, they incorporated visits to the Spark Lab, Gallery of Modern Art, and the Revolution Sports Park.
Students began their camp with some time at the Shrine of Remembrance and observed the Eternal Flame, where they were able to deepen their understanding of the war and the enormity of the impact it had. They also visited the Anzac Square Parkland statues and memorials at the Anzac Square Memorial Gallery.
The Spark Lab, an interactive Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) space, allowed the students to experience some handson learning as well as participate in science shows. The Gallery of Modern Art presented the students with an insight into art and culture from Queensland, Australia and around the world.
The students thoroughly enjoyed the mental and physical challenge of Revolution Sports Park. Its massive indoor adventure playground featured endless trampolines, rock climbing, and ninja ramps. The teamwork, courage and motivation students demonstrated here to support and encourage each other was wonderful.
Throughout the camp, all the students grew as community members, learning humility and respect through their planned experiences and their interactions with people and places in Brisbane.
The Year 10 students would like to thank the many local community groups and individuals who helped to make this camp so successful.
Connect is an exciting new program being implemented at Tin Can Bay P-10 School which focuses on core literacy and numeracy skills. It is designed for students in Years 7-10 who require additional support to engage in education and offers an opportunity for these students to address their barriers to success.
In particular, the Connect program aims to improve literacy and numeracy skills by providing a personalised learning program designed to close learning gaps and promote and develop lifelong learning skills.
This semester, Tin Can Bay School has been fortunate to acquire the expertise of Mr Cameron Young to facilitate our Connect program. Over the past 5 years Cameron has been involved with designing and managing a similar alternate education program servicing the Bundaberg region. His knowledge has helped to set up Connect for success.
Lunch at Revolution Sports Park. acknowledges that all students deserve a quality education, delivered by high quality teachers in an environment that is safe and supportive of individual needs. Connect allows young people to experience success whilst discovering a purpose in learning.
The Connect philosophy aligns with Education Queensland which
Tin Can Bay School is very excited to offer this new initiative and we look forward to sharing its successes with our community.
Don’t ‘WASTE’ the opportunity to have your say on our future!
We have created a waste survey to understand how YOU want your waste services to be delivered over the next 10-15 years.
To sweeten the deal there are gift cards up for grabs to five lucky residents who complete the survey!
The Future of Waste Survey is available online or can be filled out in person at one of our customer service points and libraries.
Go to the QR code and fill it out.
Have you heard about our community INFOsations?
These sessions are run by our Community Development Team and provide a relaxed and informal space to answer your questions and offer assistance to local community groups, clubs, organisations, and volunteers.
Our team is hitting the road next week and would love to see you at one of their sessions
• Wed 29 Mar (10am-12pm) - Tin Can Bay Library
• Wed 29 Mar (1.30pm-3.30pm) - Rainbow Beach Library
• Thu 30 Mar (9.30am-11am) - Kilkivan Library
• Thu 30 Mar (1pm-3pm) - Goomeri Library
Easter on Mary
Hop on down to Mary Street for an egg-stra special night of easter festivities on Wednesday 5
April from 5pm to 9pm.
Dust off the dancing shoes with the headlining act Forrest Run sure to get everyone tapping their feet and shaking their hips.
It’s an event that you don’t want to miss, with mouth-watering food vendors and street entertainment that the whole family will enjoy.
Youth Week
Youth Week 2023 is in April!
From 11-17 April we’ll be celebrating young people across the Gympie region. Check out our program below. To find out more, or to purchase tickets go to gympie.qld.gov.au/youth
Watch Us On YouTube
We’re on YouTube! Our Council Meetings are live streamed.
Search YouTube for the ‘Gympie Regional Council - Official’ page and click subscribe. Click the notification bell on our page to get notified when a Council meeting is live.
While you’re there, check out some of our other videos.
Contact Gympie Regional Council
There are several ways to contact Gympie Regional Council including:
• using the online requests portal on the website www.gympie.qld.gov.au (in the Contact Us section on the top right hand corner of the homepage),
• emailing council@gympie.qld.gov.au
• phoning customer service on 1300 307 800
• using the Snap Send Solve app, or
• sending a message via messenger on the Gympie Regional Council Facebook page.
Cr Jess Milne invites members of the community to catch up and chat all things Council on Friday 14 April 2023.
Tin Can Bay Library 9am to 10am
Rainbow Beach Community Centre 11am to 12pm
Cooloola Cove Veterans Hall 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Contact Cr Jess Milne
Phone: 0436 282 707
Email: jess.milne@gympie.qld.gov.au
Why not use one of these activities as an excuse to explore the wider Gympie region?
Cartooning Workshop with Phil Judd
Gympie Library – Saturday 1 April 10-11.30am
Look at how to draw both Cute and Crazy looking pets. Includes drawing step by step with the teacher enabling the children to create their own original pet characters. Also covers professional cartooning techniques e.g. inking in and speech balloons. Suitable for ages 8-14. Bookings essential: 5481 0859.
Holiday Craft Bar
Rainbow Beach – Wednesday 5 & 12 April 3-4pm
Tin Can Bay – Monday 3 & 10, Friday 7 & 14 April 11am-12noon
Also at Gympie, Kilkivan, Imbil, Goomeri libraries – check library.gympie. qld.gov.au for times.
Stop by the children’s area at your local library branch for some free craft activities during the school holidays. Suitable for children aged 3-12 years and their carers. Bookings not necessary.
Create a Mask
Tin Can Bay Library
– Monday 3 April 10-11am
Do you have a favourite book character or animal? Come along to this fun session as we create masks of our favourite characters. Suitable for ages 5-12. Bookings essential: 5486 4355.
Botzees
Gympie Library – Monday 3 April 1-2pm
Learn how to build and program your own robot with Botzees. Botzees are fun interactive robots that help to inspire early learners to explore coding concepts like sequencing, looping and conditional coding through an intuitive and visual programming language. Suitable for ages 5-8 years. Bookings essential: 5481 0859.
Create a Sock Bunny
Kilkivan Library - Tuesday 4 April 1-2pm
Join us at the Kilkivan Library and create your very own, very cute Sock Bunny! Suitable for ages 5-12. Bookings essential: 5484 1209.
Decorate a Tea Light Holder
Imbil Library – Wednesday 5 April 3-4pm
Come along to this fun session to build and decorate a tea light holder. Suitable for ages 5-12. Bookings essential: 5484 5488.
Create your own Easter Basket
Goomeri Library – Thursday 6 April 2-3pm
Come on in and create your own Easter basket for the bunny to fill. Suitable for ages 3-12 years. Bookings essential: 4168 4340.
Gympie Library – Thursday 6 April 10–11am
Delivered by Red Cross volunteers and staff, the workshop encourages children to be active participants in their own emergency preparedness. The content is useful for all kinds of emergencies and includes activities to highlight the importance of being prepared. The Pillowcase Project helps to reduce real and imagined fears and has successfully built children’s stress management skills. Suitable for ages 8–12 years. Bookings essential: 5481 0859.
Create Your Own Festival Flower Crown
Gympie Library - Wednesday 12 April 1-2pm
Using faux flowers leaves and twigs, you will discover how to create your very own Flower Crown. Impress your friends with your new skills long after the event is over! Suitable for ages 12-17. Bookings essential: 5481 0859.
Rainbow Beach
Ph: 5486 3705
Monday & Thursday 9.30am – 12.30pm
Wednesday & Friday 2pm – 5pm
Saturday 9am – 12 noon
Dino Encounter
Gympie Library
Tin Can Bay
Ph: 5486 4355
Monday & Wednesday 9am – 12.30pm
Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9am – 5pm
Saturday 8.30am – 11.30am
– Thursday 13 April 9.30am, 10.15am, 11am and 11.45am
Join us at Gympie Library as we travel back in time to feel what it would be like to walk amongst dinosaurs millions of years ago. Young explorers will have the opportunity to meet a baby T-Rex accompanied by his keeper as well as learn all about our favourite dinosaurs. Suitable for ages 5–12 years. Bookings essential: 5481 0859.
Create a Hand Puppet
Rainbow Beach Library
– Thursday 13 April 10-11am
In this fun session, you will have the chance to create your own hand puppet. Suitable for ages 5-12. Bookings essential: 5486 3705.
Design a Library Bag
Goomeri Library – Friday 14 April 10-11am
Come and decorate a library bag – unique to you! Using fabric paints you will design a unique bag to carry home all your library books. Suitable for ages 5-12. Bookings essential: 4168 4340.
DIY Clocks
Gympie Library - Friday 14 April 10-11am
Looking to add some unique DIY décor to your bedroom? Come along to this hands-on workshop to design and make your own clock.
Using a variety of painting techniques, you will be able to create a one of a kind clock perfect for your room or to give to a friend. Suitable for ages 12-17. Bookings essential: 5481 0859.
Thursday Robotics
Gympie Library – Thursdays 3.30-4.30pm
Come down and get hands-on in one of our fun, relaxed sessions. No bookings required but space is limited. Suitable for ages 5-12 years.
Tinker Table
Gympie Library – Fridays 3.30-4.30pm
Kilkivan Library – Tuesdays 3.30-4.30pm
All activities are based on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Maths). No bookings required but space is limited. Suitable for ages 5 -12 years.
Gympie Library – Wednesday 5, 12, 19 and 26 April 3.30 - 4.30pm
Join us for a four-week course as we teach you the basics of sewing. Participants will have the opportunity to complete a new project each week. These sessions will inspire creativity and build life-long basic skills, while having fun at the same time. Spaces are limited so booking is essential. Suitable for ages 8–12 years.
First Five Forever Storytime (0-5 years)
Rainbow Beach Library - Mondays 10.30-11am
Tin Can Bay Library – Thursdays 9.30-10am
Check library.gympie.qld.gov.au for times at other local libraries. Join us each week for a fun session of stories, rhymes and songs. This is a program designed for 0-5 year olds and their families and carers.
Sandy Brangan
APRIL IS Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Awareness Month. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects about 30% of Australians, making it one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders.
Although IBS does not shorten a person’s life span, it can severely impact their quality of life. There is currently no cure for IBS.
The symptoms of IBS are often misunderstood and may keep those who suffer from speaking openly about their condition with family, friends, employers, and even their healthcare providers. This April we’re taking a look at the symptoms, causes of symptom flares, and management strategies to increase public awareness and shed light on the lived experience of those impacted by IBS.
IBS is a condition of the digestive system. It can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms including:
• Recurring or chronic bouts of abdominal pain or discomfort
• Abdominal pain or discomfort in association with a change in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, or constipation
• Other symptoms may also occur, such as bloating, gas, or urgency.
These symptoms are also common in other bowel conditions so it’s important to consult a doctor to rule out other conditions before IBS can be diagnosed.
Symptoms of IBS can be uncertain and can make participating in activities most people take for granted, such as eating out or travelling long distances, almost impossible. Symptoms can also change over time where there can be periods when symptoms get worse, as well as periods when symptoms lessen or disappear.
While the causes of IBS are often unclear, many people find it presents after an episode of gastroenteritis, food poisoning, infection, illness, or chronic stress.
Various management strategies exist for IBS. These include prescribed and over-the-counter medications, and drug-free approaches.
An alternative or complementary treatment is gut-directed hypnotherapy which is gaining increasing attention for its efficacy in managing IBS symptoms alongside dietary management.
Dietary strategies are very effective in managing the symptoms of IBS. While foods which trigger symptoms are different for everyone, general dietary tips include:
• Eat more high-fibre foods, like fruit and vegetables, legumes and whole grains
• Eat less gas-producing foods which include onion, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, dried beans, and lentils
• Eat fewer foods containing lactose, such as milk, ice cream and some yoghurts
• Drink less alcohol
• Limit your intake of food and drinks which contain artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, sorbitol, and mannitol.
Some people will find their IBS symptoms improve by adopting a high fibre diet and eating more whole grains and fruit and vegetables. A more specific strategy for addressing IBS is to adopt a low-FODMAP diet for two to six weeks to help identify trigger foods.
When these carbohydrates are poorly absorbed they travel to the large intestine. There they attract water into the gut and are fermented by the gut bacteria, creating gas. The increased water can result in diarrhoea for some people. The gas resulting from fermentation can also lead to symptoms of bloating, constipation, flatulence, and pain.
Common high FODMAP foods include garlic, onion, apples, milk, mushrooms, bread, and chickpeas. By reducing your intake of high FODMAP foods, symptoms of IBS can improve within weeks.
An Accredited Practising Dietitian can guide you through a series of food reintroductions which can help work out which FODMAPs and foods are triggering symptoms.
You can learn more about FODMAP foods here: fodmapfriendly.com
Ÿ Is the technician fully qualified & licensed?
Ÿ Has your room been measured & sized correctly?
Ÿ Have you seen any recent work from the installer?
Ÿ Can the installer provide ongoing support & service?
Research has proven that following a low FODMAP diet is the most effective way of managing IBS. Three in four people see improvements in their symptoms after adopting a low FODMAP diet.
Ÿ Will the installer use premium products, provide quality workmanship & leave the jobsite clean & tidy?
As mentioned earlier, see your doctor so they can rule out other bowel conditions before diagnosing you with IBS. Additionally, consult a dietitian before adopting a low FODMAP diet. They can help to identify what might be triggering your symptoms and they can also help to make sure you are still getting enough fibre and all the nutrients you need.
#IBSAwarenessMonth #YouandIBS
Ÿ Does the installer know the local area & environmental conditions?
Sources: aboutibs.org and dietitiansaustralia.org.au
Ÿ
We no longer provide Auto electrics service so no longer wish to have any in our advertising. Also if you could just remove the recommendation in the advert. Also maybe just try it with a light blue surround. Ÿ
FODMAP stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols. These are types of carbohydrate (sugar) which are not well absorbed in the small intestine.
AJESTIC AND COMMANDING, the brahminy kite is an impressive raptor which can be seen soaring effortlessly high in the skies across northern Australia’s coastline. Its diet of choice is dead animals, insects, and fish, and it swoops down from its perch high in a tree, then flies low over the water, and has been
known to take prey from other birds whilst in flight.
The brahminy kite builds its nest in living trees near water, and the structure is large and made from sticks, seaweed, or driftwood and lined with lichens, bones, and seaweed.
Both parents incubate the eggs.
Did you take a trip on Elmer’s barge back in the day?
Tourism trailblazer Gordon Elmer launched ‘Fraser Dawn’ in mid-1967 – the first vehicle barge to cross the fast-flowing strait separating Inskip Point from the southern tip of Fraser Island.
March has flown by and it is the end of Term 1 already and what a great term we have had at the Learning Community.
One of the term’s highlights was a trip to the Hervey Bay Material Recycling Facility organised by Chloe from the Gympie Council, where we saw huge amounts of rubbish dumped by a never-ending stream of garbage trucks sorted into what can and can’t be recycled by the dedicated workers.
We were amazed to see how many non-recyclable items such as plastic bags full of bottles (the workers don’t have time to open them so they all go into landfill!), children’s car seats, polystyrene, and milk crates came flying off the conveyor belt! Recycling is good for the environment, the economy and the local community.
Our thanks go to the Council and Polley’s Coaches for helping us to educate future generations by allowing us to make the trip.
Our second event with the Gympie Homeschooling Community on 23 March focused on how we can help to care for the turtles that come ashore on our local beaches and what we can do to look after our oceans.
Guest speaker Jan Waters from TurtleCare Rainbow and Teewah enthralled her listeners with stories of adult turtles that have recently been rescued, brought back to health at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, and released. Local volunteers also work hard to save clutches of eggs including one on Teewah Beach that was moved 4 metres back up into the dunes, enabling 137 hatchlings to make it to the ocean.
Mo Riggs, our resident art tutor, updated us on the status of TurtleCare’s mascot Topsy created by the children of the Learning
bottles
Community last year. Topsy is currently sitting proudly between two bottle and can recycling bins in a prominent position on the foreshore.
Funds raised from these bottles and cans, which are emptied on a regular basis by Learning Community families, will provide TurtleCare with funds to continue their vital work.
Each child created their own turtle from recycled materials and families again had a wonderful time together on our beautiful beach in the afternoon.
Other guests who visited us through the term included Gabriella and her helpers from the Tin Can Bay CWA through their Country Kitchens program, and local artist Vicki Miles who helped our young people create their own emu or jellyfish masterpiece.
One of our parents Ziggy spent time brainstorming with the young people in preparation for the Sandcastle Competition that is happening on Wednesday 5 April on the beach north of the SLS tower.
We now have a freezer situated at the Community Centre where we can store the large amount of items donated on a fortnightly basis by Woolworths Cooloola.
We are currently looking into ways that we can further support locals through the provision of frozen meals for those who are unwell or have just come home from hospital and have no food in the house.
Details are still to be finalised and we will hopefully have an update in the next Chappy Chat.
Flyers with details of the dates that hampers are distributed each fortnight from the Community Centre foyer between 1pm and 2pm are available from Vinnies in the main street and the local doctor’s surgery.
If you would like to receive a hamper, which cost $10, or know of someone that you could bless with a helping hand, please send a message via the Rainbow Beach Community Pantry Facebook page or send a text to 0413 135 867 to be added to our list of clients.
We all remember the floods that devastated Gympie and Lismore last year. When floods hit her hometown, it was yet another blow for Andrea* and her children. They lost everything due to the flood damage – Andrea’s family home was destroyed, and all food and belongings were ruined.
As a young single mum, Andrea didn’t know how she would feed her children. She then received food relief at a local Foodbank Member Charity, where they provided cooked meals and delivered crisis hampers and frozen meals (*this is a true story of hardship. Andrea’s name is changed to protect her identity).
“I’d lost everything, and I felt scared and afraid… I really thought I was going to die. I’ve gone hungry before in my life, so not being able to afford food for my family was very traumatising.”
Andrea
If you would like to support Australian families who are struggling, you can donate via the Foodbank website: www.foodbank. org.au – just $50 will provide food for a family of four for a week.
I would like to personally thank a caring Rainbow Beach resident for her over-and-above assistance of an elderly lady who at the end of 2022 was facing eviction from her home of ten years.
She volunteered to come alongside this lady and supported her until alternative accommodation was found.
Thank you to the staff of Cooloola Coast Realty who assisted with this. Prior to this time, the lady sought assistance from many locals and it has been wonderful to see their concern for her.
This caring resident continued to support her with other issues until she was able to be assessed by MyAgedCare – this became a huge task as she needed daily assistance due to high levels of anxiety.
The lady now has a paid support worker who is taking care of her needs.
It is great to see that residents of Rainbow Beach are willing to be there for each other and offer support when needed.
29 INFOsation sessions run by the GRC Community Development Team. 10-am-12pm at TCB Library. 1.30-3.30pm at RB Library.
30 INFOsation sessions run by the GRC Community Development Team. 9.30-11am at Kilkivan Library. 1-3pm at Goomeri Library.
31 Live music: Just Jen, 7pm TCB Country Club
31 LAST DAY TERM ONE
1-16 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
1 Barefoot Bowls, 4.30pm TCB Country Club, $10 adults/$5 children, free sausage sizzle. Phone Steve on 0420 861 825 to register.
1 Live music - Simon Meola, 6pm TCB Country Club
5 Sandcastle Competition! 9-11am (registration from 8.30am), on the beach north of SLS tower. Hosted by RB Learning Community. Details on page 2.
5 Easter on Mary, 5-9pm, Mary Street, Gympie (note: road closures from 3.30pm). Mary Street is set to come alive with great food, fantastic entertainment, and big prizes to be won. Details: www.gympie.qld.gov.au/EasterOnMary
7 GOOD FRIDAY
8 CIRS Easter Book Sale, CIRS stall at RB Markets, 7am-midday
8 Live music - Michael Gant, 6pm TCB Country Club
9 EASTER SUNDAY
9 Applications close for GRC Studio Trails. See page 4.
10 EASTER MONDAY
11-17 QLD Youth Week. See www.gympie.qld.gov.au/ youth for activities in the region.
13 Early bird registration for Mother’s Day Classic closes. See page 22
14 Councillor Community Catch Up with Cr Jess Milne in Rainbow Beach, Tin Can Bay, and Cooloola Cove. See times on page 25.
14 Youth Week Dance Party, 6-10pm, AICM 26 Channon Street, Gympie. 12-17yrs (18yrs with valid school ID), $10pp incl pizza. Details/ bookings at gympie.qld.gov.au
14 Live music - Chris Webbe & The Sweaty Palms, 7pm TCB Country Club
15 Country Hall Dance, Goomboorian Memorial Hall, Ross Rd Goomboorian. Doors open 7pm, dancing 7.30-11.30pm. Live music by Chris Doyle, raffles, lucky door prizes etc. $12 per person. Contact Julie 0428 824 115.
15 Live music - Brad Sorensen, 6pm TCB Country Club
21 Live music - Red Betty, 7pm TCB Country Club
25 ANZAC DAY
28-1/5 2023 Australian Skydiving ChampionshipsAccuracy Landing & Sport Accuracy events, Rainbow Beach.
28 Live music - 7pm TCB Country Club (act TBC at time of printing)
29 Recruiting Volunteers Workshop, 10am–1pm, The Pavilion Conference & Reception Centre, 77 Exhibition Road, Southside. Free, registration essential. For information, contact council’s Community Development Team on 1300 307 800 or community@gympie.qld.gov.au
29 Evacuation Centre Training, RB Community Hall
9 Stand Up Comedy Workshop, RB Community Hall 4-6pm. See page 8/9 for details. Free, but limited spaces – call 5486 3355 to register.
9 Stand Up Comedy Open Mic Night, RB Community Hall 7-9pm. Free of charge and open to Rainbow Beach residents of all ages. Refreshments available for purchase. See page 8/9 for details.
14 Mother’s Day Classic Fun Run/Walk in Tin Can Bay. Contact host Jess Milne for more information on 0411 218 254 or email mothersdayclassictincanbay@gmail.com
Weekdays
5.30am TCB Bootcamp, 7am & 5.30pm RB Gym classes, Ph: 0490 333 147
Monday
8am Heart Foundation Wheelie Walking Group Cooloola Cove, Judy 5486 2181. Meet at bus shelter outside shopping centre on Nautilus Drive.
9am Macrame, Men’s Shed, Carole: 0437 880 438
9am Painting for beginners, Tuncunba Hall, Tin Can Bay, Kerri 0438 803 990
Middle Eastern Movement class by Soul from the Belly, Emperor St Community Hall TCB. Early session
1-2pm, evening session 5.30-6.30pm. First class free. Book by calling Jess on 0411 218 254
2nd Monday 1.30 – 3.30pm Life Drawing with model, Tuncunba Hall, Tin Can Bay, Robyn 0419 663 271
2nd Monday - Probus meeting, 2pm at Sandcastle Motel TCB, new members welcome. Cherryl 0409 044 100 or Katrina cooloolaprobus@gmail.com
10.30-11am First Five Forever Storytime (0-5 years) at RB Library. Bookings essential: 5486 3705
11am -12.30pm Book a librarian, RB Library
Tuesday
2nd Tuesday - Veterans and Community Morning Tea, Tin Can Bay RSL, from 10am
2nd & 4th Nibbles & Giggles at Goomeri Library, social get together to chat over a cuppa, 10amph: 4168 4340
8.30am Kindy Linq, RB School Library
9am – 12 Noon, MEN ONLY morning, TCB Community & Men’s Shed, Paul Boulton 0437 007 911
9am TCB Quilters, TCB Community Centre, President Louise Hanks 0488 951 881
9am Drawing & Pastel group all levels, tutoring for beginners, Tuncunba Hall, Tin Can Bay, Kerri 0438 803 990
10am Tin Can Bay Art Group, TCB Library
11am-12pm English Conversation Group, come along to make new friends and improve your English, Gympie Library, bookings not needed
12.30-3.30pm Join in at TCB Library for an afternoon playing Mahjong, an ancient Chinese tile game of strategy, calculation and skill with a measure of chance. This group is open to everyone
2-4pm Book a librarian, TCB Library
Wednesday
7am Heart Foundation Walking Group TCB, Maggie 0400 756 615
8am Table tennis - singles, 9am doubles, $2 all levels welcome, RB Community Hall, 5486 3355
8.30am Kindy Linq, RB School Library
9.30am Cooloola Card Makers, TCB Library
3-4pm Coolabay Choir, CC Vets’ Hall, Pam: 0427 180 649
3.30-4.45pm Robotics Thursday, Gympie Library, bookings not necessary (but space is limited)
3rd Hoy hosted by QCWA, 9.30am for a 10.00am start, Cooloola Waters Retirement Village Hall, 34 Toolara Rd TCB. Wendy 0412 547 043 or Judy 0402 769 392
Thursday
7.30am Social tennis, $3, RB Sports Club, All welcome. Chris: 0417 605 484
8.30am Playgroup, RB School Library
9am – 12 Noon, MEN ONLY morning, TCB Community & Men’s Shed, Paul Boulton 0437 007 911
9.30am First Five Forever Storytime (0-5 yrs), TCB Library
9.30am Bingo for Local Ambulance Committee, TCB Country Club
3.30pm Dragon Boating every Thursday, Sandra: 0402 352 756
3.30pm Robotics for kids, Gympie Library
Friday
1st & 3rd Rainbow Beach Art Group, RB Library 10am, phone 5486 3705 for more information
2nd Friday - Twilight Markets, Amity Place TCB 4pm-7pm. Community market with market fee proceeds going to community groups. Contact Jenny Jackson 0424 639 572.
1st Friday - Drop-in Sausage Sizzle, Tin Can Bay RSL, 11.30am to 1.30pm
3rd Friday - Writing Fridays at Gympie Library - join other writers in practicing and honing your literary skills, 10am-12pm, phone 5481 0859 for more information and to book
4th Friday Community catch up at RB Hall, 8am 8am Heart Foundation Wheelie Walking Group Cooloola Cove, Judy 5486 2181. Meet at bus shelter outside shopping centre on Nautilus Drive.
9am-12pm Chess/Rummykub at TCB Community & Men’s Shed, gold coin for morning tea, no need to book
2.30-4pm Book a librarian, TCB Library
3.30-4.30pm Tinker Table STEAM Makerspace, Gympie Library, bookings not necessary
7.30-10.30pm Live music at RB Sports Club. Grab a drink and a feed and enjoy some local talent www.rainbowsportsclub.com.au
Saturday
7am Heart Foundation Walking Group TCB, Maggie 0400 756 615
2nd Saturday RB Market. Book: 5486 3355
3rd Saturday Tin Can Bay Market. Book: 0418 711 897
2.30pm Little Athletics, TCB School oval, Jess: 0411 218 254
5pm Mass at St John Vianney Catholic Church, Bream St, TCB (week 1, 2, 5)
7.30-10.30pm Live music at RB Sports Club. Grab a drink and a feed and enjoy some local talent. www.rainbowsportsclub.com.au
Sunday
7am Mass at St Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church, Manooka Dr, RB (week 1, 2, 5) and Tin Can Bay (week 3, 4)
7.30am Dragon Boating, Sandra: 0402 352 756
9.30am Service at Good Shepherd Church, 17 Carlo Road, RB, followed by morning teaall denominations most welcome
12-3pm Live music at RB Sports Club plus free kids’ bowls and obstacle course. www.rainbowsportsclub.com.au
RAINBOW BEACH FAMILY
FISHING CLASSIC & EXPO 2023
11 - 17 June 2023
See page 26 of this issue
Save the Date: Easter Egg Hunt Answer (from page 19): 11
OPENING HOURS
6AM - 8PM 7 DAYS
Find your local store at iga.com.au/stores
Rainbow Beach
So apparentl it is a t mn. Has an one told the eather gods that? March as like s mmer all o er again. Which is certainl not a bad thing in a place like Rainbo
At least e did not ha e a repeat of last ear ’s flooding in the region. What a sad and shocking piece of histor that is. And hile sadl there are s ll people s ffering the a�ereffects of losing their homes it is incredible to see ho q ickl things reco er. Ver inspiring.
Ver happ that April is here - e ha e Easter, school holida s, An ac Da , and the bea f l arm-b t-hopef llnot-too-hot eather to enjo it all. Make s re o get o t and soak p that s nshine and make the most of all o r legendar to n has to offer
What do o like to do for Easter? I feel like I sho ld talk abo t ho it is not all abo t chocolate, and that there is more to it than j st piling p s eet goodies…b t nah, it reall is all abo t the chocolate isn’t it! For kids and ad lts alike.
Of co rse, it is also a great opport nit to ha e fo r f ll da s together ith famil and friends and to ha e a great e c se to do a giant feast and to enjo spending me together…….and to eat loads of chocolate!!!!
On to the all-important sports report… Foot season is finall in f ll s ing oo hoooo! The Q eensland teams are doing s pro d so far and are c rrentl all in the top on the ladder
And es, that incl des brand ne NRL team the Dolphins ho are nbeaten as I rite this. Not a bad effort for their deb t season at the top le el.
At me of ri ng, the first “Ba le of Brisbane” is set to take place in a fe da s ith Broncos s Dolphins at S ncorp Stadi m ith a sello t cro d. Promises to be a great atmosphere.
Un l no I o ld ha e had m mone firml on the Broncos b t ith the Dolphins great performances so far I reckon old Wa ne -poo might j st come p ith the goods.
AFL commenced last eek (at me of ri ng) as ell. Unfort natel the Q eensland teams both lost
comprehensi el in their first games. Let ’s hope that ’s not an omen for the rest of the season.
In terms of the r gb , the Ne Zealand teams are as dominant as al a s b t the Br mbies at this earl stage are act all second on the ladder. Reds are c rrentl mid-table so ith a co ple of ins co ld be easil back in conten on. Watch this space.
Enjo o r April e er one. Here’s to a b s to n ith lots of isitors helping to boost o r local econom . Which in t rn helps local b sinesses to s pport other local b sinesses hich benefits the en re comm nit Keep shopping local.
This is a paid ad er sement and the ie s of the riter are not necessaril the ie s of the Rainbo Beach Comm nit Ne s o ners or staff
A big hello to all o r al ed c stomers - both local and isi ng, come and see o r friendl staff at o r local IGA toda
Rainbo Beach: Rainbo Beach Road, Rainbo Beach
Mat t, Bernie, Justin, Liam & ou r friendly st aff at the IGAThe Easter B nn ill be shopping at IGA - loads of choccie eggs, Easter cra�s, and e er thing o need for an Easter egg h nt. Banjo has p t her ish list in alread !