16 minute read
With this in mind, we offer Local Musings
Do you know a young eco-warrior?
Nominate them now for the Les Hall Young Conservationist Award and recognise their efforts. It might be a team or individual who’s striving for change at their school, or going above and beyond to protect a native animal, or using technology to raise awareness about wildlife conservation on the Sunshine Coast. Nominations are open until 28 February for those aged under 18. Head to Council's website to nominate or for further details.
Mass transit solution options coming soon
We’re planning for a sustainable mass transit solution to address our public transport needs. Residents and visitors will soon have a chance to have a say. Visit Council’s website to sign up now to receive project updates and to have your say when consultation begins.
Immerse yourself in fabric
Now is a great time to take a fresh look at how we live and the fabric – Slow Fashion, Artful Living program could be the perfect place to start. Celebrating the rich talents of Sunshine Coast artisans and designers, fabric brings art and sustainability together in a curated program of design and artful lifestyle activities. Over the next few months immerse yourself in a program of workshops, exhibitions, talks, professional development and more. Search ‘Fabric’ on Council’s website for more details.
One for the calendar
Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting online – Thursday, 25 February
Major community grant funding open now
Does your community organisation need funding to help make something great happen? Make it a reality with support from Council’s Community Grants Program. Register for a FREE Grant Writing Session online to help with planning. Visit Council's website for more information and apply before 15 March.
Help look after our bushland reserves
This new year, join a team which volunteers their time to look after their local bushland. There are 40 volunteer groups around the region, with regular working bees. No commitment – just join in where and when you can. Search “bushcare” on Council’s website to register your interest.
Grab your rates discount
Your July 1 – December 31, 2020 rates are due soon and if you pay by 19 February you’ll receive the on-time payment discount. Register through MyCouncil to receive future rates notices by email so you can pay anywhere, anytime and ensure you never miss the ontime payment discount.
Join the movement!
Healthy Sunshine Coast is back for 2021, offering ways to invigorate your life with free and low cost activities in your local community. How will you choose to move? Activities are suitable for all ages and fitness levels and great for beginners or people returning to exercise. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to meet new people and have fun. Head to Council's website for more details.
07 5475 7272 mail@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
LOCAL MUSINGS LOCAL MUSINGS
We have lost the unique voice of Mungo MacCallum, however it's still good to deliberate on news, life and the idiosyncrasies of our current times. With this in mind, we've opened up the floor to you, our readers, to take up the mantle in your own way. Email: editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au
But It Couldn’t Happen Here, Could It?
by Doug Patterson
The Trump Presidency has been based on and mired in blatant misinformation. The consequence of this political tactic, now called Trumpism, has been witnessed around the world.
Millions of Americans now believe that the misinformation that they have been fed is real and true and have turned civilized debate into violent mob dissent. When facts, truth and reason are sacrificed for political expediency then the void is filled by emotive conspiracy theories and extremism.
America is now faced with the agonizing task of analysing how its democratic processes were allowed to be undermined and how they can be rebuilt to regain the trust of so many Americans who now feel disenfranchised and betrayed by their government. Of course, it couldn’t happen in Australia!
However, the politicisation of “fact” and “truth” is already a part of Australian politics and apparently has been endorsed by a very senior political figure and leader of the National Party, Michael McCormack, who, it has been suggested, has given conservative politicians a “licence to lie”.
For some time now, Liberal MP, Craig Kelly, has been disseminating information shown to be false and inconsistent with government policy and advice on COVID-19, undermining government action and endangering the health of everyday Australians - without government censure or action.
Similarly, LNP MP, George Christensen, has espoused baseless conspiracy theories unchecked. Of particular concern is McCormack’s statement that truth is negotiable and facts are sometimes contentious – echoes of Trump’s use of “alternative facts”.
Of course, all governments use “spin” as part of their marketing to influence polls, win popular support and gain/maintain power. Unfortunately, since this is usually disseminated by staffers with journalism/media/advertising backgrounds, lazy media outlets seem to just see a good story and run with the “press release” without due diligence.
Christensen’s move to prevent social media platforms fact-checking posts is exactly the wrong move. If fact, truth and reason are the keystones of democracy then all media should be required to challenge and fact-check a story before it goes to print/air.
Democracy relies on the media to present facts and promote reasonable, intelligent debate. Facts matter, facts aren’t contentious, there is no such thing as an alternative fact.
Unfortunately, those who spread misinformation tend to justify their right to lie under a popular misunderstanding of “Freedom of Speech”. However, the so-called right to “Free Speech” does not legitimise denying reality, ignoring facts, burying the truth.
In fact, we have a range of laws that limit free speech. Public servants and employees of our largest corporations, for instance, are legally constrained about how they can comment on their work.
Speech has never been entirely free and has always been moderated by responsibility.
While it isn’t really socially acceptable to lie, it is actually illegal in many commercial and legal contexts.
It’s plainly well overdue for government figures who hold unique positions of public responsibility to also be held legally responsible for intentionally lying to the public. Equally, media companies that intentionally or negligently disseminate those lies must also be held accountable.
National leadership needs to clean up political debate, ensuring the integrity of the politicians we elect in good faith. Democracy demands that we trust our politicians to make decisions on our behalf based on fact, truth and reason and not on spin, misinformation and political expediency.
Politicians who do not meet the standards we expect should be shown the door. The “Licence to Lie”must be revoked, now!
The views expressed in the Local Musings column are the writer’s and not necessarily the views of the HT team.
REAL ESTATE REVIEW
To buy or rent?
by ANTONIA MERCORELLA CEO, Real Estate Institute Of Queensland
Amid the backdrop of unpredictability that is the coronavirus pandemic, one area of the Queensland economy that’s remained remarkably resilient is our property market.
The Sunshine Coast has seen an increase of 3.9 per cent in house prices in the past 12 months, based on the latest figures from the Queensland Market Monitor (September 2020). And despite the uncertainty of COVID-19, one thing is for sure: home loan interest rates are the lowest in Australia’s history with the official cash rate at 0.1 per cent.
With some banks passing on the full rate cut, some home loan interest rates are now starting at as low as 1.83 per cent at the time of writing.
According to the recently released Buy Vs Rent Report 2020 by Corelogic, this now means that with the costs of paying down a mortgage across regional Queensland trending lower, loan repayments are now, on average, lower than the costs associated with renting for both houses and units.
With the median vacancy rate across the Sunshine Coast at 0.4 per cent in October 2020, it’s the tightest the region’s rental market has ever been in the past 15 years, according to the REIQ Quarterly Vacancy Report.
While rents, on average, have risen by a median of 10 per cent over the past few years, with availability seesawing between tight and relatively healthy conditions, the effects of rental supply and demand in recent months is driving rents higher across the Sunshine Coast.
Mortgage loan interest rates also affect price elasticity in housing. When interest rates are lower, you can afford a larger loan. This enables you to stretch a bit more on home prices, which means an increased elasticity of demand, which is what we’re seeing across the Sunshine Coast.
he Hinterland market is very hot at the moment and that is why it is so important to work with a proactive agency like Brant and Bernhardt Property. We will keep you updated with any new and upcoming listings, so you don't miss out on your new dream home.
Our listings are selling off market and for full list price or very close to, so you need to be aware of what is coming onto the market at all times.
Our annual median house prices have jumped to 7% in recent months. This has been helped mostly by the higher number of buyers versus sellers in the market at the moment.
Thinking of buying or selling? Call Susan or Dee today, we are happy to help you on your journey. COMING SOON - Bespoke, stunning, hand-crafted, stone and timber home with magnificent Glass House Mountain and valley views, loaded with character, plus a separate stone and timber workshop/studio on 1.26ha, no photos at time of print, so check our website: brantandbernhardt.com.au.
Call us today for more information .... don't miss this one-of-a-kind property. Call Susan on 0428 573 170 or Dee on 0423 259 931.
Agency: Brant and Bernhardt
Contact:
2/20 Maple Street, Maleny Qld 4552
120 Postmans Track, Booroobin
Unbeatable Acreage on the Hinterland!
A
ct quickly to secure this 65+ acre retreat, nestled amongst the glorious Booroobin forest!
The birdlife here is AMAZING, along with the supreme privacy, and feeling of being 'worlds away', but conveniently located just 10 minutes from Maleny and 15 minutes from Woodford via the Maleny Stanley River Road. The superbly crafted timber home is perfectly sited to enjoy Northern views over the forest and beyond to the Reesville ranges. The warm and inviting layout of this rambling ranch style property, perfectly caters for a couple or larger family - what ever the occasion!
In addition to the spacious home with undercover parking for 4 vehicles, there is a huge lock up shed suitable for a further 3 vehicles and a huge tractor/machinery shed - 3 phase power too! Spend your days exploring the acreage via the many tracks and walkways dotted around the property, soaking up the natural surrounds of the Australian Bush!
Bed: 4 Bath: 1 Car: 9
2/10 Maple Street, Maleny Qld 4552
464 Reesville Road, Reesville Qld 4552
DO NOT MISS OUT ON THIS OPPORTUNITY!
Gourmet kitchen with luxurious Limestone bench tops, Smeg oven, integrated dishwasher and an enviable Butler's Pantry • Five spacious bedrooms including an enormous master • Soaring 11 foot ceilings and glowing Hoop Pine and Brushbox timber floors throughout • Your comfort is assured with split-system airconditioning and the innovative 'Lopie' fireplace • Generous outdoor entertaining area flowing seamlessly from the home and spilling out to the garden • Fully fenced plus triple garaging and a double carport under the house • Family friendly playroom downstairs plus large gym area / studio area • The most adorable cubby house, children's playground and there is room for a pool! • Abundant space on nearly one acre (3916m2) of level, manicured gardens • Gorgeous chook pen, mature orchard and substantial veggie gardens • Heaps of water with tanks and a BORE that you can DRINK! • Stable area ideal for a pony or even pigs! • Professionally landscaped with nothing to do but soak up and enjoy your gorgeous new home! Bed: 5 Bath: 2 Car: 5
2/10 Maple Street, Maleny Qld 4552
FOR SALE
Exclusive, architectural country estate on 100 acres
5 4 4
If you have been searching for a truly special lifestyle in every sense, Barung Point will not disappoint. Situated on a private knoll overlooking and connecting to Lake Baroon, a superbly appointed country home takes pride of place in this magical, whisper quiet 100-acre property in the North Maleny hills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. All this just a few minutes away from the vibrant township of Maleny, yet worlds away amidst the tranquil ambience of its alluring natural surroundings.
The grounds of this exclusive, sophisticated and aesthetic estate showcase a wide variety of established rainforest trees. It begins with the formal Kauri pine-lined driveway which leads to the junction point between the demesnes of the main residence and of the fully self-contained guest cottage and barn. Both homes enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Baroon and beyond, with the scenic vista of the Pacific Ocean part of the backdrop on the gently winding drive. The property has its own access to Lake Baroon. With interiors designed by the renowned Stuart Rattle, the main residence is a harmonious fusion of classic elegance, superb architectural detail and modern style. An expansive, open plan design awaits beyond the impressive entrance, with Brushbox timber and Natural Sandstone flooring, together with ten-foot ceilings, oversized windows and only the most exquisite high-end finishes.
For the discerning buyer, this is not to be missed. Every element of this one hundred acre estate has been meticulously crafted through the evolving vision of the owners, who are looking forward to sharing this enchanting property with the next generation.
Just a few minutes to the township of Maleny, 35 minutes to the beach and around an hour to Brisbane airport, the location simply does not get better than this! Contact RE/MAX Hinterland today for further information on one of Maleny’s finest properties. Price: Contact Agent Land Size: 40ha
RE/MAX Hinterland M 0447 737 737
remaxhinterland.com.au
Each office independently owned and operated ADDRESS 2/10 Maple Street, Maleny, QLD 4552 OFFICE 07 5408 4220 EMAIL sales@remaxhinterland.com.au
3 Round 4 of FairPlay vouchers, applications close March 17, visit qld.gov.au/fairplayvouchers Find a Frog in February, citizen science program, mrccc.org.au/frog-in-february Landsborough Museum needs new members, email: landsboroughmuseum@aapt.net.au or call on 5494 1755
5 Fridays at Bankfoot House, workshops, tea and events, first Friday each month, 10-11.30am, this month’s subject: family research with senior archivist Niles Elvery, to book phone 5420 8600. Bankfoot House, 1998 Old Gympie Road, Glass House Mountains
6 Maleny Trail Parkrun, every Saturday, meet at Maleny Trail, Parklands Drive via Porters Lane, 6.45am for 7am start, free, visit: parkrun.com.au/maleny Nambour Parkrun, 5km, every Saturday, Parklands Regional Park, Radar Hill Rd, Parklands, Nambour, 7am start, free, visit: parkrun.com.au/nambour
7 Jazz and Blues Collective, the Dan Bolton Band, Millwell Road Community Centre, Maroochydore, doors open 1pm, show 1.30 - 4pm, $25/seniors $23, enquiries 0417 633 734 Maleny Arts Council AGM, 4pm, Conference Room, Maleny Neighbourhood Centre
Hinterland Events
January: Australia Day celebrations; Maleny Film Festival; Yandina Ginger Flower and Food Festival February: Montville: Flame Hill Grape Stomp April: ANZAC Day Services, Sunshine Coast Ukulele Festival
May: Maleny Wood Expo; Cross Country: Maleny Community Precinct; Maleny Hospital Auxiliary Fashion and Flowers; Maleny Agricultaral Show; The Planting Festival, Woodford June: Gardening on the Edge; Kenilworth Quilt & Craft Show; Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show; Kenilworth Food Fest
July: Muscle on the Mountain Day; QLD MX Nationals Motorcross: Conondale; Queensland Garden Expo; Maleny Wedding Festival and the Mary Valley Art Festival; Celebration of Books Maleny August: Maleny Music Festival; Village Wedding Expo Montville September: Mitchell Creek Rock n Blues Fest; Kenilworth ArtFest; Kenilworth Show and Rodeo; Lions Welcome Dinner: Maleny October: Runfest; Heart of Gold Film Fest: Gympie; Blackall 100, Mapleton November: Mary River Festival December: Woodford Folk Festival 9 Glasshouse Musos Open Mic, Beerwah Hotel, 6 to 9pm, monthly Glasshouse Country Senior Citizens Club, second Tuesday every month, 8.30am, Beerwah Community Hall, social activities and outings, phone 0438 008553 or turn up on the day
11, 25 Maleny Fix-it Café, Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-2pm, every fortnight, if fixable, $5 donation, 5494 3229
14 Native Plants Sunshine Coast AGM, 10am Brush Turkey Enterprises. 468 Reesville Road, Maleny, bring morning tea, RSVP lpw3@bigpond.com or 5429 6845 Lovers of Books, Mapleton Community Library’s annual St Valentine’s Day event, 5.30 - 7.30pm
17 Barung Connects, Tick Workshop, 5.20pm for a 5.30pm start, to 7pm, bookings essential, venue details supplied on registration, barunglandcare.org.au, or phone 5494 3151
19 EARLY DEADLINES for HT ad bookings/copy and editorial
TOP SH TS
Have a great photo to share? Send us your favourite high res image(s) - over 500KB – we love seeing the hinterland through different people’s eyes. Email: editor@hinterlandtimes.com.au
February’s photo come from Kate English, who enjoyed this peaceful walk to a waterfall hidden away off the Maleny Trail.
20 Richo and the Home Grown Killers, Finbars, 12 Bicentenary Lane, Maleny, with special guests Nat and Jake, 7pm, phone: (07) 5494 3146
26 Arms and the Man, Lind Lane Theatre, Nambour, until March 6, bookings essential: lindlane.com.au/watch or phone telephone 1300 732 764. Charity preview performance February 24 to benefit Helping Children Smile, for bookings phone: 0450 636 080
MARCH
7 Club Acoustic Encore, Maleny RSL, dinner 6 - 7pm, first act 7pm, $20 on the door Clean Up Australia Day
Crossword Solutions
ACROSS:
9 Upper case, 10 Motto, 11 Thigh, 12 Yardstick, 13 Abnormal, 14 Bungle, 15 Cosy, 17 Edits, 19 Prep, 22 Summon, 23 Armchair, 25 Imbroglio, 27 Oared, 29 Laden, 30 Mesmerism.
DOWN: 1 Oust, 2 Option, 3 Archery, 4 Maryland, 5 Bear, 6 Smash-up, 7 Stringer, 8 Bookkeeper, 13 Accessible, 16 Somebody, 18 Tortoise, 20 Cologne, 21 October, 24 Afraid, 26 Lame, 28 Dime.
Advertise your workshop $44 for one month
8 International Women’s Day Zonta celebrate International Women’s Day. 5.30-pm, Maleny Community Centre back deck and verandah room
For more information:
advertising@hinterlandtimes.com.au 0414 432 423
