LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS
THE PEOPLE'S PLANT: A LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS LEADING THE WAY IN SUSTAINABLE MEDICINAL CANNABIS CULTIVATION
Medicinal cannabis is 100% legal in Australia when prescribed by a doctor and cultivated under strict government regulations. The industry is tightly controlled, with licensed producers ensuring compliance with Australian medicinal cannabis laws. Local cultivator, The People’s Plant operates within these legal frameworks, providing locally grown, high-quality medicinal cannabis to support Australian patients.
Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, The People's Plant is pioneering an ethical, community-driven approach to medicinal cannabis cultivation. Founded by siblings Rebecca and Ben Risby-Jones, this family business is committed to providing affordable, high-quality, and environmentally responsible medicinal cannabis to Australians in need. The company’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community impact was recently recognised by Noosa Shire Mayor Frank Wilkie and Councillors Nicola Wilson and Karen Finzel, who visited the farm to learn more about its operations. Their visit highlighted The People’s Plant as a leading example of responsible, locally owned medicinal cannabis cultivation, reinforcing the company’s role in regional economic growth, sustainable farming, and communitydriven business.
Sustainability First: Unlike a lot of large cannabis producers that rely on energy-intensive indoor facilities, The People's Plant has developed a hybrid cultivation model that blends indoor, greenhouse, and outdoor growing. This ensures year-round production while significantly reducing environmental impact.
Qualified naturopath Ben said, “Around one million Australians have a medical cannabis prescription, yet astonishingly, 70 per cent of the product is imported, which drives up costs for patients.We know many patients want transparency and would prefer an organic, sungrown, locally produced option. Our goal is to grow the best possible medicine while working in harmony with nature."
By focusing on organic and regenerative farming, water conservation, and solventless extraction methods, The People's Plant is proving that medicinal cannabis can be grown responsibly and with sustainability.
Community-Backed Growth: The People's Plant isn’t just another cannabis company—it’s a movement powered by everyday Australians. Through crowdfunding, over 600 investors have already become shareholders and have raised more than $1 million, funding key infrastructure that will enable full-scale commercialisation.
Rebecca shares, "We’re building something that belongs to the people. This isn’t about corporate profits—it’s about creating an Australian-owned, locally produced solution for patients who need it. Their second crowdfunding round is now open, with funds going toward processing infrastructure capable of handling 9.5 tonnes of medicinal cannabis annually—a crucial step toward meeting the growing demand for affordable, high-quality locally sourced medicinal cannabis."
Why This Matters for Mary Valley: Supporting local, ethical businesses like The People's Plant has a direct impact on regional economies, local job creation, and sustainable farming in Queensland. As medicinal cannabis continues to gain traction, businesses like The People's Plant provide an opportunity to keep profits and knowledge within local communities rather than relying on overseas imports.
Emily Rigby, an industry expert working with The People's Plant, explains, "Australia is perfectly positioned to lead the world in sustainable medicinal cannabis. We have the land, the climate, and the expertise—it’s about ensuring the industry grows in a way that benefits the people first."
Join the Movement: For those who believe in supporting sustainable, community-first businesses, now is the time to become a part-owner. The People's Plant’s crowdfunding campaign is live, inviting Australians to own a piece of the future of medicinal cannabis. To learn more and support local, sustainable cannabis production, visit www.thepeoplesplant.co now. The window to invest closes on 27 March, 2025.
Photo Above: Aerial view of The People's Plant.
RECEPTION & INTERNET ISSUES?
WHAT IS THE SOLUTION?
In this modern world we all know how important it is to have reliable phone reception and internet connection. Sure it is wonderful to be 'off-grid' and surrounded by trees and wildlife, but most people need access to reliable communication services from home and when out and about in the community. These services are essential for connection to family and friends, business activities, workingfrom-home, online study, medical devices that require reception/ internet and much more.
It has been brought to our attention that many local homes have been told by Telstra that they are in a 'NoGo' zone with no clear line of sight to towers. Therefore, they cannot access reliable Telstra services. Suggested alternatives from telstra were; Wi-Fi small cell: https://zetifi.com/products/zeticell-x/ Starlink: https://www.telstra.com.au/internet/starlink
With both being relatively expensive options for the hardware purchases and ongoing fees.
One local resident who has been negatively impacted by the telstra changes said, "When 3G was turned off and 4G implemented my "booster", the telephone signal in my home at Gheerulla ceased to work. This impacted on my mobile phone reception which after October 31 only worked with wi-fi link but more importantly because no 4G signal was present on my property my medical alert pendant also ceased to work. This pendant is essential to my safety because of my health issues. I have reported the problem to Telstra, the telephone ombudsman and complained to anyone who will listen. I was informed time and again - it is being passed on to the relevant area. Today I finally received a definitive answer. They cannot help me."
It is concerning to hear that Australia's largest provider is abandoning long term customers who don't fit into their 'line of sight'. What was wrong with also allowing the older 3G technology that was previously working fine for these customers to be maintained?
On this issue another resident commented, "I need reliable internet as a work from home mum. My Telstra mobile reception and internet is patchy at home. It drops in and out. Hotspotting from my phone was no longer viable and both Telstra and NBN said our area was not eligible for home internet so we went with Starlink. It costs a bit more but has been really fast and reliable so far. At least I can still work from home."
In a poll on the local Facebook group there were many votes for using Telstra in the area (56%), 11 votes for Starlink (29%) and just a couple for Optus and NBN. Another option was added by a voter called "activ8me" which has had some positive reviews. Activ8me is a specialist in nbn services for regional, rural, and remote Australia and may be another option if you have been abandoned by Telstra.
Do YOU have something to share about this or another issue? Send us your thoughts in a 'letter to the editor' or suggest an article via email to maryvalleyvoice31@gmail.com
~ Samantha Starshine, editor MVV
HISTORICAL: 101 YEARS OF BUSINESS
2025 – KENILWORTH TOWNSHIP 101 YEARS SINCE THE BEGINNING
Having celebrated the townships centenary in 2024 it may be the time to look at the development of the commercial centre from the beginning:-
1924: January 2, The first commercial business in the township. Tanner’s General Store. Building owned by Richard Walter Sims- now Kenilworth Bakery (Reference – Diary of Winnie Grace Sims - JANUARY 1924 - Wednesday 2nd Arthur (Tanner) started in business in the township of Kenilworth: Daily Mail 1.2.1924, p13)
Tenders called for the Public Hall (Daily Mail 1.2.1924, p13) built on the site of the current Police Station. Hall removed to current site in 1932 (Nambour Chronicle 9.9.1932, p8)
1925: Kenilworth Post Office (now private residence) (Nambour Chronicle 17.7.1925, page 3)
Butcher Shop (now the Pizza shop) (Nambour Chronicle 17.7.1925, page 3)
Tait & Muller’s Garage (now the bottle shop) (Reference Hinka Booma to Kenilworth, page 34)
1926 Bill Allen’s Sawmill commenced operation (now part of the Hall grounds) (Reference Inventory
of Sawmills and Tramways, page 165 http://www.agriculture.gov.au/ SiteCollectionDocuments/rfa/regions/ qld-south-east/cultural-heriatage/forestindustry-places/pdf/qld_se_saw7.pdf)
1930: Alex and Minnie McGinn built their retirement home – (now Nana McGinns) (Nambour Chronicle 28.11.1930, page 9)
1932: Arthur Tanner’s General Store moved to larger premises (now Friendly Grocer). (Nambour Chronicle 2.12.1932, page 8)
Mr. J. Trimble began a bakery in the original Tanners General Store (Nambour Chronicle 16.9.1932 p 7) Now the savoury section of Kenilworth Country Bakery.
1933: February - Shop and residence constructed for Mr. C. Cole – now the Top
Café. (Nambour Chronicle 10.2.1933, page 8)
February 16, the Kenilworth Farmers Cooperative General Store officially opened for business (now West N Colour Clothing store) (Brisbane Courier, 11.2.1933, page 7)
Scargill’s Café opened at the Corner of Elizabeth & Charles Streets. (Cre8tive Gifts @ Kenilworth now on that site – original burnt down in November, 1948) (Reference Nambour Chronicle 7.10.1932, page 7) In 1951 Mr E. Richardson constructed the current building as a plumbing and hardware store. (Nambour Chronicle 17.8.1951, p 2)
1936: Sims Bros second garage Cnr Elizabeth and Phillip Streets moved from original site next to the current pharmacy (Nambour Chronicle, 4.9.1936, page 5)
Scargills second café was built on the site of Mrs Rodgers bush house (Nambour Chronicle 13.3.1936 p 5) Post Office is now on this site.
1939: Extension to Kenilworth Farmers Cooperative Store to accommodate Bank of New South Wales agency (Nambour Chronicle 17.3.1939, p 5)
Continued opposite...
COMMUNITY NEWS UPDATES
CHEERIO FROM THE CHURCHES
The church season is now Lent, which is a time for quiet reflection and renewal. Lenten Studies, organised by St Luke's Anglican Church, are being held on Thursdays at 10:30am in St John Bosco's Church after Meditation and Thursday Morning Prayer.
Rev'd Nicholas Whereat will celebrate Holy Communion at St Luke's on Sunday 16 March at 9am with Morning Prayer on 23 March. On Sunday 30 March there is an Ecumenical Service at St John Bosco's at 9am.
The Easter Eucharist at St Luke's will be on Sunday 20 April at 9am. Everyone welcome!
Mass is celebrated at St Jonn Bosco's on the third Sunday of the month at 10am. Liturgy of the Word with Communion is held on the other Sundays.
Both churches love having visitors! Do call in and stay for a chat and morning tea. You don't have to be Anglican or Catholic! Everyone is welcome!
~Cheerio from the churches
HISTORICAL CONTINUED
May - Kenilworth Branch of the Country Women’s Association formed (Minutes book held at Museum; Nambour Chronicle,2.6.1939, p12) August – Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce formed (The Courier Mail, 4.8.1939, p8)
Kenilworth Hotel began serving the district (Courier Mail, 17.11.1939, page 19).
1941: Township streets bituminised (Nambour Chronicle, 28.11.1941, p7).
1946: English Scottish and Australian Bank branch opened in temporary premises in Mr. A.E. Tanners store (behind the blank wall between the Friendly Grocer and the Pharmacy). This replaced once weekly visits by bank officer from Imbil branch begun in 1926 (Nambour Chronicle 22.10.1926, p 9).
1950: Bluebird Café built (Nambour Chronicle, 10.11.1950, p7) Now houses La Petite Maison
1951: Kenilworth township connected to the electricity grid (Nambour Chronicle, 21.9.1951 p 3).
1952: Kraft Foods Cheese Factory opens (Nambour Chronicle 11.11.1952, p 11) Now Kenilworth Dairies
Second butcher shop opens (Nambour Chronicle 28.11.1952, p 8). Now RJR Real Estate.
1954: Pascoes Electrical Store opened in building owned by E.O. DeVere Now Boxsells Real Estate and Kelli’s Hair Design.
Kenilworth Museum is now open every Sunday from 10 a.m. Bookings at other times by appointment.
On Sunday from 10 a.m. come along and see the video containing advertising jingles from 1939 – all about the businesses of Kenilworth at that time. Do you know which shops the following businesses occupied?: - Mrs Irish, T. Gould, Kenilworth Coop Store, Mick Lane, F.T. Noonan, Roberts and Son, Sims Bros, A.E.Tanner. Come along and find out!
~ Lenore Meldrum, President, Kenilworth & District Historical Association. Inc
KEEP COOL IN THE POOL
The Kenilworth Community Pool is pleased to announce an expansion of its services to the local community and surrounding districts .
We now have a wheelchair hoist and waterproof wheelchair. This is a great initiative that improves access to the pool for wheelchair users and people with mobility issues.
The hoist has already been used by the Sunshine Butterflies and their carers. As well as beautiful Maddie Brotherson, aged 9, who loves being able to swim in the pool and play like a kid again after her diagnosis has meant time in a wheelchair.
Many thanks to Shane Smith and the Hall Committee for their generosity in assisting us with the funding to make this possible.
~ Hans Schinkel, President, Kenilworth Pool
PROUDLY SERVICING THE MARY VALLEY SUNSHINE COAST HINTERLAND GYMPIE REGION AND BEYOND
Our specialised machines can tackle the hard to Reach areas reclaiming your land from invasive vegetation spray free!
KENILWORTH SCHOOL FUND-RAISER
IMPORTANCE OF CELEBRATING MILESTONES
The end of primary school marks a significant milestone for students, symbolizing their academic achievements and personal growth before transitioning into the world of high school. At Kenilworth State Community College, this year’s Year 6 students are planning their Graduation and Rewards Day that promises to be a memorable event for students and their families.
This important occasion will not only honour the hard work of the Year 6 students but also provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the future leaders of tomorrow. The graduation ceremony marks the end of a primary school chapter and the beginning of a new, exciting journey into secondary education. The students have been working diligently on planning this event which will recognize their perseverance, academic accomplishments, and the relationships they have built over the years.
Kenilworth State Community College will be farewelling seven senior students at the years end. These students, who have made significant contributions to the school community over the years, will be honoured during the event. Their departure signifies the completion of their time at Kenilworth State Community College, and the school will be proud to see them progress to the next stage in their education.
To help fund their end-of-year excursions and graduation celebrations, the Year 6 students will be hosting a "Democracy Sausage Sizzle" and a bake stall during the upcoming Federal Election. The event will offer a delicious array of homemade treats and of course a sausage on bread, providing a fun and engaging way to raise money for their special day. The sausage sizzle and bake stall will be located at the school, with voting
taking place in the school library on a date to be advised. This initiative is a wonderful opportunity for the students to give back to their school while also participating in the democratic process.
By holding this fundraiser during the federal election, the Year 6 students are not only showing their entrepreneurial spirit but are also learning the importance of community involvement and the significance of voting in a democracy. The event will serve as a chance for students, teachers, and parents to engage with the political process while supporting the students' educational journey.
The Year 6 Graduation and Rewards Day is set to be a day filled with pride, celebration, and community spirit. With the support of the school community and the hard work of the Year 6 students, this day will mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, as they prepare to embark on their high school journey.
Kenilworth State Community College encourages all community members to come together to celebrate these important milestones, support the fund-raising efforts, and cheer on the Year 6 graduates as they transition to high school at the end of the year.
~ Adam Head, Principal, Kenilworth State Community College
“Sheridan
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
WELCOME TO THE AREA
Hi, My wife. Nichola, and I are new to the Mary Valley, and have chosen Kandanga Creek as our home.
I love your local publication and will keep it handy as it helps us find local businesses. In fact, I connected with Jeremy, the local mobile mechanic, this morning to service my car. It keeps the money in our small region of the world, which is great. Nothing like a strong circular economy servicing the grassroots.
I read your editorial on page 3 about how your cover created such a reaction. Humans have changed a lot, especially over the last 5 years, but more so, the last 50 years as conditioning through cultural changes occurs in our country. Australia is not the Australia of 50 years ago, and to an extent, that is expected. However, what is happening is that people are fixing their identity to just about everything they believe in, which creates divide in society. There was a time when people respected that there was a time for all things. What I believe is that social media has helped create a society that takes headline banners as the entire story of truth. So many people claim to know more than they do based on their opinion, yet they are not in the room, nor do they have a clue about the backstory, which you politely provide at least one story of its impact. Power to you for your response.
If we are not creating something from within us, then what are we doing? Why are we alive? Are we following someone or something else? What is the purpose of our being on earth? As someone who was a very loud voice during what I call the COVID debacle, I never once took the opinions of others as the light to guide my path. I didn’t care if I was the only person speaking out (FYI, the COVID shot killed my Mum). It’s been my experience that people do not see things as they are; they see things as THEY are, and when we are led by fear, chaos is everywhere.
Anyway, just my thoughts.
Sincerely. Jason Miles.
Create a wonderful day and always stay curious.
OBI OBI HALL AGM
Obi Obi Hall will hold its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Obi Obi Hall on the 27.03.25 starting at 7.30pm. At this meeting the election of a new Management Committee is required. Also, the appointment of a new trustee for the hall’s property will be considered. Contact - obiobihall@gmail.com - for more information
DID YOU KNOW?
There is a $5 Pilates class at the old Kandanga School about 5km out of town on Tuesday at 5.30PM and again at Amamoor on Wednesday’s at 5.30PM. I am a wellness coach and pilates was never my thing, but the instructor, Katrina, is first class and goes to great lengths to explain the moves as well as meeting people where they are at.
ADULT WEEKLY ART CLASSES
Ongoing art class for adults, covering different art mediums and styles, all supplies included.
When: Weds 12pm-2:30pm & 4pm-6:30pm
Where: Gheerulla hall, 2184 Eumundi Kenilworth Rd, Gheerulla. Price $30.
Call: 0423866339
www.cassiegibbsart.com
NO-ONE IS THE CENTRE
I wish to speak to a couple of things that are really close to me. One of them is respect for others feelings, perceptions and experiences.. Another way of seeing is understanding that None of us are ‘the center’ as to measure, judge and make wrong, vilify or attack anyone who doesn’t agree or abide by whatever we do. This way of existing is the very thing that is so wrong in the world and a completely unsustainable path of destruction of our society, this planet and our wellness on all levels.
The short sightedness of attacking another/ others to prove that you are “right” and others are wrong is only reflective of that very thing that oppresses us all. If we don’t step out of this mental slavery paradigm we are just the prison guards enforcing it all in our communities.
If we are so focused on being right, then aren’t we perpetuating the same cycle we are wishing to get away from. Whereas maybe many of us are actually on the same side, just from a different perspective. I believe we all want to live with more freedoms and more equality and more living as apposed to the struggle that ether we or others are constantly trying to survive through. Haven’t we learned from the past several years of such division between Jabbed or unjabbed, or the decades/centuries or White and black, Catholic and Protestant, man and woman etc etc etc.. We don’t all have to all agree, but we are all here together at this time in history. Do we really wish to continue on with the warring between one another? Or do we want to pass onto our children or future generations maybe a bit more tolerance and acceptance? Knowing that none of us are the center. We are all just one fractal of the entirety...
~ Jandamarra
LOCAL CLASSES AND EVENTS
With so many great events and classes in our region there is something to suit everyone whether you're interested in art, music, gardening or politics.
Yet with the incessant noise of social media it can be difficult to get your message out to those who need to hear it, or to find what you are looking for. Would you like to see a printed schedule of all the local weekly and monthly classes and events in the area? There will be a small cost to cover the printing with some free spots each month.
Local classes and events are encouraged to apply.
M: 0447 820 095
E: maryvalleyvoice31@gmail.com
LOCAL NEWS & POLITICS
Community News
Embrace diversity on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is home to migrants from 150 countries. Everyone is welcome - racism is not. Let’s take action against racism. Start conversations with a simple "G ‘Day!" and get to know your neighbours, teammates and colleagues. Do the work and Shine a Light on Racism. There are three things you can do right now: Pledge, Learn and Celebrate. Visit Council’s website today to learn more and show your support.
Looking for a way to stay active, feel great and give back to nature?
Join your local BushCare group. It’s the perfect outdoor activity to de-stress and boost your fitness and mental health. Imagine pulling weeds, planting trees, soaking up fresh air, listening to birds singing, all while making friends and helping our beautiful bushland thrive. So why wait?
More than 30 groups hold regular working bees across the Sunshine Coast. Visit Council’s website to learn more.
Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting
View online on Council's website or at Sunshine Coast City Hall Chambers on 27 March 2025 at 9am.
Nominate your hero today
The Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Awards is your opportunity to recognise those individuals, businesses and organisations striving to make our region the very best it can be. It's an easy way to say well done and thank you, so head online to Council’s website and nominate a community hero today. Entries close April 30.
Horizon Festival 2025 is coming!
From May 2-11 get ready to experience a dynamic music program, region-wide art, First Nations programming, nationally toured art and so much more. The festival kicks off with an opening night street party in Ocean Street, Maroochydore where everyone is invited to share in the excitement! Visit the Horizon Festival website to view the program and grab tickets. Proudly presented by Sunshine Coast Council.
TED O’BRIEN - FEDERAL MEMBER FOR FAIRFAX
Over the past few weeks, I have once again been on the ground speaking directly with locals across the Hinterland and Nambour region about the matters important to them and their community.
Over the past couple years as I have continued to engage, I have consistently heard a similar story. Good, hard-working local people are facing the challenge of rising costs every day. Over the past three years, Australians have experienced the biggest collapse in their living standards of Australians in our history. Despite the challenges facing everyday local people, I also hear an enormous amount of empathy and concern for our most vulnerable in the community It’s this sense of community and goodwill that has always made me proud to call the Sunshine Coast home. I have listened. I have fought. And I have taken action.
To this end, I announced last week that I had secured over $200,000 to support three local organisations who are on the front line of the cost-of-living crisis. If elected, a Dutton led LNP Government will provide the funding support to SunnyKids, Kyabra and Coast2Bay to improve low-cost housing options for local families and help our community’s most vulnerable.
One of the organisations told me their accommodation has predominantly been for short term stays, however, in the past few years the average stay is much longer because it is much harder to find adequate and affordable rental properties.
right: Brooke Papamanolis Business Relations Manager at Sunny Kids, Ted O’Brien, and Laine Jackson manages Kyabra in Nambour.
In the coming weeks I will be at the Nambour Town Square Markets every Thursday from 8-10am, there are some great little stalls so pop in for a visit and I look forward to catching up with you there.
If I or my office can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out on (07) 5479 2800 or at ted.obrien.mp@aph.gov.au.
CR DAVID LAW DIVISION 10 – SUNSHINE COAST COUNCIL
Nominate your community hero for an award: We all know someone in our community who is a community hero. I can think of many. Those people who are generous with their time, go above and beyond to help others or make our region a better place for everyone. I encourage you to thank them for their efforts by nominating them for the Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Awards.
The annual awards bring our most inspirational people together to celebrate our community, support innovation and honour their time and participation. We’re looking for individuals, organisations and businesses, making a positive contribution to the community in our special region. If you know of a person, community organisation or business making a difference, celebrate their efforts by nominating them today. To submit a nomination, visit Council’s website and search 'community awards'. Nominations close April 30, 2025.
Say g’day and shine a light on racism: Our Sunshine Coast community is a vibrant mixture of cultures, home to migrants from 150 countries, with residents speaking 96 languages and practising 45 religions. This rich diversity makes our community a more beautiful place to live. As part of Council's Shine a Light on Racism campaign, we are calling for you to stand with us in the fight against racism in all its forms. If you’re not sure where to start or what to say, why not start a conversation with ‘G’Day’? Together, with open hearts and minds, we can make the Sunshine Coast a place where everyone feels safe, included, and respected. Please visit Council’s website for more information, to download resources and do the work.
~ Cr David Law, Division 10 Councillor, Sunshine Coast Council Get
Photo
FOR THE GREEN THUMBS
MARCH PLANTING REMINDERS FROM GARDENATE
Everyone loves a thriving garden! What do you plant in yours? Check out these planting reminders for March and come along to the Gheerulla Garden Club!
* Amaranth
* Beans (climbing, Dwarf, Broad)
* Beetroot
* Brocolli
* Burdock
* Cabbage
* Carrot
* Cauliflower
* Celery
* Coriander
* Cucumber
* Garlic
* Ginger
* Kale
* Lettuce
* Pak Choy
* Rocket
* Rosella
* Snow Peas
* Spring Onions
* Sunflower
* Sweet Cord
* Zucchini
INDEPENDENT CHALLENGES TED O’BRIEN TO REPRESENT FAIRFAX
Francine Wiig, a legal professional, small business owner, community advocate, and long-time Sunshine Coast resident, has announced her candidacy to challenge Ted O’Brien for the federal seat of Fairfax.
Fairfax has long been considered a “safe seat,” a status that Wiig believes has led to neglect and complacency from the major parties.
“Safe seats mean forgotten communities. Every election cycle delivers yet another blow to our region, highlighting a glaring inequity in the distribution of critical infrastructure funding,” she said.
“As one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia, the Sunshine Coast is struggling to accommodate the influx of new residents. The lack of investment is stifling our potential and impacting our quality of life.”
A Community in Crisis: Wiig highlighted the ongoing lack of funding that has left Fairfax residents without the transport infrastructure they have been promised for over 30 years.
“We are constantly promised improvements, yet we remain
stuck in traffic gridlock while other regions thrive,” she said.
She also called attention to the healthcare crisis, noting that Fairfax is one of only 15 electorates in the country without a bulk-billing GP for adults.
“People are skipping essential medical care because they simply can’t afford it. How can we accept this as normal in a country like Australia?”
Opposing Nuclear Energy Without Consultation: Wiig has taken aim at sitting MP Ted O’Brien’s push for nuclear energy, saying it lacks proper consultation with Fairfax residents.
“Ted O’Brien has been spruiking nuclear energy nationally without engaging our community,” Wiig said.
“Where was the consultation or opportunity for locals to express their views? I am open to supporting any policy that
delivers real solutions to our energy and climate crises, but we need cheaper, cleaner energy now.”
Wiig also raised concerns about a proposed reactor 87km from Kenilworth, saying, “Our region deserves a thorough assessment of the risks and impacts before any decision is made.”
O’Brien’s push for nuclear energy has sparked controversy, with many locals feeling excluded from the conversation. Wiig is positioning herself as the antidote to this top-down approach, emphasizing her dedication to grassroots democracy and transparent decision-making.
A Movement for Change:
Wiig is determined to restore integrity, accountability, and genuine representation to the region, pledging to take community concerns directly to Canberra.
“I’m committed to ensuring our community’s voices are at the heart of every decision I make as their representative. People are tired of party politics and backroom deals that prioritise party agendas over the needs of our region.”
Her campaign is part of a growing independent movement, with nearly 700 locals already volunteering and contributing funds.
“Our region is diverse and full of potential, but political games and neglect have held us back. As an independent, I answer only to the people of Fairfax.”
For a look at Francine’s priorities visit www.francineforfairfax.com.au
VOLUNTEERS: KEEPING COMMUNITY ALIVE
PRESIDENT’S CORNER
The report is limited this month. Apologies but I am unwell. I have been travelling for six weeks and had dramas on returning home and preparing for impending weather. I wish all of the people, animals and properties well and safe during this cyclone Alfred weather event. Thanks in advance to our local emergency services and SES volunteers. We know you all go above and beyond to protect and serve our community so thank you.
Qxpress:
Our MVV meeting has been postponed so no decisions have been made on our proposals put forward last month - being the competition and Kenilworth market presentation monthly.
Stay safe everyone and we will be back next month with more local news, stories, jokes and more.
~ Barbara Smith, President Mary Valley Voice
words
17Limb
18Keen to do
24Opening
20Sane
25Means of transport
23Nourished
26Fight
27Shooting star
24Opening
28Clergyman
25Means of transport
29Cuts off
26Fight
32Discover 34Pinch
27Shooting star
28Clergyman
36Regret
29Cuts off 32Discover
34Pinch
36Regret
- Ann Landers
Auspac Media
Photo: Mary River Flats - Yvonne James
WELCOMING YOUR STORIES
CYCLONES PREPAREDNESS PLANNING
Right now most of South East Queensland are preparing for cyclone Alfred. By the time we go to print this weather event will have likely passed, hopefully causing minimal damage, though it is important to know steps to be prepared so here are some for future reference. Share your preperation and cyclone stories with us next month!
Ensure your phones and devices have charge. Turn off and unplug all non-essential electrical equipment. Fill up containers and the bath with clean water for drinking in case water supply is cut off.
Emergency Kit: Supplies to be self-sufficient for three days: Water, 3 litres per person per day, Non-perishable food, Torch and batteries, Toiletry needs, Battery powered radio, Basic cooking equipment, utensils, cutlery, plates etc, Portable stove (for cooking and boiling water so it is fit for drinking), Prescription medication, First aid kit, Change of clothes and strong shoes. Place important documents and valuables in plastic bags or other waterproof containers and put in a safe place. Have copies of important documents on USB/protable digital storage.
Prepare your property: Put away or tie down outside items like furniture, bins, gas bottles, and play equipment. If your home is not safe, plan to stay with family or friends. If you are near the beach or a coastal waterway, storm surge could cause flooding. This is dangerous. Close cyclone shutters if you have them, or cover windows with plywood, mattress, or heavy blanket. Find out how to safely turn off power, solar, water, and gas to your house. Be ready to turn it off if told to. Check your family, friends and neighbours know what to do. Help them if you can.
If you find it hard to move quickly or have special or medical needs: Use your Person-Centred Emergency Plan (P-CEP) now if you have one. Make sure you have enough medicine for at least one week. If anyone in your house uses powered medical equipment, like a dialysis machine or ventilator, decide now where you will go in case you lose power. Call your support person or service to organise transport if you need to leave. Leaving early is safer than waiting.
Sunshine Coast Disaster Hub: https://disasterhub. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
Bureau of Meteorology (BOM): http://www.bom.gov.au
Queensland Disaster & Emergency Info: https://www.qld.gov.au/ community/disasters-emergencies
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Comedic & Creative Comedic & Creative Corner Corner
47 TAMLYN ROAD, KENILWORTH
$1,475,000
Nestled amidst the serene expanse of Kenilworth’s rural heartland, 47 Tamlyn Road presents a unique semi-rural retreat, perfect for those yearning for a lifestyle interwoven with the natural beauty of the Queensland hinterland. This sprawling 139-acre property offers an idyllic setting for horse and cattle enthusiasts, along with anyone seeking the tranquillity of acreage life just a stone’s throw from the charming Kenilworth Township. The acreage is a tapestry of topographies—from fertile creek flats and gentle undulating hills to steep timbered sections, about a third of which are cleared and ready for use. Fully fenced boundaries encompass four paddocks, alongside practical cattle yards complete with a ramp for ease of livestock management. Water supply is courtesy of two dams—one of which is spring-fed—as well as a seasonal creek. The property boasts a substantial 24m x 16m shed, equipped with power, which includes a 3m high doorway suitable for larger vehicles or machinery. A cleverly adapted section of the shed has been transformed into a comfortable weekender space, complete with a bedroom, bathroom, toilet, laundry facilities, and a kitchenette and dining area—perfect for those short stays or as a base while constructing a more permanent residence. For the adventurous at heart, the land offers a plethora of activities—motorbike riding, horseback adventures, bushwalking, or exploring the natural surrounds. With the added convenience of three-phase power to the pressure pump and the great outlook it affords, this property is truly a gem for those seeking a country lifestyle. without sacrificing proximity to local amenities. Discover the potential of 47 Tamlyn Road—a canvas awaiting your lifestyle dreams.
TURTLE
CREEK COTTAGE IN OBI OBI
Offers over $995,000
Nestled in the heart of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, 140 Kirbys Road presents a unique opportunity to own a slice of serene rural paradise. Spanning a substantial 70 acres of natural beauty, this acreage rural property offers the ultimate private retreat, ideal for those seeking an off-grid lifestyle or a tranquil weekend escape. The land is mainly timbered, hosting an abundance of native flora and fauna, and features a delightful section of cleared ground perfect for various rural pursuits. It’s positioned down a peaceful no-through road, bordering the esteemed Kirby Road Koala Reserve, ensuring privacy and a sense of seclusion that’s increasingly hard to find. There is a private creek meandering through the property which has been given the name “Turtle Creek” by the current owner’s family, this only adds to the charm of this rural haven. Accommodation is provided by a quaint “A” frame timber cottage that exudes rustic charm. There is a bedroom on upper level of the cottage, study, kitchen and living area on the lower level. The front porch is the perfect spot to relax, take in the stunning natural surroundings, and listen to the birdlife. The cottage is entirely off-grid, with some solar panels, tank water and septic toilet system. Additional practical features include a double carport for vehicle storage and easy access to nearby towns, with Mapleton just a 10-minute drive and Kenilworth only 15 minutes away. Don’t miss the chance to secure this secluded and enchanting rural retreat.
