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FREE local news headlines you may have missed from last week.
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There is so much happening on the Sunshine Coast over the next couple of months, with plenty of events to suit all ages and interests.
Next month, we celebrate everything small business and the vital contribution these businesses make to Queensland’s economy and to our communities across the state. The Sunshine Coast is no exception, with more than 40,500 small businesses, contributing to more than 50 per cent of all employment for the region. Events kick off with an official launch at the Sunshine Coast Small Business Month Breakfast (turn to page 35 for all the details).
The Nurture Festival is another great event to hit the region in May, with a fabulous line-up of live entertainment, speakers and mental health support for our youth. Turn to our feature story on page 12 to discover more.
For some of the other wonderful events on offer, make sure you check out our What’s on guide each week.
As always, enjoy the read!
Ingrid Nelson inelson@myweeklypreview.com.auA Bellamy’s Organic prize pack Bellamy’s Organic is Australia’s number-one certified organic infant formula and baby food brand, producing safe, wholesome, nutritious, organic foods for babies, toddlers and children. Take a look at the products at bellamysorganic. com.au. We have four prize packs to give away, valued at $50 each. For
Research reveals too-trusting Gen Z is most likely to lose out to scamming within online marketplaces.
The internet has made it easier to buy and sell items online. But new research by Compare the Market reveals that staggering numbers of Aussies are falling victim to scams on online marketplaces such as Facebook, Gumtree and eBay.
The comparison website found that about one-in-10 online shoppers in Australia have been scammed when using these types of websites.
Gen Z (aged 18-25) are most likely to fall for these scams, with 23 per cent of Zoomers revealing their personal information or money has been swindled
when using online marketplaces.
Conversely, Gen Xers (aged between 42 and 57) are least likely to be tricked by hackers on these marketplaces, followed by Baby Boomers (9 per cent) and Millennials (13 per cent).
Meanwhile, women are slightly more likely than men to be caught out by online marketplace scams. Compare the Market’s Natasha Innes says scams are becoming increasingly difficult to detect and even the most tech-savvy people are falling victim to them.
“People use websites like Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree to sell their
old stuff or purchase items on the cheap and, unfortunately, both buyers and sellers are being caught out on these platforms,” Ms Innes says.
“We’re seeing scammers pretend to be legitimate buyers who insist on paying electronically through methods like PayID, but never actually sending the money for their goods.”
PayID is offered through major banks to make transferring and receiving money easier. Rather than handing over your BSB and bank account details, you simply set up your PayID account and people can use your email address or phone number to transfer funds.
“However, this is where scammers are catching unsuspecting Aussies out,” Ms Innes says.
“What we’re seeing, particularly on online marketplaces, is scammers asking for a PayID email address and sending a fake email which instructs people to either hand over money or personal information in order for a payment to be processed. In many cases, they claim there’s been a problem with the payment and that the person needs to verify information to receive it.”
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission reports that Aussies lost $9.2 million to online shopping scams in 2022 alone, with more than 17,885 people filing official reports. Ms Innes believes the actual number may be significantly higher.
“Gen Z is the first generation that’s always had online shopping at their fingertips, and they may be more trusting than other generations,” she says. “However, a significant portion of all age groups are falling victim to these scams every day. Always be vigilant when purchasing or selling anything online.”
• If an offer is too good to be true, it probably is. Everyone loves a bargain, but if something is advertised at a ridiculously low price, ensure it’s a legitimate post. You may also request to pay in cash or meet in a public place rather than paying electronically.
• You usually don’t need to send money to receive money. Be aware that banks typically won’t ask you to send any money to receive a payment. If unsure, verify with your bank before sending any funds.
• Be cautious if paying electronically. While PayID is an official payment method, remember that it’s managed by banks and financial institutions. If something goes wrong, you won’t be contacted via email to verify your details. Be cautious if a buyer or seller asks for your phone number, email address or other personal information.
• Check that the buyer or seller is legitimate. It doesn’t hurt to verify that the person is who they say they are. If their account is new, has no profile information or no photo, there’s a chance it may not be real.
• What are you being asked to download or click? If you receive a message or email that seems a little off, has spelling mistakes or doesn’t make sense, it might be a scam.
• Report scam activity. If you think you’ve received a fraudulent message or fallen victim to a scam, always report it to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Scamwatch website. Also contact your bank or credit card company immediately if you think your details have been compromised, as they may be able to freeze accounts or stop unauthorised transactions.
Before rap battles, there was “flyting”: a trading of insults, popular in the 5th to 16th centuries in England and Scotland. “Participants employed the timeless tools of provocation and perversion as well as satire, rhetoric and early bathroom humour to publicly trounce opponents,” online magazine Atlas Obscura reports. Even society’s elite would join in these battles of wits.
ttles of wit
The DeLorean was not always the way Marty McFly was supposed to travel to the past. In the original draft of the Back to the Future film, the time machine was attached to a refrigerator. It was to be “taken to the Nevada desert test site for the atomic bomb, where it was strapped into the back of a truck and driven into the atomic explosion in order to harness the power from the nuclear explosion – Marty had to climb into the fridge as the truck barrelled towards ground zero”.
8996
The Pagemaster is the ‘forgotten’ Macauley Culkin film of the 1990s. It was a star-studded fantasy film that made the bold creative choice of being live action with animation in various parts. Culkin plays a young boy who overcomes his obsessive fears by discovering a love for books. Guided by Adventure (Patrick Stewart), Fantasy (Whoopi Goldberg) and Horror (Frank Welker), Tyler (Culkin) experiences the adventures of classic novels such as Moby Dick and Treasure Island and he even meets some famed fictional characters, such as Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (Leonard Nimoy).
43 quintillion
A Rubik’s Cube has over 43 quintillion (43 billion billion) combinations.
560km
The world record for the longest uninterrupted run, held by Dean Karnazes.
1810 – Ludwig van Beethoven composes Für Elise. Its more formal name, Bagatelle No. 25 for solo piano, is among the German composer’s most popular works and one of the most recognised melodies in history. 1961 – Sierra Leone becomes an independent republic. The West African country’s first prime minister Sir Milton Margai ended more than 150 years of British colonial rule.
1992 – For the first time in its 700-year history, the British House of Commons is presided over by a female Speaker. Betty Boothroyd served as Speaker of the House of Commons from 1992 to 2000.
2005 – The Airbus A380 takes to the skies for the first time. The double-decked airliner is the world’s largest commercial jet.
Hairs along the neck and back of an animal (especially a dog) that are capable of being raised to a stiff, upright position (as when a dog is frightened or angry).
“If you set your goals ridiculously high and it’s a failure, you will fail above everyone else’s success.”– James Cameron Academy Award-winning Canadian filmmaker There are 8996 five-letter words in the English language.
A unique event of connection, inclusion and fun for Sunshine Coast teenagers and their families is about to return for the second year and the diverse program is shaping up to ensure another huge success. WORDS: Ingrid Nelson.
Smile, connect and celebrate – it’s the tagline for this year’s Nurture Festival and if the success of last year’s inaugural event is anything to go by, it is sure to tick all those boxes and more.
Created as a space for Sunshine Coast teenagers (and their families) to connect with a safe and nurturing local community, the festival will take place on the banks of Lake Kawana on Saturday, May 6.
It will feature live music performances from acclaimed artists, as well as workshops, activities and engaging speakers from various community support groups.
The idea behind Nurture Festival began as an initiative of endED’s Mark Forbes and Nathan Taylor, from Comunite’z, in response to the devastating mental health statistics surrounding young people nationally and the need for them to be connected to appropriate support services.
Alarmingly, rates of suicide on the Sunshine Coast are higher than the national average (thealliance.org.au). In
addition to this, research by the National Eating Disorders Collaboration (nedc. com.au) shows eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental illnesses. There has been a 60 per cent increase in restrictive eating and a 30 per cent increase in binge eating since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The idea came up as I was having a beer with Nathan at Moffat Beach,” Mark says.
“There are 360 charities on the Coast and when we started endED (a charity that provides tools and support for those impacted by eating disorders) seven years ago, we realised the community needs to work together to ensure the best outcome for the person needing support.
“It’s not just one organisation like ours saying we have all the answers.
“I said to Nathan, ‘We work with a lot of organisations on the Coast. It’s a shame we can’t connect on a better level’ and he suggested we have a festival.
“That’s how it all began, really.”
Aimed at teenagers between the age of 12 and 18, the unique festival is designed to offer young people the tools and
resources to equip them for mental health and wellbeing challenges, while enjoying a day of music and activities.
“We are encouraging people to bring along the family or come with a group of friends and enjoy top artists such as Hatchie, Doolie, Mayah, Tony Hobart, Greatest Hits, Emma Beau and Yazmindi, participate in workshops or activities such as skateboard art, yoga, taking to the lake outrigging, drone-racing competitions, silent theatre with headphones provided and visit our Speakers’ Corner that will have a full program of engaging presenters,” Mark says.
“Nurture Festival holds the powerful potential to save a young person’s life by providing a unique and direct connection and pathway to the support they need on their mental health journey. Not only bringing our kids together, this event also recognises how important it is to include parents and carers into the conversation.”
In supporting parents with loved ones going through the eating disorder journey, Mark says he knows first-hand how much time is spent researching to find the right connections and organisations for
“It is our wish that we reach out to as many young people as possible to let them know ... they are not alone”
Mark ForbesCoast entertainer Mayah and her mum Karen Clarke. Image: Patrick Woods
support and Nurture Festival aims to reduce that stress for parents and carers.
“We went through that as the parents of two daughters with eating disorders,” he says.
“You realise how much time and energy and stress and depression can come from finding the right resources.
“If you can get those community groups together in one space, it takes away all the research pressure. Parents and carers can walk in and find everything they have been looking for under one roof, and teenagers who are reluctant to reach out can do so in a safe environment.”
Seeing community groups come together to help each other deliver the best support for their clients is another benefit of the festival. Mark says that has been humbling to watch.
“What I noticed last year was community organisations setting up beside each other and discovering each other for the first time,” he says.
“Through our charity, I had known them for years and yet here they are exchanging contacts and saying, ‘I think the person I know will benefit from meeting you’.
“That was just on bump-in day, and I stood back and thought to myself: ‘This is working already’. It was humbling and exciting to see it all come together.”
Key headline act and Sunshine Coast singer-songwriter Mayah will be performing for the second year in a row.
Mayah is a pop and rock artist with more than 500,000 streams on Spotify.
One of her latest songs, Loved & Lost, is a beautiful exploration of grief and has more than 90,000 views on YouTube. The 21-year-old is also a strong advocate for mental, emotional and social wellbeing, and her music reflects those values.
“Nurture Festival is so much fun and there are heaps of opportunities to hear awesome live music, but it is also about connecting like-minded people and raising awareness for key mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing
challenges that can face teenagers,” Mayah says.
“It’s a welcoming and safe space where kids can just be themselves in a fun, judgment-free and expressive way.
“Music is such a transformative way to bring people together and we are hoping that people will walk away from the day feeling empowered and well supported.”
Also taking to the stage in the Speakers’ Corner is Mayah’s mum Karen Clarke who is an author, transformational mindset coach and director of Simply for Success Pty Ltd.
Karen is passionate about helping people experience sustainable behavioural change and works closely with a local not-for-profit organisation supporting individuals and families in crisis.
“The Sunshine Coast is full of very powerfully proactive mental health and wellness individuals and organisations. It seems to the be the place where healing comes together,” Karen says.
“You can only do so much as an individual, so it was great to find a collective. It’s right up my alley. Nurture Festival has such a lovely optimistic,
energised feel. I loved how the seed of an idea could produce the level of enthusiasm and engagement and support I witnessed at the event last year. It was really heartwarming to see how the sponsors, local MPs and community members who could do something did do something. It was seeing how they came together and how willing they were to jump in that was my biggest takeaway.”
Mayah and Karen have teamed up to share their knowledge and experience on various topics related to family dynamics, finding your voice, effective communication and being heard.
The duo’s topics of discussion include bullying, social media, relationships, empathy and selfawareness and self-care.
The mother-daughter team will be presenting in the Speakers’ Corner alongside a program of guests, including Jenna with the Pink – a body positivity advocate with a one million-strong following on TikTok, songwriter Aspy Jones, rock band The Atomic Beau Project and endED.
“Apart from being mother and daughter, there is so much synchronicity between myself and Mayah,” Karen says.
“Mayah’s music is generally a message about adversity and growth and triumph over tragedy. We both channel the same message, really. It’s just the modality that is different. Mayah’s is music and mine is words and books.”
This year, the festival has fostered partnerships with eight local schools and 25 community groups, which will be attending on the day and hopefully attracting an anticipated 2000 people.
“It is our wish that we reach out to as many young people as possible to let them know that despite the problems that they might be experiencing, either at home or school, they are not alone and that there are lots of places to turn in a time of need,” Mark says. “This event might just be the place to find that new best friend, create long-lasting memories or connect more closely with your family.”
Nurture Festival is an entertainmentpacked, drug- and alcohol-free, safe space for festival-goers and their families on the banks of Lake Kawana.
It features an array of expert speakers and interactive activities.
Tickets are $19 for general admission, plus special offers for families and bigger groups.
Buy two children’s tickets for $38 and get two adult tickets free.
Buy 10 tickets for $152 and get two free.
Every Nurture Festival ticket purchased before May 6 automatically places you in a raffle to win a week on K’gari (Fraser Island), staying at Footsteps on Fraser, valued at $5000. For more information and to book tickets, visit nurturefestival. com.au.
The festival will also accommodate people with disabilities through the digital concierge app – Cerge.
Guests at the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network event enjoyed listening to experienced digital marketer and organic social media specialist Bronte Cresswell over breakfast at the Alex Surf Club last week. Bronte explained the power of social media and how to use various platforms to build business.
comparison, Red Bull has about 300mg of caffeine per litre. The Prime website recommends that it not consumed by people under the age of 18. The energy drink is not available from Australian retailers but can be bought online.
Students are reportedly selling the drinks for up to $20 a can at schools.
Good Samaritan Catholic College at Bli Bli is among the schools dealing with the issue.
Principal Greg Myers says the craze is extremely dangerous for students and has urged parents to be aware of what their
Electrolyte-heavy and high-caffeine ‘influencer’ refreshments have been banned by at least one Coast school. WORDS: Caitlin Zerafa.
Parents are being warned about the dangers of energy drinks as a new craze sees children and teenagers obsessing over ‘influencer’ products.
At least one school on the Sunshine Coast has banned students bringing the energy drinks as refreshments amid the craze.
There has been a spike in popularity of drinks from the brand Prime, launched in January 2022 by social media influencers
KSI and Logan Paul. There are two Prime drinks: a hydration version and the energy drink.
While the hydration drink does not contain caffeine, it does have a significant amount of electrolytes that are not recommended for children. It is available from retailers in Australia.
The energy drink contains 200mg of caffeine per 355ml can (about 560mg per litre), which is almost double the legal limit of 320mg of caffeine per litre. By
children are consuming – by way of food and drink, and on social media.
“We don’t encourage kids to bring any energy drinks to school,” Mr Myers says.
“Kids are drinking these drinks because it’s a celebrity endorsement. They’re not drinking it for taste.
“We need to ensure that we continually monitor what our children are consuming in the digital world and real world.
“Our advice to parents is to read the label around what’s in these things and make an informed decision.”
Mr Myers wrote a letter to parents last month outlining the dangers of the drinks and asking students not to bring them to school.
“There are plenty of healthy alternatives available – the best being water!” he wrote.
Health experts are reminding parents of the dangers of caffeine consumption among children and teenagers.
Children’s Health Queensland dietitian Madeleine Davey says caffeine has a range of health impacts, including insomnia, dizziness, headaches and difficulty concentrating.
“Childhood and adolescence are a period of growth and development when young people are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of caffeine,” Ms Davey says.
“It is best that children avoid caffeinated drinks until the end of adolescence while they are growing and their bones are developing.
“If caffeine is required, it is best to keep serving sizes to a minimum.
“Too much caffeine can lead to insomnia, jitteriness, a rise in body temperature, dehydration, gastrointestinal inflammation, frequent urination, dizziness and headaches, difficulty concentrating, anxiety and irritability, and an increased heart rate.
“Caffeine can also aggravate heart issues and other health problems.”
Ms Davey says these symptoms can occur after only a small amount of caffeine, particularly in younger children.
She says the acidic nature of caffeine also decreases tooth enamel – increasing the risk of oral health problems, and can interfere with calcium absorption at a time when bones are still strengthening.
“Many caffeinated drinks also contain other harmful chemicals and unhealthy amounts of sugar, fat and calories,” she says.
Want more news daily? Visit our sister site, sunshinecoastnews.com.au, for free up-to-date news.
“Kids are drinking these drinks because it’s a celebrity endorsement ... not for taste”
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Queensland’s protected area system includes a mix of state-owned and managed protected areas, Indigenous-owned national parks jointly managed by traditional owners and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, and privately owned and managed nature refuges including those owned and managed by Indigenous people.
Key facts
• Two more state forests have been identified for addition to Queensland’s protected areas.
• Parts of Peachester State Forest and Beerburrum West State Forest will be added to Queensland’s protected area.
• The state forests are in the Glass House Mountains region.
Local community and conservation groups are celebrating after the state government announced that two Sunshine Coast hinterland state forests will be officially protected.
Parts of Peachester State Forest and Beerburrum West State Forest, located in the Glass House Mountains region, have been identified as priority additions to Queensland’s protected areas.
Areas of plantation timber in these
state forests will be excluded from the transfer.
It comes after community groups joined the Queensland Conservation Council’s calls to protect the forests –and the endangered species habitat within them – from logging.
A Department of Agriculture and Fisheries spokesperson confirmed native timber harvesting in these forests had ceased.
“All selective native timber-
harvesting operations in the Peachester, Luttons and Beerburrum West state forests have been completed and there are no plans for any further harvesting,” the spokesperson says.
Residents recently formed the Save Peachester and Luttons State Forest Facebook group and launched a change.org petition.
The announcement means the two forests, combined with Luttons State Forest, will protect open eucalypt forest, rainforest and coastal wallum remnants. These are home to threatened species such as koalas and greater gliders and also support a range of regional ecosystems.
The identification of these two state forests follows the announcement in December that Luttons State Forest,
parts of Deer Reserve, Wickham Timber Reserve, Ferny Forest, Beerwah Forest Reserve, West Cooroy State Forest and Mount Mee State Forest had been prioritised for transfer this year.
QCC protected areas campaigner Nicky Moffat is welcoming the announcement as significant for the Sunshine Coast area.
“It’s a partial victory,” Ms Moffat says.
“The local community has been calling for its forests to be protected. It is great that threatened species habitat and other conservation values in these areas will now be safe.
“Locals are still awaiting confirmation that the remaining 2673ha at Luttons, Peachester and Beerburrum West state forests will be protected.
“But it’s a great start.”
Ms Moffat says it is positive news that these areas will be protected ahead of the 2024 deadline for ending native forest logging in Southeast Queensland.
“Doubling Queensland’s protected areas from 8.2 per cent to 17 per cent of the state will require about 15 million hectares of new conservation reserves and national parks,” Ms Moffat says.
Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton says the surrounding national park includes 20 plant species of national conservation significance, including open eucalypt woodland and heath vegetation.
“We will consult with the traditional owners, the Kabi Kabi People’s Aboriginal Corporation, to ensure the natural and cultural values of the state forests are protected and conserved,” he says.
Want more news daily? Visit our sister site, sunshinecoastnews.com.au, for free up-to-date news.
Campaigners say new additions to protected areas represent a great start but more needs to be done. WORDS: Francis Witsenhuysen.Residents have been campaigning for the protection of forests IMAGE: PATRICK WOODS
Queensland has doubled the subsidy for people who buy electric vehicles with a new purchase price of up to $68,000 with a $6000 rebate on offer, making it the most generous state in Australia for switching to EVs.
Drivers will now be eligible for a $6000 subsidy under the Zero Emission Vehicle Rebate Scheme when they buy an electric vehicle worth up to $68,000. It’s double the $3000 available when
the scheme launched in July 2022.
“We’re seeing the prices of EVs fluctuate on the back of rising materials costs and inflation… so we’ve increased the eligible price cap to $68,000 and increased the rebate amount from $3000 to $6000 for eligible households,” Energy Minister Mick de Brenni says.
“We want more zero-emission vehicles on Queensland roads.”
The minister says the initiative can ease financial pressure on households by
saving thousands in petrol costs.
“We also want to see fleets transition to further drive down emissions. That’s why Queensland businesses can apply for up to five rebates per financial year, providing an opportunity for local businesses to make the switch to electric fleets,” he adds.
Research by the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland shows the boosted rebate will make some electric models the same cost or cheaper than a comparable petrol vehicle.
There is also a clear appetite in the Sunshine State, with new electric car sales soaring by 79.6 per cent in the first three months of the year, according to the Australian Automobile Association’s EV Index.
“We’re expecting a rapid uptake in electric cars in the coming years and governments must prioritise funding to expand our network of charging stations to ensure we can keep up with demand,” RACQ general manager of advocacy Joshua Cooney says.
The move means Queensland is becoming a leader in clean energy transport, according to advocacy group Solar Citizens.
“This is the biggest commitment of any state government towards the affordability of EVs,” campaigner Ajaya
Haikerwal says. “In a cost of living crisis, where households are struggling with skyrocketing petrol bills, Queenslanders now have even more of an incentive to start saving big bucks with EVs.
“We know that EVs are up to 95 per cent cheaper to run than a petrol vehicle when charged with rooftop solar, which Queensland is already a leader in.”
Drivers who already made the switch in the early days of the scheme are also eligible to claim an extra $3000 under the revamped scheme.
Fast facts
• There are more than 400 public charging sites across Queensland.
• One in three Queenslanders already have rooftop solar, meaning they can charge their cars at home for free.
• The CSIRO predicts households that electrify completely by 2030 will spend $30,000 less in 20 years than their neighbour who doesn’t electrify.
• Currently at least 23 EV models available for purchase under $68,000. It’s anticipated 7 more will be added at this price point by the end of the year.
At 62 years old, Craig Parker is still one of the fastest men on the sand, and this competition season, he has left his competitors in the dust.
The Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) athlete completed the 2023 Athletics and Surf Lifesaving season with four Australian Masters sprinting gold medals – two victories on the beach and two more on the track.
At the Australian Masters Athletics Titles in Sydney from March 10 to 13, he won the 60-metre
and 100-metre sprints and took silver in the 200 metres. Then at the Aussie Surf Life Saving Titles in Perth from March 25 to April 2, he won gold medals in the beach sprint and the flags. His Mooloolaba SLSC beach relay team also achieved silver in the male beach relay.
Mr Parker, who is also the sprint coach at Mooloolaba SLSC, is the Australian record-holder for 60 metres in the 60 to 64 age group. His recent personal best for the 100 metres is 12.45 seconds, which is quicker than many football players.
Ahead of its release this year, a locally made feature film has gone one step further to promote its themes of inclusivity and daring to dream.
The Fashion Diversity Showcase was a chance to display the diversity of young, local male and female athletes, Paralympians and people from diverse nationalities and cultures – ranging from ages 10 to 40.
Held at Sunshine Plaza it also cast a spotlight on The Edge, which was written, filmed and produced on the Sunshine Coast last year.
Film writer, actor and athlete Jane Larkin says it was a chance for open discussions celebrating strength, resilience and diversity.
“(In between) announcement of our outfits, we pulled each of our 14 models aside for an interview to discuss what makes them diverse and unique,” she says.
“Some of the topics we covered were being a Paralympian and an international athlete in Australia, Indigenous Australian rights, the importance of many languages in media and entertainment, how to use social media for good … and more.”
• Three-day event from July 7 to 9
• 40,000-plus attendees
• 65 per cent visitation from outside the Sunshine Coast region
• more than seven hectares of gardening inspiration
• 360-plus exhibitors and displays, including 55 nurseries
• 100-plus free lectures and demonstrations
• eight live speaker stages
• 50,000 plants for sale each day
• more than $10m injected into the local economy.
Nambour Showgrounds once again transform into a flourishing seven hectares of gardening inspiration from July 7.
“The expo is not just a marketplace with more than 50,000 plants on sale each day, but also a chance to chat with growers and access the best gardening minds in the country,” Mr Smith says.
Green thumbs and keen novice gardeners are set to descend on the region as one of the nation’s favourite events grows stronger.
Preparations are underway for one of Australia’s most-loved gardening events. And it’s all happening in our own big backyard.
Each year, the Queensland Garden Expo attracts close to 40,000 visitors, injecting more than $10 million into the Sunshine Coast economy. In 2023, the show will see more than
360 exhibitors offer an extensive range of gardening-related knowledge, products and plants across three days.
Organisers says the award-winning event will once again have something for every gardener, no matter how experienced they are at nurturing a garden.
Event chairman Simon Smith says the team is looking forward to seeing
“We have Australia’s largest gardening speaker program with more than 100 free lectures and demonstrations across eight live speaker stages.”
This year will include Gardening Australia TV presenters Sophie Thomson and Jerry Coleby-Williams, as well as crowd favourites Phil Dudman, Claire Bickle and Kate Wall, just to name a few.
Event manager Marion Beazley says this year’s event will offer something for everyone.
“This year, the expo will play host to the Australian Floral Art Association’s National Convention that will showcase the floral art competition Nature’s Expression,” Ms Beazley says.
“The national convention and
competition will attract floral artists from all over Australia and we anticipate anywhere up to 100 competition entries.
“Of course, our budding gardeners haven’t been overlooked, with plenty of activities and workshops designed just for kids that will help kickstart their gardening journey.
“The expo covers all corners of the backyard from a feature on keeping domestic chickens to organic vegie growing in the Giant Kitchen Garden.”
The Giant Kitchen Garden is a collaboration of many gardening and permaculture groups from across the Sunshine Coast region.
The 2023 Queensland Garden Expo will be held from July 7 to 9 at the Nambour Showgrounds, Coronation Avenue, Nambour.
Entry is free for children aged 15 and under, with a giant kids’ playground to help keep them entertained. Tickets are available at qldgardenexpo.com.au.
The Queensland Garden Expo, which first opened its gates in 1985, has become a much-loved Sunshine Coast tradition for the most-experienced green thumbs and absolute gardening beginners alike.
The Nursery and Gardening Industry Queensland hosts the expo.
While the expo is a not-for-profit event, it has injected more than $10 million into the local economy through accommodation, hospitality, flights, retail and a range of community organisations.
About 65 per cent of visitors travel from outside the region to attend. In 2023, Queensland Country Bank has come on board as presenting partner.
Birthing kits gift for Mother’s Day
Zonta Club of Caloundra City is once again preparing birthing kits to send to expecting mothers in underdevelopment countries. As part of its Mother’s Day campaign, the club is running a fundraising drive and members are ready to assemble the kits with a sheet of plastic, scalpel, strong disposable gloves and soap. These simple items can help give a woman and her baby a clean and hygienic environment for childbirth where the ‘luxury’ of a hospital or
sanitary clinics is rarely available. Zonta Caloundra City has run this program over many years, helping women in Africa, Papua New Guinea, Haiti and Timor-Leste. Each birthing kit costs $5 and donations can be made at zontacaloundra.com.au.
The Guilded Lilies Sewing Group meets on the last Saturday of every month. The next meeting is on April 29 at the Masonic Hall on Moorindal Street, Tewantin, from 9am to 3pm. This May is a special month for the club as it celebrates 25 years. Everyone is welcome to come along, meet new friends and learn new skills, with all handcrafts welcome. For more details, phone Angela on 0408 068 148.
The members of Caloundra Woodworking Club are frequently involved in community projects. Recently, 268 wooden crosses were made in preparation for the remembrance ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the sinking of the Hospital Ship Centaur in May 1943 – a cross for each victim. The group is calling for donations of goodquality wood suitable for use for projects. Donations can be made by contacting Graeme on 0435 045 886. The club is open from Monday to Saturday, 8am to noon, at 65 Ulm Street, Caloundra. The community is welcome to visit.
The Caloundra Chorale and Theatre Company presents It Takes Two from May 5-14, featuring some of the most beautiful written, created or performed by two musicians. It Takes Two is the blend of romance, nostalgia, comedy and musical excellence. From Simon and Garfunkel and The Beatles to popular musicals such as Les Misérables and The Secret Garden, the performers will take you on a journey through some of the most-beloved duets and collaborations in music history. To book tickets, phone 0490 329 912.
Yandina ACMA welcomes four guest artists to the Hall of Fame at 24 Steggalls Road on Sunday, May 7. The fundraising country music concert will also featuring talented act T’Bird, performing rock ’n’ roll favourites from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. Tickets are $15 and doors open at 10am. Book on 0449 181638. Proceeds will go to hall maintenance.
The Glasshouse Country Senior Citizens’ Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 9.30am at the Beerwah Community Hall. The next meeting is on May 9. Refreshments are provided. Members enjoy lunch at a local eatery afterwards. Phone 0448 762 637.
The Sunshine Coast Choral Society is readying for its first concert of 2023. Under the masterful baton of new music director Lincoln Scott, the SCCS will be presenting A Night at the Opera on May 13 at Stella Maris Catholic School in Maroochydore and May 14 at Maleny State School hall, both from 2pm. The program features many best-loved opera arias and choruses. Buy tickets via suncoastchoral.org.au or at the door.
If you have experienced the loss of a loved one and your bereavement journey is bringing mixed emotions, Blue Care’s grief and loss program can help. The next eight-week program begins on Monday, May 15, from 10am to noon. Trained facilitators provide emotional, social and practical support for group members throughout the course of the free program, held in the Connections on King hall at the Buderim Uniting Church (corner of Gloucester Road and King Street). To register, call Aurilea on 0439 768 394 or email aaugustine5@bigpond.com.
A new 3.4-metre cenotaph was unveiled in Bli Bli recently, just in time for Anzac Day.
Situated on Bli Bli’s Avenue of Honour on Parklakes Drive, the cenotaph will provide the community with a focal point for commemorating those who have served their country in war, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
RSL Sunshine Coast and regional district president Ian Hall says the new cenotaph marks a significant milestone.
“This monument will be a meaningful and timely reminder for the community,
A selection of community groups in Glass House has been recognised in the latest round of Local Heroes Grants.
An initiative by Member for Glass House Andrew Powell, the grants give a helping hand to community groups for equipment or expenses, or individuals wishing to pursue sporting or academic ventures. Glasshouse and District Little Athletics Centre, Maleny Netball Association, Festuri and Restore Social Enterprises are winners from 2023’s first round.
“As is often the case, the winners were hard to pick,” Mr Powell says. “Interestingly, there were lots of applications from sporting groups seeking assistance for new uniforms for the upcoming season. It’s great to know there are so many kids out there enrolling in sport again this year.”
Apply for the next round at andrewpowell.com.au/.local-heroes.
placing an emphasis on the importance of commemorating veterans who have served past and present,” he says.
Local architect and sculptor Cam Crossley was engaged to design and build the cenotaph.
RSL Sunshine Coast and Regional District received funding last year for the project, including $109,680 from the Australian Government’s Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program and an additional $59,000 in Capital Works Funding from the Sunshine Coast Council.
The Buderim Mountain State School P&C Association and school have invited Sunshine Coast Council to help promote safe parking behaviour in the area.
The school and council will work together to regulate parking along Main Street, Clithero Avenue and Elizabeth Street, using the ParkSmart program.
The program will be introduced to the area through static cameras that will monitor parking near the school.
Cameras will be fixed to poles in key parking locations and use number plate-recognition technology to spot
unlawful parking. This program aims to alleviate problems at the school by encouraging vehicle turnover, creating parking opportunities and allowing equitable and safe access to the area.
The trial will take place during term 2 and 3, beginning in April and finishing in September, excluding school holiday periods. There will be a two-week education period during which the council will issue caution notices rather than infringements, so residents have time to get used to the change in parking regulations around the school.
My office of 11 years has relocated to 77 Bulcock Street, while the Omrah Avenue building is renovated. Once finished, levels one and two will house a new state-of-the-art library, customer service and community meeting spaces. The upper levels will be workspace for 150 council staff, including myself and Cr Terry Landsberg.
It’s great to see the new public amenities block in Frank McIvor Park open to the public. The special part of this project has been working with the Currimundi United Football Club to achieve some muchneeded additional space for the club (two changerooms, a referees’ changeroom and storage area). A special thanks to local artist Steven Bordonaro for working with community groups to develop the unique screen design.
The MoveSafe program is seeking feedback about getting around Division 3.
If you live, work or play in Aroona, Bokarina, Birtinya, Currimundi, Little Mountain, Meridan Plains, Warana and Wurtulla, please share with Sunshine Coast Council any locations where you’d like to see improvements made to the active transport network.
Submissions can be lodged before 5pm on Sunday May 7, via the council’s Have Your Say website, or by visiting the next MoveSafe pop-up at Kawana Farmers’ Market on Saturday, April 29, from 7am to noon.
For all Division 3 news, like or follow my Cr Peter Cox – Division 3 page on Facebook. It’s great to get your feedback and support.
As a strategy to prevent crime and promote cultural awareness, a Queensland Police Service (QPS) police liaison officer on the Sunshine Coast has been teaching disengaged youth how to make a didgeridoo (Yidaki).
This initiative, run in conjunction with Project Booyah, aims to provide these young people with a positive and productive activity, increasing their engagement while also teaching them about the importance of Indigenous culture. According to the QPS officers and staff involved in the program, many of the youths who participate have never had the opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture or make a didgeridoo before.
By providing them with this experience, they hope to encourage an understanding and appreciation for the culture of the First Nations People.
In addition to promoting cultural awareness, the program also serves as a crime-prevention tool. The officers believe that by keeping these young people engaged in productive activities, they are less likely to be involved in criminal activities or become victims of crime.
The program has received positive
feedback from both the participants and the wider community. Parents and community members have expressed their appreciation for the program, highlighting the positive impact it has had on the youth involved.
Overall, the initiative has demonstrated the potential for police liaison officers to play a proactive role in promoting positive activities and cultural awareness within the community. By teaching disengaged youth how to make a didgeridoo, they are helping to prevent crime and promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture and enhancing the great relationship the QPS has with the Sunshine Coast community.
There’s loads to explore and plenty to do on the Coast. Pop these fun events into your diary so you don’t miss out.
As a headline band at the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969, Creedence Clearwater Revival captured the attention of millions with its unique brand of soul-felt swampy-blues rock. Hendrix is widely regarded as one of the mostinfluential electric guitarists in popular music, and one of the most-celebrated musicians of the 20th century. This is a three-hour live band show, with full PA and stage lighting, featuring members from the Late for Woodstock band and other talented professional musicians.
When: Saturday, April 29, 8pm.
Where: The Banana Bender Pub, 1 Downunder Drive, Palmview.
Tickets: $28.60, via thebananabenderpub.com.au/events.
LEARN TO WEAVE WITH SUZY FURNESS
This is a unique, three-day workshop opportunity. Learn to weave on a table loom with experienced hand weaver Suzy Furness. Be inspired by colours found at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden and make your own scarf. Looms and all materials will be provided.
When: Friday, April 28, 9.30-11.30am; Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30, 10am-12pm.
Where: Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, Palm Creek Road, Tanawha. Tickets: $70. To secure your spot, email friendsofmrbbg@gmail.com.
29
SUNNY COAST RUDE BOYS SHOW
The ‘Rudies’ (The Sunny Coast Rude Boys) are heading back to The Brewery to raise the roof for a night of old-skool dance and good times. The Sunny Coast Rude Boys is a 10-piece soundwave playing uplifting ska and reggae, and drawing on musical influences that have shaped this genre – from the Jamaican movement through to the UK two-tone.
When: Saturday, April 29, 7.30pm. Where: Eumundi Brewery, 1 Etheridge Street, Eumundi.
Tickets: $33.70, via imperialhoteleumundi.com.au/ whats-on.
Enjoy the stunning views of the Europeaninspired Spicers Clovelly Estate while dining on homemade treats such as lobster on brioche, strawberry macaroons and freshly baked scones – to name a few – and all with a glass of Taittinger in hand.
When: Saturday, April 29, 11.30am.
Where: 68 Balmoral Road, Montville. Tickets: $95, via spicersretreats.com/events/ taittinger-high-tea/.
MOTHER’S DAY ARTISAN FAIR
Head along for a fun day out and support local artists and the Caloundra Arts Centre Association by purchasing some genuine Australian handmade treasures. Browse around amazing art, stunning pottery and a wide variety of other quality artisan work, including embroidered items, quilts, lace, handmade cards, jewellery and woodwork, plus a range of childrenswear and assorted bags.
When: Saturday, May 6, 9am-4pm and Sunday, May 7, 9am-2pm.
Where: Caloundra Arts Centre Association, 5 North Street, Caloundra. Tickets: Free entry.
Love spices but don’t know how to use them properly? Want to have a better understanding of spices? Want to become more adventurous in the kitchen with spices? Then you need to attend this fun-filled spice blending that is combined with a cooking class.
When: Saturday, April 29, 10am-2pm.
Where: Caloundra (location given upon booking).
Tickets: $120, via redhotchillipepper.com.au/product/combospice-blending-and-cooking-classes-caloundra/.
INTO THE LIGHT
Into the Light is a thought-provoking story about connections, disconnections, choice and freedom. In an immersive physical theatre soundscape, the show takes the audience on a poetic journey into the world of consumerism and social media. You will follow the adventures of three allegorical characters who are lured in and out of their cyber cave by the controlling power of the goddess Google. There is only one ticket out of the place where human reality is virtualised and virtual reality humanised.
When: Friday, May 6, Saturday, May 7, and Saturday, May 13, 7-8pm.
Where: Black Box Theatre, Howard Street, Nambour.
Tickets: $35, via divetheatre.com/intothe-light/.
CARING FOR OUR BACKYARD
Join in the field day at North Arm and learn how to protect your place. There will be invasive plant and animal management workshops, as well as guest speaker sessions, that run for 20 minutes each throughout the day. Local supplier and information stalls include Land for Wildlife and Bush Care.
When: Saturday, May 6, 8.30am-3pm. Where: Endriandra Park Bushland Conservation Reserve, Bunya Road, Bridges.
Tickets: Free event. Register via eventbrite. com.au and search for ‘Caring for our backyard – North Arm Field Day.’
Mooloolaba Rotary’s annual ‘A Night to Remember’ will celebrate the club’s 50th anniversary with internationally renowned entertainer Mark Andrew, who has donated his Legends Showcase Show as a fundraiser for endED. The funds raised will deliver hope to people from the Sunshine Coast and all over Australia seeking freedom from eating disorders, a beast known as ED. A night of music, laughter, dancing and prizes for the ‘best dressed’, starring Mark’s tributes to Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Dean Martin, Tom Jones and Austin Powers.
When: Friday, May 5, 7pm-10.30pm. Where: Venue 114, 114 Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina.
Tickets: $65, (includes supper and drink) via trybooking.com/events/landing/1027305.
FRIDAY, APRIL 28
Ocean Grove, Solbar, 7pm
Lady Sings the Maroons, The Events Centre
Caloundra, 7.30pm
Nambour Forecourt Live, Bury Street, 4pm
Allen Cameron Duo, Maroochy RSL, 5.30pm
Janice J, Caloundra RSL, 5.30pm
Colin Dodds, Cooroy RSL, 6pm
Esteban, Coolum Surf Club, 8.30pm
Chris Ramsay, Maroochy Surf Club, 7.30pm
DJ Mr Sparkles, Beerwah Hotel, 8.30pm
Mason Rock Band, Palmwoods Hotel, 8.30pm.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29
Rolling Thunder Vietnam, The Events Centre
Caloundra, 7.30pm
Phil Barlow, Eumundi CWA Hall, 6pm
SameTime, Solbar, 7pm
Tracey Vaughn Duo, Maroochy RSL, 5.30pm
Ricky the Rockstar, Caloundra RSL, 5.30pm
Michael Gerahty, Coolum Surf Club, 8.30pm
Dr G & BB Experience, Maroochy Surf, 7.30pm
Mason Rock Band, Beerwah Hotel, 8.30pm
Living in the 70’s, Palmwoods Hotel, 8.30pm.
SUNDAY, APRIL 30
Poco Loco Duo, Maroochy RSL, 6pm.
* All events were correct at time of printing.
$1000
OVER WORTH OF PRIZES
7.
ARIES (MAR 21-APR 20)
Prosperity planet Jupiter is jumping through your sign until May 16. This lucky placement only happens every 12 years, so make the most of it while it’s still around. Jupiter also links up with peace-loving Venus, so confidence and cooperation will take you far.
LEO (JUL 24-AUG 23)
Venus and Jupiter boost creativity and enthusiasm, as you pursue your goals for the future. But you must be adventurous and morph from a cautious cat into a brave Lion. It’s time to let go of a perceived failure that has been holding you back.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23-DEC 21)
TAURUS (APR 21-MAY 21)
It’s time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. This week Venus (your patron planet) connects with generous Jupiter, so you’ll be at your creative, compassionate and playful best. But there is also a tendency to eat too much rich, sweet food and spend too much.
VIRGO
Do you have to be so virtuous Virgo, and such a stickler for doing things the right way? This week (with Mercury still in retrograde mode), resist the urge to be sombre and serious. Try to find the sweet spot between being overly organised and spontaneous.
CAPRICORN (DEC 22-JAN 20)
GEMINI (MAY 22-JUN 21)
Vivacious Venus is visiting your sign, so your funny, flexible and gregarious Gemini side will be on display. Do your best to get must-do, routine tasks out of the way early in the week, then you can enjoy the activities that really make your heart sing.
LIBRA (SEP 24-OCT 23)
Libra is the zodiac sign that rules appearance, aesthetics, fashion, cosmetics and personal pampering. And Friday night’s lunar eclipse urges you to look for the inner beauty in yourself – and other people.
AQUARIUS (JAN 21-FEB 19)
CANCER (JUN 22-JUL 23)
Have you been hibernating in your cosy crab cave? With mighty Mars charging through your sign (until May 20), it’s time to be bold rather than brooding, and proactive rather than reactive. Do your best to initiate positive changes and get your body moving.
SCORPIO (OCT 24-NOV 22)
Stubborn Scorpios can hold onto grudges and find it hard to forgive and forget. But this week the lunar eclipse lights up your sign –Mercury is reversing through your relationship zone, and Venus links up with Jupiter. So, it’s time to be extra kind and compassionate.
PISCES (FEB 20-MAR 20)
1 Cutting reply (6)
4 Revoke (6)
9 Mentally confused (5-2)
10 Group of eight (5)
11 Specialised market (5)
12 Exacerbate (7)
13 Preemptive attack (5,6)
18 Utterly disorganised (7)
20 Postpone (5)
22 Inexact
1 Cause to remember (6)
2 Poisonous (5)
3 Set right (7)
5 Withdrawn (5)
6 Reduction (7)
7 Scattered rubbish (6)
8 An instant (5,6)
14 To put it briefly (2,1,4)
15 Far-reaching (7)
16 Weighing machine (6)
17 Cool in manner (6)
19 An unexpected pleasure (5)
21 Navy (5)
Jupiter (your power planet) makes a fabulous aspect to Venus, so a unique opportunity could come out of the blue. Don’t procrastinate and drag your heels, Sagittarius. You need to make hay while the sun shines and strike while the iron is hot.
Complete the list by changing one letter at a time to create a new word at each step. One possible answer shown below.
Mercury is still in retrograde mode (until May 15), so there could be a misunderstanding with a child, teenager or work colleague. Do your best to keep the situation in perspective. Look to your trusted circle of loved ones for comfort and support.
1. Founded in 1925, which weekly American country music stage concert takes place in Nashville, Tennessee?
2. What is the largest state in the US by area?
3. Andrew Garfield (pictured), Carey Mulligan and Keira Knightley all starred in which 2010 film adaptation of a Kazuo Ishiguro book?
4. What colour is the beginner belt in karate?
5. In which two months of the year does London Fashion Week take place?
The sun and retrograde Mercury activate your family zone, so home is where the heart is this week. Even though you may be faced with a frustrating domestic problem, be thankful for the relatives who nurture and support you.
6. Which artist’s No.1 hits include Think Twice, It’s All Coming Back to Me Now and I’m Alive?
7. The animated sitcom The Jetsons originally aired in which decade?
8. What is the official language of the Faroe Islands?
9. What is the longest river in Australia?
10. How many president’s faces are carved into Mount Rushmore?
This week’s stars increase your Piscean tendency to blurt things out and spread secrets. So, think before you speak. When it comes to a recalcitrant relative or an annoying neighbour, be more diplomatic as you build bridges and let bygones be bygones.
Jane Stephens is concerned we’ll be creating more exclusion if we aren’t permitted to embrace and honour the diversity of cultures and identities.
Sensitivities abound these days. People square off a patch and protect it, excluding all and any who do not belong.
Gone are the days when you can think someone from another nation’s hairstyle is pretty and replicate it, or like a pattern from a far-off land and buy a dress in that fabric. It has all gone a bit too far, rendering almost every word, action or style now a danger zone, at high risk of offending someone or leading to accusations of appropriation.
And now there are suggestions that even actors should stay in their assigned national, cultural and sexual pigeonhole.
Poor Guy Pearce, who played a drag queen in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, copped it big time on Twitter last month for entering the fray around who should play which character on screen.
He posted: “If the only people allowed to play trans characters are trans folk, then r we also suggesting the only people trans folk can play r trans characters? Surely that will limit ur career as an actor? Isn’t the point of an actor to be able to play anyone outside ur own world?”
He ended up deleting the post and apologising, so ferocious was the response.
But his contrition for fanning the sensitivity fire made a pertinent point: to suggest acting can only come from an actor’s own lived experience is to annihilate their brilliance and imagination.
Take this need for boundaries a tiny step further, and it is considered culturally inappropriate if we cook a Middle Eastern dish if we are not from Turkiye or Iran, hang an Indigenous artwork if we are not Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander or don a kimono if we are not Japanese.
Where does it leave those of us who have no obvious cultural heritage –Australians in life but with a melting pot of lineage that might be our distant roots, but which doesn’t reflect our branches or our growth? Let’s not bolster the barricades between expressions of gender, sexuality, culture, race and religion. Let’s be careful in discussions around diversity and inclusion to not just make more boxes to assign people to or exclude them from.
Respect is key. Yet, I can’t help but think that the more we embrace and honour the elements and trappings of other cultures and identities, the more integrated society becomes. If we’re not allowed to, we’ll have sharper divisions and starker differences.
Ashley Robinson knows the smell of defeat after discovering his granddaughter has it all over him when it comes to collecting things.
Recently, an incident in our family reminded me of things I collected when I was a kid ... like the time I took a koala to school for show and tell.
Then there were the many lizards and geckos I managed to keep as pets for a while, and the baby sugar glider I had as a pet that sadly glided away from me forever when I took it on holidays to my Nanna’s house at Picnic Point. I had ant or worm farms and a few pet snails, too.
Probably the least popular with my folks was an echidna that used to frequent our yard and I’d play with. And I do remember bringing a stink beetle into the house one day – for which I received a clip over the ear.
Then there were the material possessions I gathered – such as special marbles (of which I had hundreds) and plastic toy soldiers that I had hidden all over the house and farm.
Probably my most annoying collection for my Mum was coffee cups. I used to do a paper run at Maroochydore, selling newspapers at the hotel and in the camping ground during the holidays.
On my way home after I got paid, I would go to the holiday fair and shoot tin ducks in the gallery and win a coffee cup – every day. We had blue, green and brown ones and Mum had a cupboardful.
Now I mention this as last week our kids smelled something rotten in their car. The smell came and went. They looked in the back to see if there were any stray groceries or food that had been left accidentally but couldn’t find anything.
As the days went by, the smell got worse. Finally at Easter, at the Pa and Ma Bendall surfing final, they were parked near the portable toilets. The aroma was obscene when they got back to the car but they hoped it was the dunnies. Alas, the smell stayed with them all the way home after five hours in the hot sun.
So, they pulled the car apart again and, lo and behold, in the back door pocket right beside the booster seat of my granddaughter was a pipi (mollusc). She collects them and had picked it up at the beach about 10 days prior (or so she said with a wry smile on her face). I reckon she has me covered. Coffee cups and stink beetles have nothing on this kid.
Sami Muirhead is going to London to visit the King, with her own procession of family members in tow, for the upcoming coronation.
One heavy-duty 4x4-metre tarp, 10 packets of double-coated Tim Tams, five Aussie cork hats and a can of Norsca deodorant ... just some of our family packing list to take to the coronation of King Charles in London.
I say ‘family’ but it is really me dragging my long-suffering husband and three apprehensive children across the world to witness history. We will be watching it as weary Aussies, roughing it on the side of a road in a bid to get front-row street seats to watch the Coronation Procession pass by in London. But who cares about a bit of frost and not being able to have a shower for a few days when we will be witnessing history.
I am a long-standing Royal Family fan, but I am not so sure of my level of devotion after the passing of our wonderful Queen.
Instead of doing housework, I much prefer to look at old YouTube clips of ‘Elizabeth The Great’ taking tea with Paddington Bear in all her pearl-necklace glory. I met the Queen when my grandmother took me to Brisbane on a royal tour and I gave Her Majesty a posy of home-grown flowers. Tens of thousands of locals lined the streets to see the Queen in her apricot polka-dot dress, complete with gloves, hat and, of course, her trademark
strand of pearls. The year was 1977 and I was five years old. It was love at first sight for me of this classy and kind woman and I remained a huge fan for life.
I am not so sure of the current royal mob. Sometimes I feel sorry for loveable Harry because he was clearly deprived of his mother’s love due to her tragic death. On other days, I want to whisper in his ear to “Zip it, Hazza – you have to stop airing the family’s dirty laundry, Old Mate”.
My husband and kids have never been to the United Kingdom. There will be no red double-decker bus tours of Oxford Street and Big Ben for our clan. Instead, we will be camping out to catch a glimpse of that royal procession. Why? Why not, I say!
And if you are wondering why I am packing 10 packets of Tim Tams ... well, I always find they are worth their weight in gold for good old-fashioned sucking up.
When we need to go to the loo on those long days and nights on the side of the road, we can make friends with the souls next to us and hopefully they will save our spot –thanks to Australia’s finest choccie biscuits.
Wish us luck. The trick is really going to be keeping my kids entertained. So, I suspect the Tim Tams will be eaten within hours of arrival.
Sami Muirhead is a radio announcer, blogger and commentator. For more from Sami, tune into Mix FM.
There are three main classes of assets: shares, property and fixed income.
Fixed income is classified as cash, term deposits and bonds – investments that provide capital security and a defined (often fixed) rate of return on your funds.
The recent RBA pause in rates has potentially ended the most aggressive tightening cycle since 1989 with interest rated increasing 3.5 per cent in 11 months.
This has increased the appeal of bonds for investors who are keen to lock in the current higher interest rates on their savings.
Bonds are like an IOU. In simple terms, bonds are a loan from an investor to the bond issuer. Governments, banks and corporations issue bonds to raise money from investors to fund working capital or when they need capital in the form of debt. In return, they make a legal commitment to pay interest on capital invested and to return the capital when the bond matures.
Bonds typically have steady performance features that place them in the defensive part of a portfolio. However, they are still exposed to some risks. These include interest rate risk (the risk that a change in interest rates could reduce the market value of the bond) and credit risk (the risk that the issuer could default or become insolvent).
Bonds offer:
• greater capital security that your initial investment will be returned
• interest (or ‘coupon’) payments on set dates, so you can be confident of predictable, reliable income
• diversification – portfolios should include an allocation to fixed income investments, such as bonds, to help manage risk
• additional diversification to portfolios as, generally, they do not move in the same direction as shares
• liquidity, as they can be sold in the secondary market.
Note: if you sell a bond before maturity, you will receive market value, which could be higher or lower than face value or the price you paid for the bond.
Globally, the bond market is about five-times the size of the share market. In Australia, the bond market is almost entirely the domain of professional investors such as industry superannuation funds and fund managers.
Some financial advice firms offer a bond service providing access to the bond market so that individuals, trusts and self-managed super funds can invest directly alongside the professionals. I would suggest speaking with your financial adviser to see if this is an option for your portfolio.
Alternatively, investors can gain access to these investments via various managed investment products.
Justin Scattini is an authorised representative (no. 427053) of Ord Minnett Ltd, AFS licence 237121. He can be contacted on 5430 4444. This article contains general financial advice only and does not consider your personal circumstances; you should determine its suitability to you. Before acquiring a financial product you should consider the relevant product disclosure statement. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
Developing the ‘skill’ as well as the ‘will’ for learning is a priority at Matthew Flinders Anglican College.
And the new Learner Powers program is building positive learning dispositions through the Primary School years.
The Learner Powers program was developed in close collaboration with students and staff, identifying five learning dispositions: collaborative, innovative, reflective, resilient and self-motivated.
Students across Prep to Year 6 are encouraged to develop these Learner Powers to become engaged, successful and confident learners.
Pacific Lutheran College’s annual Open Day is on Sunday, May 7, from 12.30-3.30pm.
Offering a rich education for a well-rounded life, Pacific Lutheran College provides unique opportunities to enhance learning from Kindergarten to Year 12, growing self-directed young people who are well equipped to make
Pacific difference for yourself by participating in the many activities offered throughout the day.”
Be entertained by Pacific’s talented musicians and Senior drama students as they perform scenes from the Senior musical production Pippin, which will be performed at The Events Centre, Caloundra, on May 19 and 20.
The program is based on research revealing that a significant predictor of academic achievement and positive wellbeing for children is having positive attitudes, expectations and dispositions as a learner.
Flinders also drew upon Professor John Hattie’s Visible Learning research and theory involving more than a quarter-of-abillion students, which discovered that having children actively engaged in their learning has the most powerful influence
reaching their potential.”
The Learner Powers program provides a shared and positive language of learning by all in the college community – at school and in the home.
• “I bring energy to my learning” (selfmotivated)
• “I am brave, persistent and positive” (resilient)
• “I think about my learning and set goals to grow as a learner” (reflective)
• “I push my thinking. I think big and imagine possibilities” (innovative)
• “We are better together” (collaborative).
To learn more about the passion for learning at Flinders, parents are invited to the Junior Primary Discovery Evening from 5.30-6.30pm on Thursday, May 4, or visit mfac.edu.au/enrolments/juniorprimary-discovery-evening/.
A strong start at Flinders helps students develop as confident, creative and engaged learners.
Find out how we provide a caring, values-rich, high aspiration learning environment and cultivate in students a spirit to achieve mastery and personal best.
Explore our upcoming events:
• Junior Primary Discovery Evening, 5:30pm on Thursday, 4 May
• Flinders Early Learning Centre Open Morning, 9am - 10am on Saturday, 20 May
Book your place at www.mfac.edu.au or scan the QR code. Stringybark Rd,
What we are hearing a lot about at the moment relates to technology. Since most industries use technology in some shape or form, it’s a great time to consider your business needs for data storage, automation, cyber
security or testing tech if the focus is on research and development.
The Sunshine Coast International Broadband Network, while primarily a conduit to providing the fastest east coast connection to Asia, has been a real driver for attracting and connecting new tech
Kawana Chamber of Commerce supports the local community and businesses through networking opportunities, events and industry knowledge.
Business connections made fun!
business to the region. With data centres becoming an essential part of the business, economic and social landscape and a core element of the digital architecture that underpins connectivity, accessibility, security and information storage, the first to embrace the network cable was NEXTDC.
With 11 centres across Australia including the Sunshine Coast, the Australian data centre operator offers an extensive digital marketplace featuring carriers, cloud and IT service providers.
Now we have a cyber intelligence national headquarters setting up on the Coast. The Critical Infrastructure –Information Sharing and Analysis Centre is a member-driven support organisation for owners of critical infrastructure.
It will provide an Australia-first focus on cyber-defence, leveraging central capabilities to help small and medium enterprise as well. That means a lot for our business community, being largely made up of start-ups and small business.
The Sunshine Coast is positioning itself as the ultimate location for research and development companies, universities, start-ups and scale-ups to “test their tech in paradise”.
Through Sunshine Coast Council’s above- and below-ground network of digital plumbing, the Maroochydore CBD
can now be used as a digital testing sandbox for a range of things, including access to servers via optic fibre or Wi-Fi 6.
Our industry groups, such as Silicon Coast and Sunshine Coast Tech Industry Alliance, continue to drive collaboration and growth in this sector.
SCTechIA is keen to understand the landscape of the tech companies within the greater region. It has announced the launch of its tech directory, which aims to identify all available tech and tech-based businesses within our region.
Having this knowledge will strengthen our position as a prime location to test, trial and commercialise technology.
A great industry example of introducing automation is Link Composites – one of Australia’s leading advanced composite panel suppliers.
Its move from a Nambour facility running manual production 24 hours a day at full capacity to a new site at Coolum Industrial Park using new automation equipment, increasing production capacity by 500 per cent and only running at 20 per cent, is now producing 12,000sqm a month of panels and product. I know they are in need of staff – skilled or interested in mechatronics.
RoboRAVE Australia’s International Open is coming up in July at the
Cutting-edge tech companies are setting up in the region, taking advantage of opportunities to grow. WORDS: Cr Terry Landsberg.
business
University of the Sunshine Coast with spectators welcome to watch robots battle it out through various challenges for the champion title.
As well as sponsoring RoboRAVE, the council continues to foster interest and skills in the field of technology through innovation and tech events such as the recent BiG Day In Sunshine Coast (pictured) and programs including the Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Awards, now open for schools to participate.
In May, the council will run its Ideation and Exploration Session which will see experts come together from technology, sports, tourism and supporting organisations with local government participants to explore how emerging digital technologies can benefit competitors, spectators and administrators for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
For more on tech initiatives, reach out to the council or find and follow the businesses and organisations on LinkedIn.
The Sunshine Coast is seen as the ‘entrepreneurial capital of Australia’. And it is that reputation for hard work and dedication that our business community will celebrate at the annual Small Business Month Breakfast.
The event on Thursday, May 4, presented by the Sunshine Coast Business Awards, Sunshine Coast Council and Regional Development Australia (RDA) Sunshine Coast, will also see the launch of the 2023 Sunshine Coast Business Awards.
“With more than 40,500 small businesses, contributing to more than 50 per cent of all employment for the region, it is no wonder that we are the envy of other regions,” Sunshine Coast Business Awards chair Jennifer Swaine says. “We have such a rich diversity of business and industries which is reflected by the business winners and finalists in our Awards year after year.”
RDA Sunshine Coast CEO Paul Fisher says the Queensland
Small Business Month breakfast is the perfect forum to join fellow small business professionals in sharing stories of success and strategies for growth and to reflect on the past 12 months.
Mrs Swaine says the event is also an opportunity to be inspired to enter the 2023 awards.
Immediately after the breakfast, the Sunshine Coast Business Awards will hold the first of its information sessions to give entrants the chance to learn more about the application process and eligibility criteria, gain tips about submitting a competitive application and have the opportunity to ask questions of the awards team, including head of judging Bruce Williams.
BREAKFAST EVENT DETAILS
Date: Thursday, May 4.
Time: 6.30am for 7am start to 8.30am
Location: Maroochy RSL, cnr First and Memorial avenues, Maroochydore.
Tickets: $55 per person. Bookings: trybooking.com/ events/landing.
Sunshine Coast-based event suppliers are invited to register business details and build the directory. This is a free listing platform for all of our Sunshine Coast venues, facilities and event services.
Think of it as a virtual one-stop-shop for event planners to find goods, services and venues for major events, high-performance sports, business events, community
events and more in the region. This new pathway can connect global event organisers to experienced local suppliers on the Coast to plan and deliver successful events and activities. This is an initiative of the Sunshine Coast Events Industry Association to ensure our event industry network can have the best opportunities with business-to-business communication. eventsconnect.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au.
Major changes are coming, relating to the sale of property in Queensland.
One significant change is that the old principle of “Buyer Beware” will largely no longer apply.
There will soon be obligations on a seller to make comprehensive disclosure to a buyer of matters relating to the property and its condition.
That disclosure needs to be made to a buyer before the buyer signs the purchase contract.
The type of information to be disclosed to a buyer includes matters relating to the history of the building, rates notices, environmental statements and planning and zoning issues.
If a seller fails to give the required disclosure, or it is incomplete, the buyer will have certain rights – including the right to terminate the contract at any time.
The disclosure requirements will no doubt add to the costs incurred by sellers in selling their properties.
The changes will also likely affect how contracts are prepared, with perhaps a need for lawyers to become more involved prior to contracts being entered into.
Until the proposed changes come into law, we won’t know the full extent of the new obligations imposed on sellers or rights given to buyers.
Watch this space!
Recently in the media, an employer thought he would garner support by boasting that he cancelled an interview mid-way because the candidate dared to ask: “Why?”.
In today’s labour market, it really is all about ‘why?’. When potential new employees have many offers on the table, why should they choose to join you?
Differentiating yourself will attract the best candidates and if you struggle to sell yourself, then maybe you need to really hone your employee-value proposition.
Selling yourself means highlighting culture, values, benefits and opportunities for growth. Potential employees want to work for a company that aligns with their personal values and provides a positive, healthy and safe work environment.
Additionally, they look for companies that offer competitive salaries, benefits, flexibility options and career advancement. By selling yourself, you can also create a strong employer brand. This will attract talent, as well as improve employee engagement.
A referral is the highest compliment, which can further attract top talent.
Maybe you should ask your current employees if they would refer a family member, friend or colleague to work for you. And if not, why not?
If your employer provides you with the use of a car that is classified as a zero- or low-missions vehicle, there is a Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption that can potentially apply to them.
The FBT exemption should normally apply where:
• the value of the car was below the luxury car tax threshold for fuelefficient vehicles ($84,916 for 2022-23) when it was first purchased. If you buy an EV second-hand, the FBT exemption will not apply if the original sales price was above the relevant luxury car tax limit
• the car is both first held and used on or after July 1, 2022. This means that the car could have been purchased before July 1, 2022, but might still qualify for the FBT exemption if it wasn’t made available to employees until July 1, 2022, or later.
The exemption also includes associated benefits such as:
• registration
• insurance
• repairs or maintenance
• fuel, including electricity to charge and run the vehicle.
But, it does not include a charging station.
On December 12, 2022, the federal government announced changes to the Family Law (Child Abduction Convention) Regulation 1986 in an effort to demonstrate its commitment “to an effective, accessible, fair and safe family law system that supports victim-survivors of family and domestic violence”.
The new regulations now provide Australian courts the discretion to refuse to make a Return Order under the Hague Convention if the parent opposing the return can establish:
• there is a grave risk that the return of the child would expose the child to physical or psychological harm; or
• that the return of the child would place the child in an intolerable situation.
The new regulations also imposes an obligation on Australian courts to consider proposed conditions that are sought to protect a child from exposure to family and domestic violence on a Return Order.
This is regardless of whether the court is satisfied family and domestic violence has occurred, or is likely to occur.
The new regulations, which came into effect immediately, have equipped Australian courts with the ability to consider family and domestic violence risks when determining an Application for a Return Order under the Hague Convention.
Located in the heart of the emerging Bokarina Beach lifestyle precinct, AZZURE
Bokarina Beach is making waves and attracting buyers wanting to immerse themselves in a vibrant coastal community which is challenging the offerings available at more established beachfront hubs.
Sitting between Caloundra and Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, Bokarina Beach provides residents the opportunity to surf, swim, stroll, savour, and shop within an exclusive enclave. A patrolled beach, village park with barbecue facilities, dog-friendly beaches, walkways and cycleways naturally complement adjacent restaurants and future café, wine bar, dining and fashion outlets curated to elevated coastal apartment living.
AZZURE Bokarina Beach created by the Walter Iezzi Property Group is providing local, Brisbane and interstate buyers with a genuine opportunity to become one of the fortunate few to enjoy this Sunshine Coast lifestyle day after day.
“AZZURE’s oceanside apartments have attracted local baby boomer couples looking to downsize from surrounding
streets and suburbs, who don’t currently enjoy ocean views, and are wanting to experience a brand new apartment with coastal views that will never be built out,” developer Walter Iezzi says.
“We’ve also experienced an influx of buyers from Brisbane and the southern states seeking the opportunity to spread their wings and embrace a healthy,
subtropical climate with the space to move and everything they need right on their doorstep.
“AZZURE Bokarina Beach has sold over 90 per cent of its available apartments with local and interstate buyers also seeing the potential for capital growth and good returns, due to our amazing oceanside location and the
Sunshine Coast University Hospital and health hub only two kilometres away.”
Spanning eight levels, AZZURE Bokarina Beach offers high quality two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments through to sophisticated penthouses.
With sought after features like secure lift access, intercom, designer kitchens, ducted air, ceiling fans, low body corporate rates, pet friendly, pool, barbecue, sundeck, gym and steam room, AZZURE Bokarina Beach fully embraces all the luxuries of oceanside living.
With construction underway and due to be completed by mid 2024, now is your opportunity to secure one of the last remaining apartments at AZZURE Bokarina Beach and start living the dream lifestyle.
AZZURE Bokarina Beach
Where: Sales office – Bokarina Boulevard, Bokarina Beach.
Features:
• A limited number of two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments are available. Visit: azzurebokarinabeach.com.au
96 Lindsay Road, Buderim is a magnificent showcase of coastal luxe design. Boasting exquisite artisanal features, including a stunning handcrafted staircase and liberal use of natural materials such as Tasmanian Oak and Limestone, to create a warm, welcoming feel.
Immerse yourself in the tranquil and serene environment, where every detail has been designed for easy family living, while evoking a sense of holidaying at home. This natural light-filled coastal property is the ultimate embodiment of comfort and luxury, offering a unique opportunity to experience the finest in resort-style living.
Dan Smith 0438 120 776
dansmith@theagency.com.au
96 Lindsay Road, Buderim
542 895sqm
Auction Sunday 7th May at 10:00am
Open For Inspection
Saturday 29th April 10:30am – 11:00am
Saturday 29th April 2:30pm – 3:00pm
Wednesday 3rd May 5:00pm – 5:45pm
Please call the agent for details to register for online auctions.
You are welcome to attend our open homes or please call the agent to arrange your private inspection or virtual tour.
AUCTION 4 2 2 1 450
You’ll love coming home to Vista Monti. This stunning property showcases the best of artisanal features and natural materials, making it the ultimate resort-style oasis that’s private to the outside world, yet close to schools, shopping and the heart of Buderim. Flooded with natural light, the high ceilings combined with flowing curves throughout create a sense of space. Enjoy summer by the MagnaPool and entertaining on the deck that overlooks the hinterland. Winter brings family nights around the firepit. You’ll love living in this serene environment where every detail has been considered to create an exceptional living experience and evoke a feeling of holidaying at home.
Some of the Best Value in Buderim Meadows!
• Low set brick and tile home with multiple living areas
• Recently refreshed with new carpet and paint throughout
• Chef’s kitchen with large servery window
• Carpeted formal dining room which could be enclosed
• Massive outdoor patio area overlooking the glistening pool
• Surrounded by acres of parkland and a kids playground
• Situated in the heart of the Mountain Creek School zones
‘VISTA MONTI’
96 LINDSAY ROAD, BUDERIM
5 bed, 4 bath, 2 car
Auction Sunday, May 7 at 10am
The Agency 0438 120 776
Dan Smith 0438 120 776
6 Oyster Court, Twin Waters
• Secluded, private four-bedroom home
• Light-filled, open-plan living, dining
• North-facing inground sparking pool
• Secure property, fully fenced
• Formal dining/second living area
• Perfect investment opportunity
• Close to shopping, golf club, beach
Auc on On site Sat, 6 May, 11am
View Sat 10-10.30am & 2-2.30pm
Pam Thomas 0438 272 096
Nick West 0481 717 769
raywhitemaroochydore.com.au
4 2 2 1
Jake Loiero 0448 000 933
raywhitebuderim.com.au
The minute you step into 30 Cypress Court you are greeted by soaring cathedral ceilings, large open spaces, a neutral colour palate and water views, all creating a sense of serenity and calm. There are various living areas throughout the home, catering to a spectrum of needs; from entertaining friends to retreating quietly for some peaceful solitude. This family sanctuary has a beautiful flow and a functional floor plan, with outstanding views of the wide waterways of the majestic Mooloolah River. This deep water location extends direct access to the harbour mouth and broad water, making it ideal for all boating enthusiasts. The large 9m x 4m heated pool and spa is visible from the kitchen and living and is the perfect place to swim safely. The private, recently re-carpeted 15m pontoon is an ideal size to house some of the largest boats and it includes power, light and water.
If you’re looking for a spacious family home, in a central location, with sweeping panoramic views to Bokarina Beach, Buderim and Mount Coolum, then this home is for you. The house is orientated to the north, so sitting in the morning sun with your coffee, you can also enjoy the seabreezes. The expansive alfresco and pool area boasts a huge entertainment deck and has year-round sunshine.
HIGHLY
From the moment you step inside, you will be captivated by the breathtaking views of the water and the impeccable attention to detail in every aspect of the design. The seamless living, dining and entertaining area exudes a true open plan design, with high ceilings, carefully thought-out voids and large windows to maximise natural light. The modern kitchen features stone benchtops and ample storage making it perfect for entertaining.
• Large 923sqm lot (approx)
• Panoramic views
• Large 8m x 4.6m shed
533 1300 400 777
• Caloundra CBD minutes drive
• Close to schools & medical precinct
Auction: Saturday 6th May at 1pm Onsite
Inspect: Saturday 29th April 10-10:30am
Peter Salisbury 0457 777 517
Loren Wimhurst 0415 380 222
nextpropertygroup.com.au
• Uninterrupted water views
• North facing location
• Ducted air-conditioning
432 1300 400 777
• Downstairs bedroom + ensuite
• Sought after location - walk to CBD
Price: $1,700,000 Plus Buyers
Inspect: Saturday 29th April 11-11:30am
Courtney Paterson 0488 764 785
nextpropertygroup.com.au
The minute you step into 15 Cypress Court you know you’ve found a forever home as this property is simply splendid. With multiple opportunities, this fantastic family home will not disappoint. Designed with vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and timber slatted ceilings, this home instantly gives you a feeling of tranquillity with all the light-filled open spaces. This captivating modern home is ready for the next lucky owners and must be inspected to be truly appreciated.
• Private cul-de-sac location
• 18.3 kW solar power
• Stunning river and harbour views
• Temperature controlled wine cellar
• Under-house storage for SUP/kayaks
• Ducted air conditioning
532
Auction: Saturday 6th May at 12pm Onsite
Inspect: Saturday 29th April 3-3:30pm
Loren Wimhurst 0415 380 222
Richard Scrivener 0416 799 188
1300 400 777 nextpropertygroup.com.au
With nothing left to do but move in and enjoy, this centrally located home in a blue chip Maroochydore neighbourhood has it all. Located in a quiet back street, this single level home on 700m2 ticks all the boxes.
With a floorplan suitable for all ages, and in a location just minutes from everything the Sunshine Coast has to offer, this spacious duplex style property has it all. After undergoing a recent cosmetic makeover, the home has a very warm and homely feel to it. .
From page 37
This impeccable home is ready to move straight into and available for you to enjoy the fun lifestyle found on the deep water of Minyama. A family sanctuary, the property has a beautiful flow and a functional floor plan, with outstanding views of the wide waterways of the majestic Mooloolah River. With direct ocean access, the home has a large, heated swimming pool and spa, visible from the kitchen and living area and a large lawn area, ideal for kids to play. Overall, this stunning sanctuary must be seen to be fully appreciated.
30 CYPRESS COURT, MINYAMA
4 bed, 3 bath, 2 car Auction Saturday, April 29 at 2pm Onsite
Next Property Group 1300 400 777
Richard Scrivener 0416 799 188
Loren Wimhurst 0415 380 222
INVESTINTHEBRIGHTESTOFFUTURESWITHTHERELEASEOF 'AZURE'AMASTERPLANNEDCOLLECTIONOFBOUTIQUEVILLAS.
Villasrangingfrom175m2to197m2–perfecttobuildthelifestyleofyourdreams, surroundedbyalushforestoutlookandavibrantcommunity.Allhomesfeature threebedrooms,anadditionalstudy,aswellastwobathroomsandtwopowder rooms.ConstructionduetobecompletedreadyforhandoverbyAugust2023.
TristanAllison
0434992317
is absolutely stunning brand new residence located along blue-chip Oceanic Drive, just 130-metres to direct beach access, has been custom-designed by acclaimed Reitsma and Associates, and built to premium standards with elegant interiors and striking aesthetics; it is dressed to impress, and impress it certainly will!
Across three levels – including exclusive roo op terrace showcasing ocean views, it comprises three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus powder room, office, open plan living, high-end kitchen, covered patio overlooking inground pool with sundeck, Juliet balcony off master.
www.towngroup.com.au
VIEW: SATURDAY 29TH APRIL AT 10AM
FOR SALE: $2M +
• Brand new high-end duplex development
• Outdoor covered patio & inground pool
• Exclusive roo op terrace showcasing ocean view
• Expansive open plan living and dining
• Premium kitchen with Smeg appliances
• Ducted reverse cycle air-conditioning
• Striking street appeal, modern & sleek
3 BEDThe easiest way to check out last fortnight’s auction results.
12 BEDFORD CIRCUIT, COES CREEK
SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER $900,000
4 bed, 2 bath, 3 car
Ray White, Fiona Rawson, 0401 186 261
5/14 PANGARINDA PLACE, MOOLOOLABA
SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER $610,000
4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car
Ray White, Brent Higgins, 0414 775 133
9 BANGALOW STREET, MINYAMA
Sold prior $2,700,000
4 bed, 2 bath, 3 car
Ray White, Brent Higgins, 0414 775 133
10 ROOKE STREET, DICKY BEACH
Sold prior for $4,800,000
4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car, pool
Ray White, Rebecca & Jason Jaeger, 0414 454 835/0414 703 873
101 MAHOGANY DRIVE, PELICAN WATERS
Sold prior for $1,825,000
4 bed, 3 bath, 2 car, pool
Ray White, Rebecca & Jason Jaeger, 0414 454 835/0414 703 873
16 WANNON STREET, MAROOCHYDORE
09 ALBANY STREET, SIPPY DOWNS
SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER $690,000
3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car
Define Property, Ross Cattle, 0410 625 758
4 GRENFELL COURT, KULUIN
SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER $890,000
5 bed, 3 bath, 5 car
Ray White, Rowan Woodbine, 0497 076 418
47 WOODLANDS CRESCENT, BUDERIM
SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER $810,000
3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car
Ray White, Gregory Ward, 0497 659 029
3/147 BURNETT STREET, BUDERIM
SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER $600,000
3 bed, 2 bath, 1 car
Ray White, Gregory Ward, 0497 659 029
71 GLOUCESTER ROAD, BUDERIM
Passed In at $850,000
4 bed, 3 bath, 2 car
Ray White, Gregory Ward, 0497 659 029
7/109-111 BRADMAN AVENUE, MAROOCHYDORE
Passed In $660,000
3 bed, 2 bath, 1 car
Ray White, Lachie Woods, 0477 552 268
Passed in at $680,000 – Now on the market for $780,000
3 bed, 1 bath, 2 car
Ray White, Mitch Rowe, 0418 456 176
1/6 BUTCHERBIRD CRESCENT, BLI BLI
Sold immediately post auction – $640,000
3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car
Ray White, Adam Budd, 0411 808 595
3/12 MACARANGA COURT, PALMWOODS
Passed In at $515,000 now on the market for $530,000 – 2 bed, 2 bath, 1 car
Ray White, Chevonne Rees, 0473 810 820
19 CUTTER STREET, WURTULLA
SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER $1,135,000
5 bed, 2 bath, 2 car
Ray White, Dan McNamara, 0458 010 889
12/81 BIRTINYA BOULEVARD, BIRTINYA
SOLD UNDER THE HAMMER $486,000
1 bed, 1 bath, 2 car
Ray White Justin Wijaya, 0479 135 990
*As supplied by contributing real estate agencies
For more auction results and property stories visit sunshinecoastnews.com.au
If you’re on the hunt for prime development sites on the Sunshine Coast, look no further than these two adjoining properties at 7 Bermagui Crescent and 36 Lowanna Drive Buddina. With a combined total of 1120m2, these neighbouring lots with two street frontages are a rare find in the area and offer endless possibilities for developers and land bankers. Located directly opposite Kawana Shoppingworld, these two dwellings are being sold simultaneously, presenting an opportunity to create something special in one of the most sought after pockets of the Sunshine Coast. With a generous 21-metre height limit, these sites are positioned to take advantage of the high profile location and ocean and hinterland views on offer. The development opportunities are endless.
Prime development site located directly opposite Kawana Shoppingworld
Where: 7 Bermagui Crescent & 36 Lowanna Drive, Buddina
Price:
Contact agent
Contact: Mark Osborne 0423 106 384 Property Today 5444 2222
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7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PG) Amateur cooks compete.
8.40 Law & Order: SVU. (M) Muncy’s brother becomes involved in a case.
9.40 Fire Country. (PG) Jake is suspected of being an arsonist.
10.40 Bull. (M) 11.30 The Project.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are?
6pm Mastermind Australia. (PG)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (M) Food is becoming a critical issue.
8.35 Brian Cox: How The Other Half Live. (M) Part 2 of 2.
9.30 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+) The Free French train with the SAS.
Masters. (PG) 8.50 RPA. (PG) A man gets a second chance at a transplant. 9.50 Nine News Late. 10.20 100% Footy. (M) 11.20 The Equalizer. (MA15+) 6.30pm The Project. 7.30 MasterChef Australia. (PG) A fresh batch of amateur cooks competes. 9.15 Ghosts. (PG) A teen ghost creates havoc. 9.45 FBI: Most Wanted. (M) A 14-year-old girl is kidnapped. 11.30 The Project. 6pm Mastermind Aust. (PG) 6.30 News. 7.35 The Secret Life Of Lighthouses. (PG) 8.30 My Name Is Reeva: I Was Murdered By Oscar Pistorius. (M) Part 3 of 3. 9.25 Race For The Sky: Rise Of The Pioneers. (PG) Programs are correct at the time of print and are subject to change by the networks. 2804
American Pickers. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 7. St Kilda v Port Adelaide. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 12am MOVIE Wilson. (2017) (MA15+)
6pm Pawn Stars. (PG) 6.30 AFL Pre-Game. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 7. Melbourne v North Melbourne. From the MCG. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 MOVIE Pompeii. (2014) (M)
7.30pm MOVIE The Lego Movie. (2014) (PG) Chris Pratt, Will Arnett, Elizabeth Banks. 9.30 MOVIE Central Intelligence. (2016) (M) Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart. 11.40 Duncanville. (M)
7.30pm MOVIE Fast & Furious. (2009) (M) Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Michelle Rodriguez. 9.30 MOVIE Fast Five. (2011) (M) Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Jordana Brewster.
5.30pm Dr Quinn. (PG)
7.30pm Spicks And Specks. 8.00 You Can’t Ask That. 8.30 Louis Theroux Interviews... (M) 9.15 Louis Theroux: Return To The Most Hated Family. (M)
10.20 A Wild Year On Earth. 11.05 Vera.
7.30pm Spicks And Specks. 8.00 A Wild Year On Earth. 8.50 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces. 9.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. 10.25 Portlandia.
6pm Escape To The Country. 7.00 Vicar Of Dibley. (PG) 8.00 Mrs Brown’s Boys. (M) 9.10 Extreme Railways. (PG) 10.10 Billy Connolly’s Tracks Across America. (M) 11.10 Miranda. 11.50 Vicar Of Dibley.
6.30pm Bargain Hunt. (PG) 7.30 Doc Martin. (PG) 8.30 Inspector Morse. (M) 10.50 Air Crash Investigations. (PG) 11.50 Cleaning Up. (M)
6.30pm Border Security: America’s Front Line. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30
MOVIE Captain America: Civil War. (2016) (M) 11.30
MOVIE Drive Angry. (2011) (MA15+)
6pm American Pickers. (PG) 7.00 Pawn Stars. (PG) 7.30 Storage Wars. (PG) 8.30 MOVIE U-571. (2000) (M) Matthew McConaughey. 10.55 MOVIE The Towering Inferno. (1974) (PG)
7.30pm MOVIE Wonder Woman. (2017) (M) Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Robin Wright. 10.15 MOVIE Lucy. (2014) (MA15+) Scarlett Johansson, Morgan Freeman, Choi Min-sik.
6pm That ’70s Show. (PG) 7.00 Young Sheldon. (PG) 7.30 RBT. (M) 8.30 MOVIE The Town. (2010) (MA15+) Ben Affleck,
3.45pm MOVIE Hawaii. (1966) (PG)
Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match.
MOVIE Blown Away. (1994) (M)
3.50pm MOVIE The Train. (1964) (PG)
6.30pm M*A*S*H. (PG) 8.30 MOVIE Saving Private Ryan. (1998) (MA15+) Tom Hanks, Matt Damon, Edward Burns. 11.50 Major Crimes. (M)
6pm JAG. (PG) 7.00 Soccer. A-League Men. Matchweek 26. Melbourne Victory v Brisbane Roar. From AAMI Park, Melbourne. 10.15 SEAL Team. (MA15+) 11.10 Blue Bloods. (M)
6.30pm JAG. (PG)
7.30 NCIS. (M) 10.20
MOVIE The Matrix Revolutions. (2003) (M) Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Laurence Fishburne.
6pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG) 8.05 The Big Bang Theory. (M) 10.15 Friends. (PG)
with MWP’s man in the water
So, I type a funny question into ChatGPT (new technology that allows you to have human-like conversations with a chatbot) and ask: What is the funniest question you have ever been asked? Answer: If animals could talk, which one would be the rudest? My bet?Humans.
6pm The Big Bang Theory. (PG) 8.05 The Big Bang Theory. (M) 9.00 Friends. (PG)
Ok, surf report. Yep, some waves around for sure so get amongst it. And let’s all send good vibes for a winter of solid ground swell. It does seem a long time coming.
See ya and don’t be rude.
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8.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG) 9.30 Seinfeld. (PG) 10.00 Seinfeld. 10.30 Seinfeld. (PG) 11.00 Frasier. (PG) 2804