My Christmas December 2022

Christmas is the season of gift-giving and there’s no better way to show someone you care than an extra special Christmas gift basket delivered to their door Australia-wide. Packed full of quality local produce sourced from the Sunshine Coast, we’ve got something to suit all tastes this Christmas.

If you’re looking for corporate gifts for your clients, customers, staff or suppliers, why not give them a taste of the Sunshine Coast to say thanks this Christmas.

FROM THE EDITOR

Ihave a small confession my Christmas tree went up in early November. I also began gift shopping in May. Nope, I’m not some super organised woman. Not at all. I just love Christmas, and I can’t resist the urge to shop and support local. With so many wonderful boutiques around the region, all brimming with unique, colourful, and creative products, who could blame me?

I love everything about Christmas. I love the Sunshine Coast’s holiday calendar, which is brimming with fantastic events (turn to page 10 to see what I mean!). I love browsing the homegrown products at the local foodie stores and dreaming up a delicious Christmas menu.

Mostly, I love the connection of community, the display of spirit and the generosity shown to those who have fallen on difficult times. After all, isn’t that what Christmas is all about – sharing, connecting, and celebrating together.

From all of us here at My Weekly Preview, may your Christmas be one of happiness, kindness and good health.

Church services & events

Many of the Sunshine Coast’s churches host special Christmas events, ranging from carol nights to mass.

KawanaLife Baptist Church

Corner of Main Drive and Textile Avenue, Warana Christmas Eve carols, 6pm Christmas Day, 8am

Lakeshore Church of Christ

1 Lakeshore Avenue, North Buderim Christmas Day, 9am

Caloundra Catholic Parish Various venues

Christmas Eve: Our Lady of the Rosary, 4pm, 7pm, 10pm; Unity College, 4pm; Beerwah church, 5pm; Maleny church, 7pm

Christmas Day: Our Lady of the Rosary, 6.30am, 9.30am; Landsborough, 7am; Kawana, 8am; Currimundi, 9.15am; Little Mountain, 10.30am

Lifepointe Church 186 Wises Road, Buderim Christmas Day service, 8am

Maroochydore Presbyterian Church 45 Okinja Road, Alexandra Headland Christmas Day, 9am

Matthew Flinders Anglican College 1-47 Stringybark Road, Buderim Christmas Eve, 4pm

(German language service) Christmas Day, 9am

Palmview Church

Palmview State School Hall, 31 College Drive, Palmview Christmas Day, 4.30pm

St Peter’s Anglican Church

Corner Beach Road and Church Street, Maroochydore December 11, Intergenerational Christmas Service, 9am Christmas Day, 7am and 9am

Suncoast Church

Corner Kiel Mountain Road and Schubert Road, Woombye Christmas Eve, 5pm Christmas Day, 6pm.

Celebrations

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4

Carols in the car park, 4.30pm Lakeshore Church of Christ, Buderim Free kids activities starting at 4.30pm with the carols program at 6.30pm.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8-11

Open for Christmas, 5pm Suncoast Church, Woombye Open for Christmas is the latest instalment of Suncoast Church’s annual Christmas show. Be part of the fun and Christmas spirit with stories to make you laugh and bring you cheer. It’s on every night from December 8 to 11. Food and festivities from 5pm and show at 6.30pm.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 Christmas Spectacular, 6.30pm, Anthem Church, Alexandra Headland Christmas carols with violinist Abraham Williams.

Event details correct at time of printing.

MerryChrimas

As we say goodbye to 2022 and we begin the journey into 2023 we want to say ‘Thank You’ to all who have helped IFYS to assist in caring for those less fortunate than ourselves. As a team, together we ensured we changed the lives of the thousands of children, young people and families who accessed our service over the past year and your contribution to this work we want to say thank you.

Maroochydore & Kawana

Sunshine Coast American Motorcycle Club

Christmas favourites from our team

Feel-good books

Fun, colourful and inspiring, these books are sure to brighten your holiday season.

DONNA HAY CHRISTMAS FEASTS AND TREATS

By Donna Hay, HarperCollins

THE TWELVE TOPSY-TURVY, VERY MESSY DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR’S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

By Eric Carle, Penguin

It’s Christmas Eve and The Very Hungry Caterpillar is exploring a magical snowy landscape. Join him as he says goodnight to some baby animal friends before the magic can begin. With flaps to lift on every page and gentle rhyming text, this is the perfect festive bedtime read for babies and toddlers.

BIN CHICKEN AND THE CHRISTMAS TURKEY

By Jol Temple and Kate Temple, Scholastic Australia

Bah humbug! The city is buzzing, shoppers run this way and that, there are carols and lights and a Santa Claus hat! But if a bird is clever... if a bird is a smartie... a bird can still have a fabulous Christmas party! Ibis is in a flap and can’t find any trash, but Bush Turkey knows exactly where to find a feast to gobble!

The celebrity chef takes the stress out of Christmas cooking and entertaining with this musthave collection of more than 170 stunning yet simple festive recipes. Featuring all the nostalgic favourites and some fun twists on the classics, this is the cookbook you need for the festive season. From easy starters to showstopping mains, including a cheat’s glazed ham that doesn’t need studding or basting, to desserts that are sure to impress, and some special edible gifts, these recipes are peppered with Donna’s bestever tricks and shortcuts to make it the most relaxing Christmas yet. You’ll also find plenty of beautiful styling tips to add some extra sparkle to the festivities.

By James Patterson, Penguin

No stockings, no gifts, no tinsel and no tree – has Christmas been cancelled? It’s mid-December and for the fifth year in a row, there is little sign of the festive season in the Sullivan family’s home in South London. That is until a mysterious someone starts sending strange gifts to widower Henry and his two children. First, a small-beaked and feathered face pokes its head out from between the branches of a pear tree. Before they know it, the Sullivan’s home is full of boisterous animals and house guests. The next 12 days turn the family’s lives upside down in ways they never could have imagined. And even though this Christmas will be messy, it may be just the gift their family needs.

Festive fun

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2

CALOUNDRA CHRISTMAS STREET PARTY

Bulcock Street, Caloundra, 4-8pm

Why wait until the end of December to celebrate the festive season? Visit Caloundra on December 2 for an afternoon full of activities. There will be live stage performances including Christmas carolling, as well as roving entertainment, giveaways, face painting for the kids, food trucks and the chance to meet Santa. Enjoy the twilight shopping experience with extended trade, as well as the Christmas Twilight Market spanning the length of Bulcock Street. The party is a collaborative partnership between the Downtown Caloundra taskforce, Sunshine Coast Council and the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, and is supported by the Caloundra CBD regulated parking fund.

NOVEMBER 25 & 26

BUDERIM CHRISTMAS FAIR

Buderim Craft College, Main Street, Buderim, 10am-3pm

Discover everything that is lovingly handmade and original including artworks, pottery, sculpture, cards, jewellery in silver and gemstones, fashion garments, toys, homewares, and knitted and embroidered items. As well as gifts, handmade decorations for the house and tree will add a special Christmas feel to any home. Why not snap up some pre-loved books at the library sale upstairs above the library. Refreshments will be served with delicious homemade choices available.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27

STEPS PATHWAYS CHARITY CHRISTMAS PARTY

Kawana Sports Precinct, Nicklin Way, Bokarina, 9am-2pm

The STEPS Pathways Charity and STEPS Autism Treehouse Christmas Party has a supportive environment. Entry includes all rides. No concessions or companion cards accepted. Under 3s are free.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2

BLI BLI COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROLS

Bli Bli State School, School Road, Bli Bli, 4.30pm

There will be rides, live music, entertainment, food, side show alley, and a fireworks spectacular. Take along a rug to sit on and a small light or lantern.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3 COLLECTIVE MARKETS

Maroochydore Homemaker Centre, Maroochydore Boulevard, 9am-3pm

The Sunshine Coast Collective Markets are back at Maroochydore Homemaker Centre and as always there is an amazing array of stall holders. There will be everything from food, fashion, homewares and jewellery.

Plus, visit the centre every weekend before Christmas to receive a free Santa photo and free digital copy. You’ll find Santa outside Harvey Norman.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4 EUMUNDI CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA

Eumundi Markets car park, Napier Road, Eumundi, 1-7.30pm

The extravaganza, which includes the Hinterland Carols, will be a sixhour festive show incorporating local entertainers, as well as children’s entertainment. There will also be performances by local youth groups, plus free rides, food and market stalls. Don’t miss this free community event for kids of all ages.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4

LIGHTS ON THE LAKE

Crummunda Park, Coongarra Esplanade, Wurtulla, 4pm

The Lights on the Lake festival is

Currimundi’s biggest outdoor community event. Decorate your canoe, kayak or paddle board with Christmas lights and you could win a prize for the best decorated watercraft. There will be heaps of supervised kids’ activities, live entertainment, a drumming circle and market stalls. The highlight will be the parade of boats lit up with Christmas lights, paddling around Currimundi Lake at nightfall. The evening will end with a stunning laser light show from the main stage.

The Sunshine Coast community knows how to celebrate, and with so many festivities on the calendar, there will be no shortage of holiday joy.

DECEMBER 14 TO 22

CHRISTMAS AT LIFEPOINTE

Lifepointe Church, Wises Road, North Buderim, 5.30-9pm

Enjoy the carols and markets. Everyone is welcome to participate in the the fun family-friendly activities including, The Christmas Show, which is held each night at 6.15pm, 7pm and 7.45pm. The stable and animal farm will be returning as well as the Tunnel of Lights and Market Lane. Kids will love the free jumping castles, popcorn, fairly floss, balloon creations, and glow lights. There’ll be plenty of food available with a food truck, cafe, dessert bar, slushies and an ice cream stall.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

MOOLOOLABA CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE

Mooloolaba Yacht Club and throughout Mooloolah River, 7pm

The Mooloolaba Yacht Club Christmas Boat Parade is a Christmas lights display with a difference, as you’ll find decorated hulls alongside houses. Join in by entering your boat in the parade, grabbing a spot along the canals to watch with family and friends, or cheering on the boats from your Christmas-dressed yard or balcony.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11

BUDERIM COMMUNITY CAROLS

Buderim Village Park, Church Street, Buderim, 5.30pm

Everyone is invited to this muchloved, heart-warming Buderim Christmas event. From Jingle Bells to Hark the Herald Angels, enjoy a good old-fashioned sing-along with the community. The carols feature great local talent in an entertaining Christmas presentation, and there will be a visit from Santa too. In the event of rain, the carols will be held across the road at the Buderim Community Hall.

DECEMBER 16 TO 18

MONTVILLE CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

Narrows Road, Montville Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as you gaze upon 150,000 lights. This indoor display is all-weather friendly so come along rain, hail or shine. Although this is a free event, tickets are a must as sessions are strictly an hour in length and only 60 people are allowed per hour. Donations are encouraged to support the Salvation Army’s work on the Sunshine Coast. There will be 23 sessions to choose from. For tickets, visit montvillechristmaswonderland. com.au

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18

SIPPY DOWNS CHRISTMAS CAROLS

Chancellor State College, Scholars Drive, Sippy Downs, 4.30pm

Held on the primary campus oval, you will be singing along to the festive hits. There will be food trucks, games, crafts and more.

Seafood Cruises

IN MOOLOOLABA RIVER & CANALS

DECEMBER 16 TO 20

THE FESTIVE GARDEN

Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden, Tanawha, 5-9pm

Celebrating the stunning native trees, expect to see an explosion of colour against the starry sky as thousands of lights set the stage for a magical experience. There are three stages to get you in the festive mood, a Christmas Grinch show, carols, a reading of The Night Before Christmas, plus roving performers including Santa. Grab a bite to eat from one of events. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au. Free shuttle buses will run continuously between the UniSC Transit Centre and the Botanic Garden from 5pm, with the last bus returning at 9pm each evening.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21

PEREGIAN BEACH CAROLS

Peregian Beach Park, Kingfisher Drive, Peregian, 3pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18

KAWANA CAROLS BY THE BEACH

Surf Club, Pacific Boulevard, Buddina, 3pm

Families and friends will gather on the lawn, enjoying the warmth of the sun while children laugh and play. There will be festive live music and carnival rides, with a firework finale. Grab a picnic blanket, dress in your festive best and celebrate the season.

Meet santa

UNTIL DECEMBER 24 Sunshine Plaza

Save the date for the Coast’s longest running Christmas carols. Celebrating its 58th year, the celebrated event includes live music from local bands, soloists and duos, plus food and artisan stalls and entertainment for the kids.

Find Santa nestled in his world of whimsical wonder at Santa’s Castle at Sunshine Plaza, from now until Saturday, December 24. Capture magical moments to share with friends and family that you’ll cherish for years to come. To ensure no child misses out, sensitive Santa sessions are also available, plus your favourite furry friend can take part in the pet photography sessions. Bookings are essential, visit sunshineplaza.com for more details.

Event details correct at time of printing.

Kawana

Festive

Christmas is all about sharing the love and nothing brings people together better than a shared meal. Here is some inspiration for these holidays.

PLUM-GLAZED HAM

SUPPLIED BY IGA MARKETPLACE WISES ROAD

INGREDIENTS

• Half leg ham, approx 5kg

• 15 plums, dark coloured, ripe but firm

• 250g brown sugar

METHOD

AUSSIE PRAWN AND MANGO SALAD

RECIPE SUPPLIED BY AUSTRALIAN CAUGHT PRAWNS

INGREDIENTS

• 400g cooked Mooloolaba prawns, peeled

• Mixed green leaves of choice

• Quarter purple cabbage, finely sliced

• 2 mangoes, cut and cubed

METHOD

Toss

Tip:

• ¼ cup dark rum

• ¼ cup balsamic glaze

• 1 cup apple juice

• A handful of cloves

1. To make glaze, remove stones from eight plums and cut into chunks. Place in a saucepan, add sugar, dark rum, balsamic glaze and apple juice. Cook over medium heat for 30-35 minutes or until plums have turned glossy and have a jammy consistency. Process in a blender until smooth. Set aside.

2. Preheat oven to 200 degrees (180 degrees fan-forced). Remove skin from ham carefully leaving a layer of fat. Using a sharp paring knife, slice a diamond pattern into the fat, taking care not to slice too deep. Push a clove into the centre of each diamond.

3. Place ham in a large roasting tray. Add remaining plums, cut in halves with stones removed. Brush ham and plums generously with the glaze.

4. Cook for 45 minutes, basting every 10 minutes. Once caramelised, remove from oven and let rest. Serve warm or cold with the glazed plums and extra glaze on the side.

Great side dish!

Dressing:

• Juice of one lime

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp honey

• ½ tsp olive oil

• Water

MAMA’S CHRISTMAS PUNCH

Roz White of White’s IGA shares her age-old family recipe – lovingly made with Wimmers lemonade and ginger ale from Cooroy.

METHOD Combine pre-chilled two litres of juice, 1.25 litres of both Wimmers lemonade and dry ginger ale, and a can of tinned fruit (or diced fresh fruit if you prefer). Top with fresh mint and serve with ice.

HONEY DUTCH CARROTS

Traditional roasted carrots with honey is a popular side dish to baked ham or turkey. Localise your dish with a little Beeman Honey from Pomona.

THIS RECIPE WAS SUPPLIED BY WHITE’S IGA.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 bunches Dutch carrots

• 2 tsp sesame seeds

• 1 tbs Beeman Honey

• 2 tbs oil

• Salt and pepper

METHOD

Clean carrots and trim stalks. Cover in oil, season with salt and pepper and roast in the oven for 30 minutes. To serve, drizzle with honey and seeds.

PAVLOVA TWO WAYS

Is there a Christmas dessert more iconic than the good old pavlova? We think not. This year, take the humble pav to a new level with one (or both!) of these delicious ideas.

OPTION 1 –

FESTIVE CRANBERRY

• 200g frozen cranberries

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 80g caster sugar

• 1 tbs orange zest

• 1 tbs orange juice

• Whipped cream, fresh cranberries and rosemary to serve

METHOD

Place the frozen cranberries in a saucepan with the orange juice, zest, cinnamon, sugar and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook over a low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Increase the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened. Allow to cool.

Decorate your chosen pavlova with the cream, fresh cranberries and rosemary. Lightly dust with icing sugar. Serve with the compote.

OPTION 2: POMEGRANATE AND PISTACHIO

• 1 whole pomegranate, arils removed and washed

• 80g pistachios, roughly chopped

• Whipped cream and fresh or dried cranberries to serve

METHOD

For the coulis:

• ¼ cup pomegranate juice

• 250g frozen strawberries

• 1 tsp honey

• ½ tsp caster sugar

• 1 tsp lemon juice

To make the coulis, place all ingredients into a saucepan and stir until sugar has dissolved. Blitz with a stick blender or food processor until smooth. Return to saucepan and thicken over heat if required.

Layer your chosen pavlova with fresh whipped cream, the pomegranate arils and pistachios. Drizzle with coulis to serve.

For an added festive touch, sprinkle the finished pavlova with a handful of fresh cranberries.

There’s nothing quite like a

INGREDIENTS

• 500g cooked saltwater crab meat

• 2 carrots, peeled and finely sliced

• ½ red cabbage, shredded

METHOD

• 2 mangoes, peeled, sliced and cubed

• Lettuce mix of choice

• Peanuts

Toss all ingredients together and serve fresh with a light, tangy dressing. We recommend: Mix a quarter cup of fresh lime juice with a quarter cup of peanut oil, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon brown sugar and 1 tablespoon sweet chilli sauce and serve on the side.

POMEGRANATE FIZZ

Equally refreshing and bubbly, this cocktail will become a holiday favourite.

Place 15ml of Sunshine & Sons Original Dry Gin into a jar along with a handful of mint and a handful of pomegranate arils. Add the juice of half a lime. Seal and shake well.

Pour the liquid over ice in your chosen glass and top with berry flavoured sparkling mineral water and a dash of lemonade. Garnish with lemon or lime and pomegranate arils.

Tip: you can continue to use the same mint and pomegranate jar to flavour the gin for your guests.

RECIPE SUPPLIED BY FRESH MEATS, MAROOCHYDORE

INGREDIENTS

• Pork loin, ask your butcher to butterfly the meat

• Sea salt

• Beef stock

• Garlic, minced

For the stuffing:

• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

• 1 cup Granny Smith apples, peeled and roughly chopped

• ¼ cup dried cranberries

• ¼ cup roasted pistachios, chopped

• 2 tsp sage, finally chopped

• ½ cup panko crumbs

METHOD

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs, add more to achieve desired consistency

• 1 tbs butter

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

For the sauce:

• ½ cup jellied cranberry sauce

• 1 cup fresh cherries, seeded and halved

• 1 tbs apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbs brown sugar

• 1 tbs fresh orange juice

• 1 cinnamon stick

Optional: For extra Christmas zest, add a light sprinkle of mixed spice.

Prepare the stuffing: Lightly fry the onion and apple in butter for five minutes. Add the cranberries, sage, mustard and pistachios and stir through for two minutes. Transfer to a bowl and add crumbs. Allow to cool.

Prepare the pork: Flatten the pork loin so that it is even. Spread the cooled stuffing one side of the meat (be sure to leave a small margin) and then roll. Secure with kitchen string and then using sea salt prepare the pork crackle in your preferred method.

Cover cooking tray with a beef stock and garlic and sit pork in the shallow liquid.

Cook in a pre-heated 220 degree oven until pork crackles, and then reduce temperature to 180 and cook until meat is cooked through. You can check by inserting a skewer to see if the juices runs clear.

Remove from oven and allow to rest for 15 minutes before carving. Prepare the sauce: Meanwhile, add all sauce ingredients to a pan and cook over a medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Lower the heat and simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

THEME: AUSTRALIANA

Colour palette: Cream as a base layer and then shades of red, maroon, green and blush.

The first step is to select your tableware. We opted for an offwhite table cloth base and natural linen napkins.

You should then layer your dinnerware and set the cutlery, coasters and glasses. A small touch of gold around the plate edge brings an elegant Christmas feel to the setting, while the sprig of rosemary shaped into a wreathe finishes the look. You could swap the rosemary for eucalyptus.

The next step is to add your centrepiece. We used a round natural timber slice in the centre, topped with gum nuts. We then

table

PRODUCT ALERT

ERT o your the natural uld look ong gum

Add a touch of bling to your arrangement. We love the natural copper centre clip on poinsettia from Domayne. It would look beautiful perched among gum nuts as a centrepiece.

arranged native Australian blooms around the table. The selection pictured includes our favourites –red waratah, bottle brush, purple banksia, pink king protea, white tea tree and pink wax flowers.

TIP Don’t be afraid to scatter some pine cones through the foliage. Although they aren’t native to Australia, they will bring a festive feel to the arrangement.

Festive

If you’re looking for a Sunshine Coast icon you’ve found it in the Banana Bender Pub. With 33 years of rich history, this is a must-visit destination.

Discover some of the Sunshine Coast’s best local produce in Mango’s Bar & Grill, chill out in the beer garden, catch some live music, get together with friends on the veranda, or pull up a seat at The Den bar!

With a twist on modern Australian cuisine, The Banana Bender Pub is proud to source the majority of products from within a 50-kilometre radius. Don’t miss the new summer menu!

Explore the iconic pub and find something new and exciting on each level. You’ll love taking a selfie with our famous surfing kangaroo!

Book now and discover why visiting this quirky pub is at the top of the list of fun things to do these holidays.

The Alex Surf Club is arguably the best seat on the beach with great food and friendly service all in one incredible location.

Grab a seat at one of the great dining locations - the Bistro, Kiosk or Bluff Bar. Your taste buds will be rewarded!

The menus feature great family value meals cooked with some of the best locally grown and made produce on the Sunshine Coast.

There are daily specials available, and don’t miss parmi night every Wednesday.

The surf club offers all-day dining options seven days a week, while the bistro is open Sunday through to Thursday, 11.30am to 8pm, and Friday and Saturday, 11.30am to 9pm.

What are you waiting for? Book a table at this Coast favourite today.

Frank Beach Bar & Restaurant is home to some of the best authentic wood-fired pizzas in the Coolum region.

This popular restaurant is known for its traditional Neapolitan pizza – a favourite to be shared and enjoyed with friends and family.

Frank’s bar serves up a range of tempting bespoke cocktails to enjoy after a long day on the beach, and a wine list to accompany the authentic fare.

The festive happy hour and bar snacks kick off from 3pm and are great to enjoy after a long and relaxing day at the beach.

Dine with the sound of the sea, and the salt on your tongue!

Frank’s is the essence of summer holidays right here on your doorstep.

Visit the website or phone ahead and book your table to avoid disappointment!

MERCURE HOTEL KAWANA WATERS

It’s not too late to enjoy a terrific holiday celebration.

The Mercure Kawana Waters can take the hassle out of party planning. Guests will enjoy the tranquil vista of the picturesque Lake Kawana from the private event rooms, Wildflower Restaurant and outdoor timber deck.The water really is the perfect backdrop for any event.

Whether you are looking for a small private gathering, seated dinner or large cocktail-style event, Mercure can tailor-make individual packages to suit your needs. The award-winning food centres around fresh local produce, with some seafood options of course. All complemented by the renowned friendly service.

The Mercure also provides ample free parking for your guests. Event packages start from just $38 per person!

Phone now to discuss the available options.

Market trail

Support local producers and artisans at these great markets.

The Sunshine Coast is renowned for its creative communities and their unique arts and crafts. To see some of their wonderful work, taste regional produce and groove to local music, take a trip to the markets and experience the relaxed atmosphere and Sunny Coast vibe.

PS: It is important to check the date and times of markets, so please go to website addresses included here to ensure you have the correct time and place.

Alex Markets – On December 17, between 7am and noon, you can check out local artisans, foodies, growers and musicians either side of the Alex Skate Park in Alexandra Headland. The markets also pop up during school holidays. To confirm time and place please check the website for details. sunshinecoastcollectivemarkets.com.au

Beerwah Tower Green Market – Enjoy live music, CWA traditional baked goods, a raffle, and locally produced art, homewares, skincare apothecary and more. The markets will be held on Simpson Street, Beerwah on December 10, 8am to midday. Find ‘Beerwah Tower Green Market’ on Facebook.

Cotton Tree Markets – These markets feature local designers and artisans selling a selection of jewellery, artwork, clothing, homewares and skincare, and fundraise for Bloomhill Cancer Care. It is held at King Street, Cotton Tree on Sundays between 7am and midday. Visit the Facebook page for details.

Currimundi Twilight Markets – You will find this Friday night street food market on the third Friday of each month from 4pm to 8pm at Westaway Parade, Currimundi. Visit the Facebook page for details.

The Original Eumundi Markets – Expect fresh produce, fashion, handcrafted furniture and giftware at 80 Memorial Drive, Eumundi, on Wednesdays 8am to 1.30pm and Saturdays 7am to 2pm.

eumundimarkets.com.au

Fishermans Road Markets – The stalls feature a range of local produce, new and secondhand clothing, tools, books, and more on the corner of Fishermans Road and David Low Way, Maroochydore on Sundays from 6am to midday.

fishermansroadmarket.com

Kawana Waters Farmers Market – Stalls stock fresh produce, food, arts and craft at Kawana Waters State College, Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina, from 6am to midday on Saturdays. Visit the Facebook page for details.

Sunshine Coast Collective Markets – Don’t miss out on a great range of arts and crafts, gourmet food and music at Coolum Primary School, Barns Lane, Coolum Beach. Shop local and get into the festive spirit. It’s on December 11 from 8am to noon.

Caloundra Street Fair – There are around 100 stalls selling everything from handmade items, to food and clothing. It’s held on Sundays from 8am to 1pm in Bulcock Street, Caloundra.

Visit the Facebook page for details.

Caloundra Twilight Markets – This familyfriendly event features more than 70 waterfront stalls with handmade and artisan crafts, street food, gourmet sweets, fashion, jewellery and more. It’s held at Bulcock Beach on the last Friday of the month from 5pm. Visit the Facebook page for details.

sunshinecoastcollectivemarkets.com.au

Caloundra Street Fair

Coolum Markets

Eumundi Markets

Eumundi Markets

Caloundra Street Fair

Fun festivities

AUSSIE WORLD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

It’s beginning to look a lot like… fun! Christmas is coming to Aussie World in this family-friendly spectacular. You will have the chance to meet Santa and Mrs Claus, and come face-to-face with all your Christmas friends. Plus there will be roving entertainment, dancers, a Christmas show, lights and snow. There’ll be rides galore too – fly like Santa’s reindeer on the SX360 and Dingo Racer.

When: December 17, 5-9pm Where: Aussie World, Frizzo Road, Palmview

Tickets: from $25, aussieworld.com.au

DARREN COGGAN HOME FOR CHRISTMAS

It is time to deck the shed with bits of wattle and join award-winning performer Darren Coggan as he celebrates the joy of being Home For Christmas through a collection of songs and stories that embrace the festive spirit of Christmas in Australia.

When: December 14, 11am Where: The Events Centre, Minchinton Street Caloundra. Tickets: $22.50, theeventscentre.com.au

GET WILD

Treat the family to a day out at the zoo! Wildlife HQ is home to native and exotic animals from around the world. There are zoo keeper talks, animal feeding encounters and a café to keep you refreshed. Not too mention the amazing animals –koalas, meerkats, kangaroos, emus, squirrel monkeys and sun bears. Where: Nambour Connection Road, Woombye

Tickets: from $25, children under three are free. Visit whqzoo.com

CHRISTMAS PAINT AND SIP

TAKE TO THE WATER

Spoil the family and enjoy an evening with a difference. The Seafood Cruise Mooloolaba team will be hosting its Christmas lights cruise. Prices are $35 for adults and $24 for children aged three to 14. Or, why not dine on the Mooloolaba harbour with one of their seafood cruises? Feast on an assortment of salads, fresh Mooloolaba king prawns, crab, fish and desserts. Prices start at $47.50 for children aged five to 14. Adults are $95. Visit mooloolabacruises.com.au to book.

Come join Frida’s sip ‘n’ paint this festive season and paint pieces from their Christmas collection. Frida’s will have you painting, laughing, singing away to festive tunes and creating a masterpiece of your very own. When: Through December. Bookings: fridas.com.au/mooloolaba

Two-hour sailing experience or sunset cruise

Great range of placemats

Gift idea

Enjoy Christmas lunch without the flies. Shoo Away is a must-have. Available in two colours, $21.95 each (purchase two or more for $20 each).

Introducing Glass on the Grass – the clever wine glass coasters that keep your wine glass stable and upright at picnics, on the sand and anywhere outside. They come with their own storage pouch and are available in a large range of colours. Pouch of four, $49.95.

Outdoor polypropylene rugs, 160cm x 230cm, $329, SPECIAL: $295 each

Large assortment of funky resin drink coasters, $21.95 each

Great range of doormats, $34.95 each

Add colour and texture with the extensive range of stylish outdoor cushions

This champagne bowl is a must for every Christmas table

Quality outdoor beanbag covers with sunproof fabric and inner pillow case to hold beans. Available in three colours, $149.

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