Noosa Today - 12th March 2020

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NEWS

HABITAT'S BIG WIN PAGE 3

NEWS

SISTERS ON SONG PAGE 7

COVER STORY

ROLLING WITH THE

PUNCHES PAGES 4-5

MORE TO LOVE The editor’s desk The win by Habitat Noosa of the gold award in the 'New Tourism Business' category at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards (see page 3) coincides neatly with the recent unveiling of the new 'Noosa 2020' branding campaign by Tourism Noosa, as reported last week.

The campaign is in part aimed at encouraging tourists to venture further into the Noosa region, focused 'high yielding' and international visitors. It's a recognition that the region's attractions are diverse and are a combination of coastal, river and hinterland experiences.

The campaign is also aimed at the 'low' tourist seasons and promoting sustainable tourism, with Habitat Noosa a terrific example of the environmental tourism experience.

A hearty congratulations to Habitat Noosa.

Jeremy Sollars

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LENSCAPE

MUSIC GONG Local Tewantin singing sensations duo 'Oh Harlow' take out a major honour at Queensland Music Awards - page 7.

FUNDING BOOST Federal Wide Bay MP Llew O'Brien reveals a raft of funding announcements for local community groups - page 6.

ST PAT’S DAY

LANCE HUNT captured this great shot of a White-faced Heron on watch in the coastal dunes...

Plenty of local shenanigans on the local area for St Patrick's Day next week - details page 11.

Check out local community group happenings from around the traps in our weekly community updates - page 14.

THINKING OF SELLING?

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THIS WEEK WE’RE TALKING ABOUT…

HABITAT NOOSA’S BIG WIN Sunshine Coast tourism operator Habitat Noosa have won big, walking away with the coveted Gold Award in the New Tourism Business category at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Canberra Friday, March 6.

After great success for the region at the 2019 Queensland Tourism Awards, Habitat Noosa have continued to do the Sunshine Coast proud by securing the highest possible accolade at its first national awards.

Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Chief Executive and Australian Tourism Awards Chair Daniel Gschwind said Habitat Noosa were perfect examples of the high calibre of tourism offerings that Queensland is known for.

"With such a competitive array of destinations across the country, it is reassuring to see Queensland operators excel at these national Awards time and time again, and reinforce the State's reputation as a must-see-destination," Mr Gschwind said.

Not only did Sunshine Coast celebrate its quality products, but collectively Queensland tourism operators took home 14 Awards, which included five Gold, four Silver and five Bronze Awards.

The Sunshine State continues to be a favourite holiday destination for tourists, with Queensland hosting 25.7 million domestic visitors and 2.8 million international visitors last year.

First time finalists, Sunshine Coast tourism operator Habitat Noosa walked away with the ultimate win – taking home the coveted Gold Award in the New Tourism Business category.

Mr Gschwind said that despite a particularly challenging year for operators across the state - as a result of devastating bush fires and flooding - Queensland continued to show undeniable resilience and dedication by providing world-class tourism offerings to visitors.

"I know that the tourism sector is experiencing some turbulence, but that makes it even more vital that we continue to celebrate the work of those who strive for excellence within our industry," Mr Gschwind said.

"It is a great honour for our Queensland operators to be recognised at the Australian Tourism Awards and all of our finalists and winners should be incredibly proud

of their achievements."

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the Australian Tourism Awards provided a great opportunity to highlight the extraordinary efforts of Queensland's tourism operators.

"Congratulations to Habitat Noosa. It's operators like this that ensures hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit Queensland want to return year in, year out," Ms Jones said.

"It's been a tough year for many tourism businesses across the state.

That's why it's more important than ever before that we stick together, rally around our operators and recognise their resilience and

outstanding achievements.

"Tourism is a rapidly evolving industry and Queensland operators continue to go above and beyond to make this state a hotspot for remarkable experiences.

"The Australian Tourism Awards are a great way to kick off the year and celebrate the important contribution that our tourism operators make, not only to our economy but to their regions as well."

Next year the Australian Tourism Awards will be held on the Sunshine Coast for the first time in the national Awards' history.

More information is available at www.australiantourismawards.com. au or www.qtic.com.au. ●

RIVER PLAN SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED Noosa Council says its officers are working through more than 60 submissions received during the latest round of consultation on the draft Noosa River Plan.

Submissions closed earlier this year and a council spokesman said it's "likely to take a few months for officers to review the feedback, and

for a report to be tabled to Council".

Environment and Sustainable Development Director Kim Rawlings said further engagement is occurring with some of the submitters, particularly commercial operators.

"We received some quite detailed responses and we're currently

reading through all of the responses and considering various changes to the draft Plan as a result," she said.

"Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) announced before Christmas that it would increase its presence on the water, to better manage compliance issues.

"We certainly welcome MSQ's

commitment, and now we need to ensure the draft Plan captures this commitment and that any refinements required as a result are incorporated."

Ms Rawlings said the updated Noosa River Plan would come before the new council for consideration following the March 28 election. ●

ACCOUNTABILITY, INTEGRITY COMMUNITY, ACTION

Authorised by WF Sultmann, 6 Springs Crescent, Noosa Heads, Qld 4567 for C. Stewart (candidate) 12442018-SG10-20

noosatoday.com.au

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COVER STORY

ROSS REKINDLES THE FIRE IN TRI any retired, former elite sports stars, looking for a competitive outlet in retirement are making the transition to triathlon and now former Olympic middle weight boxer, Jesse Ross is keen to rekindle his interest in swim, ride, run that started as a seven year old in the Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon series.

Elite amateur boxing is very much a sprint event of three, tough, three minute rounds with the heart rate sitting at 175-180 bpm.

Jess knows he has a very different fight on his hands, on debut at the Mooloolaba Triathlon but can't wait

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to get to the start line on 15 March.

The 2012 Olympic Games was a dream come true for Jesse, who's path to London required him to win fifteen fights in a row at three very intense qualification tournaments.

Jesse hasn't pulled the gloves on for a while, but as an elite athlete for ten years, he knows about hard work, dedication and the sacrifice of making weight limits and living by a strict diet.

"I went to the Olympics in 2012 and trained on for another year to 18 months and then realised that I had reached the pinnacle of my sport that I loved and achieved everything I wanted to achieve," Jesse said. "I never had any desire to

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

turn professional and an opportunity came up to move to the US and start a construction company from ground up. My fiance Jessica grew up in Noosa, so we always had a five year plan to move back.

The Sunshine Coast has a huge multisport community, so for me it was a no brainer, so we bought a place in Sunrise Beach and have been busy finding out what the coastal life is all about."

"I have been to most continents and that many countries and try to stay unbiased as possible but for me you can't beat the Noosa area.

It is where I want to live and raise a family, I just love everything that it has. The lifestyle, the people and you

some of the best triathlons in the world on our doorstep."

Growing up near the Gold Coast, Jesse was your typical active Queensland kid, always on his bike riding around with his mates on the holidays and weekends, doing kid stuff. But Jesse had no real grand plans to embark on an elite sporting career, until he was mesmerised by the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

A very minor 'injury' became the convenient excuse for Jesse to lay around on the couch but as fate would have it, it was a massive turning point in his life that set him on a path that eventually saw him represent Australia in boxing at the 2012 London Olympics. noosatoday.com.au

"In grade 5, I strained my pinkie doing something and I used it as an excuse to lay on the lounge for two weeks in the September holidays. I literally watched the whole two week Olympic coverage and didn't move and I remember watching Natalie Cook and Kerry Pottharst win the gold medal in the Beach Volleyball and I thought 'This is what I want to do, I want to make my mother proud, I want to go to the Olympic Games'."

Eleven year old Jesse had decided he wanted to go to the Olympic Games but there were a couple of issues to overcome. He just didn't know how he was going to manage to get selected, or in what sport.

"Boxing was just one of those things. My brother went to the Army after year 12 and he was trying to build a base fitness and to my dismay mum said I would be going noosatoday.com.au

to the gym with him. The last thing I wanted was to go to a boxing class, so I was dragged along unwillingly.

Eventually I found that I loved the competitiveness of it and while it was boxing specific, the coach was making about who could finish the fastest or punch the most or whatever."

"I just loved it and enjoyed it an after about six months the coach asked me if I wanted to do some sparring. I had watched the guys do it so I thought it couldn't be that hard. After another six months I decided I wanted to be more serious about it and I went and joined an Olympic affiliated club and from 2005 onwards, I just told everyone that I wanted to go to the Olympics."

"I didn't have any natural talent, I had to work the hardest in the room, I was the first one there and the last one to leave. The reason I went to

the Olympic Games is because I wanted it more than anyone else. I beat so many of the best guys on the way there purely through hard work and determination. I was never the most gifted athlete and had to work my arse off to get where I got," he said.

Elite athletes are competitive by nature and while Jesse is keen to apply the same dedication to triathlon as he did to his boxing, he is determined to keep it fun. At least until the gun goes off.

"I like the competition and format of triathlon, it is testing and you have to be able to combine all three legs and you have to be disciplined.

For me triathlon was a good way to give myself some short time goals again, to get my health and fitness back and get my weight where I want it. The Sunny Coast is one of the best places in the world to do

triathlon and there is no excuse not to be out there enjoying the scenery and riding with the groups up here. I have a few friends up here that are doing it as well so we are doing our first triathlon together at Mooloolaba. That is really exciting."

"I am doing the Sprint but it will be my first official triathlon as an adult. It is really something to look forward to. Short term goal setting is how I work, and I would like to do four or five triathlons throughout the year. The competition helps me mentally, it helps me stay disciplined and I enjoy it. I really like the format and I think Mooloolaba is a great community event, so I am really excited to race and have some fun. I have no expectations about this first one, I just want to get there and see what it is all about," Jesse said. â—?

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NEWS

GRANTS FOR LOCAL GROUPS Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O'Brien this week announced $40,000 in federal grants to enrich the lives of people with disabilities in Noosa communities, along with a number of other funding announcements for local groups.

Disability support organisation Sunshine Butterflies will receive $20,000 through Round 5 of the Stronger Communities Programme to provide air-conditioning in its activity shed, and $20,000 in Communities Environment Programme funding to rejuvenate a dam at the Cooroibah 'Our Backyard' facility.

"Sunshine Butterflies makes a huge difference to the lives of many families in the Noosa region, and it's simply a magical environment for everyone who visits," Mr O'Brien said.

"These two grants will not only make daily activities much more comfortable for clients and staff throughout the hot summer months, but they will also benefit from 3000plus native species in the Cooroibah area by providing improved habitat.

"I've been an ongoing supporter of Sunshine Butterflies, with Stronger Communities Programme Round 3 and Round 4 grants of $16,362 and $17,295, and I congratulate Leanne Walsh and her team on their excellent work that puts sunshine in the hearts of so many families in Noosa, and everyone who visits.

"I'd also like to thank Sunshine Butterflies' donors and sponsors who help keep the doors of this amazing place open."

More than $39,000 in Communities Environment Programme funding was also announced this week for Noosa and District Landcare, Cooroy Golf Club and Noosa Integrated Catchment Association.

Mr O'Brien said previous rounds of the Stronger Communities Programme delivered funding to a range of organisations in Wide Bay, assisting with: · New audio visual technology for Gympie Chamber of Commerce · Funding towards new vehicles for Cooloola Coast Medical Transport service · Improved car parking and accessibility for South Burnett First Aid Volunteers at the Murgon Training Centre. · two new portable salvage-fire fighting pumps for Noosa Coast Guard's rescue boats. · A new Digger's Memorial for Tewantin-Noosa RSL Sub-Branch. · Upgraded arena flooring for Maryborough Riding for the Disabled.

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Wide Bay MP Llew O'Brien. · A new hay shed for Gympie's Hope Reins. · Displays at Maryborough Military Aviation Museum Complex · A new all-terrain vehicle for Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club. · a solar power system at Vinnies Noosaville. · a new 10-pallet truck for Maryborough's Foodbasket. · Security cameras for Tin Can Bay Fishing Club. · Solar panels for Tin Can Bay RSL & Citizens' Memorial Hall; and more.

Cooroy Gymnastics has also received $17,788 to re-roof its gymnasium and Noosa Boardriders has received $7,750 for a jet-ski, through Round 5 of the Stronger Communities Programme.

"The Cooroy Gymnastics Club helps keep more than 500 children active every week, and provides a valuable opportunity to learn new skills in a fun environment," Mr O'Brien said.

"This funding has helped replace their old roof, which was rusted through and posed a safety risk - so now Cooroy kids and their families can continue to enjoy their sport and compete in safety."

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

Mr O'Brien said funding for Noosa Boardriders would also enable the community to stay active and enjoy the benefits of Noosa's beautiful waterways.

"Noosa Boardriders is a dynamic, growing club, and the provision of a jet ski with inflatable sled will enable the club to train, coach and run competitions to a safe and professional standard," he said.

Mr O'Brien was also pleased to announce Cooroy Golf Club has received $6,934 through the Communities Environment Program to improve a watercourse.

"The Cooroy Golf Club grounds contain water courses that are a catchment for Lake McDonald, and have been home to a group of platypuses in the past, so it's an important area to preserve and protect," Mr O'Brien said.

"I congratulate each of three organisations on the good work they do to build stronger, healthier and happier communities where people love to live."

More than $32,000 in Communities Environment Programme funding was also announced today for Noosa and District Landcare, and Noosa

Integrated Catchment Association.

Noosa Landcare and Noosa Integrated Catchment Association will receive the funding through the Communities Environment Program, part of a $22 million investment by the Morrison Government to deliver practical environmental projects across Australia.

"Noosa is world-famous for its incredible natural beauty, and this funding is helping these dedicated environmental groups to continue their excellent work protecting our precious, unique environment," Mr O'Brien said.

"The Communities Environment Program is supporting our community and local groups to deliver real environmental and heritage benefits here in Wide Bay, and ensure our patch of paradise stays pristine into the future."

Noosa and District Landcare Association will receive $19,266 for a revegetation project at the Sheppersen's Lane Lookout, which is prime habitat for vulnerable native fauna such as koalas, Powerful Owls and Greater Gliders.

Noosa Integrated Catchment Association will receive $13,000 for the rehabilitation of Wallum Woodland, including rubbish removal, weeding and revegetation to create a wildlife linkage between the Girraween section of Noosa National Park, Sunshine Creek and the Sunshine Beach foreshore.

"I congratulate Phil Moran and his team at Noosa Landcare, and Justin and Jill Campbell and their Noosa Bush Beach and Creek Care team working through the Noosa Integrated Catchment Association, for the great work they are doing to restore native species and preserve natural habitat," Mr O'Brien said.

The Communities Environment Program builds on the Coalition's strong record of investing in grassroots environmental action through initiatives such as the $1 billion National Landcare Program and 20 Million Trees.

STAFFING APPOINTMENT The partner of federal New England MP and former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce will commence casual employment with Wide Bay MP and Deputy House of Representatives Speaker Llew O'Brien later this month.

Vikki Campion, who is also the mother of two of Mr Joyce's six children, will perform administration and research duties for Mr O'Brien on a part-time basis during parliamentary sittings. ● noosatoday.com.au

NEWS

TEWANTIN SISTERS ON SONG

BY RON LANE For thousands of people throughout the music industry it was definitely the night of the year - the 2020 Queensland Music Awards.

Proudly produced by QMUSIC the event was held before a capacity house, in its new home the Fortitude Music Hall Brisbane; and for Tewantin’s singing duo, Briannah (20) and Tiana (19) Dennis known as Oh Harlow, it was to be - the night to remember.

Originally named the Dennis Sisters, Oh Harlow was one of only four artists to make the final selection for the Queensland Country Song of the Year.

The song entitled, Give it a Miss, had made the No 5 position on the National Country Air Play Chart.

So well accepted was the song that it remained in the top 10 for 12 weeks: this was to be a major factor in their being named in the final four.

The four finalists were introduced to the crowd and then came the announcement. “The winner is- Oh Harlow!’’

The girls were for the moment stunned.

“We were so excited just to make the final,” said Tiana, “It really did not hit us until we stepped onto the

stage. Then, oh gosh, we suddenly realised that we had forgotten to write an acceptance speech; just in case we did happen to win. But we somehow managed to get through a speech and most important of all we remembered to thank all those who have helped in any way. And in particular our co-writer Nolan Wynne.

“For us winning the award was great, “said Briannah. “But the other big thing it gave us the opportunity to meet really outstanding people like the presenter Michael Chugg from Chugg Entertainment/Frontier Touring. After the presentation we were taken out front onto the red carpet with other winners for a photo shoot: it was all new and very exciting.”

Another plus that came from the success of the song has been the invitation to support nationally recognised folk/pop duo Busby Marou in two Sydney shows later this month.

Also, the importance of interviews with such as the Courier Mail, Sunshine Coast media and national radio cannot be ignored.

Add to this receiving the award bought increased air play and as a result, Give it a Miss finally rose to No 3 on the charts.

Regarding the change of name, the girls agreed that at the start of their career they we stuck with the name the Dennis Sisters.

“However, with a new body of work and a fresh approach came the opportunity for us to debut as young adults and do it under a new name.”

Being the recipient of such an award, has for the sisters been the major climax of a very successful year. Earlier on they received their first ever invitation to perform at the famous Woodford Folk Festival followed by yet another gig at Tamworth.

Then from the home front came the privilege of doing a gig at the official opening of the Noosa Boiling Pot Brewery; and this was to coincide with Oh Harlow’s first ever release of a self-titled E.P. (Extended Play) disc.

Following this who knows what the future will hold. We wish them well. ●

LLEW O’BRIEN

MP

Federal Member for Wide Bay s Working for Noosa communitie 319 Kent Street Maryborough QLD 4650 PO Box 283 Maryborough QLD 4650 07 4121 2936 Tollfree 1300 301 968 Llew.OBrien.MP@aph.gov.au llewobrien.com.au /llewobrienLNP

Tewantin’s singing sisters Briannah and Tiana Dennis accept their award. noosatoday.com.au

Authorised by Llew O’Brien MP, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 319 Kent Street, Maryborough QLD 4650 12440409-LB07-20

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NEWS

CRACKDOWN ON DUMPING Council will continue to crack down on illegal dumping with an improved surveillance program thanks to a $50,000 state government grant.

This comes as a large load of rubbish was discovered on the fringe of the Noosa National Park this week, illegally dumped and burnt.

Manager Waste and Environmental Health, Wayne Schafer said the find was disturbing, especially in the wake of the bushfire crisis.

"It's bad enough someone dumped the rubbish in our beautiful forest, but to think that they actually lit it up is distressing given the magnitude of the bushfire season we've just had.

"It's a miracle it didn't ignite the entire National Park," Mr Schafer said.The grant will go towards increasing surveillance and monitoring programs to help catch those dumping waste in parks and bushland around the shire.

"Unfortunately it's one of those issues that every local council faces, where a minority of people prefer to dump their rubbish in bushland than take it to landfill or recycling facilities.

Manager of Waste and Environmental Health Wayne Schafer an Independent Member Sandy Bolton inspecting the recent dumping near national park.

"Illegal dumping costs ratepayers tens of thousands of dollars every year. We are grateful the state government has recognised this issue and has chipped in to help us combat it."

Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton said the funding was integral to keeping the dumpers on their toes.

"This is a nation-wide issue and something that most councils need to keep on top of.

"It's imperative that we continue to preserve the parks and bushland in Noosa, and this grant will further assist council in their efforts to minimise this problem."

Mr Schafer said the funding will

take surveillance to new heights.

"We have invested in equipment and technology to make sure these illegal dumpers will be caught.

"The unfortunate fact is that some of the dumped material is things like metal, cardboard and old whitegoods which can all be taken to our local landfill for free."

Mr Schafer encourages locals to dob in a dumper if they see it happening around the shire.

"At the most recent local kerbside collection we had people doing the wrong thing by dumping large amounts of asbestos and toxic material in our neighbourhoods, and locals notified us straight away.

"Kerbside collection is a service Council provides to help residents in the shire, but last year's collection ended up costing us greatly as we had to go in and clean-up the illegal dumping.

"With this funding we'll be able to up our game and really clean up the problematic dumping to preserve our beautiful natural areas, and hopefully catch the culprits in the process." ●

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ROUGH CONDITIONS FORCE REMOVAL

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Noosa beaches won't have the added security of shark nets as of today, as rough conditions are expected to continue this week and into the weekend.

Shark control nets are being removed from South East Queensland beaches due to forecast rough weather.

Fisheries Queensland Shark Control Program Manager Michael Mikitis said removing the nets was normal practice when rough weather was predicted.

"A combination of strong winds this weekend and a potential tropical low that is forecast to impact South East Queensland next weekend makes removing the nets now necessary before the weather worsens," Mr Mikitis said.

"Nets will be removed from all Gold Coast beaches, all Sunshine Coast beaches and Rainbow Beach over the next two days however drumlines will remain in place at this stage.

"We will keep a close eye on the weather and teams are prepared to respond accordingly if necessary and re-install the nets if the weather conditions allow."

Mr Mikitis said temporarily removing the equipment was also a public safety issue.

"High seas can cause some

equipment to come adrift and loose shark control equipment can be a danger to swimmers and boats," Mr Mikitis said.

"Anyone who sees any unsecured shark control equipment including ropes, netting or buoys, should call the Shark Control Program Hotline on 1800 806 891.

"Swimmers are also advised to follow safe swimming practices, including swimming between the flags and not swimming at dusk or dawn, particularly with the shark control equipment out of action temporarily.

"In rough conditions, it's important that people take advice from the Queensland Surf Lifesaving Service as to whether they should go into the water."

Be Safe. Be SharkSmart · Don't swim at dawn or dusk · Always swim in clear water (not in murky water, anchorages, estuary mouths or canals) · Don't throw food scraps or fish waste overboard · Don't swim where fish are being cleaned · Swim, surf, snorkel or dive with a buddy · Follow local signage and swim between the flags at patrolled beaches. ● noosatoday.com.au

NEWS

ENRICHMENT TALKS ON CRUISE Local personality, community influencer and author, Michael Donovan, will set sail on the Cunard Queen Elizabeth in mid-March to present a series of what the cruise line calls 'enrichment talks.'

Speakers with particular expertise, stories, and experiences are offered to cruising guests on 'at sea' days to occupy, engage and entertain.

Donovan's subjects have the titles - 'Why would anyone want to be led by you?' (modern leadership); 'Creating Queensland's first UNESCO Biosphere in Noosa'; 'The Art of the Business-Mentor' (based on his recently published book) and a walk-through Michael's autobiography 'Just Famous Enough not to be Noticed'.

Michael wanted to prepare 'something out there and unusual for guests' which resulted in a two-part presentation, titled 'A 4,000-year History of Vampyres' (the correct

arcane spelling). A curious interest of Michael's.

"The history of the mythology, the cultural beliefs in monsters, the effect on the arts plus the involvement of the church and how some cultures more strongly believe in vampyres, is fascinating." he said.

Each presentation is 45 minutes with, what sounds very attractive, a follow-on Q&A forum in the bar.

With two-books under his belt, a background in arts, opera and entertainment (including the NSW Bicentenary), government service, international hospitality, tourism, environment and mentoring, Donovan has a rich portfolio on which to draw and inform on the main topics.

Michael is known locally for his successfully chairmanship role in resisting the attempted amalgamation of Tourism Noosa into part of a regional tourism body; his chairmanship of the

new Original Eumundi Markets transition and for establishing Queensland's first UNESCO Biosphere in Noosa of which he was inaugural Executive Chair.

Arriving in Noosa 15 years ago (with three decades prior of fishing visits) Donovan served the local community receiving an Electorate Award for Services to the Community, one among several national and State awards for corporate excellence, while still managing and participating in the country's largest network of CEO business-mentors.

That business partnered with the Australian Institute of Company Directors; Mt Eliza Business School and BlackSwan International (UK) and worked across the ASX 500.

These work-life experiences form the foundations of the main talks on QE over 10-days. ●

SANOFI CHALLENGE BRINGS BUTTERFLIES JOY There were smiles all round and even a few tears when Biopharmaceutical company Sanofi built and generously gave 24 bikes to disability support charity Sunshine Butterflies.

Sanofi is a French multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Paris, France.

Sanofi undertook a corporate team building activity with Be Challenged on Wednesday March 4, where 195 participants gathered at Novotel Twin Waters resort and were split into 24 groups to build bikes.

Little did the Sanofi teams know that at the end of their challenge they would be presenting these bikes

Big smiles all round from the Sunshine Butterflies recipients. to 24 Sunshine Butterflies members living with a disability.

It was a heart-warming moment for all when Sunshine Butterflies entered the building and the Sanofi teams handed their bikes over.

"Sunshine Butterflies loved being part of this event.

"Our members were ecstatic to receive a bike and we were all so touched by the generosity." Sonja Wright, Community Development All Involved felt the joy of giving that day and Sunshine Butterflies left with a new bike and a smile from ear-to-ear.

"We are so grateful to Sanofi and Be Challenged for being chosen as the recipients of such a wonderful Initiative," Ms Wright said.

Sunshine Butterflies offers a 'one-stop-shop' for disability support services at their unique property 'Our Backyard', a purpose-built,

tranquil 5 acre oasis In the Noosa countryside.

The organisation is based on disability support service, is a not- for-profit NDIS provider that has built a network of flexible services to provide information, support, resources and programs to individuals and families living with a disability in a safe and happy learning environment.

Sunshine Butterflies was founded in 2005 by Leanne Walsh, who made it her mission to reduce the stigma of disability within her community and she now leads a passionate team of over 80 staff, who help make her dream a reality. ●

FREE INFORMATION SESSIONS FOR SOLAR Solar expert Lucy Best will answer residents' questions about solar and battery storage systems in two free information sessions.

Council is hosting the free sessions at The J as part of its free solar and energy advice program.

"There are so many different products on the market and just as many companies offering all sorts of deals so it can be daunting trying to make sense of it all," Ms Best, from the Australian Energy Foundation, said.

"But a little knowledge can help you choose the best system for your specific needs and avoid the pitfalls."

The sessions, hosted in partnership with Australian Energy Foundation (AEF), are open to all noosatoday.com.au

Noosa Shire residents who are keen to reduce their energy usage and bills.

Ms Best has broad experience helping communities to reduce their energy consumption and save costs.

She has overseen energy efficiency and solar-for-schools programs, and programs that provide tenants and apartment building residents with access to solar power.

Council's Carbon Reduction Project Officer Annie Nolan said Council was pleased to offer these information sessions to all residents.

"Improving your home's energy efficiency and installing solar is a great way of reducing your household costs and your carbon footprint. These sessions will help

you work through the options, including solar with or without a battery storage solution."

Both sessions will be held at The J, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Junction: · Thursday, March 12, 5.30pm 7.30pm · Tuesday, April 21, 5.30pm 7.30pm Book via www.aef.com.au/ councils/qld/noosa In addition to the information sessions, the AEF partnership provides residents with access to free advice and online resources to assist with energy saving options.

It's all part of Council's 2026 netzero emissions goal. ●

Solar expert Lucy Best will answer residents’ questions about solar and battery storage systems during two free information sessions hosted by Noosa Council and the Australian Energy Foundation.

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LETTERS

Post your letters to: 36 Mary St, Noosaville, 4566 or email: newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au

A BURNING ISSUE After reading several long-winded letters advocating a vote for Tony Wellington as Noosa mayor and the status quo for councillors, I'm opting for the winds of change.

I've never met Clare Stewart, but her realistic views on environmental issues including the obvious need for more cool reduction burns and larger fire breaks on council-controlled land and the national park, is a vote winner for me.

Our suburb of Castaways Beach is bordered by national park with narrow fire trails behind many of the houses, and I've never seen a backburn there since we moved here in 2013. There is an obvious severe fire threat here, just as there is in many other parts of the shire.

Blaming a "shortened window" to do hazard reduction burns is a poor excuse for inaction which fails to protect property, human lives and wildlife.

Clare's dignified response to often unfair personal criticism and the current council's aptitude for attracting national headlines for all the wrong reasons, have also swayed my opinion.

John Mikkelsen, Castaways Beach.

LENSCAPE

VOTING FOR CONTINUITY I'm sure I'm not alone in my difficulty in making a final decision as to who to vote for in the council election, given the Melbourne Cup field of favourites and rank outsiders who have entered the race this time.

While the candidate forums and media statements offer some minimal guidance, I intend to make my decision based on a few basic principles.

1. On the whole, with one possible exception, I believe that the current mayor and council have served us well in following the Noosa tradition of minimising our impact on the environment while keeping rates as low as possible. For that reason I will vote for continuity rather than a blank slate, which reduces to three

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PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN OWNED & INDEPENDENT

Water action at Dolphin Point. the number of Council positions up for grabs.

2. Phil Moran has a long track record of dedicated work for the wider Noosa community and for the environment, so one of my votes will be going to Phil.

3. The remaining two would ideally bring a fresh perspective to council, while still supporting the Biosphere principle of 'Man prospering in harmony with Nature'. While youth and gender balance also play a role in my decision, these are secondary considerations.

I urge other voters to review their priorities along similar lines, and not risk oveturning the eqilibtrium we have achieved in the last few decades under successive councils. I am particularly suspicious of those representing vested commercial interests such as small business/tourism, as well as those who have chosen to form an apparently unnecessary and policy-free coalition.

Noel Bird, Boreen Point.

GAME OF SIGNS The 'Game of Signs' has begun in Thursday, 12 March, 2020

Picture: LANCE HUNT earnest now that the council elections are drawing near. It seems that some candidates believe that he/she who displays the most signs will rise to rule one of the Seven Kingdoms.

What a shame that the need for recognition of their plastic images on the roads in the North isn't matched by the claims that they will protect and preserve the environment and amenity of the region that they champion.

Winter is coming!

Joe Jurisevic, Tewantin.

ELECTION SHENANIGANS Word has it that one of the Future Noosa campaign group (for the probusiness council candidates) has issued defamation notices to 20 or so residents of Noosa Shire concerning the upcoming election.

Those that throw the most mud have the thinnest skin.

A councillor’s position pays about $60,000, but much more is at stake for some individuals. Are they trying to stifle legitimate public comment?

Noosa Shire: be careful of who you vote for.

Michelle Hayes, Noosaville.

NOT SO SMART I’m always bemused as I drive through the section of Bruce Highway that has been under construction for months near Landsborough and pass the flashing signs that urge drivers to: “Follow signs. Not GPS.” Such a warning denotes our reliance of technology, especially when getting from A to B. Reading a map, or the good old Refidex has been superseded by GPS. Sadly, important navigational skills are lost in the process.

I hate to think how driverless “smart” cars would cope when the programmed highway does not match reality.

Brigid Muir.

IN THE RUNNING? Is it true that a serious but overlooked contender, Ad Hominem, is running in the Local Council Election?

Margaret Wilkie.

Peregian Beach. noosatoday.com.au

NEWS

ST PATRICK’S DAY FUN Tuesday 17 March will be a huge day for all lovers of Irish culture in Noosa.

Flanagan’s at the Reef Hotel will be the place to head this St Patrick’s day and night.

With four bands and some of the best Irish Dancers in Australia performing on the day.

Music begins with Celtic Fusion at noon who are masters of all the Irish favourites with Scottish Tom Kimmet on Irish pipes and tin whistle at the helm.

Local folk rock band the Barleyshakes headline the day from 3.30pm with a power packed Celtic show interwoven with appearances by the Noosa Pipe band and the Ard Rince Irish dancers. This amazing dance troupe recently took away a swag of awards at the national Irish dance championships.

The Barleyshakes are soon off to play the big stages at the National folk festival in Canberra so be sure to catch them while you can.

The Alan Kelly band takes up the evening’s entertainment and will be full of cheer with a great mix of Irish folk and rock covers from the likes U2, Thin Lizzy, Riverdance, the Waterboys, the Pogues, Christy Moore, the Dubliners and more.

Celtic tunes from the Emerald Eyed DJ will be the icing on the cake for Noosa’s first St Patrick’s day festival which runs ‘til late.

Flanagan’s is right underneath the Reef Hotel and has been hosting the popular Noosa Irish night every Thursday for 5 years and so it’s the perfect venue for this special Irish day.

Entry is free for this event and children are welcome until 9pm. ●

Local folk rock band the Barleyshakes.

PUZZLES Quick Clues

9 4

6 3 4 6 1 2

9

3

ACROSS

Cryptic Clues

8 4 7

7

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7609 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Burn with love. 8, Street (anag.) 9, See-the.

10, Cracked. 12, Tempo. 15, Spray. 16, Hear-say. 18, Pastor. 20, Di-the-r. 22, Excercise book.

Down - 1, Butter up. 2, On-c-e. 3, D-itt-ies. 4, C-has-e. 5, F-oreb-ear. 6, Bet-h(ot). 11, C-hatt-ier. 13, Played on. 14, Red-dish. 17, Grace. 19, Ap-ex. 21, Tubs (anag.)

2

4 1 9 8 3 7 6 5 2

7 5 2 9 4 6 1 3 8

1 9 5 4 8 3 7 2 6

6 2 9

3 7 4 6 2 9 8 1 5

2 6 8 7 1 5 3 9 4

5 4 7 1 9 8 2 6 3

6 2 3 5 7 4 9 8 1

Solution No.4271

9 8 1 3 6 2 5 4 7

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

2

5 1 8

8 3 6 2 5 1 4 7 9

noosatoday.com.au

(6). 22. A keep fit manual? (8,4).

DOWN 1. Prepare the toast that will be flattering? (6,2). 2. As soon as one rings the number (4). 3. Songs from the wild tit inside, flying (7). 4. To pursue, is forced to enter the church (5). 5. Fear the terrible bore inside is a relation (8).

6. Put your money on a hot tip from a lady (4). 11. Saying more about that terrible rice pudding (8). 13. Got oneself dismissed, but continued to bat (6,2). 14. One of the national foods of Russia: quite colourful (7). 17. A prayer for a famous cricketer (5). 19. Pop back, once at the top (4). 21. Bust out of the containers (4).

3

ACROSS 7. As your old flame used to, for you? (4,4,4). 8. The way to train a setter (6). 9. Are furious, you notice, at the end (6). 10. Touched when broke (7). 12. The speed of play depends on it (5). 15. Wet flowers (5). 16. Be told to inform people it’s only rumour (7). 18. A previous or subsequent minister (6). 20. Can’t decide about the free return (6). 22. A keep fit manual? (8,4).

DOWN 1. Prepare the toast that will be flattering? (6,2). 2. As

Fill the gr every row 3x3 squar the digit 8 4 9 7 1 3 5 2 6

Solution 5 6 2 9 8 4 7 3 1

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 7609 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Discriminate. 8, Starch. 9, Clover. 10, Aniseed. 12, Heady. 15, Stout. 16, Blanket. 18, Rabbit. 20, Excise. 22, Mulligatawny.

Down - 1, Distinct. 2, Scar. 3, Fighter. 4, Pinch. 5, Napoleon. 6, Mere. 11, Squabble. 13, Dressing. 14, Illegal. 17, Stair. 19, Army. 21, Clay.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7609

8

How to Sudo

|

NOOSA TODAY 11

3 5 7

DOWN 1. Clear (8) YPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7609

7 3 1 7 1 7 5 8 2

9 7

3

6

6

2

DOWN Clear (8) Mark (4) Pugilist (7) Steal (5) French emperor (8) Nothing more than (4) Quarrel (8) Sauce (8) Forbidden (7) Step (5) Service (4) Earth (4)

9

3

1

1

ACROSS 7. Differentiate (12)

11.

13.

14.

17.

19.

21.

7

4 7 2

Flavouring (7) Intoxicating (5)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

No.4

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

5 1

ferentiate (12)

SUDOKU How to solve Sudoku!

ACROSS Differentiate (12) Stiffen (6) Plant (6) Flavouring (7) Intoxicating (5) Corpulent (5) Covering (7) Animal (6) Tax (6) Soup (12)

9 1 3

7.

8.

9.

10.

12.

15.

16.

18.

20.

22.

SUDOKU No. 4271

8

QUICK QUICKPUZZLE PUZZLENo. NO. 7609 7609

1 7 3 2 5 6 8 9 4

2 1 8 6 3 7 9 4 5

6 5 4 8 2 9 3 1 7

LIVE

ENGAGE IN ART Art lovers will have more to look forward to this month as Noosa Regional Gallery are to unveil two exciting new exhibitions - Mary Macqueen, A Retrospective and Rosie Lloyd, Giblett: The spaces between the trees.

Drawn from private and public collections Australia-wide, the Mary Macqueen exhibition explores the artist’s life.

Born in Melbourne in 1912, Macqueen developed a love of drawing as a child. But it wasn’t until later, after raising a family and following the loss of her husband in 1970 that she truly flourished as an artist, says Noosa Regional Gallery Director Michael Brennan.

“She was once described by prominent Australian art critic Alan McCulloch as ‘second to none in contemporary Australian drawing’, and we are thrilled to give local audiences a chance to see her work for themselves.”

Widely appreciated for her expressive and experimental style, Macqueen continually tried to simplify her works, Mr Brennan says.

“In her drawings of wildlife,

Mary Macqueen's Giraffe, 1972.

PLAY NOOSA AND TEE UP A $13 LUNCH SPECIAL.

Enjoy our $13 Lunch special, served with a golf course on the side.

For details go to noosagolf.com.au, to book call 5447 1407(ext 2) or simply come along to 46 Corooy Noosa Rd, Tewantin.

12427683-SN39-19

12 NOOSA TODAY

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Thursday, 12 March, 2020

domestic life and landscapes she’s concerned more with conveying the essence of a particular quality than precisely depicting the subject matter.

“Macqueen’s decisive markmaking often provided just enough detail to render her depictions of the world around her both poetic and potent.”

Like Macqueen did years earlier, Lloyd-Giblett juggles her arts practice and daily domestic duties.

“I work during school hours ... after school running around and if needed after dinner ... I have to be disciplined,” the artist says.

While Macqueen’s offerings were mostly expressive of her inner dialogue, Lloyd-Giblett says her motivation is a desire to engage the viewer.

“I want the viewer to smell the foliage, view the colour pathway and hear the tune of the natural world,” she says.

Mary Macqueen - A Retrospective and Rosie LloydGiblett: The spaces between the trees will be at Noosa Regional Gallery from March 13 to April 26, 2020.

Entry to the Gallery is free. Visit: www.noosaregionalgallery.com.au ●

BOUTIQUE CINEMA AT THE IMPERIAL HOTEL The Imperial Hotel Eumundi will host a Boutique Cinema event in The Bunker on Friday 20 March with a screening of Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time In Hollywood.

Doors open 7pm, with the screening commencing at 7.30pm.

Enjoy this absolute cracker film from the comfort of comfy lounge chairs with bar snacks available to enjoy throughout the movie.

Tickets are $15. Limited seats available. Bookings essential by calling 5442 8811.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood is a 2019 comedy-drama film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino and set in 1969 Los Angeles. Actor Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) gained fame and fortune by starring in a 1950s television Western, but is now struggling to find meaningful work in a Hollywood that he doesn’t recognize anymore. He spends most of his time drinking and palling around with Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt), his easygoing best friend and longtime stunt double. Rick also happens to live next door to Roman Polanski and Sharon Tate -- the filmmaker and budding actress whose futures will forever be altered by members of the Manson Family.

The ninth film from the writer-

Enjoy a boutique screening of Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood at the Imperial Hotel. director features a large ensemble cast and multiple storylines in a tribute to the final moments of Hollywood’s golden age.

The Imperial Hotel’s free courtesy bus operates Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm, travelling to Eumundi, Belli Park, Cooroy, Doonan, Eerwah Vale, North Arm, and Verrierdale. Phone 0467 414 171 to book. ● noosatoday.com.au

LIVE

MELBOURNE CUP ON RAILS Gympie’s horse-racing pedigree was shown at its best last November, when a novice local syndicate triumphed with their unfancied horse, Vow and Declare, in Australia’s premier horse race, the $8 million Melbourne Cup. The winning connections included Noosa businessman Paul Lanskey, along with Assumption College Warwick principal Kort Goodman and Gympie Regional Council deputy mayor Bob Leitch.

And now the whole community will be able to celebrate the success when the Melbourne Cup is shown off at Gympie Station and then onboard the Mary Valley Rattler for an exclusive event on Friday 3rd April.

Guests are encouraged to dress up in race-style and enjoy the festivities, which will start from 4:30pm with the event charity partner Men of League Foundation function at the historic Gympie Station.

There will be a welcome drink and light refreshments on arrival, along with the opportunity to get up close and personal to the Melbourne Cup, before the race crowd jumps on board the Rattler for the journey

The world famous three-handled loving cup. to Amamoor Station at 5:30pm.

The Cup will ride on the train with a parade through the heritage carriages and photos with the Cup are welcomed.

On-board there will be entertainment and sweeps, as well as a best-dressed competition.

The ticket also includes entry to the Gympie Turf Club on Saturday 4th April for a complete racing weekend.

Vow and Declare not only brought triumph to Gympie, it was the first Australian horse to win the Melbourne Cup since Shocking in 2009, and was actually the only Australian-bred, trained and ridden horse in last year’s race.

The fairy-tale win was made even more poignant by the fact that of

Guests are encouraged to dress up in race-style and enjoy the festivities, which will start from 4:30pm with the event charity partner Men of League Foundation function at the historic Gympie Station. the 13-person syndicate - including owners from Gympie - most had never owned a horse before.

“The win was a fantastic boost to the community last November, given we had bushfires nearby and drought throughout the region,” said Mary Valley Rattler General Manager Mike Green.

“Now our valleys are green again and the dams are full, and all those on board will be able to view the fertile farms that make horse breeding such a ‘natural’ for the Gympie region.”

Ticket price is just $79 per person, which includes a return steam train journey, welcome drink and light refreshments on arrival at the historic Gympie Station, onboard entertainment, antipasto & cheese platter at Amamoor, and a ticket to the Gympie Turf Club.

Mr Green said that a contribution from every ticket sold would go to the Men of League Foundation, a charity which helps out members of the local community who’ve fallen on tough times. ●

PUZZLES Quick Clues

9

4

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7615

No.4

5

7 5 1

9

How to Sudo

Fill the gr every row 3x3 squar the digit 5 7 1 9 6 8 2 3 4

Solution 9 8 3 2 1 4 5 7 6

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7615 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Bare-faced lie. 8, Drag-on. 9, S-m-acks. 10, Has-his-h. 12, Li-m-ps. 15, T-ense. 16, H-aunt-e’d. 18, St-rafe. 20, Closes. 22, Break surface Down - 1, Carriage. 2, (Septem)Ber-g(reat). 3, H-arness.

4, Sense. 5, Al-ban-ian. 6, Leak (leek). 11, Host-ages. 13, P-ret(urn)-ence. 14, Rancour. 17, Decks 19, (tha)T-oby 21, Oafs (anag).

Solution No.4277

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

DOWN 1. Bearing the cost of transport (8). 2. Ice in September?

Great I don’t think! (4). 3. Tackle, though it’s hard, the setting of the snares (7). 4. Meaning you have a feeling (5). 5. The foreigner, don’t allow to come between the two men (8). 6. Run out to get a vegetable, say (4). 11.

Did it take a great many long time to capture them? (8).

13. Return half the money, about, but it’s mere sham (8).

14. It’s unbearable, if you have a forgiving nature (7). 17.

Does up in packs (5). 19. To that end, the boy trained the dog (4). 21. The louts bust the sofa (4).

5 7 9 8 2 4 1 3 6

noosatoday.com.au

(5,7).

4 6 3 7 1 9 2 8 5

ACROSS 7. Saying you’ve shaved off your beard when you haven’t?

(4-5,3). 8, Dressed as a girl, is fabulous (6). 9. Lays off about a thousand when there are strikes (6). 10. The dope got his into a mess (7). 12. Having had many a bad slip outside, has a score foot (5). 15. At the time, seen to be worried and nervous (5). 16. Unable to forget he’d immured a member of the family (7). 18. Attack that creates fear on the street (6). 20. Has some sort of catch, one concludes (6). 22. Come out on top in the diving tournament (5,7).

DOWN 1. Bearing the cost of transport (8). 2. Ice in September?

1 2 8 3 5 6 9 4 7

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7615

3 9 5 1 4 7 8 6 2

ACROSS

Cryptic Clues

2 4 7 9 6 8 5 1 3

DOWN 1. Close (8) YPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7615

6 8 1 5 3 2 4 7 9

Good spirits (12)

ACROSS 7. In-between (12)

8

6

7 8 1 7 4 7 6 9 2 7 1 6 2 5 7 3 4 2 8 5 6 9 1

est Indian music (7)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

11.

13.

14.

17.

19.

21.

9 5 6 4 7 1 3 2 8

In-between (12)

6

DOWN Close (8) Sediment (4) Deadlock (7) Perfect (5) Guarantee (8) Disorder (4) Garment (8) Scatter (8) Weariness (7) Commence (5) Fish (4) Native of Denmark (4)

6 8 4 9

8 1 2 6 9 3 7 5 4

18.

20.

22.

SUDOKU How to solve Sudoku!

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

6 9 3 9 6 2 1 9 1 8 2 3 9 7 2 4 2 4 3 1 1 9 8 2 5 8 9 5 1 6

7.

8.

9.

10.

12.

15.

16.

SUDOKU No. 4277

ACROSS In-between (12) Festival (6) Halt (6) Testy (7) Spiteful (5) Answer (5) West Indian music (7) Dexterous (6) Certainly (6) Good spirits (12)

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 7615 - SOLUTIONS Across - 7, Intermediate. 8, Fiesta. 9, Arrest. 10, Waspish.

12, Snide. 15, Reply. 16, Calypso. 18, Adroit. 20, Indeed.

22, Cheerfulness.

Down - 1, Intimate. 2, Lees. 3, Impasse. 4, Ideal. 5, Warranty. 6, Mess. 11, Pullover. 13, Disperse. 14, Fatigue. 17, Start. 19, Dace. 21, Dane.

QUICK QUICKPUZZLE PUZZLENo. NO. 7615 7615

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

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NOOSA TODAY 13

6 2 4 7 3 5 8 1 9

4 3 2 8 5 9 7 6 1

1 6 5 3 7 2 4 9 8

COMMUNITY UPDATES

Email your community news to: newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au

NOOSA PARKS ASSOCIATION Divers and underwater photographers around the world are fascinated by the colourful creatures called nudibranchs or sea slugs. Some researchers suggest they may be useful indicators of climate change, with many tropical species now recorded poleward of their former known locations. Julie Schubert is an Environmental Scientist and Reef Check Australia Survey Diver who has been recording sea slugs on the Sunshine Coast for over 12 years.

Join Julie as she speaks about her recent research findings at Noosa Parks Association’s Environment Centre, 5 Wallace Drive Noosaville.

The forum begins at 10.30am finishing at 12.15pm and entry is by donation. To join the Interpretive Birders, meet Valda in the car park at 8.30am, all welcome. Visit www.noosaparks. org.au for more.

DNA INFORMATION When we look in the mirror, do we really see who we are? Many of us in Australia have taken a DNA test to find out who we really are, who we belong to.

The Cooroy-Noosa Genealogy Group will be conducting a DNA Info Morning designed to find out what all the results in the DNA paperwork really means.

DNA Info Morning is on 30 March at 9.30am and will be held at the Heritage Centre, 17 Emerald St Cooroy. Cost is $5 for non-members which includes morning tea. Booking is essential as seats are limited.

More info 3129 0356 or www.genealogy-noosa.org.au

BIGGEST MORNING TEA Noosa Branch Cancer Council Queensland is hosting the 2020 launch for Australia's Biggest Morning Tea at Noosa Boathouse, Gympie Terrace, Noosaville on Thursday 23 April, 9.30am arrival for 10am start.

Cost is $25 per person, payable on booking. There will be raffles and lucky door prizes and entertainment from a jazz player.

Bookings through Annie on 0409 385 566. Dont miss out book early.

Every dollar raised helps support those impacted by cancer.

NOOSA FOLK DANCERS Noosa Folk Dancers are a happy, friendly group who meet every Friday at the Uniting Church Hall, 9 Werin St Tewantin 9.30-11.30am to learn traditional folk dances from around the world. Everyone is welcome, including people with ‘2 left feet’. inquiries to Philippa 0417 780 016.

PROBUS CLUB The next General Meeting of the Tewantin Noosa Probus Club will be held on Monday 23 of March 2020, 14 NOOSA TODAY

|

It Help Your Radishes Grow? Will be held at 5pm on 19 March at the Rural Futures Centre, 65 Pavilion Street, Pomona.

NOOSA TOASTMASTERS Develop Public Speaking and Leadership skills for life at Noosa Toastmasters - a fun loving, supportive group who are all learning together.

They meet on the second and fourth Monday of each month 6.30-8.30pm at the CWA Hall in Poinciana Avenue, Tewantin. The first two visits are free so you can come and see if it's the place for you. For enquiries phone Ian Davies on 0410750651 or email noosatoastmasters@gmail.com

SHARE THE DIGNITY Woolworths Coolum, Noosa, Noosaville and Tewantin are calling on local residents to get behind Share the Dignity’s annual Dignity Drive this month and support the fight to end period poverty for those women in need across the region.

With over three million Australians living under the poverty line and the number of women experiencing period poverty across Queensland on the rise, local residents will be able to help make a difference to their region by donating a sanitary item via the Dignity Drive boxes located in Woolworths Coolum, Noosa, Noosaville and Tewantin throughout March.

Last year, the charity collected nearly 28,000 sanitary products in the August dignity drive from at the Tewantin RSL. Guest speaker this month will be the popular Michele Lipner from Oz Harvest, an organisation providing food supplies to those in need. All visitors are very welcome. Arrive at 9:45am for morning tea before a 10am start to the morning’s events. Cost is $5 per person and includes morning tea. For further information contact Geoff Bailue on 0418 145 034.

U3A FRIDAY TALKS U3A noosa Friday Talks are held at 1.30 pm at U3A, 64 Poinciana Ave. Tewantin.

Friday 13 March 2020 - Dr Ian Richards: Armchair Travel - Overland through Africa.

Friday 27 March 2020 - USC Monthly Talk - Sarah Pye - Do what you do best: Heeding the call to help save a species.

Full details available on U3A website - www.u3anoosa.com.au

YANDINA COUNTRY MUSIC The ever popular 'Elderly Brothers' is back again as guest artists for the

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

donations across Woolworths stores in Queensland. These donations were distributed to girls and women who cannot afford to buy sanitary items each month.

Woolworths Coolum, Noosa, Noosaville and Tewantin Operations Manager, Samantha Williams said: “Last year, we saw so many of our customers generously donate to the Dignity Drive; it was heartwarming to see how enthusiastic they were in helping us support local women in need. We hope our customers will get behind Share the Dignity again this month and help us raise vital supplies for girls and women experiencing poverty, homelessness and domestic violence.” ● Australasian Country Music Association concert at Yandina on Sunday 15 March 1pm to 5pm. Guests will be entertained with traditional country, and including more upbeat and diverse, crowd pleasing favourites with a great band and local artists. Walkups are welcome.

There will be a faffle and door prizes, canteen open, free afternoon tea. See you at the Hall of Fame, 24 Steggalls Road. Entry $8. Concession $6. Enquiries: 0437 191004.

NOOSA DISTRICT LANDCARE Karen ‘Ren’ Holz from the University of Sunshine Coat has been working on the effects of a novel soil amendment, Diatomix, on a commercially available top soil and Sparkler radish (Raphanus sativus) growth. This is an area of interest to a lot of us growers of all varieties of plant in the way that any research on soil improvement is welcome.

Join Noosa District Landcare to welcome Ren on the start of her journey into the wild world of research!

Her presentation Diatomix - Will

FREE COMMUNITY LUNCH The Salvation Army is holding its monthly Free Community Lunch on Tuesday 17 March at 12:30 pm at 6 Bartlett Street Noosaville, all welcome. For further information please call the church office on (07) 5442 4218.

RETIREES UNITE Association of Independent Retirees (AIR) Noosa Branch is the peak national not-for-profit organisation supporting self-funded retirees.

The next meeting is on Thursday 12 March at 10am at South Pacific Resort, 179 Weyba Road, Noosaville.

Speaker is Steve Mendl, founder of Next-Aging and author of the international best-selling book Beyond the Money, who will talk on the topic: Retirement: It’s Not Just About Money.

Cost is $6 per person for members and $10 non-members, which includes morning tea. Visitors welcome. Phone 0478 479 049 or email: airnoosacommunications@gmail. com

SOCIAL BALLROOM DANCING Every Tuesday evening from 7 pm to 9.30 pm Pat and Norm Young organise a Social evening at the Pomona Memorial School of Arts Hall - the cost is $ 4, which includes supper. It is a very enjoyable evening as Pat and Norm provide New Vogue as well as Old Time Dancing.

Come and be a Spectator, and see if you will enjoy it. Everyone is welcome. Phone 0407 456 939 for more information, or come and visit.

TRIVIA NIGHT A Trivia Night will be held at the Lion’s Den, Mountain Street, Pomona on Saturday, 14 March. Doors open 6pm with first questions at 6.30pm Entry fee $20 per person includes table nibbles, hot supper and lucky door tickets. The bar will be open complimentary tea and coffee.

Profits go to Lions Community projects. Phone 54853236 for bookings. ● noosatoday.com.au

NEWS

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY

Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and Manu Feildel will be a part of this year's Food and Wine action.

CLEAN-UP DAY A HUGE SUCCESS A huge well done is in order for those who participated in Clean Up Australia Day 2020, from the Noosa region over 6 tonnes of rubbish was collected from the environment.350 people were involved in the massive clean up, which saw items from car tyres and large plastics to tiny micro plastics being salvaged from our pristine region. ●

Moran and Ronni Kahn as they discuss the current climate of food.

Other sessions include Mark Best, Mark Olive, Ian Curley, Kirsten Tibballs and Jesse McTavish.

For those enthusiasts that like to taste and learn head to one of our masterclasses - chocolate, cheese seafood, salty and of course drinks: THE ESSENTIALS: Entry to the Festival Village includes a Noosa glass including a complimentary glass of wine on arrival, access to the cooking and chef 's skill demonstrations, DJs and live music and more!

The Festival is working with industry associations and initiatives including OzHarvest, Good Fish,

Thankful for Farmers, Slow Food Noosa, Plastic Free Noosa and Trees for Tourism The Noosa Eat & Drink Festival takes place 14 - 17 May 2020. To see the whole program head to www. noosaeatdrink.com.au ●

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES GUIDE

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1300 666 808 Find your trades and services in our LITTLE BLACK BOOK MOWING & LAWN CARE

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Julian 0402 630 687 Ben 0421 288 717 ฀

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Ph: 5449 7500

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Four Pillars, Miss Moneypeny's, Diablo and Stone & Wood.

Live on the Main Stage, be entertained by Australia's best chef 's including Alastair McLeod with good mate and Noosa's favourite Matt Golinski, Lennox Hastie from Sydney's Firedoor, Matt Sinclair from Sum Yung Guys, and in an exciting first, celebrity trio Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and Manu Feildel will join forces.

Get up close and personal with your favourite chefs at the Chef 's Skills Stage as they share some of their skills in these intimate sessions.

Join us for a conversation with foodie legends Neil Perry, Matt

12421870-RC28-19

Get ready for the Noosa Eat & Drink Festival Village; all of your favourites are returning for Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May. Moving to the Woods, the Festival Village will be bigger and better than ever before with exciting new additions to the program, including an additional acoustic music stage, the cheese wheel with dedicated masterclasses, new local artisan producers and Australia's best ... think truffles, chocolates and caviar.

Never to be seen live on stage before, Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and Manu Feildel will be cooking up an entertaining food frenzy! And the good news is they will be here for both days, so now is the time to book your weekend passes!

Other newbies to the Festival include Lennox Hastie - Chef of the Year, who will be cooking with fire and everyone's favourite dessert royalty Kirsten Tibballs, Anna Polyviou and Darren Purchese will be spinning sweet magic.

If you are wanting to chill out in the Festival Village, head to one of the many bars and lounges including

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noosatoday.com.au

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

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NOOSA TODAY 15

THE BOLTON REPORT

SANDY BOLTON, NOOSA MP

SEEING THE UNSEEN One of the heartbreaking aspects of being an MP is seeing the trauma Queenslanders are inflicting on themselves and others, through addictions, dangerous and irresponsible behavior, and deliberate acts of violence.

Our loved ones are being lost to us, and there are no words that can take the pain away. The question is, how do we prevent, and what are the underlying contributors that lead to these terrible acts of violence and abuse, to self and others?

In meeting with many incredible individuals, organisations and frontliners who work daily to find the answer, what we see is complex, confronting, and challenging.

As a community we can be buoyed by efforts on many diverse fronts, including not-for-profit organisations such as, ‘Invisible Injuries’, that aims to improve the health and well-being of returned veterans, first responders and families of those suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress injury.

As well, programs such as

the Reset Support Service, who work with those that use violence and abuse in the home, to take responsibility for their actions and create positive behavior change. As one perpetrator said “No blaming the other person, just own it“.

As highlighted during International Women’s Day events across Noosa, there are some differing opinions regarding violence, in and out of the home.

However, there was an agreeance that we need to work out the causes, contributors and a course of action

to put an end to this pain, without blame, excuses or abuses.

To do this, we need to think about how we are all contributing, whether it is through silence, or through someone else being louder?

Be bold, be kind. Communicate.

Whether you are a victim or a perpetrator (or potential perpetrator), a neighbour or a friend, tell someone what is going on. There is no shame in sharing, only much to gain. As one victim asked me to relay “If you won’t do it for yourself, do it for others”.

There are also many in our community suffering in silence through other forms of abuse, and that is the onslaught on our bodies, and minds, through unseen chronic disease. March is Auto-immune Awareness Month, and I encourage everyone to be mindful of the invisible pain in our community.

Take an extra minute for your loved ones and strangers, to say ‘How are you today?’ or ‘RUOK?’, and really mean it. This one act of kindness could make a huge difference to that person’s day.

We may think Governments, legislation or increased punishments can resolve the pain inflicted on each other.

Sadly, the statistics say otherwise.

If violence and abuse as a form of communication is to come to an end, it is up to every single one of us to take responsibility for our contribution to this. And that includes us MPs, and our behaviors.

Until next month, be kind, be bold, be seen. ●

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16 NOOSA TODAY

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Thursday, 12 March, 2020

noosatoday.com.au

HOOK, LINE & SINKER

JACK MANGROVE

WEATHER TURNS, FISH BITE We finally had some cracking weather days which saw light winds, light swell and some great fish from dark brown. With the start of the weekend this gave way to 20 knot winds and rains, but options remained good.

Offshore the local reefs of Sunshine, Halls, Chardon’s and North Reef were the popular spots.

They provided most with quality fish including snapper, pearl perch, venus tusk fish and sweetlip.

The main species on the chew were Spanish mackerel around 12-17kg which were from Noosa all the way toward Coolum and in closer with the high tide. These fish were taking trolled baits and literally coming out of the water for them as well as stickbaits, slugs and deeper diving trolled lures.

The beaches have woken up and are providing anglers with decent numbers of whiting in the mid 30cm range as well as dart reaching over 40cm. Prawns appear to be the more popular bait on light running sinker rigs cast into the surf zone. While the surf builds you will need to fish inside the river mouth for protection.

Craig Mullet with a nice snapper from Arkwright Shoals.

With offshore on hold the Noosa River is featuring good sized flathead around the rock wall and the drop offs in this area. These fish are a great target species on soft plastics so now is a great time to have a try if not previously tried.

Mangrove jacks are still present but a little harder to get a bite from but fresh mullet has been working great with smaller 3/0-4/0 octopus style hooks. These fish love fresh slab baits of fish so be sure to present

NOOSA MONTHLY MEDAL SATURDAY There were 217 players in the Saturday Men’s Monthly Medal Stroke at Noosa Golf Club on 7 March. Scratch rating (M) 71.0 Winners: A Grade: Lucas Southgate-smith 67, Benjamin Palfery 69, John D Arcy 70 C/B B Grade: Zachary Southgate-smith 69 C/B, Gary Ogg 69, Kevin Krogh 72 C/B C Grade: Les Callaghan 66, Clive Hart 70, John Brodie 71 C/B Placegetters: Tama Stana 70, Shane Dunning 71 C/B, Sam Boulden 71 C/B, Graham Farrell 71 C/B, Doug Reynolds 71 C/B, Shane Rayner 71, Peter Wright 72 C/B, Rex Lawn 72 C/B, Dennis Hildebrandt 72 C/B, Grant Baker 72, John Stephens 73 C/B, Mark Cronin 73 C/B, Stephen Thorn 73 C/B, Laurie James 73 C/B, John Deem 73 C/B, David O'Connor 73 C/B, Peter Bayliss 73 C/B, Dean Cook 73, James Pittendrigh 74 C/B. Nearest to Pin: A Grade: John Stephens, Neville Hazlett, John Stephens, Peter Walker B Grade: Kerry Hipfner, Phil Griffiths, Ralph Webster, Zachary Southgate-smith C Grade: Graham Meadows, Clive Hart, Ray Pettigrove, Peter Croasdaile TUESDAY There were 99 players in the Tuesday noosatoday.com.au

Club Monthly Mug on 10th March.

Scratch rating (M) 71.0 Winners: A Grade: Michael Napier 40, Aaron Carter 38 C/B, Michael Nassereddin 38, Bruce Blakemore 37 C/B B Grade: Michael Norman 37 C/B, Gary Wood 37, Andrew Lonie 34, Derek Pousette 33 C/B C Grade: Aldo Oriti 38, Frank Mcintyre 36, Graeme Martin 33 C/B, Peter McDonald 33 Placegetters: Aaron Whitford 37, Andrew Watson 36 C/B, George Giblett 36 C/B, Bradley Juillerat 36, Hugh Dolan 35 C/B, Tim Butterworth 35 C/B, Brett Le Moy 35 C/B, Bradly Graham 35, Mark Stenhouse 34 C/B, Shane Healey 34 C/B, Lucas Southgatesmith 34, Kenny Lindsay 33 C/B, Coman Reynolds 33 C/B, Peter Zipf 33 C/B, Miles Richardson 33 C/B, John Mierocha 33 C/B, Anthony Jedynak 33, Greg Collins 32 C/B, Peter Bolitho 32 C/B, Bob Cox 32 C/B, Dave Butler 32 C/B, Craig Strudwick 32 C/B. Nearest to Pin: A Grade: Michael Nassereddin, Bradly Graham, Peter Buhk, Michael Nassereddin B Grade: Allan Harris, Bart Jaques, Dave Butler, Dave Butler C Grade: Frank Mcintyre, Steven Boulton ●

them on heavier leaders so you can stop them! The jacks have been found in the lower estuary especially around the rocks and bridges.

Further up the river the water is still quite fresh and there are a few schools of undersized jewies getting around as well as bream and various trevally. These fish all love a good prawn bait or plastic so be sure to give these a try with plenty of scent.

Try fishing from the public jetties along Gympie Terrace for bream and

whiting as they love the sand flats that are part of this area. During the rains whiting will be taking beach worms fished hard on the bottom so give the surface lures a rest for a while.

Mud crabs continue to run and many anglers have caught decent crabs so be sure to load up on mullet and get your pots in. Don’t forget to tie them down and keep them away from the main flow of current as we see the stronger spring tides.

Freshwater remains quiet from the recent rise in water which has also seen a lot of grass floating on the surface. This can ruin well placed surface lures so now is a great time to fish diving lures and slow rolled soft plastics in the 3” size range.

Lake MacDonald is also rather quiet so trolling a couple of different diving lures while searching for the fish can lead to unexpected hook-ups.

The usual spots of the bubble trail and three ways appear to hold fish but they are definitely on the move so good luck.

So on behalf of Jack Mangrove, best of luck on your fishing adventures! ●

KIDS PLAY NOOSA FOR FREE SUNDAY AFTERNOONS.

Bring the kids to play NoosaÕs only Championship Golf Course set in a nature reserve. For all the details go to noosagolf.com.au or call 5447 1407. We are located at 46 Corooy Noosa Rd,Tewantin.

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Thursday, 12 March, 2020

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NOOSA TODAY 17

SPORT TODAY

LOOKING FOR MOO THREEPEAT Since he was a youngster Mooloolaba has always been one of Max Neumann’s favourite race destinations and the Brisbane based athlete’s love affair with the Sunshine Coast looks set to continue with the defending champion keen to make it three “Moo Tri” wins on the trot.

The often underrated Max had a strong finish to 2019, winning 70.3 Xi'an in China on the way home from Europe, a fourth in Noosa against a quality short course field of three Olympians and World Triathlon Series stars, a win at Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney and strong second in a reconnaissance race over the world championship course at Ironman 70.3 Taupo.

Having recently signed with the BMC Vifit Pro Triathlon Team, Max is keen to add another Mooloolaba victory to the resume, before his commences the year long journey towards his main goal of the year, the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in New Zealand in November.

“I had some time off after Taupo and over Christmas and then went to the BMX Vifit team camp in Spain for two weeks. Every year BMC start the season with a camp in Lanzarote where we met the other members of the team, the managers, get our bikes, our wheels and our set up and all our kit and make sure everything is good for the season. It is a really good way to get to know everyone and come home ready to go.”

Max has delayed the start of his racing season and will launch his season over the non-drafting standard distance of Moo Tri, mindful that he needs to keep healthy, in shape and motivated for every race on his 2020 program.

“I have been racing in Mooloolaba since I was a kid, so it is very familiar and comfortable. It has been good race for me over the years. It is a nice local, competitive

event and I enjoy going there, so I thought why not start my season there. I will just drive up, load out the bike the day before the race, have a good race and maybe get some training in as well to keep the body going.

“I have started the season a lot easier than in previous years because it is going to be a long year with the 70.3 Worlds in November. That is the main goal, so there is no reason to race early. I normally race the Hell of the West first up but this year I have decided to start in Mooloolaba and go for the third win. I always want to rock up to every race ready to go.

I am not going there for a training session. I am not into that, I am

Tide Times

always committed to a win,” he said.

Max is excited about the year ahead and the support he has been given but realises there is a lot of work to do and lessons to learn, to make the step up in world class company.

“Mooloolaba will be a good warm up before I head to the USA for my main early season race at Ironman 70.3 Oceanside in California in April.”

“Oceanside always brings an incredibly good field so I just wanted to go there to race the best athletes in the world, in one of the first main races of the long course triathlon season. There are some incredibly good athletes on the start list again

this year, so I want to go there and measure myself against some of the best in the world and the prepare for the rest of the season.”

“I do enjoy the 70.3 distance, putting my head down and dealing with my own pain. It seems to work well for me. This year I probably won’t do as much ITU racing because of the focus on Taupo.”

“I am really looking forward to seeing what we can do this year because the support BMC provide is absolutely world class. I am fully set up this year, so I have no excuses.

It is all in for an assault on the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Taupo at the end of the year. That is the big goal,” he said. ●

NOOsa WeaTher FOreCasT Thursday 12 Mar

Thursday 12Th March To Wednesday 18Th March 2020 Mostly sunny Time

height

Time

3:40 aM 9:54 aM

FrIday 13 Mar

0.24 m 1.95 m

4:08 PM 10:19 PM

0.28 m 1.86 m

Mostly sunny

4:50 PM 11:09 PM

0.35 m 1.81 m

saTurday 14 Mar

5:35 PM

0.45 m

FrI 13Th Mar 4:29 aM 10:38 aM

26 / 22 °c

Height

Thurs 12Th Mar

0.35 m 1.79 m

26 / 22 °c Light showers. Mostly sunny 26 / 22 °c

saT 14Th Mar 5:23 aM 11:24 aM

0.50 m 1.62 m

suNday 15 Mar sunny

suN 15Th Mar 12:06 aM 6:27 aM

1.74 m 0.66 m

12:16 PM 6:26 PM

1.44 m 0.56 m

1:24 PM 7:31 PM

1.30 m 0.65 m

MON 16Th Mar 1:15 aM 7:50 aM 12444076-SG11-20

Tues 17 2:37 aM 9:27 aM

Light showers. Broken clouds

1.67 m 0.78 m Th

Mar

1.65 m 0.82 m

2:53 PM 8:51 PM

1.23 m 0.69 m

Light showers. Breaks of sun late 24 / 19 °c

WedNesday 18 Mar

1.68 m 0.78 m

18 NOOSA TODAY

25 / 20 °c

Tuesday 17 Mar

Wed 18Th Mar 3:57 aM 10:46 aM

26 / 20 °c

MONday 16 Mar

4:18 PM 10:07 PM

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1.25 m 0.68 m

sunny

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

25 / 19 °c

noosatoday.com.au

TALKING SPORT

RON LANE

Pickleball is becoming popular in Noosa.

SPORT REALLY TAKING OFF Recently we discussed the new sport of Pickleball (Noosa Today Cover Story, 20 February).

I am happy to announce that the game is really taken off.

“We are happy with the progress so far,” said spokesperson Christine Murphy. “We invite anyone who is interested to come to the Community Hall Wallace Drive next to the library, any Thursday evening from 6-8pm.

Remember all equipment is supplied and the first try out game is free. Also don’t worry about your age: it is not just a game for young people we have people 60-plus, and remember it is a none body contact sport therefor there is no major injuries.”

A good sign last Thursday; there are four courts in the building and all were being used for doubles, with other players waiting their turn. The welcome mat was definitely out to visitors.

OFF TO STATE TITLES For instructors and students at the Sunshine Coast Martial Arts Dojo on Gibson Road Noosa it is all stations go.

Just having contested the Queensland Cup they will on 21-22 March take part in the State Titles at Cleveland.

At present Chief Instructor Bryan noosatoday.com.au

Dukas 6th Dan is on a two week visit to South Africa where he will conduct seminars. It is indeed very satisfying to see that a local Noosa instructor is held in such high regard that he is invited overseas to conduct training seminars.

In his absence Assistant Chief Instructor Rick Hislop 5th Dan, will instruct. “At present we are in full preparations for the Queensland Titles so it is all stations go. Sensi Dukas is in South Africa but he will be home in time for the Australian Championships later this year.”

female to finish the course was the brother and sister team of Jaspre and Electra Outram.

Major sponsor for the swim is McDermott Aviation and has been right from the start. This came about when John McDermott (of McDermott Aviation) wanted to have a swim in memory of his best mate Shirley Straun, who tragically died in a helicopter crash. Bruce Warren stepped in to help organise the swim and the rest is now history.

When Bruce passed away, because of his contribution to the event his name was added to the memorial; and rightly so. An outstanding contribution now conducted by wife Sandy and totally supported by the Warren family. To this family the doors of the Noosa club are always open.

BROTHER, SISTER SALUTE

NIPPERS TO START

On Sunday morning at 9am 102 members, junior, senior and veterans of the Noosa Surf Club entered the water at Little Cove to take part in the 17th Annual Shirley Strachan and Bruce Warren Memorial Swim.

Under the organisation of the late Bruce Warren’s wife Sandy and a big support team, the surf swim which covered a distance of 1.29km was one of the biggest ever. In what veterans described as the best conditions ever, the first male and

All our local parents and surf club volunteers who give their time to that great organisation the Noosa Seahorse Nippers, are reminded that this Saturday 14 March will be the start of another season. Assembly time (at Main Beach) is 7.30am for an 8am start.

Organisers Steve and Nchole Mawby wish to welcome new parents and extend their thanks to all who have helped over the past 8 years. Helping kids in need; there can be no better cause. ●

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

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NOOSA TODAY 19

LIFE OF BRINE

PHIL JARRATT

GOOD ON YOU, SIR ELTON! A few weeks ago I shared with you the riveting tale of how Elton John and I exchanged notes on board a trans-Pacific flight some many moons ago. What I didn’t tell you was that, despite denying me an interview on the plane, Elton arranged for a stretch limo to pick us up a few nights later and deliver us to front row VIP seats at his first Sydney concert.

No, no, no… of course he didn’t, but we went anyway, although our tickets certainly weren’t front row, and he was fantastic, a young man who, never mind his outrageous glitter costume, hadn’t quite come out yet, and in fact was engaged to be married to an Australian girl, an announcement that had inspired London’s Daily Mail, in the sensitive fashion of the day, to run the front page headline, “Good On You, Poof!”

And that was the last time I saw Elton perform live, until last week at Sunshine Coast Stadium, when he performed pretty much the same set that he did that night back in the 1980s, albeit with a few less acrobatics behind the piano, and a bit more of a waddle offstage for his costume changes.

But, oh my, what a performance!

On this, his alleged farewell tour that has already been going for longer than some music careers, Lord Watford’s voice was pure, his keyboard loud and clear, his band of codgers - resplendent in Armani suits - bloody brilliant as they worked through a familiar catalogue of hit from the great albums of the ‘70s and ‘80s, including some killers from my all-time favourite album, Madman Across The Water.

Of course, now over 70, Elton can’t perform the jumps and backflips of yesteryear - that’s strictly Mick Jagger territory now - but the stagecraft of old has been more than matched by the videography of now, a brilliant and seamless evocation of moods as well as a scrapbook of the man’s glorious career, plus a mid-set electrical storm that was more real than real on a humid Sunshine Coast night.

To be honest, I’d forgotten how much I love Elton’s music, how timeless so much of it is. And I’d certainly forgotten what an extraordinary live performer the man is, and remains, although I suppose last week at Sunshine Coast Stadium was the last I’ll see him behind the baby grand.

Lastly, I tips me lid to the events staff at SCS. Other than the $100 sting for a cooler bag of booze, the entry and exit points were orderly and safe and no one was herded, 20 NOOSA TODAY

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Elton plays Sunshine Coast Stadium. and in between time the guides kept us informed of start times and the need to move along with a courteous smile. And of course the audiovisuals were superb.

I’m sold. Bring on the next legendary fossil. The Boss would be nice.

GREETINGS FROM THE SPACE COAST Speaking of Rocketmen, I’ve just arrived at one of my favourite places on earth, the rugged, surf-rich Mahia Peninsula on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, to discover that since I was last here three years ago, the sparselypopulated peninsula has been renamed the Space Coast and is now home to the Rocket Lab, the world’s first private satellite launch pad.

If you know the Mahia and you’re as gob-smacked as I was, I kid you not! Since its first test flight in May, 2017 - just a couple of months after I last surfed those lonely reefs - Rocket Lab’s Electron launch vehicle has sent dozens of private satellites skyward with a 100 percent success rate. I personally don’t know anyone who’s in the market for a satellite bearing their company name orbiting the earth for the next half century or so, but according to Rocket Lab’s founder, South Islander Peter Beck, the market is potentially huge.

But while that sorts itself out, Wairoa District’s tourism authority is all over it, having suddenly found funding to build a road and a viewing platform where no roads ever went before, despite frequent resident requests. Space Coast hype is everywhere, although for security reasons the Rocket Lab itself is not signposted. But here’s a hint: if you drive past the recently-renamed Rocket Café, you’re on the right track.

Thursday, 12 March, 2020

Rocket Lab, Mahia Peninsula.

Rocket Lab sends one up.

Last Saturday I surfed one side of the peninsula all morning and fished for kingies from a tinnie all afternoon on the other side. The reef we surfed was tucked under cliffs not far from the launch site, and we trolled back and forth just below it on the other side, but I never caught a glimpse of it, so I can’t complain about it being an eyesore. But I fear

it’s going to turn lazy Mahia into a bustling company town. The signs are already there. Land prices are through the roof, shops and cafes are springing up all over.

There’s still only one pub, but at one end of the bar you’ll find a dozen grizzled old surf dogs crying into their beers, because the writing is on the wall. ● noosatoday.com.au

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Support Noosa Pirates Rugby League Football Club

WEEK 1

Home games are played at Sir Thomas Riley Park, 31 Butler St, Tewantin https://www.noosapirates.com.au/

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Sharon Kerridge Cooroy Chicken n Chips Outlook Fish’n’Chips Tewantin facebook.com/CooroyFishnChips/ Phone:฀5472฀0084฀•฀5440฀5611฀ Rabbitohs Panthers Sea Eagles Dragons

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Steve Young Noosa Meat Centre noosameatcentre.com.au/ Phone: 5474 1666 Rabbitohs Roosters Storm Dragons

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Phone: 5474 1288 Eels Raiders Cowboys Knights

Phone: 0421 047 540 Rabbitohs Roosters Storm Dragons

Robbie Slater Poolside Noosa poolsidenoosa.com.au/ Phone: 5449 7199 Eels Raiders Cowboys Knights

Rabbitohs Roosters Storm Dragons

Total Tools

Best of luck to all businesses competing in this year’s Noosa Today NRL Tipstars competition.

There have been a number of player movements throughout the off season which should go towards a very competitive season.

Teams: All Areas Rendering Cooroy Chicken n Chips Noosa Meat Centre Noosa Pit Stop Mechanical & Noosa Trailer Hire Poolside Noosa Stay Noosa Real Estate Total Tools Zachary’s Gourmet Pizza Bar & Restaurant Sea 91.9 Noosa Today

Nigel Hughes & Jarrod Hodgson Noosa Pit Stop Mechanical Repairer noosapitstop.com

Si Smith

NRL Tipstars 2020

www.totaltools/noosaville.com.au Phone: 5350 2333 Rabbitohs Roosters Sea Eagles Tigers

Eels Titans Cowboys Knights

Liam Anlezark & Liam Kennedy Stay Noosa Real Estate www.staynoosa.com/real-estate/ Phone: 5447 5277 Rabbitohs Roosters Storm Dragons

Eels Raiders Broncos Knights

Ryan Baker

ROUND 1

Zachary’s Gourmet Pizza Bar & Restaurant www.zacharys.com.au

Thurs 12th March to Sun 15th Mar Thursday, Mar 12

Phone: 5473 0011

Eels vs Bulldogs Bankwest Stadium

8:05pm

Raiders vs Titans GIO Stadium

6:00pm

Cowboys vs Broncos North Queensland Stadium

8:05pm

Rabbitohs Roosters Storm Tigers

Eels Raiders Cowboys Knights

Friday, Mar 13

Saturday, Mar 14

Phill Le Petit

Knights vs Warriors McDonald Jones Stadium

3:00pm

Noosa Today

Rabbitohs vs Sharks ANZ Stadium

5:30pm

www.noosatoday.com.au

Panthers vs Roosters Panthers Stadium

7:35pm

Phone: 0439 377 525

Sea Eagles vs Storm Lottoland

4:05pm

Dragons vs Tigers WIN Stadium

6:15pm

Sharks Roosters Storm Dragons

Eels Raiders Broncos Knights

Sunday, Mar 15

WEEKLY FEATURE MATCHUP

Final 2019 NRL Ladder Roosters 14 defeated Raiders 8 CLUBS STORM ROOSTERS RABBITOHS RAIDERS EELS SEA EAGLES SHARKS BRONCOS WESTS TIGERS PANTHERS KNIGHTS BULLDOGS WARRIORS COWBOYS DRAGONS TITIANS

P 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24

W 20 17 16 15 14 14 12 11 11 11 10 10 9 9 8 4

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0

L 4 7 8 9 10 10 12 12 13 13 14 14 14 15 16 20

INFO TO COME

B 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

PD 331 264 104 150 60 50 50 -57 -11 -61 -37 -151 -141 -122 -148 -281

P 42 36 34 32 30 30 26 25 24 24 22 22 21 20 18 10

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BarRat & Heidi

Phone 5479 8333 www.919seafm.com.au

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LIFE OF BRINE

A LAST POST FROM TIMOR

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LIFE OF BRINE

A LAST POST FROM TIMOR PAGE 16

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LIFE OF BRINE

COVER STORY

POWER OF AN

COVER STORY

POWER OF AN

A LAST POST FROM TIMOR

IMAGE PAGES 4-5

Mini Chef Sessions Join us for mini chef sessions at Noosa Civic these upcoming school holidays.

You’ll also get your own mini chef hat and apron to take home as our gift to you!

Dates: Monday 23rd September to Friday 4th October daily Times: 9am and 11am Cost: $5 donation to Slow Food Noosa Location: Outside Red Rooster Bookings essential.

Visit noosacivic.com.au for details.

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Big W Woolworths 100 speciality stores 28 Eenie Creek Rd (Cnr Walter Hay Drive) Noosaville Ph 5440 7900

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Mini Chef Sessions

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Big W Woolworths 100 speciality stores 28 Eenie Creek Rd (Cnr Walter Hay Drive) Noo

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Join us for mini chef sessions at Noosa Civic these upcoming school holidays.

You’ll also get your own mini chef hat and apron to take home as our gift to you!

Dates: Monday 23rd September to Friday 4th October daily Times: 9am and 11am Cost: $5 donation to Slow Food Noosa Location: Outside Red Rooster Bookings essential.

Visit noosacivic.com.a u for details.