Noosa Council say new social housing will be delivered “as promised” and formerly unusable council land freed up for other uses after a development at 62 Lake Macdonald Drive Cooroy was approved last week with the adoption of a confidential planning report in a closed council session.
Described by council as “a once-in-a-generation opportunity” for Noosa Shire, the project involves a subdivision for Lot 105 on Lake Macdonald Drive which “includes an architectdesigned 25-unit social housing project, repre-
Newest citizens
By Margie Maccoll
Seventy Noosa residents born in 15 different countries became Australian citizens on Australia Day in an emotional and uplifting ceremony presided over by Mayor Frank Wilkie at The J Theatre.
There were cheers, hugs and tears as the new Australians took their pledge, accepted their certificates and a native plant before enjoying a morning tea of laminations and Anzac biscuits.
The Noosa citizenship ceremony in Noosa, operated in line with the Australian Citizenship Act 2007 and was one of more than 280 ceremonies held around the country on Sunday, delivering Australian citizenship to about 14,600 people from 160 countries.
In Noosa, New Zealand, UK and South Africa topped the list of countries of origin with others born in Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Brazil, US, Phillipines, Thailand, Venezuela, Vietnam, the Netherlands and Spain.
“Making the pledge is the final step in becoming Australian,” Mayor Wilkie said at the theatre packed with new citizens, family and friends.
“Citizenship is the common bond that unites all Australians. Our rich heritage stems from the contributions made by all of us. Acquiring Australian citizenship enables you to participate fully in our inclusive society, to realise your aspirations regardless of race, gender, religion, language or place of birth.
“Australian citizenship lies at the heart of a national culture premised on all round equality. Our country’s heritage is made richer by the contributions of people of many lands.
“And while we celebrate and embrace the diversity of Australian people we also aim to build a cohesive and unified nation. This country gains immeasurably by your commitment here today.”
After taking their pledge and singing a rousing rendition of the National Anthem to the accompaniment of Jazz Strings Noosa MP Sandy Bolton delivered a final address.
“It is a special day for you. For many of us our lives started as a story of immigration and what it does it brings together a really interconnected community,” she said.
Continued page 4
senting a significant investment by community housing provider Coast2Bay and a key action of the Noosa Housing Strategy”. The project was carried 4:3 with councillors Wilkie, Stockwell, Wegener and Finzel voting for it and Crs Lorentson, Phillips and Wilson against.
Members of the 62 Lake Macdonald Drive Cooroy Steering Committee are calling for greater transparency surrounding the project.
Continued page 5
Venezuelan born Nella Del Castillo is welcomed as an Australian by Mayor Frank Wilkie and councillors Tom Wegener and Karen Kinzel.
(Rob Maccoll)
Telephone: 07 5455 6946
Website: NoosaToday.com.au
Editorial:
page 14
Help to ease their pain
Noosa North Shore resident Angela Loynd has organised a fundraiser to cover the costs of grief counselling and mental health support for the friends and family of Honor Ward and Beau Liddell.
The community suffered an unimaginable tragedy when Honor Ward and Beau Liddell lost their lives at Wappa Falls on Sunday 19 January.
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Their loss has left a profound void in the hearts of their loved ones, friends, and the wider community.
“Honor and Beau were cherished individuals who brought light and love into the lives of everyone who knew them,“ Angela said.
“In the wake of this devastating loss, their families, friends, and loved ones are facing overwhelming grief. To support their emotional wellbeing, we are raising funds to provide professional counselling services.
“These funds will ensure that everyone affected by this tragedy has access to the care and support they need during this incredibly difficult time.“
Grief is a heavy burden to carry, and no one should face it alone.
“By contributing, you are not only helping individuals heal but also strengthening our community during a time of immense sorrow,“ Angela said.
“Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference in providing much-needed support to Honor and Beau’s loved ones.
“Honor and Beau’s lives were tragically cut short, but their memory will live on in our hearts forever.
“Together, we can support their loved ones as they navigate this painful journey.“
To donate, visit gofund.me/0eea5a4c
LifeFlight winches injured hiker to safety after fall
A hiker was winched to safety by the Sunshine Coast-based LifeFlight aeromedical crew on Sunday 26 January after he fell while bushwalking.
The LifeFlight rescue helicopter was tasked to the Sunshine Coast hinterland at 2.30pm after a man slipped and fell into a rocky crevice.
Another hiker in the group set off an emergency beacon locator and the rescue helicopter was
able to locate the injured hiker, aged in his 50s. The LifeFlight crew winched a QAS flight paramedic and LifeFlight rescue crewman down to the patient who was treated for upper leg injuries.
Once stabilised, he was placed into a rescue harness and winched into the aircraft before being flown to Sunshine Coast University Hospital in a stable condition.
Police pay tribute to Heeko
Queensland Police Service (QPS) advises of the death of retired Police Dog (PD) Heeko.
PD Heeko passed away on 20 January at 12 years of age due to a sudden illness. He was a valued and much-loved member of the Sunshine Coast Dog Squad, serving as part of the team for five years, alongside his teammate and handler Senior Constable Dan Hayward.
PD Heeko, and his four siblings, are offspring of PD Onyx and were born on 23 July, 2012 as part of the QPS Puppy Development Program.
After completing training in June 2014, PD Heeko was deployed to the Sunshine Coast where he was involved in the location and arrest of countless missing people and offenders. He was known for his speed, agility, and courage.
PD Heeko and Senior Constable Hayward were a force to be reckoned with, having both received an Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate following their response to an incident in the Wide Bay area involving a violent armed offender and a lengthy siege.
He was also the proud recipient of the Australian War Dog Medal for service. He was a ferocious and trustworthy colleague at work, and a loyal and loving companion at home.
Since retiring in 2019, PD Heeko spent his remaining years with the Hayward family in Coolum doing what he loved –going on walks and chasing his ball. With honour he served.
The new moon on Wednesday was the signal for the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, which this year is the Year of the Snake.
A 15-day celebration, Chinese Lunar New Year continues until the full Snow Moon signals the beginning of the Lantern Festival on Wednesday 12 February. The Lunar New Year, sometimes called Spring Festival, is celebrated in Vietnam as Tet, Losar in Tibet and Solnal in Korea.
In Chinese symbology, those born in the Year of the Snake are said to be recognised for their keen insight and extraordinary intelligence.
With schools back this week police are advising drivers to watch their speeds in school zones from 7-9am and 2-4pm.
Sunshine Coast police will be increasing patrols in areas around schools, focusing on both enforcement and education, to facilitate a safe return to school.
This week also marks the closure of Operation Mistletoe which is a road safety operation that focuses on reducing the lives lost on Queensland roads over the school holidays, including the back-to-school period.
Despite consistent and targeted police action through Operation Mistletoe and beyond, the start of 2025 has been tragic. In just under one month, 23 lives havebeenlostonQueensland roads so far this year with three of those on Sunshine Coast roads.
- Margaret Maccoll
Family and friends of Honor Ward support each other in grief at her loss.
School begins for 2025
By the time the morning school bell rang all 14 students of the preppie class at Peregian Beach College were quietly seated at their desks and busy colouring in.
There were no tears to be seen and their parents had already departed for the day.
Their teacher Rachel Preston, or Miss P as the students know her, said an initiative established six months earlier, the Little Emu playgroup, had helped allay first day anxiety.
Miss P said over that time the pre-preppies had dropped by for visits to familiarise them with the school and their teacher.
The class had an exciting list of activities planned for them on their first day. It included going on a ‘green sheet hunt’ so they could locate their way around the school grounds, lots of friendship play to get to know each other, and the making of a first-day crown.
Students at state schools and the independent Peregian Beach College began the school year on Tuesday with private schools heading back for 2025 on Wednesday.
According to the Queensland Government 1,266 state schools this week opened their doors for around 570,000 students - including about 325,000 primary students and 245,000 secondary students, with 43,000 children starting their schooling journey in Prep.
A further estimated 320,000 students were starting the school year in Queensland’s 548 Catholic and Independent schools.
Disability pioneer Carmel Crouch honoured with AM
By Arthur Gorrie
“It’s amazing, stunning actually,” Order of Australia awardee and disability services pioneer Carmel Crouch said last week.
Ms Crouch was honoured with an AM in the General Division “for significant service to people with a disability.”
It is something she never expected, even after working for many years for the STEPS organisation, which provides non-profit training, employment, and community services to help people with disabilities to acquire skills needed to achieve their goals.
The organisation provides a range of services in Sunshine Coast, Noosa, Gympie, Hervey Bay and Bundaberg, among other locations.
She was Gympie Regional Council’s Australia Day Ambassador last year, was named Senior Citizen of the Year in Sunshine Cost Council’s Australia Day Awards in 2021 and was Australia Day Ambassador for North Burnett Shire Council in 2019.
She is a founding board member of STEPS Australia (since 1989), chair since the early 1990s, managing director since 2008 and founder of STEPS Pathways College in 2017.
“I got an email from Canberra a few weeks ago. I didn’t tell anyone at first. I was overwhelmed.
“We’ve been working in Gympie and North Burnett for almost 25 of the past 30 years and we
also work in Caloundra and Noosa.
“I’m in Rockhampton,” she said on Thursday, “where they’re having their Australia Day awards today.”
Ms Crouch said she found herself working in the disability sector because of her efforts to help her son, who has a disability.
“I joined a small organisation called STEPS
when it was just starting up and he was 15, and after one meeting I found myself chairman.
“I don’t know how it happened.
“That’s the destiny that was given to me because of my son,” she said.
Ms Crouch came to Queensland in 1985 from a sheep and wheat farm in central western New South Wales.
“My eldest son still runs it,” she said.
The business she bought was absorbed into a larger organisation and she became general manager, before starting her own business brokerage and consulting business.
“Then I retired and went to work for STEPS
“It’s pretty incredible really,” she said,” to have your career and what you’ve done recognised and to realise someone values it.
“It’s not exactly what you expect in life.
“We have a site for eduction and training in Noosa. We’ve been in Bundaberg for 35 of the years we’ve been in existence and we have a site at Hervey Bay.
“In Gympie we’re a very large mental health provider and disability service provider, along with education and training.”
She also chairs the Jobs Australia board, was named Senior Citizen of the Year in Sunshine Coast Council’s 2021 Australia Day awards and was North Burnett council’s Australia Day Ambassador in 2019.
She has lived at Woombye in the Sunshine Coast hinterland for 27 years.
Carmel Crouch, with Nate Nelson, 11, STEPS Pathways Young Ambassador, who raised $15,000 for young adults with a disability and autism.
Smiles all round on the first day of school for teacher Miss P and her Prep students. (Rob Maccoll) Arthur and Louie celebrate their first day of Prep at Peregian Beach College.
Australia Day celebrated
New Aussies welcomed in emotional, uplifting ceremony
From page 1
“Many of you have been part of the Noosan family for some years, others are more recent but you are now part of a very Noosan family, and we are colourful, we’re very diverse, we’re very passionate, but everything we do comes from love of each other but also our community.
“Today marks your official welcome. We extend our heartfelt thanks that of all the places in the world you could have selected to call home that you actually chose us and we are deeply, deeply honoured. Being Australian and a Noosan goes beyond blood or race. We are one, united in our diversity, and as that beautiful song goes, ‘we shall dream and sing with one voice, we are Australians”.
Lions Club volunteers Cameron, Bryan, Mary and Paul at their food van on Australia Day. (Rob Maccoll)Visitors enjoyed a dance to the music at Lions Park.
Australia Day was celebrated at Lions Park, Noosaville.
Jazz Strings performed at the ceremony.New
citizen Nella Del Castillo expresses her joy at receiving her citizenship certificate. (Rob Maccoll)
Noosa MP Sandy Bolton
Emcee Ian Mackay.
Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie with Micky who gained her citizenship and GJ Gardiner.
Group wants transparency
In a letter to Noosa Today the 62 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy Steering Committee has made an “urgent call for transparency around 62 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy Development”, revised subdivision.
Their letter follows the resolution, below, which appeared in council minutes of the confidential meeting:
“That Council
A. Note the report by the Principal Strategic Planner to the General Committee dated 20 January 2025 regarding Cooroy Affordable Housing Project at 62 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy;
B. Approve the revised Proposed Subdivision of Lot 105 on SP118458, Rev. C, prepared by Murray & Associates and dated 9/12/24 contained in Attachment 1 to the report;
C. In accordance with Council Resolution on 16 May 2024, approve all remediation and subdivision works required to occur for the delivery of the revised subdivision layout contained in Attachment 1 to the report;
D. Support advancing the subdivision and remediation works subject to securing a loan facility, whilst continuing to actively pursue grant funding opportunities;
E. In endorsing this option any process to consider future uses of the remaining 2 sites should consider investigating options for the sites, including open space, cultural heritage, housing, community uses, landscape and amenity and other land use planning matters and ensure this process involves community consultation; and
F. Remove the confidentiality of the Attachment 1 to the report.
For: Crs Wilkie, Stockwell, Wegener, Finzel Against: Crs Lorentson, Phillips and Wilson Carried.”
There has been an important development in the proposed social housing development on the outer fringes of the township of Cooroy. In confidential session last Thursday, Noosa Council agreed on the resolution which adopted a
recommendation from a confidential planning report.
Having abandoned the limited public engagement that developed toward the end of last year, Council’s processes seem to have conspired to produce a nebulous plan involving significant but uncertain costs and denying public scrutiny when it most mattered. It is difficult to even follow the meaning of the resolution. Part C suggests a blanket approval of remediation and subdivision works but Part D makes advancing the project subject to council obtaining a loan, and ideally, grant funding. This would require Council to convince already skeptical government donors of the value of the project. Part E of the resolution refers to ‘endorsement’ of an unspecified ‘option’. It also refers to ‘2 remaining sites’ - a surreptitious reference to Council’s unminuted decision to sell Lot 1 of the proposed development to Coast2Bay - without any public and commercial scrutiny. It’s all rather baffling and little wonder three councillors called for one senior councillor to deny any conflicts of interest at last Monday’s general committee meeting. Comments by Mayor Frank Wilkie after the resolution indicate the remediation would proceed (but not within 3 weeks) which appears to contradict Part D and thus gives little faith that Council will give genuine consideration to the use of most of 62 Lake Macdonald Drive as public use recreational space and that the planning process will from now on include proper consultation.
Brian Stockwell considers this will be the biggest social outcome for Noosa Shire but at what risk to the Town of Cooroy and the Shire’s finances? Will this social outcome only be achieved if the proposed over scale development for the whole site is the end result?
62 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy Steering Committee. Read more in Soapbox by Cr Amelia Lorentson on P12.
Cooroy’s social housing gets go-ahead, ‘as promised’
From page 1
The group has raised several concerns over proposed subdivisions of the land involving the removal of pine forest atop the former dump site and potential leaching of hazardous material including asbestos into their properties. Other concerns raised have included those about the density of the housing in the rural, residential area and its isolation from shops or services.
Mayor Frank Wilkie said the decision will help address the housing crisis and improve the value of, and opportunities for, the remaining 14,000 square metres of the former landfill site.
“While women and children are sleeping in cars in Noosa, we will be playing our part in finding solutions, as promised,” Cr Wilkie said.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our shire - it’s the biggest single investment in social housing in this shire and a clear commitment to helping deliver affordable housing for those in most need.”
Council will fully remediate the whole site, which was a former night soil, landfill, and bottle disposal site from the 1950s and 60s, plus the remaining parcel of land, subject to securing a loan or grant funding.
“The site needs to be thoroughly remediated before any civil works or housing construction can begin,” Cr Wilkie said.
“We’re acting on our social and environmental responsibility by immediately removing contaminants from this site, so its true value and use to the community can be fully realised.
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“We’ll be asking the community what may be done with the remaining 11,000 square metres of land, which could include open space, cultural heritage projects, housing, and other community purposes.”
“Responding to feedback from neighbouring residents, the revised layout includes a vegetated buffer that was doubled in size to 10-metres wide and an extra 2500 square metres of open space.
“Focused planning has the potential to make this a signature project in Queensland and a local response to the widening inequality gap we’re seeing across the country.”
Coast2Bay will need to lodge a Development Application for approval, providing the community with an opportunity to review the proposal prior to any formal construction.
“We have an MoU with Coast2Bay, signed in 2022 and they are a key member of our Housing Stakeholder Reference Group, so this decision fulfils a key action from our Housing Strategy, to facilitate the rollout of new social and low-cost housing for our community.”
“These are difficult, challenging decisions and I’m proud that this council showed the courage to take action as promised under the housing strategy,” Cr Wilkie said.
“It’s clear that tackling housing affordability and homelessness requires collaboration between industry, all levels of government and the community.”
“We will continue to work with Coast2Bay and all stakeholders on the balance of the site to create a positive legacy everyone can be proud of.”
Lion Payne brings cup home
By Abbey Cannan
Brisbane Lions defender Jack Payne brought the AFL premiership cup home to Noosa last week while in town for the club’s 2025 AFL Community Camp.
The former Noosa junior spoke to media before Wednesday’s open training session at the Maroochydore Sports Complex on day one of the club’s visit.
“I’m doing about 25 minutes worth of skills today and then the rehab boys and I are going off to do a swim,” he said.
Jack talked about his journey through the AFL Queensland pathway from Sunshine Coast junior to the Youi Brisbane Lions Academy before becoming a premiership player.
“I’ve touched on it before but if it wasn’t for the Brisbane Lions Academy then I probably wouldn’t have ever taken up AFL,“ he said.
“That was sort of around the age of 12 or 13 when I got that invitation to join so I’m very grateful to the club for that opportunity.“
Jack said he believed the game was 100 per cent growing in Noosa.
“We’ve had a lot of coast players that have come through the AFL system and a lot of Queenslanders as well,“ he said.
“I definitely feel like the numbers in AFL Queensland are on the rise, particularly in the last five to six years. It’s awesome to see. We’ve got the super clinic here on Friday so there will be so many kids that we can give back to and we’re looking forward to that as well.“
The Noosa local said he was looking forward to visiting the Noosa Tigers AFC club on Wednesday afternoon.
“I’m very keen to head back there and catch up with a lot of people that I still keep in contact with to this day,“ Jack said.
Winning the AFL premiership in 2024 was such a special day for their supporters, members of staff, and players.
“We’ve been able to sit down as a group and share the moments of that special day, so hopefully we can be back there this season,“ Jack said.
“Obviously it’s a tale of two stories, missing out on the grand final in 2023 and then playing the year after in 2024 but the body is good.
“We’ve got some games coming up next month so it’s not too far around the corner and we’re all very keen for that.“
He said their women’s team have done exceptionally well over the last eight or nine years since they brought in the AFLW.
“As a club, that’s what we strive for. Both parties to be competing really well at the top level so no doubt it has a really big impact on the kids in both male and females coming up,“ Jack said.
Sunshine Coast Council mayor Rosanna Natoli said it was fantastic to be able to welcome the Brisbane Lions to the Sunshine Coast.
“It absolutely looks magnificent here at the facility at Fisherman’s Road. We’re so proud to be able to have this team here to share the spirit of AFL with our community,“ she said.
“It is so important as sport really brings people together.
“Obviously I’m a fan, so it is really special. We have a lot of Brisbane Lions fans here on the Sunshine Coast.
“We’re super proud of our Sunshine Coast footballers, who go on to play at the AFL, at this level for the Lions. So, go Lions!”
Brisbane Lions co-captain Harris Andrews
spoke to the media at Thursday’s Youi Family Day.
“It’s been a great opportunity to get up here and train really hard in some testing conditions but also engage in our community camp and get out
into the community whether that be schools, footy clubs, or surf clubs for that matter,“ Harris said.
“We’re excited to get around everyone that has shown so much support to us.
“There’s been so many great footballers come out of the Sunshine Coast in both the women’s and men’s AFL and AFLW. And there’s so much passion for us which we’re extremely grateful for.“
Brisbane Lions co-captain Harris Andrews.
Jack Payne is a former Noosa junior.
Brisbane Lions at an open training session at the Maroochydore Sports Complex.
Sunshine Coast Council mayor Rosanna Natoli welcomed the Lions to the region.
Brisbane Lions players at a Youi Family Day.
Brisbane Lions defender Jack Payne. (Supplied)
Brisbane Lions players at a Youi Family Day.Brisbane Lions at an open training session at the Maroochydore Sports Complex.
Health education
By Margie Maccoll
A recent trip to the Indonesian island of Lombok led a Noosa organisation on a path to improve healthcare locally and in developing countries.
Global Pacific Medical, an organisation set up by emergency nurse practitioners Jeff Menken and John Degan and director Jenna Degan, has organised its inaugural Emergency Nurse Practitioner conference in Noosa and will be diverting profits from the conference to support health initiatives in developing countries.
The near sold-out conference to be held at the RACV resort in March aligns with the aims of the organisation to provide health professionals with evidencebased knowledge they can use in clinical practice.
Jenna Degan said recent trips to Pacific and South East Asian countries opened their eyes to the lack of similar educational opportunities for frontline health workers there, so they began looking at ways to assist.
“You see what little they have and how well they make do and you think what can you do to help,” Jenna said.
She said after visiting Vanuatu a few times they looked at ways they could help or assist through collaboration with other Noosa organisations. Jenna said their team had already visited Port Vila hospital to provide educational workshops which had been very positively received. She said after the hospital acquired its first CT machine a team from Lightbox Radiology in Noosa provided the hospital with a CT course.
Through local Noosa connections health education is being provided to these developing countries, Jenna said.
“Once you start looking there’s a lot where you can get involved, but there’s a process. You have to work with the locals and have a holistic approach. It’s always very well received,” she said.
Global Pacific Medal has a range of projects they are working on in developing countries. They are collaborating on a project to assist a group of Filipinos, who want to send their first ever surfing team to the Olympics.
In assisting Project Hiu in Indonesia they are involved in the conservation of sharks by creating a change of career for
shark fin fisherman. The project which assists fisherman to transfer their work from shark finning to tourism aims to reduce the loss of sharks, many endangered, in this cruel practice, while providing an alternative income and career path for the former fisherman.
Tickets are still available to the Emergency Nurse Practitioner ConferenceinNoosa.
Loss felt locally
Former University of the Sunshine Coast lecturer Stephen JamesHooperhaspassedaway aged 75 after a journey through Parkinson’sDisease.
Steve was born in Taree, NSW on 12 March 1949, and had a distinguished academic career in Sydney before taking up a position as Lecturer in Communication at the newly established University of the Sunshine Coast, where he was instrumental in starting business communication and advertisingcourses.
He lived at Peregian Beach and later at Mt Eerwah before moving to a nursing home in Buderim where he passed away. Steve was a great mentor to many students and his regional engagement, particularlythroughtheestablishment of Regional Art and Design, and community organisations opened employment opportunitiesforhisstudents.
Throughout his time on the Sunshine Coast, Steve had a
passionate interest in biodiversity and ecology and provided advicetomanyorganisations.
These included the Sunshine Coast Environment Council, Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation, Barung Landcare, and the Richmond Birdwing Conservation Network. With these organisations he donated countless hours of his time enhancing relationshipswithallstakeholders.
Hewasalsoagreatsupporter of Land for Wildlife particularly at his much-loved property Bangalow at Mt Eerwah where he worked tirelessly to remove invasive species and revegetatewithnativehabitat.
Loved partner and brother, friend and colleague, Steve is remembered as a decent person, kind, caring and generous, and a dedicated campaigner for many just causes throughout his life. Steve passed away on 16 December 2024 and his burial at Eumundi Cemetery washeldon13January,2025.
Vale Stephen James Hooper: 12 March 1949 – 16 December 2024. (Supplied)
Global Pacific Medical team Jeff Menkens, Jenna Degan and John Degan. (Gabriel Vail @ handsoffcreative)
All smiles as dispute ends
Dawn Watkins and Yvonne Ferre.There was a terrific crowd at the opening.Raffles are always fun.
Dave and Kym Wright.
Danielle Taylor, Narelle Jacobs, Don Haager, and Sharon Haager.
Sub-branch president Greg (Rolly) Terry, life member Ken Bridges, and Chairman of Tewantin Noosa RSL Kevin Graham. (Supplied)
Bill Kippen and Marie Pryce.
Fluoride to stay in water, says mayor
“There are no plans to remove fluoride from the Noosa Shire water supply due to the logistical complexity of isolating Noosa water from the SEQ Water Grid, the cost to Noosa ratepayers, the potential weakening of Noosa’s water security in times of drought and the weight of advice from credible health authorities.“
This was the message Mayor Frank Wilkie delivered in a Mayoral Minute to council’s ordinary meeting last week.
“Council has researched the risks and costs of removing fluoride from the shire water supply and has no plans to do so due to:
The logistical complexity of removing Noosa’s water supply from the interconnected SouthEast Queensland (SEQ) Water Grid;
The significant and ongoing financial burden for ratepayers, estimated at over $20million by 2013 figures, for the de-fluoridation of existing supplies and of water received via the Northern Interconnector Pipeline, plus the possible need to fluoridate water being sent south from Noosa to other areas of the Grid;
The reputable medical, dental and scientific evidence and advice provided by credible federal and state authorities in support of water fluoridation and its public health outcomes; and
Potentially disadvantaging the shire’s water security in times of drought.
Under theWater Fluoridation Act 2008 (the Act), Council can decide whether Noosa’s drinking water is fluoridated or not. This decision must take into consideration the best interests of the community and must not affect another local government’s water security or supply without agreement from other local government’s that would be affected by the change, in this case, Moreton Bay City and Sunshine Coast Councils.
Noosa’s water supply is connected to the broader SEQ Water Grid that is operated by Seqwater. This arrangement allows Seqwater to move treated drinking water around the region and plays a critical role in ensuring water security and supply continuity for the community. Isolating Noosa from the SEQ interconnected water grid to remove fluoride would likely result in the delivery of poor water security for the community.
While the interconnected nature of the SEQ water grid ensures water security and supply to the community, it would make the implementation of a decision to cease fluoridation of Noosa’s water supply an extremely complex process. Noosa’s water supply is also fluoridated prior to arrival in Noosa through the Northern Pipeline Interconnector (NPI). Cessation of fluoride would require alterations to the existing connections with Seqwater and the Unitywater distribution system to cease dosing at Noosa, removing fluoride flowing north to Noosa and fluoridating water heading the south and adding connection points. In accordance with the Act, Council would be required to bear the costs associated with a decision to withdraw fluoride from drinking water. Unitywater and Seqwater would
be entitled to recover additional and ongoing financial costs from Council that are incurred because of a decision to cease fluoridation. Fluoridation of the SEQ water supply is a Queensland Government public health measure and is regulated in accordance with the Act and the Water Fluoridation Regulation 2020.
WaterfluoridationissupportedbyQueensland Health and has been endorsed as a safe and effective public health measure by more than 150 science and health organisations, including the NHMRC, the Australian Dental Association, the Australian Medical Association, and the World Health Organisation. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) report advises that:
In children, fluoridation reduces tooth decay by 26 per cent to 44 per cent, while in adults tooth decay is decreased by 27 per cent;
There is reliable evidence that community water fluoridation at current Australian levels is not associated with cancer, Down syndrome, cognitive dysfunction, lowered intelligence or hip fracture or other human health conditions; and existing bodies of evidence consistently shows that water fluoridation reduces tooth decay.
Consistent with information circulated to Councillors in the response to petitioners and background report in October 2024, Noosa Council has no plans to remove fluoride from the water supply.”
Stamp duty changes
Abolishing stamp duty on new homes for first home buyers will be the first action of Parliament this year, delivering major cost of living relief to Queenslanders, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said last week.
Abolishing stamp duty on new homes for first home buyers is one of the actions the government plans to take to boost home ownership, along with unlocking underused church and charity owned land for community housing, removing restrictions preventing first home buyers renting out rooms and kickstarting new development with a $2 billion investment in housing infrastructure.
Mr Crisafulli said a first home buyer purchasing a new house and land package in Toowoomba at the median price could save $24,730.
First-home buyers would save $29,500 when purchasing a new build at the median price in Brisbane east, while in LoganBeaudesert, they would have keep $6960 in their pocket.
“For far too long, stalling housing approvals and skyrocketing housing prices have shut the door on Queenslanders walking into their own home,“ he said.
Treasurer and Minister for Home Ownership David Janetzki said Queenslanders were losing hope in the Great Australian Dream of home ownership and the situation has never been more dire for young people wanting to purchase their first home.
“Scrapping first home buyer stamp duty on new builds provides real savings and puts the Great Australian Dream back within reach,” he said.
Premier David Crisafulli says abolishing stamp duty on new homes for first home buyers will be the first action of Parliament this year.
Council has no plans to remove fluoride from the water, Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie says.
Bridging the health gap
By Nurse Practitioner/director James Chapman
In today’s world, timely access to quality health care remains an elusive goal for many, particularly those with specialised needs.
As founders of The Lymph Lab, my wife Tamara, and I are deeply committed to changing that reality—by providing accessible, affordable, and effective care for individuals dealing with lymphoedema.
The inspiration for The Lymph Lab is personal. Close family and friends of ours have been diagnosed with lymphoedema, a condition that affects the body’s ability to manage fluid, leading to swelling and discomfort.
For many of them, getting timely and effective care was an uphill battle. They faced long waitlists, confusion about where to seek treatment, and barriers in accessing the right therapies. This experience was frustrating—not just for our loved ones, but for us, too. We knew there had to be a better way.
Our mission is simple: to provide comprehensive lymphoedema care that is both accessible and affordable. We both share a passion for health care, but what drives us is a deep desire to close the gap in services for people who need help the most. Our journey began with this mission in mind, but we quickly realised that the issues we were addressing extended beyond lymphoedema itself. It was clear that the broader health care system was failing to meet the needs of individuals with chronic conditions, particularly those in underserved communities. To better serve our clients, we also focus on holistic care, referring patients to psychologists, nutritionists,
and physiotherapists, ensuring that all aspects of their health are addressed. This collaborative approach helps people manage not only the physical symptoms of lymphoedema but also the emotional and lifestyle factors that can impact their well-being.
The Lymph Lab was born from our belief that no one should have to wait for essential care. We offer a range of treatments and services designed to diagnose, manage and alleviate the symptoms of lymphoedema, from, bioimpedance spectroscopy (SOZO), biocompression therapy to manual lymphatic drainage. But more than that, we’re building a community around this work— a place where education, support, and care are provided in tandem, where our clients can feel understood and empowered in managing their condition.
As a husband and wife team, we’ve built The Lymph Lab on a foundation of empathy, experience, and a shared vision of improving lives. We’re not just here to treat conditions; we’re here to make essential health care more accessible for those who need it most. Every step we take toward closing the health care gap brings us closer to ensuring that everyone has access to the care they deserve, when they need it most.
Nurse practitioner and The Lymph Lab director James Chapman. (Supplied)
Clean-up joy
A successful beach clean-up at Noosa Main Beach was held by Tourism Noosa through the Plastic Free Noosa program last week.
Stretching from First Point to Noosa Woods, the clean-up saw 22 dedicated locals and visitors come together to preserve Noosa’s exceptional natural beauty, collecting an impressive 19.6kg of rubbish in just under two hours.
Jen Sharpe, Plastic Free Noosa program coordinator, expressed both gratitude and concern over the findings from the event.
“It’s incredible to see the Noosa community come together for these clean-ups, but the results are always bittersweet,“ she said.
The amount of water balloons, cigarette butts, and take-out cutlery we found was disheartening
“When you scratch beneath the surface of our pristine beaches, unfortunately, there is still a significant amount of rubbish to be found. However, events like these remind us that we can all make a difference by simply picking up what we see.”
The clean-up highlighted the importance of raising awareness among visitors and locals alike about how small actions can have a lasting positive impact.
“We encourage businesses to spread the message to their guests and customers, empowering them to contribute to Noosa’s sustainability efforts during their stay,” Ms Sharpe said.
Tourism Noosa invites everyone to play their part in keeping Noosa beautiful. Whether it’s joining a future clean-up or adopting simple habits like using reusable items, every effort contributes to the greater goal of reducing waste and preserving the environment.
For information as joining up as a Waste Warrior, visit plasticfreenoosa.org/sign-up-wastewarriors
For further information on events, go to visitnoosa.com.au/tread-lightly/home
For more information on Plastic Free Noosa, visit visitnoosa.com.au/plastic-free-noosa
Tourism Noosa team boost
Tourism Noosa has appointed Helen Mitchell as their new destination marketing manager.
Bringing over 25 years of extensive experience in the travel and tourism industry, Helen will lead all destination marketing activities for the organisation.
Helen brings a wealth of knowledge from her impressive career, which spans both local and international markets, including the UK. She has held roles in marketing, sales, relationship and account management with leading travel organisations Qantas, APT Luxury Travel, QBT Travel (part of Helloworld), Corporate Travel Management, and most recently, Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort.
An active member of the Noosa community and Tourism Noosa, Helen is well-versed in the region’s unique appeal. Her deep understanding of the local tourism landscape will enable her to craft authentic marketing strategies that resonate with visitors and drive sustainable growth for the Noosa region.
Tourism Noosa’s chief executive officer Sharon Raguse said, “We are thrilled to welcome Helen to the team as destination marketing manager.“
“Helen’s extensive industry experience, coupled with her passion for Noosa, makes her the ideal person to lead our destination marketing efforts. Her ability to connect with diverse markets and create impactful campaigns will be invaluable as we continue to showcase Noosa as a world-class destination.
“Helen’s appointment reflects our commitment to strengthening our marketing initiatives for our industry. With her extensive experience and local insights, Helen is set to play a key role in promoting Noosa’s unique
THE SWEET LIFE
TOURISM NOOSA with
There’s a lot to love about the start of a new year. That sense of new beginnings, a hope for a year that’s better than the last, fresh resolutions (promising ourselves we’ll keep them this time!), and of course, it’s different for everyone. I love taking this time to look over the year that was, to reflect and plan ahead with renewed energy and optimism both personally and professionally.
So, what reflective changes am I bringing with me into 2025? Well, my main goal is to try to be kinder to myself and prioritise spending time with my family and enjoying the lifestyle that Noosa offers us (I still pinch myself that we live here).
I spent my summer break holidaying at home doing the tourist thing, exploring mountain bike tracks, early morning walks, dining out, kayaking the river, relaxing at the beach, taking in those breathtakingly beautiful Noosa sunsets, and more, but try as I did, I couldn’t quite switch off and I’ll share why.
I spent a lot of this Summer, putting myself in your shoes and yes, Noosa can sometimes feel uncomfortable for locals, especially during peak holiday periods like we’ve just seen. And while I can talk to you about Tourism Noosa’s ‘value over volume’ strategy and quote the stats about the ‘value of tourism to the local economy’, it doesn’t matter that visitor numbers have dropped 15.5% or that there are 384,000 fewer day-trippers today than in 2019 … if you’re feeling impacted, that’s a valid concern and one that’s shared by the team at Tourism Noosa … for we’re all locals too.
In November, I was nominated to the Board of Ecotourism Australia, largely because of my experience in using community-led design to shape positive tourism outcomes in regional destinations. I was appointed as CEO of Tourism Noosa for much the same reason and because the Board saw that a similar approach could be beneficial here.
The tourism sector and the community share many values, one of which is indisputable: our love and respect for Noosa’s unique natural environment. In 2025, we’ll be talking much more about our industry’s ongoing efforts and our involvement with the community to continue fostering positive change in this space—after all, we live in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
offerings and supporting the region’s sustainable tourism goals”.
Helen shared her excitement about joining Tourism Noosa, saying, “I am truly honoured to take on this role with Tourism Noosa.“
“As a proud local, I’m passionate about showcasing the stunning Noosa region to audiences around the world. I look forward to working with the team to create innovative and sustainable marketing initiatives that celebrate Noosa’s natural beauty, our wonderful and passionate tourism operators and unique experiences.”
Tourism Noosa, recognising the decades of extraordinary effort by other passionate organisations, has been proudly leading sustainable tourism advocacy and innovation. Still, there’s so much more to do and it’s becoming increasingly important. With changes in consumer travel behaviours and global travel policy pushing decarbonisation of the tourism industry, we’re serious about helping our tourism operators elevate their sustainability scorecards, and we’re equally serious about ensuring our own journey continues to strengthen, starting with the integration of relevant UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into our Destination Strategy 2023-27 and helping others to understand why they matter.
If you’re uncertain about what SDGs are, you’re not alone. One of the most powerful exercises I’ve found to help ‘get it’ tests the concept of ‘Planetary Boundaries’ also known as ‘Earth Overshoot Day’. Essentially it determines how many planet Earths are needed if everyone lived like us. Scary? You bet! When I did this test, my family and I were living in rural East Gippsland, Victoria, and I felt we were doing a pretty good job of living sustainably, still, it was eye-opening to learn we’d need 5 ½ planets to sustain life if we didn’t make changes.
Are you game to take the test? Scan the QR code to calculate your ecological footprint.
I’d love to know how you go! You can share your results with us through our new Community Feedback email: communityvoice@tourismnoosa.com.au
Until next time.
SHARON RAGUSE CEO, TOURISM
NOOSA
Tourism Noosa’s new destination marketing manager, Helen Mitchell. (Supplied)
Lidia Scotto di Vetta, Allegra Turrini, Amarli Marhad, Caius Marhad, Lorenzo Turrini, Nhya Marhad and Dee Marhad.
On The Soapbox Reevaluating our strategy
By Nick Hluszko
I, and many I speak with in the community, feel that it is time for Noosa Council to revise its climate change strategy to better align with actual observed data, prioritise cost-effective solutions, and meaningfully re-engage the community in long-term planning. The community needs to feel that Council policies are both scientifically rigorous and economically sustainable which is essential to safeguarding Noosa’s environment and in particular our coastline, while fostering sustainable growth. Unfortunately, many in the community feel that the current approach falls short of this balance.
Council’s reliance on RCP 8.5 climate change modellinganditsdeclarationofaClimateChange State of Emergency have led to unnecessary costs and inefficiencies. A more balanced, adaptive approach grounded in observed data and community priorities, would better serve ratepayers and the environment. By treating climate change as a “journey, not an event”, Council can and should develop flexible, cost-effective strategies that address both current and future risks without imposing undue burdens on the community.
For example, Noosa’s coastline has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with beaches like Noosa Main Beach benefiting from natural sediment supply and managed interventions. Prioritizing low-cost, high-impact measures such as dune restoration and managed retreat only where needed, over planned expensive infrastructure (e.g. Noosaville Foreshore) based on low-probability outcomes would be a more prudent approach. Globally, regions like the Netherlands have successfully implemented adaptive management strategies that balance protection with natural processes, offering valuable lessons for Noosa.
This shift in strategy would not only protect our environment but also ensure that the financial and social costs of climate adaptation are shared equitably and sustainably.
In June 2019, Noosa Council declared a Climate Emergency, citing an imminent and catastrophic threat to environmental sustainability—a cornerstone of Noosa’s identity as an eco-tourism destination. Council argued that urgent measures were necessary to protect the Noosa Biosphere Reserve and ensure the region’s resilience for future generations. This decision was rooted in its strategic objective of prioritizing the natural environment, with community wellbeing framed as a secondary outcome.
Council’s rationale relied heavily on the 2018 IPCC report, which warned of threats to biodiversity, the tourism economy, and community wellbeing if climate change predictions materialized. Additionally, Council emphasized the potential risks to coastal infrastructure, properties, and ecosystems from sea level rise, storm surge and inundation projections, describing these risks as absolute, certain, and potentially disastrous. This led to the adoption of a precautionary principal approach, with Council basing its policies on the high-emissions, worst-case scenario RCP 8.5 as part of its Climate Change State of Emergency declaration.
While the intent to mitigate future risks is commendable, Council’s reliance on extreme modelling and emergency framing is resulting in disproportionate costs for ratepayers and inefficient resource allocation. I contend that Noosa Council should shift its policy position from a certainty of an “absolute emergency” mindset to one that acknowledges possible outcomes, adopting a more balanced, adaptive strategy. Climate change should be treated as a “journey, not an event”, aligning with observed data on coastal processes such as sea level rise, accretion, and
erosion, and progressively prioritizing cost-effective, community-focused solutions.
1. RCP 8.5 and High-Risk Modelling
RCP 8.5 represents a worst-case scenario, assuming high greenhouse gas emissions and no significant climate policy intervention. While useful for exploring extreme outcomes, it is increasingly criticized as an unlikely baseline for planning, given global efforts to reduce emissions and that it is recognised by all levels of government and its agencies that our geographic location will experience fewer impacts of climate change versus most other areas. Key limitations include:
Overly Pessimistic: RCP 8.5 is recognised as not the most probable scenario, yet it dominates Noosa Council’s planning, leading to inflated risk assessments.
Misallocation of Resources: Preparing for extreme scenarios justifies costly infrastructure projects, such as seawalls and beach nourishment, which are unnecessary in the short term and potentially unnecessary in the medium term.
Lack of Nuance: RCP 8.5 fails to account for local variability, such as the net accretion observed across most of Noosa’s coastline. Satellite data over four decades shows approximately 29 metres of accretion across the shire, with some 26 metres of beach erosion limited to localized areas like Burgess Creek and the Noosa River mouth to First Cutting—issues caused by human interference and yet to be resolved.
2.Current Data on Coastal Processes
Shoreline Accretion: Data from DEA Coastlines, the Sunshine Coast Council’s Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy (CHAS), and State of the Environment Reports demonstrate that much of Noosa’s coastline continues to experience net accretion due to natural processes like longshore drift and sediment supply from the river and creeks. Historical trends show that beaches recover quickly from erosion events, such as storms, through natural processes.
Erosion Hotspots: While localized erosion exists, it is often linked to specific conditions, such as human interference. While it is true that erosion is not uniform, most areas do remain stable and/or are accreting.
Sea Level Rise: Current data shows minimal sea level rise impacts in the region, contradicting and seriously putting into question the Council’s 2040 projection of a +200mm rise which in turn also puts into question 2070 and 2100 pro-
jections. While long-term projections suggest gradual changes, these must be balanced against actual observed trends, which indicate resilience in most areas. What the actual data is clearly showing is that current modelling is completely unrealistic and a move to adaptive management is needed.
3.Negative Impacts on Ratepayers
Financial Burden: High-risk modelling justifies extreme measures such as property resumptions, caveats, and costly infrastructure projects, all of which are unnecessary in the short term and likely unnecessary in the medium term. These costs are passed on to ratepayers through increased rates, taxes, and fees, while also negatively impacting property values.
Household insurance is almost unavailable or completely unaffordable to many as a direct result of Councils disaster mapping. Increasingly property owners have no insurance.
Opportunity Cost: Resources allocated to extreme scenarios could be better spent on immediate community needs, such as roads, waste management, and reducing rates during a costof-living crisis. Overinvestment in speculative risks diverts funds from pressing local priorities.
Economic Disruption: Overly restrictive planning policies, based on extreme scenarios, stifle development and tourism, which are vital to our local economy. Creative, adaptive building regulations in low-risk areas should be considered to balance preservation with growth – all within a context of preserving Noosa’s look and feel.
4.Proposed Alternative: Adaptive Management Council must start treating climate change as a long-term process requiring flexible, incremental responses rather than emergency measures. Key principles include:
Data-Driven Decisions: Base planning on real, actual observed trends (e.g., accretion, erosion) rather than speculative worst-case scenarios or dismissing them out of hand as not appropriate for Noosa’s unique needs.
Localized Solutions: Address specific risks in erosion-prone areas while allowing natural processes to continue in stable or accreting areas.
Community Involvement: Engage ratepayers in decision-making to ensure policies reflect true, majority local priorities and values.
Regular Review: Update strategies as new data and technologies become available, avoiding redundant studies and leveraging existing data sources.
Council divided over controversial Cooroy subdivision
By Cr Amelia Lorentson
Last week, a critical decision regarding the subdivision of land at Cooroy was made during a confidential council meeting. In a narrow 4:3 vote (For: Crs Wilkie, Stockwell, Wegener, and Finzel; Against: Crs Lorentson, Phillips, and Wilson), Council resolved to:
Note the report by the Principal Strategic Planner to the General Committee dated 20 January 2025 regarding Cooroy Affordable Housing Project at 62 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy; and
- Approve the revised subdivision plan and proceed with all necessary remediation and subdivision works, aligning with the May 16, 2024, resolution, including Lot 1 for social housing.
- Advance the subdivision and remediation works, contingent upon securing a loan facility, while actively pursuing grant funding opportunities.
- Endorse a process for determining future site uses of the remaining two sites, investigating options such as open space, cultural heritage, housing, community facilities, landscaping, and amenity—committing to community consultation as part of this process.
This decision followed hours of intense, closed-door discussions due to the report’s
commercial sensitivity. The narrow vote highlights the issue’s complexity and divisiveness.
While I cannot comment on the specifics of the debate, the resolution highlights broader
questions about the role of local government in addressing social housing shortages. When Council steps into a role traditionally seen as a state or federal responsibility, what costs, risks,
and trade-offs are acceptable to the community in taking on this challenge?
While all councillors agreed unanimously on the importance of supporting those in need, divisions emerged over other matters, which led to dissent from myself, Cllrs Wilson, and Phillips.
Unfortunately, the closed session has left the community without insight into the arguments that shaped the decision. For some, the Council’s majority decision may be viewed as a bold move toward tackling the housing crisis, while for others, it may raise significant concerns. From my perspective, decisions like this extend beyond immediate outcomes—they set a precedent for how Council approaches housing challenges and manages risks.
As the Cooroy subdivision and remediation project progresses, it will (imo) remain a topic of public scrutiny and discussion. The Cooroy community, known for its compassion and resilience, will no doubt continue to ask questions, demand transparency, and hold Council accountable for its promise to consult.
I will be there to support the community throughout this process.
(Please note this is my personal opinion and does not represent the position of Noosa Council.)
Noosa councillor Amelia Lorentson. (Supplied)
Nick Hluszko.
Importance of 26 January
The date, January 26, is an important date to Australia for several reasons. Most of us celebrate it as Australia Day, the day Captain Arthur Phillip landed in what is now known as Sydney Cove back in 1788. However, the date is important for another issue relating to all of us who call ourselves Australians.
Prior to Nationality and Citizenship Act 1948 being enacted on January 26, 1949, all Australians were both British citizens and British subjects and this is what was shown on our passports. There was no such thing as an Australian citizen or passport.
Before that special date, all people living in Australia, including Aborigines born after 1921, were called ‘British Subjects’ and forced to travel on British Passports and fight in British wars. (The Nationality Act 1920 gave all Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders born after January 1, 1921, the status of British subjects.)
From 1949 to 1984, a person born in England would have been a British subject and a citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies, while someone born in Australia would have been a British subject and a citizen of Australia. During this time Australian passports had on the front ‘BRITISH SUBJECT Australian Citizen’.
Due to further acts of parliament, they removed us from being British Subjects in 1984.
To put these events into perspective we really need to understand the difference between a “subject” and a “citizen”.
A subject owes their allegiance to a sovereign and is governed by that sovereign’s laws whereas a citizen owes allegiance to the community and is entitled to enjoy all its civil rights and protections. The difference between citizen and subject lies in where an individual places their allegiance: subjects (to a sovereign) and citizens (to a state; to a republic).
What is really interesting is that a person with a British passport CANNOT be a member of Federal Parliament because they owe allegiance to a ‘foreign power’. This was determined by the High Court some 25 years ago.
The result of all this is, we are a republic but not yet in name.
Jim Kennedy, Noosa
Heartfelt thanks
I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to Noosa Council for all the invaluable help that I have received from them over a number of years.
This help ranged from domestic and social support to Home assist and volunteer drivers to medical appointments - all at very reasonable cost.
Moreover, it has always been a very pleasurable experience with personalised care from very friendly and competent staff.
Thank you Noosa Seniors.
Shirley Walton, Tewantin
Overstepping
President Trump you have the rights and laws behind you to rule America.
I think you are overstepping your rights by dictating to the rest of the world and using fear and taxes to achieve that.
Looking at past history and others who have tried those tactics and dictatorship to achieve what they want by threats and bullying.
You won’t be the first to get his toes trod and finished up cap in hand asking for forgiveness.
Obviously the 2020 Election didn’t achieve its goal.
Ernest Wright, Tewantin
Nuclear beauty
Margaret Wilkie asked for more details about the founder of Nuclear for Australia and the sponsorship of 2023 Miss America to speak about nuclear energy (NT - 24 Jan 2025). There is a misleading nuance in her question - what do young people and beauty queens know? This is an example of cherry picking the facts to add a grain of truth to a misleading statement.
It only took a 30-second Google search to reveal the organisation’s ‘About Page’ which confirms she is correct, the founder of this grassroots organisation with 75,000 supporters was 18 year old Will Shackell and the 2023 Miss America, Grace Stanke, a nuclear engineer, will tour Australia. There is also a substantial amount of additional information on the website about current nuclear science and technology.
Ms Wilke may be comforted to know “The Chairman, Dr Adi Paterson, is the former CEO of Australia’s Nuclear Science and Technology Or-
LENSCAPE
Leslie Downie spotted this spotted leopard stingray along the edge of Noosa River at Noosaville on 20 January 2025. If you have a Lenscape please email it to newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au
ganisation (ANSTO), considered one of Australia’s leading nuclear experts and a trusted voice around the world.” - NFA website.
I never heard of Nuclear for Australia before reading Margaret’s questions. Thank you for raising my awareness.
Woody Dass, Noosaville
Daring to Dream
The Anxious Generation describes young people exhibiting mental problems and anti-social behaviour exacerbated by social media.
They frequently isolate themselves from their family and community.
In these tough times, do they dare to dream and possess enough resilience to achieve a fruitful life and create supportive communities like their forebears?
The economic Great Depression was also psychologically depressing. Young people had to become incredibly resilient to pursue their dreams.
On a farm at Leongatha in Gippsland, 9-yearold Lennie Gwyther lived with his father, a WW1 veteran.
When his dad was hospitalised, young Lennie ran the property and had a compelling dream to attend the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932.
With his dad returning, Lennie received permission to ride his horse, Ginger Mick, the 1000kms on his own.
He met the PM in Canberra and Lord Mayor in Sydney while inspiring young people to become resilient to achieve their ambitions.
Lennie exceeded his wildest dreams when he became part of the Bridge opening parade with Ginger Mick.
To the humble lad’s surprise, he was invited to the SCG by his idol, Don Bradman, who presented him with a signed bat. The Don had been a country boy who had a dream and pursued it with great fortitude like Lennie.
How will we create the inspiration for our troubled young people to be sufficiently resilient to dare to dream and enjoy living it?
Garry Reynolds, Peregian Springs
Listen to the developer
Bemused Robert Brooks might have been after reading my letter published in the Noosa News a couple of weeks ago but assuming that I had not attended either of the two forums held by the developers last year was exactly that, an assumption.
I have no intention of getting into a slinging match with this gentleman but for the record both my wife and I attended one of the forums with the vast majority in attendance being from ParkRidge. As the meeting progressed it became patently obvious that the majority of the audience
LENSCAPE
were using this as an opportunity to have a go at the developer for issues completely unrelated to the hotel, but ones that are currently of concern to ParkRidge residents. Parking on Resort Drive and noise from the aqua classes held at the Noosa Springs Pool being a couple raised.
We were disgusted by the rudeness of many in the audience who constantly interrupted and made snide remarks when the developer’s representative tried to answer their questions and/or concerns.
I find it surprising that Mr Brooks was annoyed that his precinct did not get a mention in my letter. I would have thought this was obvious as I had no intention of supporting the objections raised by the ParkRidge residents the majority of which have little substance.
Regarding delivery trucks and other vehicles servicing the hotel, it should be noted that the Golf Club is currently and has always been ser-
viced in exactly the same way as it is intended the hotel be serviced. Maybe Mr Brooks has selective memory but at the forums, it was pointed out that the size of delivery trucks and the number of deliveries would only increase minimally to what is currently occurring.
MrBrookssuggeststhatIshouldprobablystart thinking about the impacts on the larger community rather than focusing on the benefits to “my” golf club and related amenities. My suggestion to Mr Brooks is that maybe he should put aside his self-interest and instead take on board what was conveyed by the developer to the forums. Brian Cairns, Noosa Springs
Jane Thiselton shot this beautiful photo of their dog Willow at Castaways Beach in the late afternoon last week. If you have a Lenscape please email it to newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au
Bendigo proudly turns 21
As we welcome 2025, we celebrate a significant milestone: 21 years since Bendigo Bank’s Tewantin-Noosa branch began serving the community.
Alongside our Cooroy and Marcoola branches, we have been dedicated to positively impacting the Sunshine Coast.
Since our inception, we have proudly reinvested over $5 million back into the community, reflecting the trust our customers place in community banking. This includes our $500,000 donation to help fund local domestic and family violence housing initiatives. Your banking supports grassroots sports, emergency services, scholarships, and arts programs, helping to create a brighter future for our region.
This year, stay tuned to our socials, @communitybanksunshinecoast, for details on special events and community projects to honour this milestone.
Tewantin-Noosa branch manager Kerryn Vincart said, “We’re proud to celebrate 21 years in Tewantin-Noosa. Thank you to our customers for your support—Bendigo Bank is here to stay, committed to investing in our community for the long term.“
Here’s to a year of celebration - because with Bendigo Bank, your banking is a way to give back to our community.
“Source: Roy Morgan Single Source Austraila, May 2023. All loans are subject to the bank’s normal lending criteria. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply. Please consider your situation and read the Terms and Conditions, available online at www.bendigobank.com.au or upon request from any Bendigo Bank branch, before making
Tewantin-Noosa Bendigo Bank branch manager Kerryn Vincart. (Supplied)
Diving into dolphin research
By Jacqueline Trewin
Nothing could be more fitting than meeting one of the most iconic figures in Australian sport on a Noosa jetty surrounded by water. Named after a red peppercorn tree by her red-haired mother, Peppie Simpson is more than a pioneer of Australian female surfing. She is Queen of the Pacific Ocean.
“I was nearly born in the sea. My mum was on the beach when she went into labour, and I think from a very young age, the water has been my whole life, right from the very start,” Peppie said.
“I was 15 years old when I started surfing. It was 1975. When I saw these guys surfing, I was determined to do it, even though there wasn’t much encouragement from anyone.”
It was just three years later when Peppie formed the Victorian Women’s Surfing Association that became part of the national surfing body to promote women’s surfing in Australia throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s.
Winning the Respect Award in memory of Bill Wallace at Noosa World Surfing Reserve Community Awards in 2023 adds to her string of accolades as a multiple longboard champion.
Riding on the crest of a wave, nothing holds Peppie back at 64, as she continues to compete in the largest annual over-50s surfing competition in Australia, Noosa Malibu Club’s Wrecks and Relics.
“Surfing was really the thing that drew me to the ocean. But one day, I was given a book called The Dolphin Connection by a lady from Hawaii named Joan Ocean, who is also a psychologist. This book moved me deeply,” Peppie said.
The book provides an insight into human-dolphin communication based on intimate friendships formed, resulting in multi-sensory experiences, whereby the dolphin is the teacher.
“So, I write to Joan in 1995, and say, ‘I’ve got to come and meet you, be with the dolphins, and learn from you,’ Peppie said.
“I went over to Hawaii, which started a very long love of this beautiful place, and my relationship with Joan and the dolphins. I learnt so much from them and wanted to share this knowledge.
“So, I started taking people on trips there for several years to experience the incredible gifts the dolphins share with us,” she said.
Peppie’s love for animals is as deep as the bottom of the ocean, where, according to Peppie, footage of whales singing into the earth has been recorded.
“The whole animal kingdom communicates telepathically, heart to heart. I’ve worked with one of the world’s leading animal communicators, Pea Horsley, who’s been to Noosa three times, and was here last year. She’s taught me so much about the animal kingdom,” Peppie said.
“I think for humans, it’s really a matter of trusting and understanding that they really are extraordinarily intelligent. I’ve had many, many experiences with both the whales and dolphins and many other animals to know this,” she said.
The moving documentary film, My Octopus Teacher by Craig Foster, about a unique bond formed between man and octopus springs to mind here. But that is also a stark reminder we are not alone in this ecosystem. Rescuers who freed a baby whale tangled in shark nets off Noosa in October 2023, prove this.
With the salty breeze blowing against her sunbleached hair, Peppie reflects on the launch of her business Whale Songs Noosa she owns with partner of 16 years, surfing champion, and sealoving captain, Albie.
“We started back in 2023 because when the world turned upside down with Covid, we couldn’t get to Hawaii. I said to Albie that I would love to do some of this work and share this knowledge with people in Noosa, so we started looking for a boat and it all began from there,” she said.
“We had an extraordinary beginning. The person who was working on our website, put the website on live before we were ready to start, just to test it, and we got all these bookings.”
“Then my husband rings me, and says, “We’ve got a charter today. We’ve got to go,” Peppie said. “And I said, what?— we’re not ready!’
It was a sixth sense that told Peppie to go with the flow, like trusting your instinct before surfing inside a barrelling wave.
“So, I go home to get ready, and on the way, I have this extraordinary feeling that something amazing was going to happen. And I tuned into this energy, and it was the whales who said: “We’re ready for you.” So, I knew we were going to see them,” Peppie said.
“We got the people on the boat, we headed out, and just got over the river mouth, and there were five big males, waiting. We took off, and we followed them, and it was like we were escorted across the bay.”
“And I said to the people on the boat that it was unusual to see whales behaving like this. We had them all around the boat. It was like they were happy we were there,” she said.
This long-held passion for marine animals has developed into a fascination for Indigenous culture that Peppie shares onboard with honour.
Nearing coastal cliffs at Noosa National Park, we come across a point behind Sunshine Beach, which Peppie refers to as ‘Dolphin Lounge’ that holds cultural significance to Kabi Kabi peoples.
“This particular area is where I’ve observed both the whales and dolphins a lot, and I thought I really wanted to find out what this area is,” Peppie said.
“When I had an Aboriginal woman on the boat, I took her there, and I asked her about this area as there was something special about it, and she said:
‘This is a Song Line. In Aboriginal culture, a Song Line is a very special energetic piece of land. It’s where the ancient people would walk and tell the stories and sing songs,’ ”Peppie said.
“I instantly knew this connection then with the whales and dolphins because everything with them is also about sound and singing, and I found that really fascinating —that’s 80,000 years of culture and knowledge,” she said.
“I was also talking to this Aboriginal woman about the whale songs because one of the scientists I work with believes there’s only one Humpback whale song that they share all around the planet. Another scientist believes that every whale has its own unique song. But this Aboriginal woman said that most Indigenous cultures
believe that the whale song actually changes every year, depending on the consciousness of the people—that’s mind-blowing,” Peppie said.
It is this deep respect for Indigenous culture that led Peppie in the 1980s to facilitate an excursion for Aboriginal children based 500kms northwest of Brisbane.
“I went up to the mission at Moorabinda with a friend of mine who did a lot of Aboriginal education and introduced me to the families,” Peppie said.
“I said I would really love to bring the children down to the ocean, because I knew that this is their land, and their area, and you know, genetically they’re connected here. So, we did, and it was very, very special.”
“Uncle Trevor, who is actually the last initiated man from this area, gifted me the Song of the Dolphins to sing them in. I still remember it, but I don’t share it very often,” Peppie said.
This appreciation for Indigenous culture has also been demonstrated with the launch of Whale Songs Noosa’s cultural tours in late November 2024.
“Our first one went amazingly well. We just stayed in the river and talked to Sam. He told us about incredible Dreamtime stories of the area, played the didgeridoo, and we did some painting and learnt what the symbols meant,” Peppie said.
“We’re hoping to start them up again in the New Year and run them through to the whale season because then we’re too busy. I just love bringing that cultural knowledge in, because to me, that is where the missing link is,” Peppie said.
In addition to the sensory and cultural connections that resonate with Peppie,
it is the scientific realm, where she plays a significant role in South East Queensland.
Wearing many sun hats in the oceanic world, Peppie is also a committed member of conservation group Oceans For All Noosa.
“We’re in this group to try and remove these shark nets because they’re simply not working. They’re very old technology, and the scientists who are working with us say there’s no science, or logic, behind them,’ Peppie said.
Peppie talks to guests on Whale Songs Noosa charter.
A fitting mantra: In a Sea of Fish, be a Purrmaid.
“We’re catching way too much bycatch, including whales, dolphins, turtles and rays,” she said.
According to catch data from the Queensland Government’s database, QFish, in the past five years, 59 dolphins, 245 turtles, 217 rays and 44 whales have been caught on drumlines and entangled in shark nets. Human Society International claims many of these animals perished, but due to the trauma involved, it is unlikely those found alive would survive after release.
In May 2024, survey results showed approximately 70 per cent of Noosans voted in favour of alternative shark control methods and the removal of nets during the whale season, whilst an independent review on the issue is due soon. A SharkSmart drone trial currently operating at Noosa Main Beach will continue until June. But Department of Fisheries must first complete its research program for shark net removal in Noosa to be considered this year.
“Sandy Bolton’s a trooper. She’s really helping us out and is very much in support of upgrading our technology, so that everything in the ocean can survive in harmony. Obviously, we want people to be safe, but we also need to have our wildlife safe as well,” Peppie said.
Peppie also collects data for the Humpback and High Rises (HHR) whale research organization based at Griffith University on the Gold Coast — the largest marine mammal monitoring program in South East Queensland.
But it is her work with University of the Sunshine Coast’s Research Fellow and Lecturer Dr Alexis Levengood that is creating a ripple effect.
Surrounded by sparkling blue ocean, Peppie perches herself at the side of the boat, monitoring the marine environment like an ocean warrior, before turning towards her passengers.
“So, you’ll see me talking often into my phone. I’m recording data for the university and send the data sheets off. I’m recording the number of dolphins, what they’re doing, their behaviour, the temperature of the water, the wind, if there’s other boats, and the interaction between the dolphins,” Peppie said.
Focusing on studying species along the coastline, including health, behaviour, spatial, social, and genetic connectivity, dolphin research had been overlooked in the Noosa region, until Dr Alexis Levengood founded the project Dolphin Research SEQ with UniSC PhD students in 2022.
“We realised at the time there wasn’t much research going on in South East Queensland. There was quite a bit of research going on in Moreton Bay, but north of there was largely ignored. There were zero studies done along the Sunshine Coast, which still to this day, seems shocking to me,” Dr Levengood said.
“There were only about 15 studies done up in Hervey Bay region, but they were outdated. The last study done was about 15 years ago. We know about marine strandings, bycatch records, so we knew the dolphins were here. We just had no real research on who they were, what they were doing, and what was going on.”
“We’re trying to understand their connectivity in the region, meaning how spatially, socially and genetically connected they are, as well as understanding their natural predators, like sharks,” Dr Levengood said.
The dolphins in Noosa are faced with unique challenges compared with other marine environments in Queensland, with Common bottlenose, Indo-Pacific bottlenose, and Australian humpback dolphins, most observed in the area.
“We see our bottlenose dolphins most often, but sometimes, we still get humpback dolphins, which is wonderful as they’re considered vulnerable by the IUCN, and you usually see these species interact with each other also, which shows a really dynamic ecosystem in the region,” Dr Levengood said.
“I think our Noosa dolphins are quite incredible. A lot of research that’s been done globally, and especially in Australia, has been in these shallow embayments, such as Morteon Bay, Hervey Bay and Shark Bay on the West Coast. They’re all kind of really shallow, large, wellprotected embayments,” she said.
“But when we look at places like Noosa, this is open ocean that’s unprotected, with more difficult environments and conditions. These animals are thrown against more challenging scenarios in lots of ways,” she said.
“What is quite remarkable is that we see these massive pods come together in Noosa, unlike other embayments such as Hervey Bay, Moreton Bay, and others in the region. They’re all spread out, all interacting together, living this incredible, dynamic life in Noosa, that again, really, until about two years ago, nobody’s even really
questioned, or asked anything about, or looked into further,” Dr Levengood said.
“So, there’s still a lot we don’t know, there’s still a lot we hope to unfold and uncover, but right now, it suggests we have a really healthy population in Noosa,” she said.
As part of her dolphin research, Dr Levengood said she hopes to publish a paper this year focusing on epidermal lesions, including studies on body conditions and toxicology.
She met Peppie Simpson at a community workshop she held in Marcoola a few years ago, where a mutual agreement to work with each other was established.
“Peppie is wonderful. She genuinely cares about the environment, and about these dolphins and whales, massively. Peppie is really, a huge advocate for these animals and for SouthEast Queensland marine ecosystems,” she said.
The invaluable work driving Peppie is what
this marine ecosystem depends on, which is cause for inspiration to many.
“Peppie’s also one of those people who really get behind your work and support you, but you can also do the same thing, and kind of collaborate as a team, together,” Dr Levengood said.
In addition to her research at UniSC, Dr Levengood has established a Facebook site, entitled, Dolphin sighting SEQ, and is urging citizen scientists to participate in free one-day Dolphin Spotter workshops to record vital data.
“When people finish the workshop, they’re trained to spot dolphins on their own, but also able to train friends, family, whoever’s around, and then at the end of the day, we go out to the Headlands, searching for dolphins and put into practice what we learnt in the theory component,” Dr Levengood said.
“As researchers, we can’t be everywhere all the time. So, the best way for us to learn more about what these animals are doing, and when
and where they’re doing it, is getting more eyes on the water,” she said.
“Anytime you’re on the water, on a boat, walking your dog, walking at the Headlands, if you see a dolphin, let us know. The more we know about them, the more we can protect them, and our entire ecosystem that we share with these incredible animals,” Dr Levengood said.
As we approach the jetty after nearly two hours on the water, I reflect on the mantra, In a Sea of Fish, be a Purrmaid, displayed on Peppie’s boat, convinced she is the Purrmaid on a lifelong mission to change the world.
For more information on the Dolphin Spotter workshops in February and March, and to register, go to:
facebook.com/groups/281236564615175
To learn more about Whale Songs Noosa, log onto whalesongsnoosa.com.au/
Peppie Simpson at home on the beach.
Peppie and partner Albie of Whale Songs Noosa.
Dogs of the Year awarded
Sunshine Coast rescue dog Bear was one of several dogs to be recognised in The Australian Dog of the Year Awards presented by dog photographer Kerry Martin of Puppy Tales website.
Nominated by International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), border collie cross Bear was awarded the All Rescues Are Special (ARAS) medal, sponsored by The Saltiest Dog.
Bear was a rescue dog who found his true purpose as a conservation hero. After being surrendered by multiple families, Bear joined the University of South Australia’s Detection Dogs for Conservation team. He has since saved more than 100 koalas, proving that with the right support, rescue animals can achieve extraordinary things.
From therapy, military and conservation detection dogs to trailblazing paw-thletes, pawtrolling protectors and resilient warriors and more, dogs enrich our world in ways no one else can. The Puppy Tales Australian Dog of the Year Awards honour these remarkable canine companions.
“Now in its fifth year, the Australian Dog of the Year Awards proves that dogs are more than just pets—they are gifts,“ says Kerry Martin, an international award-winning pet photographer, author and founder of Puppy Tales.
“This year’s winners and finalists highlight the extraordinary ways dogs contribute to our lives— from inspiring hope and resilience to saving lives and advancing veterinary and medical fields.“
The Australian Dog of the Year 2025 is Gold Coast border collie Elle.
Nominated by Deaf Dog Rescue Australia, Elle is a deaf rescue dog who has transformed lives with her resilience, empathy and unwavering spirit. From excelling in agility competitions using sign language to supporting anxious children as a school therapy dog, Elle breaks down barriers and inspires everyone she meets, proving that challenges can be overcome with love and determination.
The People’s Choice Award went to Daphne, a
Tibetan Spaniel from Melbourne, nominated by Second Chance Animal Rescue.
A12-year-old former therapy dog, Daphne’s miraculous recovery from a severe brain injury has inspired countless people. Defying all odds, Daphne regained her ability to walk, see, and thrive, proving that recovery is possible and that the bond between dogs and their people can inspire hope and healing.
The Paws-itive Change Award recognises inspiring stories of transformation brought about by dogs in our society, with a kind donation from Pet Circle.
Lady J gets released back into the wild for good
A touching success story unfolded at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, as Lady J, named in honour of Wildlife Warrior Julia Morris, was released into her natural habitat after undergoing nine months of dedicated rehabilitation.
Julia generously donated towards the care of Lady J, a beautiful koala who was found orphaned and in need of urgent attention.
After receiving a full health check from the veterinary team, Lady J was placed under the care of a specialised wildlife carer, who nurtured her with love and warmth.
As part of her journey, Lady J joined the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital’s Koala Kindy, where she learned vital survival skills, including climbing tall trees, foraging for eucalyptus leaves, and interacting with other koalas.
Julia Morris said, “Lady J is the very essence of sweetness. I’m so grateful for the incredible work being done by the team at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital in caring for these beautiful Aussie icons, it’s such an honor to be a part of Lady J’s journey.“
Lady J’s successful release back into the wild highlights the urgent need to protect koalas.
In 2022, these iconic animals were classed as as endangered species, and their survival remains threatened by habitat destruction, road accidents, domestic pet attacks, and disease.
From conducting groundbreaking research to find a cure for diseases like chlamydia, to treating koalas nationwide during the 2020 bushfire season, and rehabilitating over 11,000 koalas at the Wildlife Hospital since its humble beginnings, they are proud to continue their critical work in helping these animals.
Robert Irwin said, “We’re so grateful to Julia for her support in helping Lady J return to the wild. Koala populations are dwindling at an unparalleled rate, making it more important than ever to come together and save these emblematic animals.
“Lady J’s journey is a wonderful reminder of the positive impact that conservation and community support can have on the future of our iconic wildlife. By saving one life, we are ultimately saving the entire species,“ Robert said.
The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, treating all native wildlife at no cost to the public.
To find out how you can help the Wildlife Hospital and donate, visit wildlifewarriors.org.
This year’s award goes to Sunday from Sydney who became the first Australian animal to undergo an osseointegration procedure, involving a hybrid Cobalt-Titanium implant in her tibia, after her leg was amputated as a puppy. Her groundbreaking procedure has paved the way for other dogs to access innovative treatments and inspired advancements in human medical care, creating a ripple effect of positive change for countless lives.
Winners, nominees and voters received prizes worth $20,000 including $1000 donation by Puppy Tales to the Australian Dog of the Year winner’s preferred charity and $250 to the People’s Choice’s nominated charity.
Wildlife Hospital on the frontline of fighting disease
A vital research program in underway to find a cure for a deadly paralysis syndrome affecting flying foxes and rainbow lorikeets.
The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is treating an influx of animals suffering from this lifethreatening syndrome, presenting with severe paralysis with an inability to cling to branches or feed.
They are often found on the ground, in desperate need of help.
Given the severity of this disease, recovery can take weeks of intensive treatment, including intravenous fluids, blood checks, and assisted feeding.
Dr Ludo Valenza, manager and veterinarian at Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, is a leading researcher working to find a cure for this syndrome, in collaboration with Wildlife Health Australia, major universities, researchers, and government partners.
As part of this effort, a new medication is being tested to treat patients in care.
“At the same time each year in the last few years, we’ve been admitting flying foxes and rainbow lorikeets presenting with this bizarre syndrome. It is heartbreaking to see these animals unable to move and feed themselves,” Dr Ludo said.
“They present paralysed; unable to fly, completely helpless, and sadly many succumb to this disease. Through our research, we are testing a new medication and seeing a positive result, but we have a long way to go. We are at the forefront of dealing with this syndrome and working tirelessly to help these beautiful animals,” she said.
Happy, one of the affected patients, is a black flying fox who was first rescued from fruit tree netting in New South Wales in 2014. After his rescue, he was placed under the care of a specialised wildlife carer before being released back into the wild.
Ten years later, over 1100 kilometers away, Happy was found in Queensland suffering from the paralysis syndrome and admitted to the Wildlife Hospital. After receiving specialised treatment, he is now back with a specialised wildlife
carer, and nearly ready to return to his natural habitat.
Happy’s incredible journey demonstrates the resilience of these animals, who travel long distances, pollinating forests and supporting our ecosystems.
“Flying foxes are a keystone species. The health of our forests and the survival of other native wildlife like the koala, is directly dependent on these gorgeous flying foxes,” Dr Ludo said.
“Flying foxes are not only cute with mischievous personalities, but they are intelligent animals and vital for the pollination for Australian forests,” she said.
Devastatingly, the paralysis syndrome, combined with existing threats such as habitat destruction, barbed wire entanglements, and vehicle collisions, are significantly impacting populations of flying foxes and rainbow lorikeets in south east Queensland and New South Wales. To find out more about the Wildlife Hospital and how you can help, visit wildlifewarriors.org. au.
Lady J is a beautiful koala who was found orphaned and in need of urgent attention.
Lady J was named in honour of Wildlife Warrior Julia Morris.
A deadly paralysis syndrome is affecting flying foxes and rainbow lorikeets.
ARAS - All Rescues Are Special award winner Bear of the Sunshine Coast. (Supplied)
Australian Dog of the Year 2025, Elle.
People’s Choice Award winner Daphne.
Paws-itive Change Award winner Sunday.
The Guide
TARONGA: WHO’S WHO IN THE ZOO Nine, Friday, 7.30pm
If Thailand’s pygmy hippopotamus Moo Deng or Melbourne Aquarium’s giant king penguin chick Pesto caught your attention recently, make an appointment with the couch because there’s another cute creature that deserves to go viral. In Taronga’s Wildlife Hospital, rehabilitation co-ordinator Libby (pictured) introduces viewers to a vulnerable penguin who’s been brought in after a run-in with a dog. Despite being underweight and in need of some serious TLC, the feathered fella shows off plenty of personality as he recovers.
THE NEWSREADER
ABC TV, Sunday, 8.30pm
From wardrobe to set design, this award-winning Aussie drama set in a 1980s TV newsroom has always done an exceptional job of recreating the glitzy period. But the production team really ups the ante for this season three premiere that takes viewers back to the 1989 Logies, with stretch limousines and shoulder pads for days. NewsatSix Dale Jennings (Sam Reid) has well and truly cemented his position as a media personality and is up for the coveted Gold Logie. Meanwhile, his former lover and colleague Helen (Anna Torv, pictured) has secured her very own current affairs program and finds herself in direct competition with her ex and old crew.
Friday, January 31
ABC TV (2)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News
Mornings. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30
Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.
SBS (3)
MEDIA WATCH ABC TV, Monday, 9.15pm
There’s not much happening in Australia’s print, online and broadcast spheres that gets past the eagle-eyed MediaWatch team. For the past 36 years, they’ve covered embarrassing media mishaps as well as bringing to light serious issues of journalistic bias and ethical failures. When the series returns for 2025, it’s with a new host in the hot seat – investigative journalist Linton Besser (pictured) takes the reins from veteran presenter Paul Barry. The Monday-night staple is in safe hands: Besser is a four-time Walkley Award winner whose work has prompted public inquiries, corruption findings and a Royal Commission. Perhaps his toughest challenge will be condensing the week’s gaffes into just 20 minutes.
PICK OF THE WEEK
MADAM Nine, Tuesday, 9pm
A surprising set of circumstances befalls American mum-of-two Mack (Rachel Griffiths, pictured) in this eye-opening new series. You see, Mack has just discovered that her husband Rob (Martin Henderson) is seeing a sex worker. But Mack’s not mad, spiteful or upset – in fact, she’s curious. A visit to Shadows, the local brothel in her small New Zealand town, leaves Mack thoroughly unimpressed. An open-minded woman with an entrepreneurial mindset, she decides to open her own establishment with a feminist, ethical angle – even hiring Tui (Ariāna Osborne), the worker Rob was seeing. Danielle Cormack, Rima Te Wiata and Robbie Magasiva round out the brilliant cast of this distinctly different drama.
SEVEN (7) TEN (5, 1)
1.00 Silent Witness. (Mal, R) 2.55 Forever Summer With Nigella. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PG, R) 9.20 Confucius Was A Foodie. (R) 11.00 The Story Of Tea. (PGd, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Such Was Life. (R) 2.10 Amazing Railway Adventures. (PGl, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Scotland: In Search Of Sir Walter Scott. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 The Women’s Ashes Pre-Game Show. 1.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Australia v England. Day 2. Afternoon session. From the MCG. 2.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 3. Morning session. From Galle International Stadium, Sri Lanka. 4.30 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Monty Don’s History Of The British Garden: The 20th Century. (Final, R) Monty Don concludes his journey.
8.30 Silent Witness. (Masv) The team works on a suspected suicide, but the investigation raises more questions than it answers.
10.15 Optics. (Ml, R)
10.45 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
11.20 ABC Late News.
11.35 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) (PG, R)
12.20 Grand Designs. (R)
1.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 MOVIE: Argo. (2012, Mlv, R) A CIA agent launches an undercover operation. Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston.
9.55 Rock Legends: David Bowie. (PG, R) Explores the life of David Bowie. 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Bonn. (Premiere, Mav) 11.50 Kin. (MA15+lv, R)
1.45 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 2.35 22 Kids And Counting. (PGa, R) 3.30 Death On The Common: My Mother’s Murder. (Ma, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven Local News.
6.30 Seven News.
7.00 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 3. Afternoon session.
7.10 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day’s play.
7.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 3. Late afternoon session.
10.00 Ambulance: Code Red. (Ma, R) Follows the work of an ambulance service. 11.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer.
12.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Auction Squad. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Australia v England. Day 2. Afternoon session. 3.30 Tea Break. 4.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test
NINE (8, 9)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls, R)
7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo: Little Penguin Rescue. (PG) Follows the journey of a little penguin.
8.30 MOVIE: The Intern. (2015, Mal, R) A 70-year-old retired widower is hired as a senior intern for an online fashion startup. Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway.
11.00 My Life As A Rolling Stone: Charlie Watts. (Mad, R)
12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.00 Explore TV: Trade Routes Of The Middle Ages. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)
Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 1.00 Bewitched. 1.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 America’s Game. 10.00 Blokesworld. 10.30 Motor Racing. 2024 Sunraysia Safari. Replay. 11.30 Seven’s Motorsport Classic. 12.30pm Billy The Exterminator. 1.00 Nature Gone Wild. 2.00 Towies. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Storage Wars: NY. 4.30 The Lunch Break. 5.10 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 3. Afternoon session. 7.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Australia v England. Day 2. Evening session. 9.00 90 Years Of Domination: Australia’s Best Kept Sporting Secret. 9.30 MOVIE: Spider-Man: Far From Home. (2019, M) 12.10am Late Programs. 9GO! (82, 93) 6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Kung Fu Yoga. (2017, PG) 8.30 The Man Who Invented
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE: Bumblebee. (2018, Mlv, R) After the fall of Cybertron, the Autobot Bumblebee befriends a teenage girl in California in the ’80s. Hailee Steinfeld, John Cena. 9.50 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.15 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 11.20 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)
2.45 Croc Watch With Steve Backshall. (Final, PG, R)
3.30 Australia Day Live. (PG, R)
5.30 Eat The Invaders: Camel. (PG, R)
6.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work: Cricket Balls. (R) Dr Karl learns how cricket balls are made.
6.30 Back Roads: Kandos, NSW. (PG, R) Heather Ewart journeys to Kandos, in NSW, a town famous for making cement.
7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (PGa) Panic spreads when an arsonist targets three businesses, invoking the story of the ThreeLittlePigs
8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) After a local teacher is found dead at the bottom of a cliff-side coastal walkway in what appears to be a terrible accident, Vera uncovers evidence that the body may have been tampered with.
11.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Music video clips.
6am Morning Programs. 9.10 The World From Above. (PGa, R) 10.10 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 12.00 Surf Life Saving. Shaw and Partners Iron Series. Round 3. 2.00 BBC News At Ten. 2.30 ABC World News Tonight. 3.00 PBS News. 3.55 Dance In Focus: Still Life. (R) 4.20 Best Australian Dance Short Films 2021. (PG, R) 5.25 999 The Forgotten Girls Of The Holocaust.
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland: From Lucerne Via Interlaken To Jungfraujoch. (Mn)
8.30 Cotswolds And Beyond With Pam Ayres: Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons. (PGa, R) Pam Ayres heads to the Oxfordshire.
9.20 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (PG, R) Julia Zemiro heads to the Blue Mountains. 10.15 Ruby Wax: Castaway. (Final, Mal, R) 11.10 Everything You Love. (Mals, R)
2.35 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 3.25 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 4.20 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am WorldWatch.
10.00 Front Up. 11.30 Front Up 2000. 12.05pm MOVIE: Still Standing. (2023, PG) 1.35 Beyond Oak Island. 2.25 Ten Year Old Tom. 2.55 Celebrity Mastermind. 3.55 WorldWatch. 5.55 The Food That Built The World. 7.35 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 Icons Unearthed: Spider-Man. 10.20 Hudson & Rex. Midnight The X-Files. 3.40 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
6am The
6am Morning Programs. 1.00 The Women’s Ashes Pre-Game Show. 1.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Afternoon. (Alt schedule may be shown). 2.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Aust. Morning. (Alt schedule may be shown). 4.30 Border Security. (PG, R) 5.00 News. 5.30 Creek To Coast.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 4. Afternoon session. 7.10 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far in the First Test between Sri Lanka and Australia. 7.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 4. Late afternoon session. 10.00 MOVIE: Morbius. (2022, Malv, R) A biochemist inadvertently infects himself with a form of vampirism. Jared Leto, Matt Smith. 12.00 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R) Dr Harry Cooper travels to Western Australia. 1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00 Horse Racing. Southern Cross Stakes Day, Caulfield Members Day and Doomben Raceday. 4.30pm The Lunch Break. 5.10 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 4. Afternoon session. 7.00 Dog Patrol. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The
Man Who Invented Christmas. Continued. (2017, PG) 7.50 Flash Of Genius. (2008, PG) 10.00 I’m Not There. (2007, M) 12.30pm The Space Between The Lines. (2019, M, German) 2.45 Kung Fu Yoga. (2017, PG) 4.45 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 6.35 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 8.30 The Royal Hotel. (2023, MA15+) 10.10 Lonesome. (2022, MA15+) Midnight Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Bathurst 12 Hour. Qualification and support races. 2.30 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. (Alt schedule may be shown). 3.30 Tea Break. 4.00 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. 6.00 Dinner Break. 6.30 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. 9.00 90 Years Of Domination: Australia’s Best Kept Sporting Secret. 9.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Drive Safer. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Destination WA. (R) 12.30 Attenborough’s Wonder Of Song. (R) 1.30 MOVIE: The Dust Factory. (2004, PGa, R) Ryan Kelley. 3.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PG, R) 4.30 Explore TV. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Australia. (R)
6.00 9News Saturday.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Elvis. (2022, Mal)
The life of Elvis Presley, from his childhood to becoming a rock and movie star in the 1950s. Austin Butler, Tom Hanks, Olivia DeJonge.
10.35 Becoming Madonna. (MA15+als, R)
A retelling of Madonna’s journey.
12.25 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PGa, R) A countdown of the top 10 songbirds.
1.20 Destination WA. (R) Christina Morrissy visits the Onslow Beach Resort.
1.45 My Way. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands. (PG)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Follows the staff at the Animal Welfare League as they try to find the right fit for a blue Staffordshire bull terrier.
8.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) Follows a team of matchmakers as they pair homeless dogs with hopeful companions. A frisky French bulldog gets attached to a couple. Wood Green’s unluckiest dog, Peaches, has not just one, but two dates.
9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mad, R) NSW Ambulance crews race to a call for a slashed throat, perform life-saving CPR on teens, treat a suspected drug overdose at a brothel and rush to a potential stroke at a building site.
10.30 Ambulance UK. (M, R) First responders attend to elderly patients. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
7.00 MOVIE: Trolls World Tour. (2020) 8.45 MOVIE: Zookeeper. (2011, PG) 10.50 MOVIE: Locked Down. (2021, M) 1.10am The Originals. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00 Transformers: Prime. 4.30 Pokémon: XYZ. 4.50 Late Programs.
Thinking of selling?
Sunday, February 2
Compass. (PGa, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. (R) 1.00 New Leash On Life. (R) 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 Monty Don’s History Of The British Garden. (Final, R) 3.30 Long Lost Family. (R) 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.00 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission. (R)
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (Return, PG) Follows six puppies becoming muster dogs.
8.30 The Newsreader. (Return, Ml) In 1989, Helen and Dale are forced into direct competition as they fight to become number one.
9.25 Love Me. (Return, MA15+s) Clara and Peter decide to start a family.
10.10 MOVIE: Sirens. (1994, MA15+ans, R) An artist creates an offensive painting. Hugh Grant.
11.45 You Can’t Ask That. (Mal, R) 12.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Australia Remastered. (R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 The Great Acceleration. (PG, R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Speechless. 9.55 Doctor Who. 11.25 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 FIFA World Cup Classic Matches. 12.00 Surf Life Saving. Shaw And Partners Iron Series. Round 4. 2.00 APAC Weekly. (R) 2.30 PBS Washington Week. 2.55 Nippers. (R) 3.00 Best Of Dakar Rally Highlights. 4.00 Trampolining. (R) 4.05 Beyond The Pitch. (R) 4.15 Inferno: Letters From Auschwitz. (PGavw, R) 5.15 Saving The Children.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Mysteries Of Stonehenge: Secrets Of The Sun. (Mav) Takes a look at Stonehenge. 9.20 Legends Of The Pharaohs: Birth Of The Tutankhamun Dynasty. (Mav, R) Takes a look at ancient Egypt’s Eighteenth Dynasty that included Tutankhamun.
10.20 Great British Landmark Fixers: Canterbury Cathedral. (PGa, R) Craftspeople restore Canterbury Cathedral.
11.15 Signed, Theo Schoon. 1.10 MOVIE: Radioactive. (2019, Mavw, R)
3.05 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R)
4.00 Peer To Peer. (R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.
6am WorldWatch.
9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.05 Front Up. 12.10pm Figure Skating. ISU European C’ships. H’lights. Replay. 1.45 Jeopardy! 3.55 WorldWatch. 4.25 PBS Washington Week. 4.50 Queer Sports. 5.45 Domino Masters. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 10.10 Deadly Funny 2023. 11.15 Hoarders. 12.55am The X-Files. 3.40 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1.00 The Women’s Ashes Pre-Game Show. 1.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Australia v England. Day 4. Afternoon session. (Please note: alternative schedule may be shown due to changes to cricket coverage). 3.00 Border Security: Int. (PG, R) 3.30 Border Security. (PG, R) 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. (R) 5.00 News. 5.30 Weekender. 6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 For The Love Of Pets. (PGm, R) 11.00 Maritime Masters: Expedition Antarctica. (PG, R) 12.00 Fishing Aust. 12.30 The Pet Rescuers. (PG, R) 1.00 Swimming. Australian Open Water C’ships. H’lights. 1.30 MOVIE: Much Ado About Nothing. (1993, PGs, R) 3.50 David Attenborough’s Green Planet. (R) 5.00 News. 5.30 My Way. 6am Morning Programs. 9.30 Loving Gluten Free. (R) 10.00 Pooches At Play. (PGa, R) 10.30 The Chef’s Garden. (R) 11.00
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Australian Idol. (Return, PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.
8.50 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. (PG) A concert celebrating Billy Joel’s 100th consecutive performance at New York’s Madison Square Garden.
10.50 April Jones: The Interrogation Tapes. (MA15+a, R) Explores the 2012 murder of April Jones.
12.20 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R) Jason struggles to cope with his injury.
1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (72)
6.00 9News Sunday.
7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) It is time for the final weddings.
8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
9.40 9News Late.
10.10 See No Evil: Nowhere Girl. (Mav) Takes a look at how the 2020 murder of 21-year-old Dioneth Lopez was solved.
11.10 The Brokenwood Mysteries. (MA15+ahv) A teenager is murdered.
1.00 Destination WA. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Fishing Australia. (R)
5.00 Today Early News.
5.30 Today.
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road 3.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Afternoon. (Alt schedule may be shown). 3.30 Tea Break. 4.10 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Late arvo. 6.10 Dinner Break. 6.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Evening session. 9.00 Escape To The Country. 10.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 In Touch. 8.00 Beyond Today. 8.30 The Incredible Journey. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 My Favorite Martian. 10.30 MOVIE: The Floating Dutchman. (1952, PG) 12.05pm MOVIE: Father’s Doing Fine. (1952) 1.50 MOVIE: The Constant Husband. (1955) 3.40 MOVIE: The Honey Pot. (1967, PG) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Monuments Men. (2014, M) 10.50 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 5pm The Lunch Break. 5.10 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 5. Afternoon session. (Please note: alternative schedule may be shown due to changes to cricket coverage). 7.10 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Tea Break. 7.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 5. Late afternoon session. 10.00 MOVIE: Underwater. (2020, M) Midnight Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.10 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 9.05 Shaolin Soccer. (2001, PG, Cantonese) 11.10 Miss Marx. (2020, M) 1.10pm
6am Children’s Programs. 11.30 Basketball. WNBL. Bendigo Spirit v Southside Flyers. 1.30pm Children’s Programs. 2.30 Young Sheldon. 3.00 MOVIE: Flight Of The Navigator. (1986) 5.00 MOVIE: Short Circuit. (1986, PG) 7.00 MOVIE: Three Amigos! (1986, PG) 9.05 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon 4. (1998, MA15+) 11.35 Gotham. 12.35am Arrow. 2.30 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00 Late Programs.
Escapes. (R) 11.30 Buy To Build. (R) 12.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals,
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 8.30 MOVIE: Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit. (2014, Mlv, R) After a CIA analyst and former US Marine officer uncovers a Russian oligarch’s scheme to collapse the American economy and spark global chaos, he realises he may be the only person able to stop the madman. Chris Pine, Kevin Costner, Keira Knightley. 10.35 FBI. (Mav, R) The president of the NY Fed is gunned down. 11.30 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
1.00 The Human Revolution. (PG, R) 2.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.00 Forever Summer With Nigella. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 12.10 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News Weekend. 1.25 Al Jazeera News Hour. 2.00 Amazing Railway Adventures. (PGa, R) 2.55 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Imperial War Museum. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson. 8.00 Australian Story. (Return) Presented by Leigh Sales.
8.30 Four Corners. (Return) Investigative journalism program exposing scandals, firing debate and confronting taboos.
9.15 Media Watch. (Return) Presented by Linton Besser.
9.35 Mozart: Rise Of A Genius. (Premiere, Ml) Explores the life of Mozart. 10.35 ABC Late News.
10.50 The Business. (R)
11.10 Planet America. (R)
11.40 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (R) 12.10 Grand Designs. (R) 1.00 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.25 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Madrid With Michael Portillo. (Premiere, PG) Michael Portillo heads to Madrid.
8.25 Wilderness With Simon Reeve: Congo. (Premiere, PGa) Simon Reeve travels through the Congo, the second greatest rainforest on Earth.
9.35 Inside Sydney Airport: Training. (PGad, R) A passenger is found travelling with a gun.
10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 Clean Sweep. (Malsv) 12.05 Wisting. (MA15+v, R) 1.00 You Shall Not Lie. (MA15+als, R) 2.45 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 3.35 22 Kids And Counting. (PGal, R) 4.25 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven Noon News. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. (R) Hosted by Bradley Walsh. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG)
6.00 Seven Local News.
6.30 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Eden wants answers from Cash.
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) It is day two of the auditions as hopeful superstars strive to impress the judges.
9.15 St. Denis Medical. (Premiere, PGals) Alex is torn between her daughter’s school play and a situation in the emergency department.
10.15 First Dates UK. (M) Singles experience the thrills of dating.
11.15 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (Return, PG) George challenges the family.
12.15 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
3.35 WorldWatch. 5.45 Alone: The Skills Challenge. 6.10 Loot: Blood Treasure. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Forged In Fire. 10.10 The Weekly Football Wrap. 10.40 Four Years Later.
10.30 Frozen Gold. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Toast. Continued. (2010, PG) 7.15 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 9.05 Courted. (2015, PG, French) 10.55 Miracle. (2021, M, Romanian)
Tuesday, February 4
World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 History Of Britain. (Ma, R) 2.55 Such Was Life. (R) 3.05 The Weekly Football Wrap. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Imperial War Museum. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven Noon News. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. (R) Hosted by Bradley Walsh. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.
6.00 Seven Local News.
6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work: Lollies. Dr Karl Kruszelnicki discovers how lollies are made. 8.30 Eat The Invaders: Cat. (PG) Hosted by Tony Armstrong. 9.00 Hippo Watch With Steve Backshall. (PG, R) Presented by Steve Backshall.
9.50 Ningaloo Nyinggulu: Connections. (R)
10.45 ABC Late News. 11.00 The Business. (R)
11.20 Four Corners. (R) 12.05 Media Watch. (R) 12.20 Parliament Question Time. 1.20 Grand Designs. (R) 2.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? Pat Rafter. (PGa, R) Pat Rafter explores his roots.
8.35 Irresistible: Why We Can’t Stop Eating. (PG) Dr Chris van Tulleken explores why ultra-processed foods are so irresistible.
10.05 The Artist’s View: U2. (Mls, R) 10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a)
12.05 Fargo. (Mlv, R)
2.00 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 2.50 Inside The Modelling Agency. (R) 3.45 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WorldWatch.
Front Up. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Gone Fishing. 1.40 Fashionista. 1.50 Dark Side Of The ‘90s. 2.45 Celebrity Mastermind. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.45 Alone: The Skills Challenge. 6.10 Loot: Blood Treasure. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Great Wall With Ash Dykes. 10.30 Black Comedy In America. (Premiere) 12.20am Late Programs.
6.30 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Leah is a fully fledged activist.
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.
9.15 The Hunting Party. (Premiere, Mav) When a serial killer escapes custody, a disgraced FBI agent is called back into action to hunt him down.
10.15 The Irrational. (Return, Mav) Rose goes missing.
12.15 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) It is time for the first dinner party.
9.00 Australian Crime Stories: Operation Moon. (Return, Mlv)
Former Queensland Assistant Commissioner Ross Barnett explores one of his most confounding cases.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News.
5.30 Today.
I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: I Am Legend. (2007, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 The O.C. 12.30am The Nanny.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities continue to compete in a test of survival in the jungle for the chance to claim the title. 9.00 NCIS: Sydney. (Mdv, R) The team investigates when a shark spits out the arm of an ex-US Navy SEAL. 10.00 48 Hours: Death By Eye Drops. (Ma) Looks at the case of Jessy Kurczewski. 11.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.25 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) It is Confessions Week. 9.00 Madam. (Premiere, MA15+ls) Following her husband’s affair, a mother of two opens a brothel in small-town New Zealand.
10.20 9News Late.
10.50 My Feet Are Killing Me. (Mm) Vincent performs a delicate surgery.
11.40 The Equalizer. (Mv, R)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Our State On A Plate. (PG, R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Deadly Predators. 9.10 The Secret Life Of The Zoo. 9.50 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of
Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Surf Patrol. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 My Greek Odyssey. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.45 Inspector George Gently. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 TV Shop. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Days Of Our Lives. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 1.50 World’s Greatest Transportation Marvels. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: I Believe In You. (1952, PG) 5.30 Our Yorkshire Farm. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 New Tricks.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 9.00 The Ex-Wife. (Mlv) Tasha’s worst fears are realised. Emily vanishes without a trace.
Wednesday, February 5
ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7) TEN (5, 1)
NINE (8, 9) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.55 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Forever Summer With Nigella. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson. 8.00 Hard Quiz. (PG) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
8.30 Optics. (Ml) Ian is sidelined as Greta and Nicole push hard to make an impact in the office.
9.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) (PG, R) Presented by Guy Montgomery.
9.45 Planet America. A look at American politics.
10.20 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
10.50 ABC Late News.
11.05 The Business. (R) 11.20 Aftertaste. (Mls, R)
6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 2.05 History Of Britain. (PGan, R) 2.55 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Imperial War Museum. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 The Real Crown: Inside The House Of Windsor: Heirs And Spares. (PG, R) The story of the royal family draws to a close.
8.30 Wonders Of The Moon With Dara Ó Briain. Presented by Dara Ó Briain.
9.25 Miniseries: Playing Nice. (Mal) Pete and Maddie visit a lawyer. 10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Pagan Peak. (MA15+av) 11.40 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+lsv, R) 12.50 Agent Hamilton. (MA15+v, R) 2.30 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 3.20 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven Noon News. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. (R) Hosted by Bradley Walsh. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 My Way. (R)
6.00 Seven Local News.
6.30 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG) The clock is ticking for Lyrik’s return.
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (Return, PG) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 Ludwig. (Premiere, Ma) The life of puzzle setter John “Ludwig” Taylor is upended when his identical twin, DCI James Taylor, disappears, and John must assume his identity to track him down.
11.00 The Suspects: True Australian Thrillers. (Mlv, R) Hosted by Roy Billing.
12.00 Black-ish. (PGa, R)
1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R)
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
Pointless. (PG, R)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
9News Afternoon.
Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) As Confessions Week continues, some of the couples are pushed to the brink.
9.00 Big Miracles. (Return, Mam) Follows a new group of hopefuls on their journey to becoming parents with the help of IVF.
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 To Be Advised.
11.30 The Equalizer. (Mv, R) McCall is hired by the wife of a rapper.
12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Cybershack. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 A Current Affair. (R)
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities continue to compete in a test of survival in the jungle for the chance to claim the title. 9.00 Elsbeth. (Mnv) Elsbeth and Kaya investigate when a reality TV star is found dead in her bathtub. 10.00 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv) Thieves rob a Navy Federal Credit Union. 10.55 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.20 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.25 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am WorldWatch.
10.00 Front Up. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Hudson & Rex. 2.10 Unknown Amazon. 3.05 Fashionista. 3.15 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 Alone: The Skills Challenge. 6.10 Loot: Blood Treasure. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: Ninja Assassin. (2009) 10.20 MOVIE: Jiu Jitsu. (2020, MA15+) 12.10am Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Surf Patrol. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Air Crash Inv. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Danger Man.
7MATE (74) SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Yagan. 2.00 Unsettled. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Waabiny Time. 3.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 3.35 Spartakus. 4.05 Cities Of Gold. 4.35 Motown Magic. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 Living Black. 6.00 Bamay. 6.30 News. 6.40 Wildlife Rescue New Zealand. 7.35 Great Australian Walks. 8.30 Island Echoes With Nornie Bero. 9.00 MOVIE: Legends Of The Fall. (1994, MA15+) 11.15 Late Programs. NITV (34)
9GO! (82, 93) 6am The Movie Show. 6.10 Goal! 2: Living The Dream. (2007, PG) 8.20 Binti. (2019, PG, Dutch) 10.00 Under The Stars Of Paris. (2020, M, French)
Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Doctor Who. 10.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 1.00 Bewitched. 1.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Hot Fuzz. (2007, MA15+) 11.00 Seinfeld. Midnight The Nanny. 1.00 Love After Lockup. 2.30 Surfing Aust. 3.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning
M) 9.30 The Sitting Duck. (2022, M, Hungarian) 11.45 Late Programs.
Thursday, February 6 ABC TV (2)
(3)
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Eat The Invaders. (PG, R) 10.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Newsreader. (Ml, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Forever Summer With Nigella. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 2.05 History Of Britain. (PGav, R) 2.55 Railway Journeys UK. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Imperial War Museum. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots: Forever Young. Hosted by Henry Louis Gates Jr.
Campbell.
9.20 Grand Designs: Derbyshire. (R) Hosted by Kevin McCloud. 10.05 Dr Karl’s How Things Work: Lollies. (R) 10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.10 Miriam Margolyes Almost Australian. (Ml, R)
8.30 Scotland’s Poshest Train: Alan Cumming. (Premiere, PG) Alan Cumming steps aboard the RoyalScotsmanfor a train adventure through the heart of Scotland.
9.30 The Darkness. (Malsv) Lukas and Hulda’s investigation progresses as they begin to delve into corruption.
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Divided We Stand. (Ml)
12.40 Blanca. (Malv, R) 2.40 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 3.05 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R) 4.05 Peer To Peer. (a, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Stan Walker: Impossible Live. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Flight Attendant Murders. 10.20 Homicide: Life On The Street. 1.05am Criminal Planet. 2.55 NHK World English News. 5.00
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven Noon News. 1.00 MOVIE: Farmer Seeking Love. (2022, PGa) Donna Benedicto. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.
6.00 Seven Local News.
6.30 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) Harper puts on a brave face.
8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Diary. (2001, Mlv, R) A young British woman struggling with two suitors, one a well-mannered lawyer and the other a charismatic womaniser, who also happens to be her boss, documents a year of her life through her diary. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant.
10.45 To Be Advised.
12.45 Damnation. (Premiere, MA15+asv) A farmer’s strike takes a dangerous twist.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 The Long Drive For Drought. (PG, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 RBT. (Return, Mdl) Follows the activities of police units.
8.30 Emergency. (Return, Mlm) Dr James Williams fears for a young cheerleader who has landed on her head during training.
9.30 A+E After Dark. (Return, Mlm) An aggressive patient must be restrained.
10.30 9News Late.
11.00 Resident Alien. (Malv)
11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities continue to compete in a test of survival in the jungle for the chance to claim the title. 9.00 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml) Graham Norton is joined on the couch by Jamie Foxx, Cameron Diaz, Michelle Yeoh and Jonathan Bailey. 10.10 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.35 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 11.35 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
11.40 Late Programs. 9GEM (81, 92) 7TWO (72) SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 72 Cutest Animals. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 1.00 Bewitched. 1.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Magic Mike. (2012, MA15+) 10.45 Seinfeld. 11.45 The O.C. 12.40am The Nanny.
31 January, 2025
With Cosi. 2.30 Auction Squad. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Danger Man. 7.00 Creflo. 7.30 Skippy. 8.00 TV Shop. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Days Of Our Lives. 12.55 The Young And The Restless. 1.50 To The Manor Born.
Cruising to historic Riga
I’VE always wanted to visit Riga - I even considered naming my first child after the historic Latvian centre to give the family a compelling reason to go there.
Personally, I blame my love of Eurovision, medieval times and too many viewings of Sean Connery’s Hunt for Red October for my interest in that part of the world – a love of the Art Nouveau movement hasn’t helped either.
The Latvian capital bills itself as it’s country’s crown jewel and the absolute must-see for anyone wanting to go to the Baltic region.
The city has more than 600 000 inhabitants, making it the largest in the Baltic States and is also known as an architectural jewel – a city where you can see churches from the city’s origins, medieval buildings in the Old Town, unique examples of Art Nouveau, as well as wooden architecture that has survived the centuries and modern architectural jewels.
I haven’t got there yet – it’s not a place you see on every European tour itinerary, but the UNESCO-listed city is one of twelve new recurring ports in the Viking cruise line’s ten new ocean itineraries in the Mediterranean, United Kingdom, Ireland and Northern Europe now booking for cruises in 2026 and 2027.
The new itineraries range from eight to twenty-two days and along with Riga, the additional recurring ports for the Viking ocean voyages include Fowey, England; Bordeaux, France; Limerick (Foynes), Ireland; Klaipeda, Lithuania; Londonderry, Northern Ireland; Haugesund, Norway; Palma de Mallorca and Bilbao, Spain; Fort William and Tobermory, Scotland; and Karlskrona, Sweden.
“As our award-winning fleet of small ocean ships continues to grow, we are pleased to introduce new voyages that have been thoughtfully planned for curious travellers,” Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen said.
“Every Viking itinerary is focused on the destination, and our state-of-the-art ships, with no children and no casinos, allow guests to explore the world in elegant Viking comfort.”
With a fleet of small sister ships, Viking offers more than 100 different itineraries across all five oceans. Viking’s new ocean voyages visit iconic cities—as well as lesser-known destinations— throughout Europe and include the following, with additional combination voyages also available.
How to see Riga through the new Viking itineraries
• New for 2027: Baltic Discovery: (eight days; between Stockholm – Copenhagen): Discover a myriad of cultures as you circumnavigate the Baltic Sea. Explore the UNESCO-listed cities of Tallinn and Riga, medieval gems of the Hanseatic League. Call at Klaipeda, Lithuania’s historic port city on the Curonian coast, and immerse yourself in its contemporary art and cultural treasures. Overnight in Copenhagen to experi-
ence more of the “City of Spires” and indulge in the many eateries that celebrate its trending Nordic cuisine.
• New for 2027: Scandinavia and Baltic Capitals: (15 days; between Oslo – Copenhagen): Trace the shores of the Baltic Sea to discover magnificent fjords and bustling cities. Call at UNESCOlisted cities and get a glimpse into the area’s medieval past in the old towns of Tallinn and Riga, and Karlskrona’s historic port. Witness the natural splendour of the Aland Islands, an archipelago of more than 6,500 isles. With overnights in the vibrant capitals of Sweden and Denmark, delve deeper into the region’s rich heritage and Viking legacy.
• New for 2027: Scenic Scandinavia and Baltic Jewels: (15 days; between Bergen – Stockholm) – Delve into the maritime heritage of Scandinavia as you trace the dramatic coastlines of Sweden, Norway and Denmark. Witness stunning natural landscapes sailing amid pristine fjords and the Åland Islands, an archipelago of 6,700 isles. Explore more of Oslo and Stockholm with overnight stays, allowing passengers to fully experience two of Europe’s capitals. Sample new Nordic cuisine and stroll historic towns as you spend time mingling with friendly locals.
• New for 2027: Icons of the Viking Age: (22 days;
between Bergen – Copenhagen): Circumnavigate the Baltic Sea sailing through the homelands of the Vikings. Explore the deep-rooted cultural ties of Scandinavia, calling at iconic capitals in Norway, Sweden and Denmark. Sail the picturesque Åland Islands, an archipelago of 6,700 isles. Immerse in the customs, traditions and fascinating history of the Baltic states,
home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the old town of Tallinn and the historical centre of Riga.
For additional information, contact Viking on 138 747 (AU) / 0800 447 913 (NZ) or visit www. viking.com. For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.
TANIA PHILLIPS
Street cafes in the OId Town of Riga. The beautiful and historic capital of Latvia is set to become a Viking Cruise destination in 2027. (Latvia.travel)
The rooftops of historic Tallinn. The beautiful Estonian capital is part of Viking’s Balkan tours and is soon to be joined by Riga, the capital of neighbouring country Latvia. Both capitals are steeped in history. (Viking)
Enjoy a 15 day scenic Scandinavia and Baltic Jewels tour from Bergen (pictured) to Stockholm on Viking. (Viking)
Be one of the first to book the new Baltic Discovery Cruise on Viking in 2027; eight days cruising between Stockholm (pictured) and Copenhagen with a visit to Riga. (Viking)
Tallinn is the capital and most populous city of Estonia. Situated on a bay in north Estonia, on the shore of the Gulf of Finland of the Baltic Sea. (Viking)
Unveiling Northern Territory
Beloved Australian cook, artist, author and TV presenter Poh Ling Yeow has been unveiled as the Northern Territory’s newest ambassador, inspiring Australians to discover a holiday that’s ‘different in every sense’.
Poh steps into this role after gracing the cover of The Australian Women’s Weekly Christmas 2024 issue, a milestone moment as the magazine’s first Outback Christmas cover, captured amid the stunning landscapes of Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve and Simpsons Gap in Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park near Alice Springs (Mparntwe).
Known for her love of food, art, travel, and culture, Poh has taken an unforgettable adventure across the Northern Territory - travelling through the Top End, to iconic destinations such as Litchfield National Park, Finniss River Lodge and the Territory’s tropical capital, Darwin. Her journey also led her her into the Red Centre, where she discovered wonders, including Alice Springs (Mparntwe), Hermannsburg (Ntaria), Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve, and the majestic UluruKata Tju?a National Park
In her new role, Poh will spotlight the Territory’s unparalleled beauty, rich cultures, vibrant food scene and artistic heritage, inspiring travellers to experience its unique magic firsthand.
“As someone who adores travel, learning, and finding inspiration in new places, the NT is a dream destination. From the breathtaking Top End to the awe-inspiring Red Centre, I’ve fallen in love with it all – and I couldn’t be prouder to showcase everything this extraordinary place has to offer,” said Poh Ling Yeow.
“Darwin instantly felt like home with its tropi-
cal vibes and the incredible Asian-inspired food scene. And that sunset over the azure water was just breathtaking! Catching up with MasterChef alum Minoli De Silva in her hometown and hanging out with 2024 Masterchef contestant Juan De La Cruz at her fab restaurant, Ella by Minoli, made it all the more special. The food there typifies Darwin - delicious, culturally authentic, vibrant and laid back.“
“Poh’s passion for food, art, culture, the outdoors and exploration perfectly capture the essence of the Territory. Everywhere she went, she connected effortlessly with visitors and locals alike, with fans from Australia and around the world flocking to meet her. Poh’s genuine
warmth, authenticity and deep connection to the landscapes and stories of the Territory make her the perfect inspiration for others to explore our incredible destination.”
Poh’s adventures in the Top End and the Red Centre will be brought to life across social media and other platforms, giving audiences a front-row seat to the magic of the NT.
FACE-TO-FACE SERVICE
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EARN QANTAS POINTS
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Thanks to a partnership with Qantas Frequent Flyer, you’ll earn 3 points for every $1 you spend on your TripADeal holiday.
Tourism NT Chief Marketing Officer Tony Quarmby shared his delight at welcoming Poh Ling Yeow as the newest ambassador for the NT.
Poh at Litchfield National Park’s Tjaynera Falls, Sandy Creek Falls.
Poh Ling Yeow at Darwin Sailing Club.
Poh at Ellery Creek.
AMALFI COAST, AFRICA & IBERIA
Rome to Barcelona
8 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES | 5 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: OCT, DEC 2026; JAN, FEB, MAR 2027
From $5,995pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $7,195pp in Penthouse Veranda
EXTEND
Lisbon to Barcelona or vice versa
8 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES | 6 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: OCT, NOV 2026; FEB, APR, MAY, JUN, SEP 2027
From $5,995pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $7,195pp in Penthouse Veranda
Enjoy free flight offers with selected river, ocean or expedition voyages, valued up to AU$2,400 per person. Plus AU$500 shipboard credit with any ocean and expedition booking. Available for a limited time only, offers end 31 March 2025.
Lisbon to London or vice versa
12 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL: SEP 2026; APR 2027
From $9,195pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $10,695pp in Penthouse Veranda
(Málaga)
(Cartagena)
LISBON, PORTUGAL
vibrant capital of New South Wales captivates with its iconic landmarks, stunning harbour and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The Sydney Opera House stands as a symbol of architectural brilliance, and Sydney Harbour Bridge offers breathtaking views.
Discovery Princess® incorporates a sleek and sophisticated design with state-of-the-art amenities. With a diverse range of on board activities on offer, Discovery Princess® will captivate you along your journey to the many different destinations to which it sails.
15 Nights | 27 March 2026 | Prices fr $7,299pp
Embark on the ultimate Australian adventure, combining a Princess cruise of the Queensland coast with a three-night, all-inclusive journey on board the Indian Pacific.
Fly to Sydney for a 1-night hotel stay before embarking on a 10-night Discovery Princess® cruise, uncovering the coastline of Queensland. Sail to the remote Willis Island, a speck in the coral sea, bask on the beaches of Port Douglas and, in Airlie Beach, explore the beautiful Whitsunday Islands before your ship returns to Sydney.
Here, you’ll disembark to enjoy an additional one-night hotel stay. Then, board the legendary Indian Pacific train for an all-inclusive, three-night transcontinental journey to Perth, traversing Australia’s dramatic landscapes as you savour fine cuisine and explore iconic outback destinations during off-train excursions.
Your holiday includes
Full-Board Cruise
10 night full-board cruise on board Discovery Princess®
Visiting: Sydney, Willis Island (scenic cruising), Port Douglas, Yorkeys Knob, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney
Upgrade to Princess Plus from $65pppd, including: MedallionNet® Max Wi-Fi, Crew appreciation, Plus Beverage Package, Unlimited juice bar, Premium desserts, Fitness classes, Two casual dining meals per guest, OceanNow® delivery, Room service delivery
Rail Journey
3 night all-inclusive Gold Service rail journey on board the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth with all meals, fine wines, and beverages
Off Train Experiences and short stops in Adelaide, Cook, and Rawlinna
Hotel Stay
2 nights four-star hotel stay in Sydney at the Rydges World Square with breakfast
All Flights, Taxes and Transfers
Sydney, Willis Island (scenic cruising), Port Douglas, Yorkeys Knob, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Nullarbor Plain, Perth
Dreaming of Mediterranean
The magnificent Mediterranean is a divine destination for travellers wishing to dip their toes into a European adventure.
Those who have been before always find something new to excite and those new to the region are taken aback by the richness of their experience.
The ‘Med’ is always a popular choice for Australian travellers who love the architecture, scenery and the sumptuous fresh food and beverage opportunities on shore and if you are with Viking, on board.
No matter where you wish to visit in the world, there is a Viking ship to take you there and the reality is just as good as the photos.
It is a breathtaking experience and the view from the ship as it enters each port will be etched in your mind forever.
From Barcelona to Venice, Deputy Editor of ‘Explore’, Akash Arora, discovered the most marvellous Mediterranean on cruise ship Viking Sky, visiting some of the most romantic, stunning ports in the world.
The 228 metres long Viking Sky has 465 cabins and sails with only 930 guests - all over eighteen years of age.
Akash equally enjoyed time on the ship as well as the organised walking tours and shore excursions on his Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Venice and said it fulfilled his dreams of exploring this part of the world.
“I went straight for the Med, which had been on my bucket list for donkey’s years,” he said.
“It was a 15-day cruise from Barcelona to Venice and it ticked every box - Spain, France, Italy and even Croatia. I travelled at the peak of summer - in the month of August. But the weather gods were kind to us: we got great conditions. Clear skies every day. Lots of sun. Warm, but never too hot.
“I basically signed up for all the included excursions at each port. It was my first time at most of these destinations and a simple walking or bus tour is a great way to get a good overview of the place.”
“I have to say, all the guides were so well-informed. And they all had a great sense of humour. The only tour I paid for was a cooking class in a Tuscan castle conducted by a chef who looked like Santa in an apron. It was worth every cent.”
“Marseille in France, and Naples, Messina, Crotone and Bari in Italy, all offer delights of their own, not to mention heavy hitters like Rome and Florence that also feature along the way.”
“There’s an included excursion at every port and I joined almost all of them.”
He said of the many tasting delights in his fifteen days, a bowl of bouillabaisse comes to mind in the city of Marseille, where it is believed to have originated. I also had some incredible gelati on the island of Sicily. It was a warm day so it was a race to gobble it up before it melted away.”
“The most memorable dish of the journey,
however, was Bistecca alla Fiorentina on the ship’s Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant. I don’t like to repeat restaurants and dishes on a cruise if I can help it - but I went back to this restaurant and this dish three times: it was that good.”
Akash said while onboard he loved the sophisticated interiors saying every Viking ship has very chic Scandi touches.
“Some of my favourite memories are spending time in the Explorer’s Lounge, which is at the front of the ship, so a perfect vantage point when the vessel is nearing a gorgeous European port.”
“I loved my Kir Royales in the ship’s Atrium, too, as the pianist tinkled up Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata. And don’t even get me started on the drop-dead gorgeous Wintergarden. I went there for afternoon tea, but it’s so photogenic, I spent all my time taking pictures.”
“I loved the fact that there were no kids or casinos. This elimination of those two things (sorry, families) immediately turns a cruise into an utterly sophisticated, grown-up experience.”
We asked Akash if he had any suggestions for travellers about to embark on a Viking cruise to ensure a seamless and enjoyable trip that makes the most of their time?
“Book everything as soon as you can, including your cruise, as well as the dining and shore excursions,” he said
“If you can’t get into every restaurant you want, go to the help desk as soon as you board the ship.
“Cancellations happen all the time and they’ll
be able to help you. If you’re going in summer, sign up for early-morning excursions. That’s when the weather is at its most pleasant and crowds are not too overbearing.”
Don’t miss this truly exciting adventure on Viking. For a chance to learn more on this and other Viking Cruises please call Reservations (AU) 138 747 or visit website vikingcruises.com.
Enjoy the delights of Barcelona and the mosaic park benches and stunning architecture. (Supplied, Viking).
Take in the ancient history of Rome on one of your organised shore excursions with Viking. (Supplied, Viking)
LEE MCCARTHY
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Eight-legged animal (6)
4 A board game with letter-tiles (8)
9 Mosquito-borne disease (7)
11 Inhabitant of Tel Aviv, say (7)
12 Level of hot or cold (11)
13 Biological blueprint (1,1,1)
14 Food of the Olympian gods (8)
16 Banish (5)
19 Teams (5)
20 A golden anniversary (8)
22 Dazzle (3)
24 English scientist who explained gravity (5,6)
26 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)
27 Princess Diana’s maiden name (7)
29 Grotesque imitation (8)
30 For blinking (6)
DOWN
1 Total (3)
2 Pakistani capital (9)
3 Spooky (5)
5 Sex (6)
6 Contract (9)
7 Bakery item (5)
8 Period of 17th-century English queen (11)
10 A Middle Eastern language (6)
12 Clear (11)
15 Stubborn (9)
17 Exactly the same (9)
18 Carnival (6)
21 Aptitude (6)
23 Nickname of Eva Perón (5) 25 Dirge (5) 28 Colour of strawberries (3)
1 What colours appear on Norway’s flag?
2 True or false: Hurricane Sandy was the largest Atlantic hurricane on record by diameter? 3 Hilary Duff (pictured) starred as Sophie in which sitcom?
Podgorica is the capital of which country? 5 Laurence Tureaud is the birth name of which US actor? 6 Lake Garda is located in which European country? 7 Which 2021 film stars
No. 223
No. 222
Slim Dusty still travelling
There will only ever be one Slim Dusty, but his legacy lives on with the musicians who toured the country with him for decades.
After a successful headlining show at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, get ready to celebrate the legendary music of Slim with Travellin’ Still – The Music of Slim Dusty featuring Pete Denahy hitting the road next month with shows in Bundaberg, Kingaroy, Pomona and Brisbane. This follows a tour through Victoria and Southern NSW in 2024.
This show brings Slim’s iconic sound back to life, with his original Travelling Country Band reunited to honour the king of Australian country.
After their last show with Slim in 2002, the members of the band went their separate ways— until a reunion reignited their passion to keep Slim’s music alive on stage. With the blessing of
Slim’s family, they’re back: Rod Coe on bass, Jeff Mercer on guitar, Doug Gallacher on drums, and Mike Kerin on fiddle, and multi-instrumentalist and singer Pete Denahy leading the way.
From timeless classics to cherished favorites, Travellin’ Still is a beautiful tribute packed with the sounds and stories that made Slim Dusty a national treasure.
Audiences from Winton’s Way Out West Fest to the Tamworth Country Music Festival and the Gympie Music Muster have loved the show which has everything from nostalgia, laughter, and toe-tapping tunes—a must-see show for any Slim fan. Don’t miss your chance to experience this iconic tribute to the man who sang our stories like no other.
The band will perform at the Majestic Theatre, Pomona, on 28 February.
Oriana’s tribute to piano men
Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience as the Sunshine Coast’s acclaimed Oriana Choir brings The Piano Men to the stage.
A dynamic concert dedicated to the iconic music of Elton John and Billy Joel will transport audiences through the timeless hits and stirring melodies of two of the most influential musicians of our time.
The Piano Men promises a powerful performance featuring beloved classics such as ‘Rocket Man,’ ‘Uptown Girl,’ ‘I’m Still Standing,’ and ‘Always a Woman to Me.’
These well-loved songs will come to life through the Oriana Choir’s rich harmonies, the vibrant, energetic direction of conductor Elisabeth Wallis Gaedtke, and the accompaniment of the talented Oriana Band, promising an event filled with nostalgia, passion, and virtuosity.
“We’re beyond excited to honour the legendary artistry of Elton John and Billy Joel,” said Oriana president, Melissa Innes. “Their music has a special way of connecting people across gen-
erations, and we’re thrilled to bring that mastery to Sunshine Coaster audiences with this unique show.”
Also performing will be the Sunshine Coast Youth Choir conducted by Annie Wilson, bringing their youthful enthusiasm to these timeless classics.
Don’t miss your chance to experience The Piano Men live with the Oriana Choir - a celebration of unforgettable music and extraordinary talent.
The concerts will be held at 2pm, 29 March at the Matthew Flinders Performance Centre and 5 April at “The J”, Noosa with concerts at 1.30pm and 7.30pm.
Tickets are on sale now! For all the details visit oriana.org.au. For enquiries phone 0431 542 343.
For the Noosa events at “The J” on 5 April, tickets are available from the venue (thej.com.au ph: 5329 6560).
Ultimate summer fashion
The ultimate summer fashion experience is coming to Noosa, with Summer Sip and Style Soiree set for 22 February at Noosa Springs Spa and Golf Resort.
Get ready for a runway show featuring local designers from the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Gold Coast.
Shop exclusive pieces, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and dance the night away at the after party.
Designers to hit the runway at the event include: Wacker Clothing, Matilda Cove, Barr Body Swim, Tantiana the Label, Melissa Taylor Designs, PN the Label, Sol Boutique, Molly and Rose, Sultans of Swim, Mylah the Label, and
Secrets of the East.
Doors open at 5.30 pm drink on arrival. The MC for the night is local favourite Carlie Wacker.
Intermission will include another drink and canapes and the ability to shop the runway. After the final runway there will be an after party with a third exclusive runway by Mylah the label with her sleepwear lingerie show. DJ and food platters will finish off the night. Tickets start at $99 and are available via trybooking at trybooking.com/events/landing/1321310
For more information visit the Instagram page @summersipandstylesoiree
as the greatest powers of all – peace and love.
Sat 8 March 7.30pm Tickets from $64.90
NOOSA’S SURFING HISTORY - IN CONVERSATION
Join TV personality Andy ‘Phippsy’ Phipps, as he examines this era in conversation with some of the surfers who knew Noosa before it was cool! Refreshments served after event. Tues 11 March 5.00pm Tickets from $5.00
Oriana will perform a
The ultimate summer fashion experience is coming to Noosa. (Supplied)
Slim Dusty’s final touring band, The Travelling Country Band, will play in Pomona. (Supplied)
Take a step Beyond Reality at Pomona
Beyond Reality is the title of a captivating exhibition by Doonan’s Paulus Kooij at Pomona Railway Station Gallery during February.
Also featured for the month is Coolum’s award-winning Alex Naray’s From the Ocean to the Hinterland exhibition.
Paulus’ exhibition features 15 works including oil paintings that blend realism with surrealism, and 3D wall sculptures that complement the paintings. The combination guides viewers through dreamlike landscapes and evocative scenes.
While this is his first solo exhibition, Paulus had a gallery in NZ for five years, is a tutor for Tinbeerwah Art Group, has undertaken numerous commissions, including a painting at Noosa Valley Golf Club and a Tasmanian vineyard.
Also Alex’s first exhibition, his 17 works are mainly large scale paintings of Noosa and other Sunshine Coast beaches and Hinterland flowers and trees.
A self-taught artist, Alex started painting about 40 years ago when he was given several oil paintings.
“I loved the paintings and I started by trying to paint them,” he said.
The Gallery president, Ron Collins, says both artists’ exhibitions display extraordinary talent and provide a further example of the community gallery fulfilling its mission to support both emerging and experienced artists.
Paulus’ exhibition runs until 20 February. Alex’s exhibition runs from 1-27 February.
The volunteer-run Pomona Railway Station Gallery is at 10 Station St, Pomona. Opening hours are 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Friday; 10am to 2pm Saturday and Sunday.
Artist Mitchell Cheesman draws a crowd
The G Contemporary was buzzing with crowds overspilling into the Noosa streets on Saturday night, 18 January, for the opening of the solo exhibition, Seasons Stain The Vein by local artist Mitchell Cheesman.
This is Cheesman’s third solo show in Noosa, and is already a huge success.
Collectors and admirers gathered to pay tribute to the new collection with plenty of red dots as the works were snapped up.
The expressive impasto weaves narratives and beauty throughout the paintings.
The titles are always literary works of art in themselves, and on the night, Mitchell delighted the viewers with a rendition of poetry that captured all twenty-two titles from the collection in beautiful prose, especially for the exhibition.
The exhibition at The G Contemporary, Hastings Street, Noosa Heads will run until Sunday 2 February.
The gallery is open seven days a week and please check the website thegcontemporary.com for daily opening times.
Exhibition for Cooroy
The Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre (CBFAC) has an upcoming exhibition and cocktail evening that is set to excite the arts community.
Running from 20 February to 20 March, the Pursuit of Ideal Content is a group exhibition project developed by the arts centre.
Presenting nine women/femme artists from the Sunshine Coast, the exhibition investigates the social and personal consequences of the rise of social media and its impact on young women’s self-perceptions.
These works are accompanied by a series of portraits produced in a photography workshop facilitated by Christine Hall, exploring similar themes.
This exhibition coincides with International Women’s Day, on which the CBFAC will be hosting a vibrant cocktail event featuring performances by Slim Jane and SCRAPS and a cocktail bar sponsored by Your Mates Brewing Co.
A cocktail evening will take place on Saturday 8 March from 5pm-8pm.
This project is proudly sponsored by Noosa Council.
The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Noosa Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
The Butter Box will be available for event hire from 28 March – 15 June. This versatile space is suitable to hire for workshops, artist talks, live music, dinners, conferences, and one-off exhibitions.
To find out more head to the venue hire page on the CBFAC website or email hello@butterfactoryartscentre.com.au
Mitchell Cheesman and Steve Beardsley speaking at the opening night. (Alain Bouvier Photography)
Karen Beardsley, Mitchell Cheesman and Steve Beardsley. (Alain Bouvier Photography)
Opening night at The G Contemporary.
A crowd gathers at the launch of Seasons Stain The Vein at The G Contemporary.
Artwork in progress by Jasmine Veronique. (Pursuit of Ideal Content exhibition)
The Butter Box will be available for event hire from 28 March – 15 June.
Alex Naray with a painting in his From the Ocean to the Hinterland exhibition.
Paulus Kooij will exhibit his art at Pomona Gallery. (Supplied)
DIGGERS BAR - 8pm FRIDAY 31st JANUARY
DIGGERS BAR - 8pm FRIDAY 7th FEBRUARY
BISTRO STAGE- 8pm SATURDAY 1st FEBRUARY BISTRO STAGE - 12pm SUNDAY 2nd FEBRUARY
BISTRO STAGE- 8pm SATURDAY 8th FEBRUARY
BISTRO STAGE - 12pm SUNDAY 9th FEBRUARY
The Studio
info@ddhotyoga.com
Website: www.ddhotyoga.com
Tel: 0401 641 719
We are a boutique Yoga Studio located at the stunning Noosa Marina. An amazing location to immerse yourself to watch the world go by. We represent all things Yoga and are proud of our ethos and mission. At Downward Dog Hot Yoga we offer a range of Yoga classes to suit all styles and abilities. Our teachers come from all walks of life and are here to nurture and guide you through your own personal yoga journey. Some of our classes will be gently warmed with infrared heat which naturally enhances the effects of youryogapractise-bepreparedtodetox,sweat and smile. To compliment the heated classes we offer plenty of cool classes, where you can concentrate on long-slow-deep stretching and find yourself drifting away to a blissful meditation.Ourgoalistohelpyouimproveevery aspectofyourphysical,emotionalandspiritual well-being. Locals Intro pass available for first time visitors to the studio, $50 for 2 weeks unlimited classes
Hello! I’m Keridee Bailey, a dedicated massage therapist with a passion for helping individuals achieve their best health and well-being. Having worked with sporting teams in the past, I understand the importance of recovery, performance, and allowing the body to perform at its best. I believe that massage therapy isn’t just a luxury – it’s a key part of maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. My approach to massage therapy is personalized and rooted in a deep understanding of how the body moves and functions. I work with each client to create a treatment plan that aligns with their individual needs and goals. Whether you’re seeking relief from muscle tension, recovering from a workout, or just looking to unwind, I take pride in providing tailored sessions that leave you feeling your best. I specialize in deep tissue massage, sports massage, and relaxation therapy. With firm pressure and targeted techniques, I focus on addressing problem areas while ensuring that your experience is both effective and comfortable. I also offer access to an infrared sauna and ice bath, both of which can further enhance your recovery and performance. What My Clients Say
“I could not recommend Keridee enough! The way she can work the body and relieve deep tension with consistent and firm pressure while also being a relaxing and comfortable experience is truly a gift. As someone who runs, trains at high intensity and works an active job, sessions with Keridee have become imperative for recovery and longevity. My body has never felt better!”
Contact Keridee today on 0404 899 756 • Website: kbmt.com.au
Caroline is a ded cated and h ghly experienced
and wellness to every and a personal passion for health and wellness to every cl ent she works with Spec al zing in functional training client she works with. Specializing in functional training, Caroline emphasizes the importance of engag ng the body Caroline the of engaging the body as a who e focus ng on core strength and stabi ity This as a whole, focusing on core and stability. This approach not only enhances everyday mob lity but is not enhances mobility but is especially benefic al as we age help ng to mainta n balance beneficial as we age, helping to maintain balance and prevent injury and injury.
A firm believer in the transformative power of strength A firm believer in the transformative power of training Caroline encourages individuals of all ages to training, Caroline encourages individuals of all ages to embrace it as a cornerstone of their fitness journey In her embrace it as a cornerstone of their fitness journey. In her opinion strength training s a fundamental component of opinion, is a fundamental of ageing gracefully and enhancing overall longev ty Whether and overall longevity. Whether you are just beginning your fitness journey or have yet to you are your fitness journey or have yet to incorporate strength training into your routine Carol ne is into your routine, Caroline is committed to providing a supportive environment where it s committed to a environment where it’s never too ate to start never too late to start.
With a compassionate client-centered approach,
FULL CIRCLE WELLNESS
We specialise in Exercise Physiology services for the senior and aged care health populations.Providing mobile, clinic, and community based services throughout Gympie for the last 12 years.
We are experts in providing tailored exercise and lifestyle interventions for ALL people!
If you are lacking motivation or guidance with movement, needing expert advice on guidelines or are worried about ‘what’ to do in your circumstances reach out to our friendly team to discuss our services and how they can benefit you or a loved one.
Eligible funding is available through Home Care packages, private health and medicare schemes.
Don’t miss a free night
Experience Eumundi will be sponsoring a series of free outdoor movie nights, delivered by Starry Nights Movies, bringing the community together for evenings of family-friendly entertainment under the stars.
Upcoming screenings include:
• Shrek (PG) – Saturday 1 February, 6-10pm.
• Sing (PG) – Saturday 1 March, 6-10pm.
From singing and bush care to service clubs and art, there is a wide variety of groups in Noosa.
NOOSA WOMEN’S SHED
Exciting news! Our long-awaited shed has been erected on our site at Wallum Lane Noosa Heads. We are still waiting for plumbing and electricity connections and our fencing to be built but the long journey of hard work and dedication has paid off. Training and project workshops for new members will commence in February. Our next general meeting will be on Saturday 1 February from 1.30pm at our shed site. Everyone is welcome to attend. Potential members can join through our website, noosawomensshed.com.au Follow us on Facebook
LIFESAVING COURSE
There will be a Bronze Medallion Course at Sunshine Beach SLSC this February. If you or someone you know is looking to gain this qualification, now is the perfect time to sign up! This course is a fantastic opportunity to develop your life-saving skills and help keep Sunshine Beach safe. Whether you’re looking to help with water safety at Nippers or become a valuable part of our patrolling team, the Bronze Medallion is the first step. The course is open to all members and their friends/ family who are 15 years or older and can swim 400m. Register at https://shorturl.at/hPpTS or contact the Lifesaving Office or Club Chief Training Officer John Reeves.
TEWANTIN-NOOSA RSL WOMEN’S
AUXILIARY
The first meeting for 2025 of the Tewantin-Noosa RSL Women’s Auxiliary will be held at the Tewantin-Noosa RSL on Friday 7 February in the Billy King Room (Diggers Bar) at 10am for 10.30am start with our AGM followed by our meeting. All members and friends welcome. Call Kay on 5447 5042.
GARDEN CLUB
The first meeting for 2025 of the Tewantin Noosa Garden Club will be held on 10 February at the Anglican Church, 17 William Street Tewantin starting at 1pm. Guest speaker, plant sales, raffles, competition table afternoon tea and friendship. Guests welcome. For more information contace Len 0417604889.
SALVOS MATES SUPPORT
Phone us about our new men’s mental health support group. You may be interested as a bloke who would like a private chat about your wellbeing? Or you have a friend in need? We (SMS) are an all-male group, typically outdoor type retirees. If you are interested as a volunteer, we are particularly looking for men living in the regional towns such as Cooroy, Pomona, Eumundi. Phone Mike, Al, or Peter on 0423 371 375.
NATIONAL SENIORS
Tewantin Noosa National Seniors Group meetings are held at Tewantin Noosa RSL Club on third Thursday of the month. Doors open at 10am morning tea is offered before meeting starts at 10.30am with a variety of guest speakers each month. We offer outings, social gatherings, information sharing and friendship. New members and visitors are welcome. Please contact Jenny Clarke (secretary) on 0414 804 988 for more information.
BOOK CLUB WITH A TWIST
If you have always wanted to join a book club but have never got around to it, then this could be the ideal book club for you: Book Club with a Twist. We are a small and friendly group of adults who like talking and/or listening to discussions about books, authors, illustrators, characters and word choices. There is NO prescribed reading that you have to do (that’s the twist!). Just bring along any
• Jumanji (PG) – Saturday 5 April, 6-10pm. Venue: Eumundi Amphitheatre. And that’s not all - more fantastic movies are lined up from May to November with dates to be confirmed soon.
Gather your family and friends, pack your picnic rugs, and enjoy a magical movie experience under the night sky.
book that you have read, or are currently reading, to discuss informally. All book genres are welcome. Everyone is welcome. We meet on the second Tuesday of every month at the tables inside Cooroy Library 1pm – 2ish. How much? Completely free! Want to know more or want to join us? Email contact is bookclubwithatwist@ hotmail.com
TEWANTIN NOOSA PROBUS CLUB
Are you retired, semi retired and would like to make new friends , try new experiences. We invite you to join us. We meet on the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Tewantin-Noosa RSL Club at 10am for morning coffee, a chat, an entertaining guest speaker followed by a short meeting in which we make plans for the coming month. This includes lunches out, river walks, theatre/cinema outings, future getaways and many more. There is something for everyone, active or laid back. We offer a warm welcome, please contact Christine on 5442 7397 for more information. We look forward to meeting you.
SINGERS WANTED
We are a friendly, vibrant choir, singing beautiful, joyful, easy to learn songs from around the world in a relaxed atmosphere. All levels of ability accepted and no auditions. We would especially like to welcome some Male singers as well. Join us Tuesdays 4-5.30pm at the CWA hall, Eumundi. Call Joan for more information on 0419 517 869 BRING YOUR VOICE TO NOOSA CHORALE
Noosa Chorale is recruiting new singers to enjoy the fun and challenge of making fantastic music together. Singers with the Chorale have a privileged opportunity to develop their singing skills under the direction of talented conductor/maestro Kim Kirkman, and to perform on stage in three major concerts each year with instrumental accompaniment by exceptional musicians. In May this year, we will perform “The Armed Man“, an inspiring modern work by Karl Jenkins who has been described as the world’s greatest living composer. No auditions are required, nor is the ability to read music although this is an advantage. Rehearsals are held each Monday from 7-9pm at The J Theatre, starting 3 February. For more information, see “sing with us” at noosachorale.org.au or send an email to noosachorale@gmail.com to register your interest.
UKULELE CLASSES
Ukulele for raw beginners - will be starting soon. No previous experience or musical skills necessary. Contact Cherry the Ukulele Lady on 0410 573 629.
FRIENDS OF NOOSA BOTANIC GARDENS
Join the Friend’s guides for the first guided walk of the year to be held on Sunday 2 February from 8.30-9.30am. Meet at the main shelter. Wear weather appropriate shoes and attire. Well behaved dogs on a lead are welcome. Stay tuned to the Friends Facebook page for any weather-related updates. All future guided walks will be on the first Sunday of every month at the same time. For further information please contact Linda on 0427 570 022.
MALIBU CLUB AGM
The Noosa Malibu Club will be holding its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 5 February, 6.30pm at The Reef Hotel, Noosa Heads. All members are invited to attend. The February general meeting will follow the AGM. Please contact the Club secretary, Rick Espiner, for further committee nomination information if required on secretary@noosamalibuclub.com Nominations will close on Monday 22 January.
LIONS CLUB OF NOOSA HEADS
We are a small but very active group and would love to welcome new members. If you would like more information please email us noosaheadslions@gmail.com or check us out on Facebook.
COMBINED PROBUS CLUB
Probus Clubs are designed for fun and friendship in retirement. If you are retired (or nearly) and are open to making new friends through a variety of activities such as discussion groups, country drives, lunches out, drinks by the Noosa River, theatre visits, mini golf and good conversation, then we want you to join us. Our membership is diverse and interesting, our members deriving from fascinating countries and employment. We meet at 9.30am on the first Monday of the month, except January, at the Noosa Golf Club where we have entertaining and interesting guest speakers, followed by morning tea and friendly chat. Visit our website noosacombinedprobus.yolasite. com/ to see our monthly Bulletin, depicting our past and future activities. Contact cnp.secretary@ gmail.com or phone Kathy 0416 155428.
VOLUNTEER AT NOOSACARE
Do you have a kind heart and want to bring joy to seniors? Join NoosaCare’s volunteer team and make a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents. NoosaCare is a community-based, notfor-profit organisation with two locations: Carramar in Tewantin and Kabara in Cooroy. Our volunteers help enhance residents’ lives by assisting with activities and providing companionship. What you’ll do: Chat or play games with residents; Assist with recreational activities and events; Offer companionship and emotional support. We’re looking for caring, empathetic individuals with a desire to help. No experience is needed, and we provide a free police check. Email hr@noosacare. com.au to learn more and apply.
ARTS AND CRAFTS
Workshops:
Crochet workshop with Janelle Turley: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday mornings, 9.30-11.30am Expressive Drawing with Lizzie Connor: 6 weeks, starting Tuesday 4 February, 9am to 12pm Portraits in watercolour pencil with Jan Lawnikanis: Saturday & Sunday 29 and 30 March, 9am to 4pm
Urban Landscapes with Lizzie Connor - weekend April 12-13, 9am to 4pm
Noosa Shire Arts & Crafts Association is a centre for creativity, learning & friendship. New members welcome. Visit our Gift Shop. Disabledfriendly access.
Tel: 07 5474 1211; Visit noosaartsandcrafts.org.au VIEW CLUB
The Noosaville lunch time VIEW Club is a valued part of The Smith Family dedicated to supporting the education and wellbeing of disadvantaged Australian children. On the 2nd Thursday of each month this warm and welcoming women’s club gathers at a popular venue for our “Friendship Day” lunch and camaraderie. On the 4th Thursday of each month we have our club meeting at the Tewantin RSL at 11.30am with a guest speaker and update on our twelve Learning for Life students followed by lunch. For more information call Wendy Brooks on 0417 267 281.
NOOSA U3A FRIDAY TALKS
U3A Noosa Friday Talks are held at 1.30pm at U3A, 64 Poinciana Ave, Tewantin.
Friday 31 January: Assoc. Professor Kevin Alford – Weight Loss, diet/drugs/devices – what works and why?, what doesn’t and what’s dangerous. Is Ozempic the answer?”
Full details available on U3A website u3anoosa. com.au/ or phone 5440 5500.
SUNSHINE SOCIAL CLUB
We meet for coffee 10am every Saturday at the Sunshine Beach Surf Club, where we plan our weekly lunches and picnics. Couples and singles most welcome. Please phone Noeline on 5474 5231 for details.
PROBUS CLUB OF NOOSA RIVER
Are you an active retiree? Are you interested in making new friends and starting new hobbies with like-minded people? The Probus Club of Noosa River offers fun and friendship as well as many activities including Craft, Book Club, Canasta, Dominoes, Golf, Mahjong, Coffee mornings, Lunch and Dinner outings, Scrabble, Creative writing, Ukulele, Wine appreciation, Theatre outings, Walking groups and Travel. The club meets at Noosa Lawns Club, 65 Hilton Terrace, Tewantin on the first Monday of each month except January with a starting time of 9am. If you are interested in learning more, please contact 0410 687 639.
BEETHOVEN,
MOZART & CO
Last year we launched a New Circle inviting all Enthusiasts of Classical Music to experience their favourite programs on a Big Screen with a Fantastic Sound System in a great setting at the Noosa U3A each Wednesday 10am-12pm. Interested? Call Barry on 0478 837 708, who is looking forward to chatting with you or email barry.henze@gmail.com
VOLUNTEER AT THE MUSEUM
Join a vibrant community organisation working to preserve our local heritage. Our displays recreate the times of first-nations people and the pioneer settler lifestyle, early technology and tools, even vintage fire engines. We’re custodians of heritage photos and family histories, we do themed displays, live events, publications and presentations. We need people with a range of passions, including writing and promotion, information management, historical research, mechanical and general maintenance, administration and all-round people skills. Volunteering at the museum is a rewarding experience.
For more information, see our website noosamuseum.org
Weekly roster for Tewantin- Noosa Meals on Wheels beginning Monday 3 February.
Monday Drivers: Rotary D Break, Tony, Jim B, Maria and James, Patricia, Ian, Jason, Darryl, Fran
Kitchen: John, Janet, Denise
Tuesday Drivers: Laguna, Paul H, Tania and Friends, Darryl, Denise, Ann P, Paul C, Simone, Bill and Cecily
Kitchen: Lisa, Ann
Wednesday Drivers: Tina, Karen and Phil, Alan and Cynthia , Jan and Bryan, Kevin, Kath and Melody, Simone, John and Helen, Paul
Kitchen: Denise, Christina, John, Jerry
Thursday Drivers: Margaret and James S, Alison, Sue, Julie, Margo and Jim, Kerryn and Stuart, Ian, Julie L, Darryl, Sharon and Mal
Kitchen: Vicki, Sharon, Claire, Michael
You can also check the roster on mealsonwheels-tewantin-noosa.org.au
If you are unavailable or can do an extra run, phone the kitchen on 5449 7659.
Jumanji will be showing on Saturday 5 April from 6-10pm. (Supplied)
Triumphs overshadowed
By Samadhi Baker
Around the Grounds
Strong Tewantin victories were overshadowed by the loss of Dean Smith, a valued member of TNCC and a respected umpire. Dean was a true gentleman of the game, known for his sportsmanship and contributions both on and off the field. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
First Grade
In Gympie for Week 2, the Thunder’s bowlers picked up where they left off, following last week’s bold declaration. Starting 1 down and 40 runs behind, Gympie found no relief against our attack. Scott Aufderheide’s phenomenal figures (12 overs, 9 maidens, 3/9) set the tone. Another balanced display from all the bowlers though with Ben Giddy, Tom Stewart, and Ben Gear all taking two wickets and Ben Woolmer taking one.
Gympie was bowled out for 81, almost a carbon copy of their first-innings 80. Chasing just 43, Samuel Dennien and Michael Eckard ensured a straightforward win, wrapping things up in the 9th over.
Across both innings, Gympie made 20/161 in 93 overs, while the Thunder needed just 35 overs and six wickets to match the score. A very dominant outright win leaving the team well placed leading into finals.
Second Grade
The 2nd Grade team powered into 3rd place on the ladder with a dominant outright win over Yandina. Starting at 2/56, Andrew Kratzmann and Josh Peters set about chasing the 70 runs needed for first innings points. Peters anchored the innings with a superb 82, helping the team to declare with a 20-run lead.
The bowlers then delivered spectacularly. Despite missing last week’s star Reilly Carroll, (due to a run in with the First grade skipper), Tyron De Kauwe (3/17), Riley Woolmer (3/20), and Oliver Wilson (4/20) cleaned up Yandina for 62 in 20 overs. A chase of 43 was swiftly handled by Blake Steel, whose explosive 33 off 13 (including four sixes) finished the game in four overs.
This win lifts the 2nd Grade team firmly into finals’ contention for the first time in nearly a decade.
Third Grade Week 2 saw Yandina resume on 6/116, and quick wickets were the plan. Jayke Carlile starred with 4/24 off 9, while Thomson put in a marathon stint for 3/25 off 21. However, missed chances in the field let Yandina off the hook allowing them to declare at 9/201.
The Thunder chase stumbled early and never really got going, with only Jarred Davis standing firm. His gritty 47 was a highlight, but he fell to a spectacular one-handed screamer. Tight Yandina
bowling and some poor shot selection saw TNT dismissed for 102, narrowly avoiding the followon. Special thanks to the players who stepped in this week. The team will look to bounce back strongly next round with a full-strength side.
Sixth Grade Resuming Day 2 at 2/56, chasing Caloundra Black’s 105, Dante Cox and Dale Brown kept the scoreboard ticking. Dale impressed with 33 before falling to a change of bowler. The middle order struggled, but Nick Withers contributed 32
alongside Dante’s 23 to get across the line. The innings closed at 9-160, with Justin Latimer and Cooper Withers holding the tail. Wayne Moore then led the bowling attack with 3-16, and David Lyons impressed with 2-13. Despite the team’s best efforts, Caloundra managed to hold on and avoid the outright with four wickets in hand. After securing the first innings win, sixths remain in the top 4 and will be looking to solidify their position further in the coming weeks.
STAY ACTIVE in Noosa
From sport to dancing or walks, there’s plenty of ways to get active in Noosa.
TRY TAP DANCING
Always wanted to tap dance? Here’s your chance to do a beginner’s workshop over five weeks starting early February, Uniting Church Hall, Werin St, Tewantin, either Thursdays 5-6pm or Saturdays 8-9am. Intermediate classes are on Wednesdays 5-6pm. Phone Helen on 0448 621 788 for further details.
DANCE LESSONS TEWANTIN
Dance lessons are on Sundays at 12.30pm at the Tewantin Masonic Hall, Moorindil Street. We start by teaching basic dance steps, then Waltz, old time, New Vogue, Ballroom Dances and a little Latin. We run through to 5pm. Lots of fun and dancing, including a 20 minute tea/coffee break to socialise. (Only $10) Hope to see you there. Singles or couples, welcome. Just rock up or phone Andrew 0429 829 328. For more info, please visit andrewsclassdance.com
CROQUET
Thinking of joining us? We offer Come & Try sessions on the 1st Sunday of each month at the club’s attractive grounds in Seashell Place, Noosa Waters. Be at the club by 8.15am, when our experienced trainers will help you understand what this strategic game is all about. Email our secretary to book a session, or to arrange an alternative time. noosa@croquetqld.org
SENIORS KEEP FIT
We are a friendly group of ladies who keep fit every Thursday at 10am at the Masonic Hall on Moorindil Street in Tewantin. Our class lasts for an hour and coffee afterwards at the Marina is an optional extra. We are currently welcoming new participants for January onwards. First class in 2025 is Thursday 9 January. $10 per class. For more details call/text Nicki on 0421 751614.
WALKING NETBALL
With a focus on fun and social interaction rather
than competition, it is a great way to stay active, energized and meet some new friends. The aim of fast walking (rather than running) is to keep it safe and injury free for all. If you thought your netball days were over, then think again. No team required, just come along and play. Registration $37, then $5 each week you attend. Wednesdays 6-7.30pm. Noosa Netball courts, McKinnon Drive, Tewantin. Call 0407 480125 for more info or email noosanetball@gmail.com See you there.
NOOSA MASTERS SWIMMING CLUB
Noosa Masters swim all year round at the Noosa Aquatic Centre, 6 Girraween Ct, Sunshine Beach. Our goals are fitness, fun and friendship. Anyone 18 and over is welcome to join the club so come and give us a try. The club meets on Thursday mornings and Sunday mornings 7.30-9am.for coached squads. We then convene for coffee and a chat afterwards. For more information check our website at noosamastersswimming.com.au/ or email noosamastersswimming@outlook.com
MODERN JIVE IN TEWANTIN
Modern Jive is a great modern dance style that is heaps of fun, and is easy to learn. Come and dance to the modern music that you hear at parties, weddings and nightclubs. New and current dancers welcome! Venue: Freemason’s Hall, 30 Moorindil Street, Tewantin. Classes every Tuesday night, 6.15pm for a 6.30pm start. Contact Warren 0402 092 563 or visit LeStepSunshineCoast.com.au
TRY LAWN BOWLS
If you are looking for a low-impact, therapeutic exercise that can improve fitness, coordination and confidence, then lawn bowls is the sport for you. The Cooroy Community Bowls Club, located at Your Mates Bowls Pub, 5 Opal Street, Cooroy, offers bowls every Tuesday afternoon at 12noon and Saturday morning at 8.30am. There is no need to book, simply turn up. For further information contact Maureen (club president) on 0419 588 661.
MAGZ JAZZ
Increase strength, flexibility, energy and wellbeing. Dance exercises and stretching. Learn new dance moves and routines to inspired music. Jazz and Latin style dance keeps the body moving, mind agile, memory working and spirit lifted. Tuesdays 8.30-10am in Tewantin. Phone Margaret for details on 0425 269 988.
WALK WITH WISDOM
Join us every Friday morning from 7.30-9am for a revitalising walk along the Noosa River. Designed for active professionals and individuals seeking growth in personal, professional, and mental well-being, our sessions are led by a diverse team of coaches and therapists. Start with brief introductions, then pair up to exchange insights as you walk. The morning concludes with a 10-minute engaging talk from a member, all while enjoying coffee from O-Boats. For more information, visit Facebook page: Walk With Wisdom.
SUNNY COASTERS LINEDANCING
We are a warm, welcoming, inclusive, friendly bunch who love to dance. With five classes offered each week together with absolute beginner workshops also starting periodically each term, there is something for everyone. Classes are held in Tewantin and Noosaville and taught by Sue who is a passionate teacher with over 30 years experience. Take an average day, build in some dance and realise the positive and rewarding results from a little music, a few Boot Scoot’n steps and encouraging vibes. Visit sunnycoasterslinedancing.com.au or phone Sue on 0408 337 262.
WALK AND WORKOUT
Mature ladies, if you’re not as fit as you used to be and you want to get back into moving your body in the great outdoors, then this might just be your answer. Accountability and achievability with a healthy active lifestyle plan customised just for you. Vitality, mobility, stability and longevity are a few of the benefits of building strength and im-
proving flexibility with an easy active fitness plan. Please call Donna on 0419 373 319.
PLAY TENNIS
Fit tennis players required for singles and doubles play during the week and weekends. Squash and tennis players needed Monday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Call Karen on 0412 485 411.
INDOOR BOWLS
Noosa Indoor Carpet Bowls Club would love to welcome new members to join us each Friday morning at the Leisure Centre in Wallace Drive, Noosaville. No experience necessary and lots of fun to be had. Play starts at 9am till 11am. Please contact Pam 0407 493 402.
NOOSA FOLK DANCERS
You’re invited to come and try sessions, first one free. Experience traditional and modern, easy and moderate dances from countries around the world, on Fridays from 10-11.45am at the Catholic Parish Hall, Moorindil Street, Tewantin. We are a welcoming group providing physical and social well-being through world dance. Phone Philippa on 0417 780 016 or just come along. Wear comfortable shoes.
PICKLEBALL
Life begins when you discover pickleball. Make new friends, play indoor or outdoor, and its a sport for all ages eight to 88. Noosa Pickleball Club is hosting beginner lessons, and sessions for all skill levels. Find out more by emailing info@ noosapickleballclub.com
FITBARRE
Classes for adults based on ballet. Improve your posture, tone and tighten your muscles with this total mind and body conditional workout while enjoying classical music. Classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays 9-10.30am (Intermediate level), Thursday 5-5.50pm (Beginners), Friday 9-10am (all levels) at Performing Arts Factory, 2/6-8 Rene St, Noosaville. Phone Angelika on 0488 088 633.
Under 17’s Rory Ramsden and Ben Blackwell in action. (Matt Mayo Photography)
First class facilities
comple-
of its newest renovation on Friday evening, 24 January.
More than 100 people attended the grand opening represented by the Mayor Frank Wilkie as well as Noosa MP Sandy Bolton.
Bowls Club president Dallas Furner opened proceedings and proudly discussed the club’s 75-year journey from its humble beginnings to where the club is now.
The club’s patron and dual international Michael O’Conner also offered words of support for the club as did Sandy Bolton, all long standing supporters of the Noosa Lawns Bowls Club.
The wine flowed and the nibbles were plentiful as Dallas touched on the club’s consultation strategy with the members to ensure the club delivered exactly what the members wanted.
The new renovation included removing the entire external awning and paved area and replacing with 220m2 of concrete with a threetiered awning providing the perfect external area to enjoy a cold drink whilst watching or playing bowls.
Artificial grass now surrounds the greens and with new furniture in place, the area also becomes an external function area, perfect for young families to enjoy the alfresco setting.
A full upgrade of external greens lighting has been completed and inside the club has been opened up with all new windows and sliding doors allowing more natural light into the venue.
Dallas said the club was now focused on its next project and continuing to provide first class facilities for its members and guests.
Badminton bonanza
In Cooroy there’s a thriving badminton community that meets several days per week for social and competitive play.
“We are fortunate enough to have our own badminton stadium with three dedicated courts and we are always on the lookout for new members,“ Kristine Blurton said.
Badminton is the fastest racket sport in the world, which is easy to learn and lots of fun to play.
The Cooroy Bendigo Community Bank is a major sponsor of the club which has enabled them to do a renovation with a new Olympic grade sports flooring.
Cooroy Badminton Club inc is located at 26 Emerald St, Cooroy opposite the car park at the end of the street.
They are a friendly social club with a variety of sessions and here are the regular playing times:
• Monday 9.30-11.30am and 6.30pm till late.
• Wednesday 9.30am till 12pm and juniors’ 3.45-5pm.
• Friday junior coaching 4pm and senior coaching 5.30pm and 7.30pm till late.
• For bookings, contact Kris on 0407 001 845.
TWILIGHT BOWLS
Join us for an evening of fun, laughter and friendly competition as the sun sets on the greens. Enjoy a complimentary burger in a relaxed atmosphere, cool evening breeze and good vibes. Grab your friends and roll into the action, scan QR code and reserve your spot today.
28 FEBRUARY,
Who: All juniors, taught by Andi Dako ex-Olympic badminton player
What: All levels accepted for coaching
When: Every Wednesday (starting Feb 5th) @ 3.45 - 5.00pm (Bookings aren’t required)
Where: 26 Emerald St, Cooroy QLD 4563
Contact: Kristine Blurton, 04 0700 1845
Cooroy Badminton Club’s Bendigo Bank Tournament in August 2024. (Supplied)
The Noosa Lawns Club celebrated the
tion
Noosa Lawns Club Patron Michael O’Connor, Independent Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton, and Noosa Lawns Club president Dallas Furner.
Life of Brine
Phil
Jarratt - philjarratt.com
View from the fiery front
While the return of Frankenstein’s POTUS was going on in Washington DC last week, with that delightful chappie pardoning traitors and cop-bashers and blaming everyone else for everything, including the LA fire department for incompetence in allowing the fires to happen, real people on the ground were revealing stories which illustrate the devastating human toll of this disaster.
On a personal level, one of my closest friends who has lived in Pacific Palisades for more than 30 years returned to his home (still standing) to begin the heartbreaking work of cleaning up the ash-ruined interior. I asked in a text how he was coping with the devastation:
“Overwhelming sadness. But in situations like this something strange happens. Brain fog. This is the third time I’ve had it. 9/11 and the days after it, January 6 when the morons stormed the Capitol, and now. It deadens your feelings and you just go through the motions without really taking things in. I’m sitting at my kitchen table writing this and the silence is deafening. No traffic, no bird calls, just the odd police chopper going over.
“This morning I walked Ollie [family dog] around the neighbourhood and we were the only ones on the streets. The only vehicles I saw were LAPD black and whites. I’m only now making sense that everything is gone in our village and that thriving community will never be the same.”
Meanwhile writer Peter Maguire, best known for his book Thai Stick, who lives in Australia these days but grew up in the Palisades and Malibu, tracked down three of the Palisades/Malibu elders of the surf/skate tribe.
He wrote: “Jim Ganzer, Lance Carson, and George Trafton lost everything in the fire and are now homeless. Ganzer’s rancho up Los Flores Canyon burned to the ground along with his art and surfboard collection. When I spoke to him two days ago, Ganzer did not talk about what insurance would cover, rebuilding, or his loss. Instead, he apologised for letting Old Yeller, my favourite Robbie Dick longboard that I kept at his house, burn.”
Jim Ganzer is probably best known as the founder of surfwear brand Jimmy Z, but he is also an artist of note, a surf pioneer (Costa Rica) and a sometime Hollywood actor who was the real-life inspiration for the character of The Dude in the Cohen brothers Big Lebowski. Maguire says that Ganzer was saying “the Dude abideth” when Jeff Bridges was still in nappies.
Most surfers of a certain age will know the name Lance Carson as well as they know Midget Farrelly’s. Alongside Miki Dora, he was the true style master at Malibu in the ‘50s and ‘60s, and provided the inspiration for the Lance character (Charlie don’t surf) in Apocalypse Now and Matt Johnson in Big Wednesday, both made by his friend and Malibu beach-mate John Milius. He has also been a much-in-demand surfboard shaper for more than 50 years.
George Trafton might be one you’ve missed but the son of NFL hall-of-famer George The Brute Trafton was the best skateboarder on the roaring hills of the Palisades at least a decade before Dogtown. A true renaissance man, George
shunned surf competition but became one of California’s best-known underground surfers, doing long stints of lonely tube time at Scorpion Bay and The Ranch when not surfing the ‘Bu. He was also the scorching lead guitarist in Malibu surf band Blue Juice.
George was found staggering along Pacific Coast Highway with severe burns to most of his body early in the morning not far from his burntout cottage. He remains at UCLA Medical Center undergoing skin grafts. Jimmy Z and Lance Carson were physically unscathed, but both are still coming to terms with losing their homes of half a century along with all their possessions.
Peter Maguire, who has set up a fund to help the trio, wrote: “In many ways, Ganzer, Trafton, and Carson defined what their old friend H2O Magazine publisher Marty Sugarman, best de-
scribed as Southern California’s ‘Waterfront Culture.’ While money came and went, properties were bought and sold, Ganzer, Carson, and Trafton were Dionysian men of action. For better or worse, they chose sensual action and experience-filled lives over material ones. None of them have Santa Barbara beach houses, Sun Valley ski houses, much less White Lotus-like resorts they can retreat to. They will now have to start over.”
For more information on helping out these iconic fire victims visit Pete Maguire’s faintingrobin.org
Finally, as I write this Cr Tom Wegener informs me that young California film-maker and entrepreneur Justin Misch (Spoons and the remastered Morning Of The Earth) also lost everything in the Palisades fires. Just a few weeks ago,
when Justin and his wife Lauren were holidaying in Noosa, we all sat in a park by the river drinking wine and making plans. Justin texted: “It’s been a humbling reminder of impermanence. Thankfully Lauren and I and our puppy are safe and healthy. We have each other and our beautiful memories.”
FOOTNOTE: By the time you read this the WSL 2025 season should be underway with the Lexus Pipe Pro. As I write the forecast is not great and the event will be minus two of its best Pipe performers in Gabby Medina (injured) and reigning world champ John John Florence (taking a year off). But trust me, fresh out of my Big Bash addiction, I’ll be watching every wave.
Ganzer loads up the woody, 1964. (Surf Guide)
Ganzer at the Bu in ‘64. (Surf Guide)
Malibu on fire. (Beachgrit)
Pali-Bu pioneers back in the day. L to R: Lance Carson, Robbie Dick, Jim Ganzer, Denny Aaberg. (Ganzer)
Skate boys Tony Alva, Jim Ganzer, Anthony Friedken. (Dan Levy)
Sweet ride for George Trafton, somewhere south of the border a long time ago. (Legendary Surfers)
Lance and his product, Malibu 2020, aged 77. (FB)
Talking Sport
Ron Lane
Sunshine Beach on the move
Sunshine Beach Surf Lifesaving Club is going from strength to strength. Recently, Electra Outram really put her club on note by becoming the first female to win a major interstate Iron Woman Event. Competing against the best in the country, her performance was truly outstanding: and all indications are that this is just the start of what could be a great career.
With a very good and positive coaching panel, one that not only could produce future champions, but also one that believes in the importance creating a great culture from within the ranks, the season ahead has the potential to produce, one of their best competitive seasons ever.
To ensure that their core business of beach patrolling is still number one, the club is in the process of organising another Bronze Medallion Course at Sunshine Beach. To get the ball rolling the course starts with an Information Night, Monday 3 February, 6pm-7.30pm. This will be followed by an assembly Wednesday 5 February at Noosa Aquatic Centre.
This will be just the start of the training program: a program that will take them through to their final assessment Sunday 23 February at 8am. If interested, the first requirements are to be 15 years of age, become a financial member and easily cover a 400m pool swim.
For further information regarding registration, call 0448 120 337. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this chance to help make a difference in the community.
Over the hill at the Noosa club, there is a 21-year-old senior who has been with Noosa since joining as a U9 nipper. His name is Kai Thompson and because his big love is beach events, he and other beachies get little publicity: despite winning at state and national level.
‘’The first time I competed at the Australian Titles was in the U14 and I won the bronze medal. However, the next season as a U15 competing at Perth in the Aussies, I won both the sprint and the flags. Leading up to these, I have also won medals in the sprints and flags, in various state titles.”
Then when contesting the U19 flags at the Australian Titles, he again won gold. Then, last season on moving up a division to contest the toughest competition of all, the Opens, he finished 4th in the flags. Definitely a great performance. However, his dedication and self-discipline has certainly paid dividends: as his medal count, through the many seasons of State and National competition, have shown.
Perhaps one of Kai favourite competitions of the year is the Super Surf Teams League. This is made up of four Queensland Teams, four teams from NSW, two teams from South Australia, two teams from West Australia, two teams from Victoria, one from Tasmania and one team from California.
“You are selected on the team to perform your chosen category ski, swim board or beach, with one male and female for each category, making it
a team of 8. It took place in Wanda, over the same weekend as the Iron Series. Two days of back-to -back, high level of competition, and great atmosphere.”
For Kai he had two solid days with a 2nd in the flags and 6th in the sprints on day one and 1st in the flags and 8th in the sprints in day 2. “My team the Marlins, finished 4th after the two days. A very big thank you to Surf Life Saving Qld for the trip: without it, it wouldn’t have been possible. Also, a big thank you to Nat and Swanny and the rest of the coaching crew.
Recently the Noosa Club took their beachies down to compete in Manly Shaw and Partners Summer of Surf events: a competition within a big series, with races all over Australia. Despite being ill with influenza, Kai competed taking 2nd in the flags and 4th in the sprint: again, showing his attitude of never giving up.
But all this success did not come easy. Kai went through a time when there was no coaching available at Noosa for top beach competitors.
This was resolved when Kai travelled down to the Gold Coast on Friday evening to train under the legendary flags coach Simon Harris: he would then return to Noosa late Sunday afternoon.
Since leaving school, Kai has been working with his father as a chippie. Other than beach events, his other passion is Downwind Foiling. Last year he went over to Hawaii for the month of July to race in the Molokai to Oahu Downwind World Championships. This year he intends to once again try this tough event.
“Downwind racing, a sport that is really starting to take off, is considered by many to be the pinnacle of ocean racing: where you utilize, the wind and the swell, travelling with it as fast as you can.” In the last three years people have started to move away from the more traditional Downwind styles, like sup and surf ski and moving towards the hydro foil: this category is growing exponentially.
The equipment consists of a board that is about 8ft long and 17 inches wide. Attached is the
mast that connects to the foil, that functions same as an aeroplane wing, where speed generates lift. The racing aspects of all sports is what pushes it to develop and grow, with races now starting to popup all over the world.
With a Foil club being formed on the Sunshine Coast, it is only natural that our young Kai Thompson should join. “I am still heavily involved in lifesaving and use it as a great base of training. I have grown up doing Surf Life Saving, and I believe that even if you don’t compete, surf lifesaving is truly great for developing ocean skills and learning how to connect with people from all around Australia.”
With Foil sponsorship such as Cloud IX, plus the backing, and support of the Noosa Surf club, (who are providing this water warrior with the best training), anything is possible. So far Kai’s venture into this relative new sport, has seen him visit such places as Hawaii and France. Good luck to Kai and family.
Kai competing in flags at the Manly Shaw and Partners World Ocean series carnival.
Kai Thompson holding the winning foil of the Western Australia Downwind foil race week. Foil designed and made by Cloud IX foils.
Electra Outram winning the recent Iron Woman event. (John A Veage)
Kai Thompson in the Ka’iwi channel (channel of bones) during the Molokai to Oahu downwind world championship.
PROPERTY
IN THE HEART OF SUNSHINE
PROPERTY MATTERS
OPPOSITE the shops and facing towards the ocean, it’s a highly-regarded holiday complex in Sunshine Beach
Tiffany Wilson of Tom Offermann Real Estate has a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment in Sunshine Vista going to auction Saturday, 8 February, at 12pm.
On the ground floor and recently renovated, 6/43 Duke St sits behind some trees to provide both luxury and tranquillity.
“I love the location,’’ Tiffany said. “... and it has a beautifully remodelled interior, a private outdoor entertaining area, with serene views of the native bushland.
“It features a recently-remodelled kitchen, and the added functionality of a third space for office or murphy bed.’’
The stylish apartment is of solid construction and enjoys an elevated position.
The living area features an open-plan layout, timber-look Italian tile flooring, new glass louvres, and beach-inspired decore.
The high-end kitchen is brand new with quality AEG stainless steel appliances, a large Caesarstone island bench with seating, pyrolytic oven, induction cooktop, deep soft-closing draws and dishwasher.
There is a backdrop of lush greenery through floor-to-ceiling glass doors.
Extending from the living area is the terrace, with a north-easterly aspect and no neighbours to be seen.
The main bedroom retreat comes with a large, new custom built-in wardrobe, and a private ensuite with dual floating vanity, striking bathtub, floor to ceiling tiles and ample storage.
Bedroom two is a generous size with plush wool carpet and built-in robes. White aluminium plantation shutters enhance the coastal feel in both bedrooms - each with a tranquil outlook of the garden.
In addition to the two bedrooms, there is also
A two-bedroom, two-bathroom, one-car ground-floor apartment 6/43 Duke St, Sunshine Beach, goes to auction Saturday, 8 February, at 12pm. (453187)
a multi-purpose room which could be utilised as a third bedroom, home office, or second lounge area. It comes with new, custom-built, frosted glass doors, a queen murphy bed from Italy, and built-in robes.
Both bathrooms are elegant in design with quality fixtures and fittings, matte white floor to ceiling tiles, and stone benchtops.
The managed Sunshine Vista complex sees residents and guests with access to amenities including a heated swimming pool and spa, barbecue facilities, outdoor dining options, tropical gardens and lift access from the secure carpark.
Tiffany said the apartment offered a dream coastal lifestyle as a lock-up and leave holiday home, holiday let, or sensational permanent residence.
FRONT-ROW SEATS SECURED
It was a lot of fun ... with five registered bidders and a sale under the hammer for a renovated three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment in Noosaville on Saturday, 18 January.
Melanie Butcher of Laguna Real Estate took the Sandy Court Beach Resort apartment 3/173 Gympie Tce to the market at midday, and Justin Voss calling the bidding.
With a front-row position of Noosa River, the apartment featured high ceilings, superb finishes and a full-length north facing balcony.
With Melanie, principal Olivier Miller and
A two-bedroom, two-bathroom, one-car ground-floor apartment 6/43
Warren Evans working the crowd of more than 30, they were supported by virtually the whole Laguna team.
Interest was from Brisbane, Victoria and local with a start of $2m. That came down to a battle between two and the gavel falling at $2.25m.
The interstate buyer was in town and looking forward to enjoying holidaying here, Melanie said.
“It was a lot of fun, and a great outcome.’’
SOUGHT-AFTER LOCATION
There was an immense response to the auction campaign for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom house at Tewantin.
Scheduled to go to the market at 11am Saturday, 25 January, the house at 30 Lake View Dve, was marketed by Beau Lamshed and Penny Choyce of Laguna Real Estate.
On 832sq m with garage and carport plus a large shed, the house is in a private street close to Tewantin and Noosaville shops, as well as the Noosa River.
There were a number of private viewings within the first few days of listing, with interest coming from locals who understand the value of that pocket of Tewantin and how rare properties come available.
There was plenty of overseas interest, Beau said. Yet the buyers were from the Sunshine Coast hinterland who were looking to break into the market.
It was a really strong offer - higher than
A two-bedroom, two-bathroom, one-car ground-floor apartment 6/43 Duke St,
market feedback - with favourable conditions for the seller.
The property is believed to have sold in excess of $1.1m.
SENSE OF SOPHISTICATION
Mention Ward St and those who know Old Tewantin immediately look up.
Clare Sherwood and Patrick Sherwood of Tom Offermann Real Estate have a four-bedroom, four-bathroom, four-car house with pool at 92 Ward St they are taking to auction at 1pm on Saturday, 1 February.
On 832sq m, the house is tucked away in this coveted pocket, handy to the river and to the village shopping centre.
Positioned off the street for added privacy, the home blends contemporary indoor elegance with relaxed outdoor living.
There is a sense of space and sophistication, and seamless integration between indoor and outdoor areas.
Whether by the pool, in the sunny courtyard, or in the private studio, this property caters to everyone.
A contemporary kitchen at the heart of the home, features a striking island bench and breakfast bar, plenty of storage, and a 900wide gas cooktop and oven. It is positioned to overlook the pool and outdoor entertaining spaces.
Laguna Real Estate’s Melanie Butcher with the Victorian buyers of apartment 3, 173 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville, at auction. (453187)
Duke St, Sunshine Beach, goes to auction Saturday, 8 February, at 12pm. (453187)
Sunshine Beach, goes to auction Saturday, 8 February, at 12pm. (453187)
ERLE LEVEY
A four-bedroom, four-bathroom, four-car house with pool at 92 Ward St, Tewantin, goes to auction at 1pm on Saturday, 1 February. (452964)
A four-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house at 13 Koel St, Noosaville, goes to auction Saturday, 1 February, at 3pm. (453187)
Glass stacker doors blur the line between the spacious living areas and the alfresco spaces.
The spacious main bedroom suite offers a large walk-in robe, ensuite, air-conditioning, and direct access to the alfresco area.
There are two additional extra-large bedrooms, one with its own ensuite, and a main bathroom that has a sunken bath as well as floor-to-ceiling tiles.
A timber walkway connects to the separate studio. With a bedroom, sitting area or office, ensuite, and its own entry by means of a secondary driveway, this space is ideal for multi-generational living, a home office, or a creative retreat.
There is garaging for two small cars, a double carport, and a tandem carport with extra height for a boat, caravan, jet ski or trailer.
A four-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house at 13 Koel St, Noosaville, goes to auction Saturday, 1 February, at 3pm. (453187)
The in-ground pool is framed by glass fencing and a tranquil water feature.
INVITING HAVEN
Perfectly positioned in one of Noosaville’s most sought-after locations, an immaculately presented single-level home at 13 Koel St is set for auction Saturday, February 1.
Scott Cowley and Kelsie Melville of Noosa Estate Agents are taking the four-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house to the market at 3pm on the day.
The property offers blend of comfort, convenience, and lifestyle, with separate living and dining areas, and a well-equipped central kitchen.
There is split-system air-conditioning, a 6.6 kw solar system, and a spacious layout.
The 706sq m property comprises landscaped gardens, a large grassy yard, and multiple outdoor entertaining zones, including
A four-bedroom, four-bathroom, four-car house with pool at 92 Ward St, Tewantin, goes to auction at 1pm on Saturday, 1 February. (452964)
A four-bedroom, four-bathroom, four-car house with pool at 92 Ward St, Tewantin, goes to auction at 1pm on Saturday, 1 February. (452964)
A four-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house at 13 Koel St, Noosaville, goes to auction Saturday, 1 February, at 3pm. (453187)
a covered deck and private cabana.
The double carport provides convenient offstreet parking.
Located within walking distance of Aldi supermarket, bakeries, cafes, and the renowned Sum Yung Guys restaurant, this property is handy to Noosa Arts Theatre, Noosa Farmers Markets and Weyba Creek as it makes its way into Noosa River.
The agents consider this property to be a great investment or ideal entry-level home.
AUCTION ACTION
FRIDAY, 31 January
Doonan
• 43 Regency Rd: 6bed, 3bath, 3car house, pool, on 5989sq m, 12pm, Mark Hodgkinson 0409 484 159 Reed & Co
Sunshine Beach
• 1/4 Park Cres: 2bed, 1bath, 1car apartment, 1pm, Tiffany Wilson 0468 922 519
Tom Offermann Real Estate
SATURDAY, 1 February
Little Cove
• 3/1 Kareela Ave: 2bed, 2bath, 1car townhouse, 2pm, Luke Chen 0417 600 840 Tom Offermann Real Estate
• 13 Koel St: 4bed, 2bath, 2car house on 706sq m, 3pm, Scott Cowley 0414 544 420 Kelsie Melville 0424 904 301 Noosa Estate
Agents
Tewantin
• 92 Ward St: 4bed, 4bath, 4car house, pool on 832sq m, 1pm, Clare Sherwood 0402 903 733 Patrick Sherwood 0413 889 130 Tom Offermann Real Estate.
3/1 KAReelA Av eNU e, LI TT LE CO VE
IdeallypositionedonthedoorstepoftheNoosa National Parkandjusta400m walkfromLittle Cove Beachand800mfromHastingsStreet,this desirable townhouseisanexceptional findwithan openplanlivingarea,greatpotential to personalise, and aseamless connection to its stunningnatural surroundings.If youlovetoimmerse yourselfin nature,thislocationis adreamwithquickaccess to
theNational Park’s walkingtrailsthatwilltakeyou to pristinebeachesthroughlush rainforest Stepoutsideand youwillfeellikeyouhave entered your very ownprivateoasiswitha coveredoutdoor alfrescoareaandelevatedviewsacrosstheinground pool,sprawlinglawnedarea,andgorgeousgardens.
This exceptional residence,nestledwithinthenatural beautyofPeregianBeach,is ararefusionofcuttingedgearchitectureandsustainableliving.Designedwith passionandprecision,itis atestament to modernist principles,featuringrecycledconcreteblocks and thoughtfulcraftsmanshipwhilst seamlesslyintegrating withthelushsurrounds.Effortless flow andopen-plan livingspacesbathedinnaturallight,createa warm
invitingambience,and coalesceeffortlesslywiththe expansiveterrace,wheregentleseabreezesand serene coastalvistasinviterelaxationandentertaining. It’smereminutes to thebeach,bars,cafesand boutiques,similarlyHastingsStreet,NoosaHeadsand theNoosaNational Park. A 3 B 2
IMAGINE the address is the prized-for-good reason 5-star Witta Circle on Noosa Sound, boasting a prime 20-metre waterfrontage with white-sand beach, and the 12-metre-long jetty a lone fixture on the one-and only vacant land in the much-coveted street, where living the good life exceeds expectations.
Picture the thought-provoking idea of seducing escapes to a ‘salty’ lifestyle mereminutes to Noosa Main Beach and Hastings Street, on a lustrous wide tranquil reach of the Noosa River waterway, framed by a backdrop of lush vegetation, and all immediately come to mind.
There’s just so much to love, however, where to begin the daunting task of appointing an avantgarde designer with his finger on the local pulse and short-circuiting the often-tedious process.
With talented Chris Clout Design Plans given recent Development Application (DA) approval by Noosa Shire Council, expect a 5-star residence that captures the imagination, is as modern as tomorrow, and as evocative of when the hustle stops, summer begins … every day.
Internally the design over three levels includes a waterfall centrepiece, underground parking and a lift.
On the entry level water vistas have starring roles in almost every space. Liberal use of disappearing glass panes merge the interiors to the natural surrounds and alfresco living where bridges connect seemingly ‘floating’ terraces to the luminescent pool, spa, pond and spill in a fashion to the wide beach and perfect-forswimming sparkling shallows.
“And why not jump into the boat moored at the jetty and spend the day fishing in the upper reaches of the Noosa River near the
Everglades,” effuses Tom Offermann Real Estate agent Jill Goode.
The location really is second-to-none, views will never be compromised and there’s simply nothing like investing in this ultra rare opportunity in the privileged, private front row of a Witta Circle waterfront.”
“It is a mere stone’s throw to Hastings Street’s beachside restaurants, cafes and bars, also Noosa Main Beach, plus it’s a few minutes more along the boardwalk to the Noosa National Park and world recognised Surfing Reserve.”
Facts & Features:
• Land Area: 616m2;
• Waterfront/Jetty: 19.9m/12m
• Designer: Chris Clout Design; plans w DA approval by Noosa Shire Council 2024 included
• Design Internal: total 373m2
• Lower level 40m2 incl underground parking x 4, lift, laundry, bathroom & waterfall from centre/void of build
• Entry level 170m2 w incl study & family spaces, alfresco living ‘floating’ terrace w 2 bridges over pond, spa, pool. ‘floating’ daybeds etc; indoor dining/living w fireplace opens to terrace & waterway; kitchen w 6m island & large WIP
• Upper level: 163m2 incl 4 bedrooms all w ensuites
• Location: short walk to Hastings Street, Noosa Main Beach & world-famous Noosa National Park; short walk left along Noosa Parade to Quamby Place & Rickys Restaurant & Bar
45 Witta Circle, NOOSA HEADS Inspect: By
$19.75m Contact: Tom Offermann 0412 711 888 and Jill Goode 0418 714 653,
HOME FOCUS
STYLISH TOP FLOOR APARTMENT
TAKE in fresh sea breezes and elevated tropical views from this rarely available two bedroom top floor apartment in The French Quarter Noosa where your biggest decision will be beach or pool. Stylish and contemporary, the private fully furnished apartment in an end position has a coastal style interior, master suite with corner bath, and a spacious semi-enclosed balcony overlooking the resort’s heated lagoon swimming pool and lush manicured gardens.
Situated in a blue chip location, The French Quarter has direct access to Hastings Street with five star dining, boutique stores and entertainment. World renowned Noosa Heads Main Beach is just across the street where you can feel squeaky white sand between your toes, swim and surf in pristine waters, or simply stroll along the boardwalk taking in spectacular natural scenery. Step inside the apartment and you will immediately be impressed with a sense of space and natural light with an open plan living area, high ceilings, and a clean beach inspired colour palette.
The sleek white kitchen is fully equipped with quality appliances and seating at the island bench while remaining connected to the living space. Stacking doors open up to the large semi-enclosed balcony where you can entertain family and friends amongst swaying palm trees. Here is your slice of tranquility as you sit back and unwind in your private outdoor space complete with ocean breezes.
The apartment’s end position allows for natural light to flood into each room, complementing the crisp white aesthetic. Both bedrooms have ceiling fans, air-conditioning and with two modern bathrooms, everyone is well catered for.
After a day spent shopping and dining on
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Hastings Street, you can head back to the resort and enjoy a sauna, take a dip in the heated lagoon pool and spa, and utilise the outdoor barbecue picnic area. These luxurious resort amenities offer an enviable lifestyle that only Noosa can provide.
“The income returns for The French Quarter Hastings Street are excellent year upon year and apartments in the complex are very tightly held for this reason. Only one two bedroom apartment has sold in The French Quarter in the last 3 years, they just rarely become available,” comments Tom Offermann Real Estate Agent, Jesse Stowers, who is taking the property to auction on Saturday 15 February 2025.
Facts & Features:
• Balcony: Spacious semi-enclosed balcony with elevated views over the lagoon pool
• About: Open plan living; high ceilings; top floor and end position; ceiling fans; plantation shutters; private and light-filled; carpeted bedrooms; easy care tile flooring in the living areas
• Kitchen: White cabinetry; dishwasher drawer; fully equipped; quality appliances; island bench with seating; ample bench space
• Inventory: Fully inclusive of furniture and accessories; ready for use
• The French Quarter amenities: Elevator access from carpark to apartment; heated lagoon swimming pool; spa; sauna; outdoor barbecue picnic area; children’s wading pool; tropical gardens; 24 hour reception; secure undercover parking
• Location: Walk to the National Park and Noosa Heads Main Beach; direct access to shopping, dining and entertainment precinct on Hastings Street; leave the car at home and walk everywhere
Inspect: Saturday 1 February 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Auction: On Site Auction, Saturday 15 February, 1:00 PM
Contact: Jesse Stowers 0414 367 282, Zoe Cooke 0428 329 291, TOM OFFERMANN REAL ESTATE
PRIVATE, SINGLE-LEVEL APARTMENT
STEP into this impeccably renovated, second floor gem in Noosa Heads, and prepare to be captivated by its elegance and charm. With breathtaking golf course views, this beautifully presented apartment offers a seamless blend of style, functionality and comfort.
Designed with a thoughtful layout, the property boasts two outdoor undercover balconies allowing you to bask in the sun or relax in the shade, no matter the season.
Upon entering, you’ll be drawn to the centerpiece of this home the stunning kitchen bench top.
This high-quality kitchen will awaken your inner chef with its top-of-the-line appliances and ample soft closing cabinetry. The open floor plan connecting the kitchen, dining, and living areas provides the perfect setting to enjoy the scenic views, whether you’re cooking, dining, or simply relaxing.
The apartment offers generous separation between the two bedrooms. The master bedroom, featuring a large en-suite and serene golf course views, is a true retreat. Both bathrooms have been exquisitely renovated,
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with heated flooring and towel rails adding a special touch. The bedrooms are also adorned with plantation shutters, enhancing the overall appeal.
The primary outdoor entertaining area is where you’ll likely spend most of your time, enjoying the private, lush views of the golf course.
Contact: Gillian McCauley 0467 600 009 and Catherine Silveri 0435 803 337, Richardson and Wrench Noosa
Refurbished: Freshly updated for
Location: Enjoys stunning river
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Layout: Seamless flow from kitchen to living. - Covered Balcony: Ideal for relaxing with coffee or cocktails. -
Pool Access: In a boutique complex of only five
Perfectly positioned in a sought-after Noosaville location, this immaculate single-level home offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and separate living/dining areas. The central kitchen, split-system airconditioning, and spacious layout provide comfort and ease of living. Outside, enjoy landscaped gardens, a large yard, covered deck, and private cabana—perfect for entertaining. Don’t miss your chance to secure a slice of the Noosaville lifestyle! KESLIE MELVILLE 0424 9043 01
COWLEY 0414 544 420
SCOTT
Immaculate Duplex In A Prime Location
Nestled in the highly coveted Noosaville precinct, 1/3 Ketch Place is quietly positioned in a peaceful cul-de-sac. This stylish duplex radiates understated sophistication, featuring a thoughtfully designed floor plan throughout.
520/61
Noosa Springs Drive
Noosa Heads
5 Bed | 3 Bath | 5 Car | Pool | 1,476m²
| A home that exudes style, class, and grandeur, in immaculate condition.
| A cobbled driveway behind a secure electric gate.
| High-quality construction, with reinforced block work and concrete slabs.
| Beautiful finishes, including polished limestone, travertine, and blackwood parquetry floors, and hand-crafted wrought iron door handles.
| A huge private media room with a walk-in wine cellar.
| North-facing, with some of the Sunshine Coast’s most spectacular views, abundant wildlife, and kangaroos-even swans at your back door.
| Located in a safe, secure gated community, just a short buggy ride to Relish Restaurant and all the amenities: golf, gym, pool, tennis, pro shop, & day spa.
| A stunning gallery-style corridor, perfect for displaying art.
| Just 5 minutes to the Junction shopping precinct, 8 minutes to Hastings Street, and 30 minutes to Sunshine Coast Airport.
Open for Private inspections Price Guide $10M
Marcus Dolby 0415 558 656
marcus.dolby@hpcprestige.com.au
hpcprestige.com.au
6 Wyandra St, Noosa Heads
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Closing date 31st January
This stylish and functional duplex by Capital Prudential features clean lines, open spaces, and abundant natural light, creating a sophisticated and welcoming ambiance. Large windows and high ceilings fill the home with sunlight, enhancing its vibrant atmosphere and aesthetic appeal.
The open-plan living, dining, and kitchen areas flow
seamlessly into landscaped gardens and a swimming pool, blending indoor and outdoor living. Contemporary finishes and thoughtful design ensure both beauty and practicality.
The master bedroom with an ensuite offers a private retreat, while additional bedrooms, a powder room, and a double garage provide comfort and convenience for modern living. AGENTS David Conolly
DISCOVER the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and space in this stunning twostorey, four-bedroom home, set on 979m2 in peaceful Yandina. Elevated to capture breathtaking views of the hinterland, this home is designed for families seeking a ready-made lifestyle without the delays and headaches of building but still with all the potential. Highend finishes, solar power and gas appliances provide a modern, sustainable touch, while the generous open-plan living/dining/kitchen area flows seamlessly outdoors to offer ample space for entertaining.
With room for both a pool and a shed, this property allows you to expand and create your ultimate family retreat. Located on a private battle-axe block in a quiet, friendly neighbourhood, you’re just minutes from the highway, offering easy access to Noosa or the Sunshine Coast’s beautiful beaches.
• Elevated position with panoramic hinterland views
• Set on a spacious 979m2 battle-axe block
• Spacious four-bedroom, two-storey layout
• Solar power and gas appliances for sustain-
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able living
• Premium finishes and modern design throughout
• Room to add a pool and shed, customising your family space
• Quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood
• Easy access to Noosa, Mooloolaba, and the highway
Avoid the strain of building and step straight into this beautifully crafted home that’s ready for your family. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of— don’t let it pass by! Appointment by inspection, call Beau Lamshed to arrange.
*Furniture not included with sale - property styled by DYRE Property Styling.
Address: 9 Sunshine Grove Place, YANDINA Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,260,000 Inspect: By Appointment
Contact: Beau Lamshed 0402 699 303, LAGUNA REAL ESTATE
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LAKESIDE LIVING IN NATURE’S WONDERLAND
WELCOME to laidback Boreen Point with its enviable village lifestyle and bounded by pristine Lake Cootharaba on 3 sides: ideal for sailing, wind surfing, SUP, fishing or simply relaxing.
Do you feel yourself being called to enjoy your chosen water sports, just meander along the sandy shores or explore nature’s wonderland in the local UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?
And you will be just 15 minutes drive from all amenities and professional services at the vibrant Tewantin Shopping Village, the Noosa Marina with restaurants, cafes and weekend markets, the RSL, hotel and entertainment venues. Or venture a little further to the internationally famous attractions along the Noosaville river foreshore and Noosa Heads Hastings Street, Main Beach and Noosa National Park.
Key property benefits you’ll love;
• Centrally located – stroll to all 3 lake foreshores
• This highest area attracts cooling lake breezes
• Easy access to ideal sailing etc on Lake Cootharaba and Sailing Club
• Your choice of boat ramps nearby; access Council jetty
• Easy stroll to the idyllic country style Apollonian Hotel (a nostalgic slice of history relocated to its present site)
• 3 minute drive to Elanda Point modern restaurant, micro-brewery, glamping.
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Home with clever, flexible design features:
• 2 separate self-contained sections divided by a breezeway
• Single level building - all under one steel roof
• Each section consists of a very large bedroom, full kitchen (filtered water), bathroom, open plan living / dining space, patio
• Both sections excellently presented, updated throughout, professionally painted internally and externally
• Fully fenced private zone at the rear of the allotment
• Native trees and bird bath attracts gently singing birdlife.
Access to unique natural attractions:
• The local UNESCO Biosphere Reserve - home to 60 different ecosystems, approx 1365 species of plants, 700 species of native animals (49 are internationally significant) and 44 percnt; of Australia’s birdlife diversity
• 3 minute drive to Elanda Point Habitat
Noosa Everglades Eco Camp - glamping sites, unique local tours
• Great Sandy National Park, genuine everglades and Harry’s Hut
• Noosa Trail network through the area’s most beautiful environment
• Noosa River is the only system with its entire catchment protected in National Park. There is so much comfortable lifestyle on offer here – your early inspection will not disappoint.
Address: 20 Urangan Street, BOREEN POINT Description: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage, pool Price: Offers Over $845,000 Considered Inspect: Saturday 11-11.30am
Contact: Roger Omdahl 0412 043 880, LAGUNA REAL ESTATE
LOOKING FOR A BRILLIANT INVESTMENT - YOU’VE FOUND IT
PRESENTING a renovated 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit in the prime location of Munna Crescent Noosaville.
The property comes fully furnished with a calming colour palate, is air-conditioned with front and rear sliding doors which creates a feeling of openness and fabulous airflow throughout the summer months. The bathroom is renovated and generous in size, includes a large walk-in shower, vanity, washing machine and dryer. Both bedrooms have large built-in robes, there is a spacious storage area under the stairs so plenty of room for your holiday gear.
The on-site managers are there to look after your investment and run a tight ship, the resort presents beautifully and offers 2 pools, spa, tennis court, covered BBQ area for lunch or dinner outdoors, or cool off after a day at the beach in the lagoon style pool. Unit 20/27
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Munna Crescent has an 80% occupancy rate so is a great investment and free holidays for the lucky new owner. Plus - low body
corporate fees.
Munna Crescent is a highly desirable location and just a short stroll to Gympie Terrace where you can enjoy a morning coffee or choose to dine at an array of tried and true Noosaville restaurants, catch the ferry to
Contact: Anita Nichols 0434 236 110, LAGUNA REAL ESTATE
famous Hastings Street and Main Beach or take a walk through Noosa’s National Park, so much to do, you are spoilt for choice, the “every day is a holiday” lifestyle is ready and waiting for you!
FEATURES AT A GLANCE:
• Renovated, fully furnished, whitegoods included
• 2 bedrooms, large bathroom
• Generous storage for all your holiday gear
• Airconditioned with ceiling fans
• 2 pools, outdoor spa, tennis court, covered BBQ entertainment area
• Occupancy rate of 80%, an outstanding investment and enjoy your own holidays
• Low body corporate fees
• Prime location in the heart of Noosaville close to restaurants and cafes
• Catch the bus, catch the ferry to Hastings Street
