Noosa Today - 15th March 2024

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Dogs rule the waves

Championships.

There was tough competition but it the blue English staffy, Bu, with her human Dane and Bu’s aerial antics that clinched the championship this year.

Continued page 6

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Leading the way

Noosa’s inaugural Climate Tech forum was held at The J Theatre last Thursday to pose the question: could this region become Australia’s next climate tech innovation hub.

Hosted by Noosa Council the event brought together industry leaders and advocates from around the country to network the possibilities and hear from guest speakers including keynote speaker Creel Price, CEO of Greenhouse, Australia’s first climate tech hub in Sydney.

“We’ve convened climate entrepreneurs, investors, government supporters and students to start a conversation about how this

area can drive the next wave of innovation in this space,” Mayor Clare Stewart told the forum.

“We feel we are uniquely positioned to be leaders in this space given the regions burgeoning tech ecosystem paired with a strong reputation for environmental stewardship.”

Noosa Shire is located in the centre of Australia’s only three consecutive biospheres. It has a long history of conservation and protection of biodiversity with more than 40 per cent of Noosa in conservation tenure, and the growth of tech and innovation through the Peregian digital hub has made it the Sunshine

Coast’s epicentre of tech, Cr Stewart said.

“The four-hour workshop will hear from national leaders about the state of climate tech and opportunities for Noosa and the wider Sunshine Coast region.

Discussions will centre on forward-thinking solutions for the most pressing climate challenges.”

“What is climate tech? it’s about the mitigation of climate change impacts, like solar panels, digesting food waste,” event MC Charlotte Connell, from Greenhouse, said.

“There’s no greater problem to solve for. We’re going to have to adapt to a changing en-

vironment.

“Technology can be hardware, software or a combination. It’s a broad church, everything from nature-based solutions to the processing of critical minerals.”

Some examples of climate tech companies based in Queensland include Floodmap, creators of technology that calculates what streets will flood in a rain event, Circonomy, a group that repurposes office furniture as part of a circular economy, and Fable mushrooms, creating an alternative protein source, Charlotte said.

Continued page 4

Perfect balance wowed crowd in this sensational surf.

Picture: ROB MACCOLL

The rain last Saturday did little to dampen the enthusiasm from the crowd that covered Noosa Main Beach and spread into the shallow waters for some close up action of the clever pooches and their humans putting on a terrific show at the 2024 VetShopAustralia Surfing Dog

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Enjoy Ireland from Noosa

Noosa Today readers have the chance of winning a double pass to see A Taste of IrelandThe Irish Music & Dance Sensation at The J Theatre, Noosa on Thursday 11 April from 7.30pm.

Laugh, cry and jig into the night with a show that has entertained thousands.

Having performed over 300 shows since 2019, A Taste of Ireland has merged cultural traditions, modern flair, and craic galore to deliver a performance that has brought the house down night after night.

This season, join an acclaimed cast of champion Irish dancers, dazzling musicians, and a contemporary vocalist, as they blend

Irish charm with mind-blowing talents to present an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Featuring revamped classics like Danny Boy andTell Me Ma, the show’s energetic blend of melodic folk music mashups, live jaw-dropping acapella tap battles, and heart-warming emotion, transports you through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history – complemented by stunning production and lighting.

Don’t miss your chance to see one of the world’s most prominent Irish dance shows before it takes off around the globe once again!

Enter the competition at noosatoday.com. au/competitions

Tickets at thej.com.au

Sunshine Coast man charged with 116 offences

Police have charged a 31-year-old Sunshine Coast man with 116 offences, following extensive investigations on the Sunshine Coast District into child abuse offences.

It will be alleged the man had been actively targeting minors online since August 2023.

Child Protection Investigation Unit (CPIU) detectives executed a search warrant at a Sunshine Coast property in February, where the 31-year-old man was taken into custody.

He has been charged with 116 offences include rape, stalking, taking a child for immoral purposes, indecent treatment of a child, possess child exploitation material, make child exploitation material and supply dangerous drugs.

The man has been refused police bail and was due to reappear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on 18 March.

Police have identified the multiple children involved and are continuing to work with and provide support to them and their families.

Detective Inspector Chris Toohey said it’s a reminder for parents to be aware of their child’s online activity.

“If you leave your child alone with a computer or phone in their bedroom, you are inviting strangers into their bedroom,” Detective Inspector Toohey said.

“We’re outlining this man’s charges because we want parents to become more aware of the people their children can be exposed to online and the ways they interact with minors.

“Predatory behaviour is incredibly manipulative and can include scamming techniques.

“The CPIU encourages parents to work with their children on an agreed list of trust-

ed people they can connect with on social media, and block users outside of that.

“It’s important that parents know the password or passcode to their children’s laptops, phones or other devices.

“CPIU suggests children should not take devices and headphones into bedrooms, bathrooms or behind closed doors.

“Please remind your children to never provide personal details like their home address or phone number to people online.

“We encourage children to listen to their instincts and tell a trusted adult if any conversation seems‘creepy’ or makes them feel uncomfortable.”

For more online safety resources, visit the QPS website.

One of my pet hates is the phrase: “Yeah, I read about that on Facebook”.

Gets the hackles up every time.

Yes, the person may have read a news report while on the social media platform, but it is almost certain that information was generated elsewhere.

Facebook doesn’t employ journalists to engage with local communities and report information relevant to readers. We do.

Facebook, as a US-based tech giant, doesn’t have a physical presence in those communities. We do.

Facebook doesn’t attend the local meetings and events that matter – like this week’s Noosa Festival of Surfingand report on what happens. We do.

Facebook doesn’t campaign on the important social issues like Noosa’s housing crisis or infrastructure needs of our community. We do.

Facebook doesn’t support great local causes like Zonta’s walk against domestic violence. We do.

Yes, we and other media organisations use Facebook as one of the many platforms to disseminate the news we produce, along with print products and various websites.

But the news people read on Facebook is produced elsewhere; by companies like ours that pay people to provide that service.

What Facebook does bring to the ‘news’ conversation are the various noticeboard sites that pop up that offer rumours and misinformation.

Facebook has for years happily hosted our more legitimate and responsible content and made trillions of dollars from the eyeballs it attracts.

A few years back industry heavyweights lobbied hard for the Federal Government to establish a News Media Bargaining Code that compelled Facebook to start paying for this news content.

The funding that came out of that agreement allowed us to employ more journalists and invest in more resources.

Facebook has now signalled that it will be walking away from that hardfought agreement, a move that will cost local jobs and may force some local media outlets to the wall.

The decision by Meta to stop paying for the news it allows to be shared across Facebook and Instagram will have a direct impact on our newspaper and the support we can offer our readers and communities. And it is the same for every small country newspaper across Australia.

It may not seem such a big deal that the news tab on Facebook will disappear, but what if they decide to block all news services, like Meta has done in Canada?

Is it okay that a massive US company can hold Australian governments and businesses to ransom like this?

This decision should be a warning to all small businesses and organisations that use Facebook or Instagram as their only digital platform. What happens if Meta next randomly decides to charge hairdressers for business pages, or block community festival events?

Not paying fairly for news, and then threatening to block access to media on their platforms is blackmail.

This isn’t just a squabble between giants; it’s about the survival of small newspapers. It’s about the sustainability of publications that give rural and regional people a voice and record the history of the towns in this region.

This isn’t just about us; it’s about fair compensation for the news we produce. Don’t let our story end.

Stand with us, stand with your local paper.

- Garry Howe

Laugh, cry and jig into the night with a show that has entertained thousands.

Kin Kin bus driver a finalist

has been recognised as one of the best in the state.

The much-loved local, who navigates the challenging road conditions in Kin Kin each school day, is one of three finalists in the Queensland School Bus Driver of the Year Awards.

Living on a beef farm with her three teenage daughters, Leasa’s role is more than just a job—it’s a connection to her past.

“Before I had the bus run, with my girls going to school, once a week I’d always take the horses and pick them up from school on the horses and we’d ride home,” she said.

A dedicated school bus driver for six years, her journey has come full circle as she’s now driving the same bus route that used to take her to school.

“My (childhood) bus driver is the one who I bought the bus run off. When he wanted to retire, he offered it to me, and I was like ‘Yep, fantastic’,” she said.

Transporting about 17 kids daily to Kin Kin Primary School, Leasa finds joy in hearing the kids’ stories, watching them grow and their sense of humour.

“My favourite thing about being a school bus driver are the kids. The kids make my day, just hearing their stories and just watching them grow up. They make me laugh. They’re just hilarious. I love them,” she said.

Leasa’s sense of community and genuine care for her special cargo is undeniable.

“The word I’d use to describe being a bus driver is joy. It brings me a lot of joy. When I found out I was nominated I just felt so honoured to be recognised for doing a job that I love,” she said.

Off duty, she’s an avid touch footy player, still hitting the field twice a week with her eldest daughter.

Kin Kin State School parent Lucy Stewart said she feels so lucky to have Leasa as their school bus driver.

“Not only does she do an amazing job safely navigating the challenging road conditions in Kin Kin with potholes, dirt roads and quarry

trucks, she make the trips to and from school fun - decorating the bus at Halloween and Christmas - and even throws the kids a pool party at the end of the year,” Lucy said.

“She really loves our kids and we’d love to see her take out this award.” Voting closes on 14 March and the winners will be announced on the Translink website on

Local rising stars proudly recognised

Tewantin-Noosa Lions Club and the Noosa World Surfing Reserve have joined forces to present “rising star” awards to two junior competitors at this week’s Noosa Festival of Surfing.

But these awards differ from most encouragements offered to young sports people showing the best prospects for future success. The Lions/NWSR awards recognise not just skill levels but how you play the game. And when the game is as popular as surfboard riding in a wave-rich zone as popular as Noosa, that’s a very important distinction.

NWSR president Kirra Molnar, herself a professional longboarder known for both her ability and her friendly attitude in the water, told Noosa Today: “This award is not

about just winning, it’s about showing the true spirit and culture of Noosa. The winners must throughout the contest period, both in and out of the water, reflect the core values of the Noosa World Surfing Reserve – that is to share, respect and preserve in all they do. These awards are presented to foster our community of surfers, improve the surfing culture of Noosa and help develop young surfers’ skills within the sport.”

The first Rising Star awards, funded by Tewantin-Noosa Lions and organised by the NWSR, gave the inaugural gongs, not to mention a $1200 two-day training course at Surfing Australia’s High Performance Centre, to under 15 girls competitor Poppy Wright and under 18 boys surfer Liam Hann. Both of

these promising young surfers will be heading down to the Tweed Coast of NSW for a two-day intensive of surfing lessons, video analysis and skateboard training, plus mobility and recovery sessions.

While all this was happening at the festival last weekend during the NEO Creative Juniors, the NWSR stewardship group was also busy manning their information and sales tent on the beach, while entertaining visitors from the latest World Surfing Reserve, North Devon in the UK, dedicated last year, becoming the 13th. (Noosa was the 10th back in 2020.)

If you’re visiting the surf festival this weekend, pop by the NWSR tent and learn all about it.

8 April 2024. For more information visit translink.com. au/news-and-media/competitions-and-offers/bus-driver-awards/vote

Rising Star Poppy Wright with NWSR events co-ordinator Kelly. Picture: SUPPLIED

Kin Kin State School’s bus driver, Leasa Diggins,

Year 2 student Otis Stewart holding a sign to support bus driver Leasa Diggins.

Noosa, a climate tech hub

From page 1 Creel Price, a dynamic entrepreneur who built Sydney’s climate tech hub, Greenhouse, and founded a leading climate tech fund, Investible, with an impressive background in building and accelerating Climate Tech opportunities, was invited to talk about his insights on building a community for climate technologies in Noosa.

With his mother living in Noosaville and a brother in Cooroy, Creel is no stranger to Noosa. His Greenhouse project began as an idea five years ago in Sydney and opened in October, 2023.

“Working with City of Sydney council scoping what would be required for an innovation ecosystem we were pushing that it should be helping companies scale overseas, particularly SE Asia,” he said.

“We’re an adventure capital company. We do a lot of programs in SE Asia and Australia. We could see a lot more science-based groups coming through to invest in. They came from a science more than commercial background. The fear was they wouldn’t have the skills to build the business.

“They can build the technology but not the business. Greenhouse was set up to do that.

“The question was how to harness that incredible technology but help these companies be more commercial. Firstly how do we get more traction and how do we take that around the world.”

The green tech hub has attracted the attention of organisations involved in wide-ranging interests from energy and renewable producers to agtech, food producers, construction companies, forestry, environmental groups and smart cities.

Such has been the industry interest in Greenhouse, in only a few months his 350-seat hub has attained 80 per cent capacity.

“We’ve had a lot of interest internationally. We had the governor of Tokyo come in, the governor of Minnesota come in, it’s quite unique what we’re doing, having a big hub fo-

cused on climate,” Creel said.

Creel divided the green tech arena into four elements:

how to foster the youngest, kid-preneurs how to help entrepreneurs to be successful at business

how to help those doing business for good how to help innovators within business or government.

“It takes a village from an investment point of view, including government department, university sectors, large organisations. if you

can cultivate that as a village you are more successful,” Creel said.

His final words of advice to Noosa in his keynote address were to “find out your unique way of doing things. You need to choose your flavour.”

Matt Barmenttoo and Michael Harries

Timothy Hui, Mike Chuter and Kim McDonnell

Lenny Cucksey and Karmin Kenny

Greenhouse CEO Creel Price.

Pictures: ROB MACCOLLCameron Tolmie and ALan Hegarty

Ron Hill and Cliff Benns

Marley Ryl and Sion Zivertz

What elections revealed

By Phil Jarratt

As we roll into final polling day on Saturday and wait to see if our horses got up, it’s timely to look at what we can learn from these local government elections, and perhaps discover whether Noosa is an island of sanity (or perhaps the opposite) or merely reflecting broader trends across the state.

For starters, there were 10 per cent fewer candidates across Queensland’s 77 council elections this time than there were in 2020, and record numbers of mayors and councillors who have been re-elected unopposed. In all, 61 positions have been filled without an election (up 33 per cent from 2020), including 15 for mayor, some in major councils like Moreton Bay and Gladstone. Locally, in 2020 there were 20 candidates for councillor in Noosa and 14 in 2024, but only two mayoral candidates in 2020 and four in 2024.

Why the changes? Well, there are three theories:

· Communities are happy with their particular council and don’t see the need to challenge the incumbent.

· People are caught up in cost of living pressures and don’t have time to put their emotional energy into anything else.

· Potential candidates are put off by the relentless negativity and attacks on social media.

While Noosa veterans of previous campaigns have claimed that electoral content on social media has never been more toxic, according to a local government expert consulted by Noosa Today, social media attacks and outright lies are not just a local phenomenon. Elections in Douglas, Redland, Toowoomba and Mt Isa are notorious for acrimonious social media behaviour with supporters posting vicious attacks on candidates and others in the community, which includes council staff being attacked online for implementing council decisions, often through fake accounts. It seems,

the expert says, that some in the community have opted out of running for public office because they don’t want to run the gauntlet of social media attacks.

Meanwhile, ABC News online articles have recently drawn attention to the fact that more than one in 10 so-called independents in Queensland council elections are members of political parties, excluding Brisbane City Council where the LNP, Labor and the Greens run endorsed candidates.

The law now requires candidates to declare when they nominate whether they are members of a political party or have been a member of a party in the previous 12 months, even if they are not endorsed by the party. Across Queensland, only the Greens and the Animal Justice parties are running endorsed candidates in this council election (again, excluding Brisbane which has LNP, Labour, Greens and other endorsed candidates). There are no party-endorsed candidates in Noosa.

Of the approximately 1300 candidates

standing at these elections, excluding Brisbane, there are 186 who are members of political parties. As there was not previously a requirement to declare party membership, it is difficult to compare this to previous elections but local government watchers believe that there are more party members standing this time around than ever before – 77 are LNP members, 66 are Labor and the remainder are from minor parties. There are three candidates in Noosa who are members of political parties.

Treasured wildlife corridor damaged by vandals

A vital Sunshine Coast wildlife corridor has been damaged in what is being investigated as an act of environmental vandalism.

Wildlife corridors perform an important role, allowing the safe movement of birds, reptiles, mammals, frogs and other native animals.

Dozens of trees and plants over 320m2 have been destroyed at Peregian Springs, inside the Ridges Boulevard Environment Reserve on Jarrah Drive, which is treasured by local residents.

The reserve provides a vital link for wildlife to move safely between Peregian Springs and the Noosa National Park.

Sunshine Coast Council is investigating the environmental vandalism and a large warning sign has been installed to highlight the damage and send a clear message to the community that this illegal activity will not

be tolerated.

The signs will stay in place until the site has regenerated.

Those found guilty of such offences can be fined more than $130,000 and anyone with information is urged to call Council on 07 5475 7272.

Sunshine Coast Council’s environmental operations manager Adam Connell called on the community to help find the culprit or culprits by providing evidence to identify the offender.

“Council is investigating, and we are calling on the local residents to help,” Mr Connell said.

“It’s unclear what has motivated this act –which makes the damage even more senseless.

“Our natural environment is part of what makes the Sunshine Coast so special and if convicted of illegal damage, people can face significant fines of up to $131,580 from Council and more if found guilty under the

Queensland Environmental Protection Act.” Council, through its Sunshine Coast Environment and Liveability Strategy, recognises the importance of protecting and enhancing our natural assets and takes a very strong stance when it comes to illegal damage of this nature.

Council receives regular complaints of illegal clearing and poisoning of native trees.

“We are grateful to those residents who report this to council as without their information, it is often difficult to find the culprits and prosecute them, which in turn deters others from carrying out environmental vandalism.“

If you notice suspicious vegetation damage occurring in council-managed reserves or parks please contact council’s customer services on 5475 7272.

Residents meet the local candidates at The J.

Picture: ROB MACCOLL

A large warning sign has been installed to highlight the damage and send a clear message.

Dogs paddle the waves

From page 1

The event, a highlight of the Noosa Festival of Surfing, featured about a dozen teams of talented dogs and their humans competing for the prestigious Best Wave Award.

This year’s competition showcased a mix of veteran champions and promising newcomers.

Alongside the winning Team Bu were some notable participants including last year’s champion Poppy the Groodle, Banjo the Kelpie, known for his big wave action with owner Chris Oakley and Team Bear with 16-year-old

owner Isaac.

Newcomers included Rodrigo and Loui the Border Collie from Byron Bay who were keen to show off their surfing skills and Brian with his dog Zoe from the Gold Coast who is known for taking his dogs around the local beaches on skateboards.

Dr Mark Perissinotto, the lead veterinarian at VetShopAustralia, event sponsors, said it was an unforgettable experience for attendees, where the spirit of canine companionship and the thrill of surfing come together in a spectacular display.

VOTE 1 AMELIA LORENTSON

balanced, passionate, committed and independent

• NOOSASHIRECOUNCILLOR

• CommunityVested:Volunteer lifesaver at Noosa Heads Surf Lifesaving Club, Volunteer for Seahorse Nipper Program (inclusive program for children with physical and mental challenges), and member of Surfrider Foundation and the Noosa Malibu Club. Recipient of OBE Medal for Lifesaving Excellence: Outstanding Rescue and Resuscitation (2015)

• AcademicallyQualified: Law Degree (QUT); Masters in Industrial Relations and Labour Law (Uni. Of Sydney); Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice(QUT)

• SuccessfulBusinessCareer: Operations Manager in Sydney Retail; owner/operator of Employment Law consultancy

• NoosaLocal: 22 plus years.

• Status: 56 years old, married to Chris Lorentson, Commercial Manager (30 years)at Page Furnishers, Pomona, 2 childrenBen (19) and Gia (21) both SLSQ lifeguards and avid surfers.

• Independent: NO membership or affiliations with any political parties present or past.

• Self-funded: Last election and this election.

• ListenstoEVERYONE – engages withandvaluestheinputofevery member of the community

AmeliaLorentson

It’s high five for teams Happy and Duke.

Rama, a star with his prowess in big waves, benefits from the guidance of Chris de Aboitiz, a former World Tandem Surfing Champion and expert dog trainer.

Sunny from Maroochydore made his debut at the championships with owner Bianca.

Huon and Duke cruise in with Jonesy keeping a watchful eye on the dynamic duo.

Poppy is riding high with Luke.

Team Happy, returned from WA for another year of surf spectacle. The Australian Shepherd again showed the crowd her epic tricks on the waves.

Dane and Malibu (Bu) were the winning team on the day.

Team Loui travelled from Byron Bay, Louis and Rodrigo loving the waves at Noosa.

Onlookers wanted to be close to the action with iPhones at the ready.

Poppy, the reigning champion, rides the wave with Michelle.

Banjo, the 10-year-old Kelpie with a decade of surfing experience, made a sensational return with Chris Oakley after a year off.

Ready to make a difference

By Nick Hluszko, Mayoral Candidate

I am running for Noosa Mayor to make a change for the better in how Noosa Council is managed and to improve services to the community.

Council staffing is a mess and there have been three CEOs in three years. We need to fix the staffing and culture so council can do its job.

If elected, I will aim to keep rates to a minimum and focus on core council services – like roads, rates, and rubbish.

Current councillors have had years to make things better in Noosa. After speaking with hundreds of locals regarding their expectations of our council, residents are not happy and expect more.

Of course, like me, the community want to see our shire’s unique environmental values, community amenity and quality of life protected.

But many are also asking why rates are up 26 per cent in three years, while $106.8 million is being held in surplus and when basic services are being neglected.

The message is clear - they want council to stop wasting time and money on pet councillor projects and state issues. They want our council to urgently re-focus on its core services, such as:

· Fixing roads and parking issues.

· Solving traffic congestion.

· Rebuilding and maintaining boat ramps.

· Maintaining parks, gardens, and children’s playgrounds.

· Maintaining and improving community sports/recreational facilities.

· Weed removal and maintenance.

· Street and footpath cleaning.

· Rubbish and recycling including re-introducing hard rubbish collections.

I have a clear plan to fix these issues including a focus on:

· Better management – I will lead an efficient, well-managed council controlling costs and imposing minimum rates and levies (at a time when far too many are struggling with the cost of living and interest rate rises).

· Strong leadership – I want to see a positive, can-do council culture, that accurately plans for future needs, fosters transparency and communication, with defined goals to deliver cost-effective, accountable results.

· A plan for infrastructure – While I oppose the State Government’s 18,000 additional residents, we need to be realistic - and plan

for the impact that growth will have on infrastructure needs. I want to develop in consultation with communities, locality-specific infrastructure plans to address their concerns and fix our infrastructure problems.

About me…

I have numerous qualifications including an MBA and my background is in business management having held numerous CEO roles. Recently retired, and prior to nominating, I have been devoting my time to the Noosa Community including as President of the Noosa North Shore Association, Chair of the Noosa River Stakeholder Advisory Sub-Committee, member of the Council Climate Change Round

Table, Teewah and Cooloola Working Group, and member of the Rural Fire Brigade.

I am passionate about Noosa and excited by the opportunity to service the community as Mayor. I believe that I have the passion, energy, skill, qualifications, and experience that Noosa needs, right now. If elected, I will dedicate my full-time efforts to the betterment of our community.

It’s time for a change. Vote for me, and I will provide the strong leadership and financial management experience needed to better manage the council budget, get back to basics, engage meaningfully and get things done. www.nickfornoosamayor.com

Administration of Noosa Council is in a real mess. Three CEOs in three years and the current CEO is only acting.

There are several acting and unfilled Senior Executive positions. 100 vacancies, 80 casual/contractor filled roles. 46% of staff in their current role less than 2 years.

This must be rectified as soon as possible. I have the experience and expertise to address these critical management issues.

I am committed to dealing with these issues and resolving them to the benefit of all of Noosa shire, including:

Nick Hluszko, Mayoral candidate.

If elected, Nick Hluszko says he will aim to keep rates to a minimum and focus on core council services.

Pet expo returns to Noosa

Get ready for the biggest pooch social event of the year at A Dog’s Life: Pet Expo on Saturday 23 March from 9am-3pm, along the scenic Noosa River.

Bring your family, friends and furbabies for a day of doggy fun, with program highlights like the incredible Skimboarding Champion Dog, while supporting Hear No Evil: Australian Deaf Dog Rescue.

Discover new ways to keep your dog happy and healthy with nutrition tips, grooming advice, pet first aid, obedience training, and educational talks. Enjoy demonstrations, panel discussions, and a showcase arena featuring agility, trick and assistance dogs.

With over 50 vendors from Gympie to the Gold Coast, pamper your pooch with unique treats, participate in activities like the Great Noosa River Walk, PAW-dicures, PAW-casso, and enjoy a variety of competitions with fantastic prizes. There’s also a puppy play zone, splash zone and Ball pit for your furry friend to play in.

Don’t miss the chance to Smooch a Pooch at the Puppy Love stand, witness the Furry Fashions on the Field, and explore various dog breed meet-ups. Keep your human kids entertained with AUSLAN workshops, face painting, and doggy crafts.

This year, a portion of ticket sales, will be donated Hear No Evil, a charity dedicated to caring for and rehoming deaf and special needs dogs. With over $20,000 raised for charity partners in the past, the aim is to make this year even more impactful. There will also be an incredible raffle up for grabs, as well as fun fundraising activities.

Hear No Evil president,Vicki Law, described the volunteer-run organisation as having substantial impact, driven by its immense dedication.

“We are dedicated to offering deaf and special needs dogs the opportunity for a fulfilling life, raising awareness about their potential,

promoting alternatives to euthanasia, and challenging common misconceptions. We firmly believe that these dogs are much more than just their disability. Our ultimate aim is to ensure that a forever home is indeed forever, filled with love and understanding.”

This event is a celebration of inclusion not just for dogs, but their humans too. In addition to the exciting program, this event is inclusive for the Deaf or Hard of Hearing community, with AUSLAN interpreters, an AUSLAN Hub, and trained volunteers available for support. Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart will join for the

official opening with an AUSLAN welcome.

A Dog’s Life event director Lea Bye is the parent of a son with profound hearing loss, and feels passionately about community accessibility for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

“We’re proud to present a community event that is inclusive, where everyone can come and enjoy the speakers, demonstrations and fun activities, regardless of their abilities. When my son was younger, we often faced barriers to attending events such as these, which is why we’re excited to be partnering with AUSLAN

Get ready for the biggest pooch social event of the year.

Journey to create an accessible event for all.” Make memories, celebrate the bond between humans and dogs, and support a great cause at A Dog’s Life: Pet Expo – the bark of the town.

This event is brought to you by the team at Cartel Music & Events, dog lovers who are passionate about this valuable cause.

A Dog’s Life is presented by Cartel Music & Events and SumUp and proudly supported by Wunderdogs Doggie Daycare; Pet Resorts Australia Eumundi-Noosa; AUSLAN Journey and Doggy Anchor.

Register your attendance and donate Hear No Evil: Australian Deaf Dog Rescue through A Dog’s Life: Pet Expo website adogslifepetexpo. com.au

EVENT DETAILS

· What: A Dog’s Life: Pet Expo

· When: 9am-3pm, Saturday 23 March

· Where: Tewantin-Noosa Lions Park, Gympie Terrace, Noosaville

· Entry: $5 per person / $15 per family in support of Hear No Evil: Deaf Dog Rescue

· Tickets: events.humanitix.com/a-dog-s-lifepet-expo-2024

Event host Carlie Wacker with some happy dogs. Pictures: WAVELL BUSH PHOTOGRAPHY

Much work to be done

By John Morrall, Mayoral Candidate

On 2 January 2024 I announced that I would love to be your next mayor of Noosa Shire.

The support from that point on has been amazing, to say the least. It has been humbling that so many community members believe in me and what I bring to the table.

After the announcement, everything snowballed. The community started to reach out. My understanding of the issues facing Noosa’s residents and ratepayers deepened.

I attended all the Meet the Candidates events. They have been enlightening, although it has been challenging to put across who I am and what I stand for in the allotted time frames of just a few minutes.

But the meetings have been an opportunity for the audience to compare the candidates standing for mayor and as councillors, to raise issues that concern the community. And they have given me the chance to better understand the issues faced by residents, as well as providing an opportunity for me to learn more about the other candidates and their platforms.

Having met with, and listened to, the other three candidates for mayor over the last two months, I truly believe I am the best person to be the new mayor of Noosa Shire.

I have no hidden agenda; I have no relationship with any developer or community focus group; I have no aspirations to use Noosa as a springboard to state or federal politics; and I am totally committed to our community and all our needs: residents, ratepayers, and community.

There have been so many questions raised about what I will do if I am elected.

I’ve been told that Noosa Council is not a business.

Are you kidding?

Council’s balance sheet is worth $1.35 billion and council assets are valued at $1.4 billion. It is a big business.

Yes, the CEO has ultimate responsibility for operations.

But the ratepayers of Noosa contribute significantly to that balance sheet and choose

a mayor and councillors to represent them. They are entitled to expect value for money and for the mayor and councillors to ensure that council services are delivered to the high-

est standard.

I will work very closely with the councillors, executives, and administrative staff to run a truly professional organisation that provides a clear vision, strong financial management and value for money outcomes for all residents and ratepayers.

What about the river?

I’ve used the river for recreation for 26 years, focused on my own needs.

Now I have a greater understanding of the bigger picture, thanks to community members who live and breathe the river. I understand the issues impacting the river and I get it! No, we don’t want a conservation park for our river. We must work through all things river with the State Government and try to bring solutions to the table. Boat access to the water (ramps), a dog beach solution, speed limits work through that make sense.

There are so many problems facing us in Noosa: STAs, the impact of van life, an imbalance between spending and delivery of services in the hinterland and the rest of the shire; protection of Noosa’s natural assets; infrastructure, transport and parking issues; lack of focus on sustainable growth; a shortage of affordable housing for our workers; lack of support for small businesses; lack of quality facilities for our sporting community; conflicting demands on the way we use and manage the river; lack of leadership within the council; workplace culture issues and high staff turnover among council administrative staff. I could go on forever.

If elected, I pledge to create two lists of priorities: one for the hinterland and one for the coast. The needs of both are different and this must be recognised and addressed.

This is crisis management in business. Fix the problems.

Vote 1 John Morrall for Noosa Mayor - I’ll get it done.

John Morrall, Mayoral candidate.

Agency of the year

Tom Offermann Real Estate has again been honoured in the Rate My Agent awards.

The office has been recognised as agency of the year in Noosa Heads and Noosaville.

“It’s humbling to be consistently rated by customers as their number one real estate agency choice,’’ principal Tom Offermann said.

“The credit rightly goes to the highly skilled and caring professionals in our team that make the selling and buying experience for our clients a joy.

“These RMA awards are particularly mean-

ingful to us because they rely solely on the direct feedback from buyers and sellers.’’

A noted name in real estate, Tracy Russell has been declared the Rate My Agent real estate agent of the year for Peregian Beach, for the fourth time.

“It is a local,’’ Mr Offermann said.

“When people think of real estate in Peregian Beach, Tracy Russell comes immediately to mind.

“Tracy is a well-known and well-liked member of the seaside community and an absolute force in the beachside real estate world.“

Young tech leaders help develop digital skills

Noosa Libraries and the Peregian Digital Hub are set to launch a Digital Leaders Program, aimed at empowering community members with essential digital skills.

Starting in March 2024, this free initiative brings emerging leaders in tech into the library to share their knowledge and skills with the wider community in a collaborative effort to bridge the digital divide.

The program is designed to create employment opportunities for youth, strengthen community ties and improve digital literacy among residents.

Through a series of free hands-on workshops, tutorials and one-on-one coaching sessions, participants will gain practical experience and the confidence needed to navigate an increasingly digital society.

Library programs lead Tamara Crew said everyone should have the opportunity to use technology to enhance their lives.

“These young digital leaders offer an inclusive and supporting learning environment where individuals gain essential skills to keep up with evolving technologies.”

The program will be launched in phases, with the first phase being Tech Help.

Ms Crew said people could drop in with their devices for one-on-one support, to learn how to maximise their potential and troubleshoot issues.

“In the near future, the young Digital Leaders will also deliver a range of talks where people can learn more about AI, and ChatGPT, as well as workshops on using 3D printers, laser cutters and more,” Ms Crew said.

Chris Boden director, Peregian Digital Hub and Innovation said it was fantastic to see young local talent who have been part

of the Hub’s cadetship programs share their skills with others.

“For many people in our community, the pace of digital change can be quite overwhelming so it’s fantastic to see these young technologists sharing their knowledge in service of the community. Teaching others and learning about the everyday challenges that end-users have, will be extremely useful for whichever pathway they choose to pursue,” he said.

For more information about the upcoming programs and to register, visit the Noosa Libraries website at libraries.noosa.qld.gov. au

What's On @

60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Heads

THE HONEY SLIDERS PLAY - NEIL YOUNG’S HARVEST *** SOLD OUT ***

The Honey Sliders perform Harvest in its entirety, plus a long second set of their favourite Neil Young tunes.

Sat 2 Dec | 7.00pm Tickets from $25.00

Sat 23 March | 7.30pm Tickets from $59.90

FLICKERFEST - SHORT LAUGHS COMEDY SELECTION 2024

I I

Celebrating its 33rd year. Considered in international circles the leading Australian competitive short film festival. Viewed as one of the main film festivals on the world circuit.

Thur 28 March |7.00pm Tickets from $22.00

THE AUSTRALIAN INXS SHOW 2024

An energetic journey through the songs that made INXS a household name for the past 4 decades. A full 6-piece band. Fronted by the incredible Dellacoma Rio.

Sat 6 April | 7.30pm Tickets from $50.00

A TASTE OF IRELAND 2024

‘A Taste of Ireland’ has merged cultural traditions, modern flair, and craic galore to deliver a performance that has brought the house down night after night.

Thurs 11 April | 7.30pm Tickets from $74.90

IAN MOSS *** SOLD OUT ***

I I I

If it's Mossy on stage with just his guitar and stomp box or with a band in top gear, you know he will leave nothing in the tank.

Fri 26 April | 7.30pm Tickets $70.00

Digital leader Clancy Young helping Carol.

Tracy Russell with Tom Offermann and his daughter Rebekah Offermann at Noosa Heads Main Beach. 394495

Lessons learnt as Mayor

Mayor Clare Stewart addressed Noosa Surf Life Savers supporters’ breakfast last Friday, on InternationalWomen’s Day, and spoke about five lessons she had learnt since becoming mayor.

“Dare to fail - when I was thinking about running I hadn’t been in politics, hadn’t been a councillor. People said to me you’ve got three small children, what are you doing? There’s never a right time, there’s always going to be something holding you back. This is what I want to do, I thought. I want to make a difference for my community,“ she said.

Then, as it is now for current council candidates, it was a challenging campaign.

“No one knew my name. I was the first conservative mayor in 30 years, first female mayor, second on the ballot paper, it wasn’t easy,“ she said.

“At the end I had gotten closer to the community, at end I was a better person for it. I had dared to fail. I knew what mattered to the community. It was very much the journey not the destination.

“There’s no substitute for hard work - I was not going to give up. I was going to throw everything at it. It was a hard campaign. Being mayor, you’re elected to work for the community, whatever the situation. You turn up because you care - that’s what all of you do,“ she said.

She recalled a time when visiting a school alongside Ironwoman Jordan Mercer, Jordie told the students, “sometimes I had to sacrifice what I wanted to do to get where I wanted to go“.

“Trust your gut - early on I was at Scone Time and was asked to sit next to woman turning 90, Joyce. I stayed next to Joyce. Later I was having coffee with former mayor Bob Abbot. He told me they noticed you didn’t get around, thank the volunteers in kitchen. My gut had told me to do it, but my head told me to stay. Now I listen more to my gut.

“The juggle is real - I always feel I’m failing

at something.Women, we’re hard on ourselves, whether you’re working full time or a full time mum, the juggle is real

Women everywhere, we have to be kinder on ourselves, we all just do the best we can.

“Collaboration is key - that’s what the surf club does so well.

When I came in as mayor, we joined the council of mayors. It allowed us $3.8m in liveability funds. We’re reducing landfill in collaboration with Gympie council. Now we’re working with all SEQ councils, it can only be a plus. Collaboration is key to success.“

MC for the event Peter French told the audience SLCQ recognises the achievements of

women and girls.

“Everyone has a role to play in a community that respects women. To do this we enrich our communities and create communities where everyone is valued,“ he said.

“We’ve had women participating in this club since 1980 and we wholly support women and girls in our club.“

Women at Noosa SLSC supporters breakfast on International Women’s Day.

Have a say

Independent Noosa MP Sandy Bolton, in response to community concerns regarding whale entanglements, has opened a survey to gauge the views of Noosa State Electorate residents on the specifics regarding the use of shark nets at Noosa Main Beach.

This includes whether further trials of other shark control measures, as replacements, are supported by the community in efforts to reduce impacts to marine species.

“It takes just five minutes, with results from this survey forming part of our ongoing advocacy on behalf of Noosa to the Queensland Minister for Agriculture who is responsible for the shark control program.

“Your collective voice is powerful, providing reassurance to those making decisions that they are aligning to community expectations, whilst making provision for voices that may not agree with a majority view,” said Sandy.

Currently, Noosa Main Beach has standard shark nets in place, with shark-spotting drones being trialed, and other alternatives being

Immerse yourself in an evening of culinary excellence at this Noosa Beach House Restaurant La Crema Wine Dinner. Experience Head Chef Nick Blake’s coastal flair with a curated four course menu, complementing the distinct varietals of premium Californian La Crema wines.

WEDNESDAY 27TH MARCH

Tickets $165 pp including 4 courses & Premium Wines by La Crema

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

14 / 16 HASTINGS STREET, NOOSA HEADS NOOSABEACHHOUSE.COM.AU PH (07) 5449 4754

tested in various regions that include, but are not restricted to, smart drumlines.

“With previous Noosa MP survey results indicating between 60 per cent and 75 per cent support for alternative shark control methods, this dedicated survey is important to establish a clear Noosa position on the specifics,” Sandy said.

Previous responses from State Government have indicated that support of key stakeholders including Noosa Council is vital in determining where trials and transitions occur.

The survey closes at 12pm on Monday 1 April and can be completed at bit.ly/NoosaSharkNetSurvey

“For residents needing a paper copy or who would like to make additional comments after completing the survey, please contact my office on 5319 3100 or via noosa@parliament. qld.gov.au Anyone who resides outside the Noosa Electorate should share their views with their local state member of parliament,” said Sandy.

Waste no match for Noosa

Volunteer numbers were up and rubbish number down on Clean Up Australia Day when about 260 Noosa volunteers took to the region on Sunday 3 March across 14 local sites organised once again by the Noosa Integrated Catchment Association (NICA).

Volunteer co-ordinator Joe Jurisevic said it was pleasing to see volunteer numbers increase and reports of less litter and illegal dumping.

“Litter volumes still came in around 4.3 cubic meters of general waste and 2.4 of recycling with illegal dumping and bulky items adding just under a further tonne collected on the day,” Joe said.

“Plastic and cardboard food packaging was again prolific in the rubbish collected, cigarette butts, other hard plastic items and numerous other household items continue to be discarded rather than binned. Glass and plastic bottles were a notable reduction most likely due to the introduction of the container deposit scheme in Queensland.”

Tewantin Boat Ramp site supervisor Peter Hunnam reported a good turnout to pick up litter along the foreshore, around the town centre and on the water. “It was good to see the number of kayakers cleaning up those hard to reach corners of the foreshore and river islands, and the useful presence of NICA’s Riverwatch boat and volunteer crew providing support, carrying full sacks of rubbish back to Tewantin boat ramp for the audit and disposal,” he said.

The keen eyes of the students from Tewantin and Noosaville State Schools also made a big difference and it was great to have them collecting cheerfully again on Clean Up Day.

The summary results from NICA’s Rubbish Audit show an estimated total number of 3,157 litter items just from the Tewantin site, dominated by diverse bits of Paper and Plastics (over 1,000 of each), followed by cigarette butts, pieces of glass and metal items

Young volunteers clean up the area.

(around 200 of each).”

The entire Noosa community was engaged with clean ups at Boreen Pt, Cooran, Cooroy, Kin Kin, Pomona and the 4wd club in the hinterland along with sites at Noosa North Shore, Peregian, Sunrise, and Sunshine Beaches, Tewantin, Noosa Woods, Gympie Tce and Teewah township well supported by volunteers keen to keep their villages and surrounds clean.

Volunteers were ably supported by Noosa Council, as well as local businesses Cleanaway and Allcott Hire to help dispose of the all the rubbish collected.

Sadly, some of the bulkier items collected included numerous items that are free to dispose of or were of donatable or saleable quality before being dumped.

Surfriders at Sunrise Beach.

Noosa MP Sandy Bolton urges people to fill in the survey on shark nets.

Easter school holiday fun

Attention all adventurous kids and parents!

Get ready to hop into action-packed Easter school holiday activities filled with excitement, creativity, and endless fun.

Noosa Council has put together a fantastic line-up of activities and workshops to keep children of all ages entertained and engaged throughout the Easter holiday break.

From arts and craft workshops to swimming lessons and basketball clinics there’s something bound to interest the kids.

Remember…give the car a holiday too and catch a free bus, routes 064, 065, 626, 627, 628, 629 and 632 only from Friday 29 March –Thursday 14 April.

Noosa Aquatic Centre

Make a splash with intensive swim lessons at the Noosa Aquatic Centre. Led by qualified instructors, these lessons are perfect for brushing up on essential water skills and swimming abilities. The shaded pools provide a comfortable environment for learning, there is also a barbecue area and on-site cafe for a full day of excitement for the whole family. Inflatable Fun is also back up over the summer school holidays between 12-3pm weather permitting. Plus, don’t forget to take advantage of lap swimming and the spacious, air-conditioned gym and crèche facilities.

Noosaville and Cooroy Libraries

Unleash your child’s creativity with a wide range of workshops at Noosaville and Cooroy Libraries. Try activities and workshops such as Nature Weavers (go exploring for treasures then turn them into a fabric banner for your door at home), Cookies and Canvas art with YouTube sensation Michelle the Painter, lots of board games and the ever-popular storytime. With so many options available, your little ones are sure to find something that sparks their imagination and keeps them entertained throughout the holidays.

Noosa Leisure Centre

The Kids’ Playroom is always a hit with kids

under five years with so much fun equipment to bounce, climb and swing on in air conditioned comfort for the mums and dads- cafe

onsite too. Basketball clinics for all ages and even if you just want to shoot hoops with mates NLC are open (please phone the centre

first to check availability).

Noosa Regional Gallery

The Castle of Tarragindi on Tour is a free interactive program developed by The Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) Children’s Art Centre. Featuring activities developed in collaboration with Australian artist Natalya Hughes, Hughes invites children and families to explore the decorative art form of the grotesque through various hands-on and drawing activities, including creating a hybrid creature using imagery designed by the artist. Explore free, unguided, at your own pace during open hours.

ArtPlay Sunday- Free creative family fun on the third Sunday of the month from 11am – 2pm

Workshops- artist-run workshops including charcoal, painting, and making sessions.

Peregian Digital Hub

Calling all tech-savvy kids and teens.

The Peregian Digital Hub has an exciting array of workshops lined up for those with a passion for robotics, Python coding, art/drawing, Java Minecraft modding, 3D design/printing and more. Let your creativity soar as you explore the world of digital technology and learn new skills in a fun and interactive environment.

To discover the full range of activities and workshops, check out Noosa Council’s winter School Holiday activity guide, available at noosa.qld.gov.au/school-holiday-activities/ school-holiday-activities-1. Remember, most activities require booking in advance, so make sure to secure your spot and plan your family’s unforgettable Easter school holiday adventure in Noosa.

On behalf of Noosa Council, we wish all residents and visitors a fabulous school holiday break. We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our venues and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

07 5455 2209

Make a splash with intensive swim lessons at the Noosa Aquatic Centre.

Easter School Holiday Activities

Kids’ Playroom

Fun for kids aged 0-5 years! Kitted out with a trampoline, climbing wall, balancing beam and lots of other fun things, you are sure to leave with a well exercised toddler! Just $5.30 per child – parent supervision required.

Basketball Clinics

During the Easter school holidays, NDBA will be hosting clinics at the Noosa Leisure Centre. Please contact NDBA via email noosacyclones@gmail.com or phone 0421 358 229 for more details.

Casual Hoops

Do you have a child that just wants to shoot some hoops with a mate? It’s only $4.40 per person to enter our courts for some casual shooting – subject to court availability, please phone the Centre to check available times.

Learn to Swim Easter School Holiday

Intensivesaccelerate your child’s swim skills!

Week 1: Tue 2 - Fri 5 April

Week 2: Mon 8 - Fri 12 April

Lessons are held in the morning. Private bookings available on request. All levels catered for from infants, squad through to adults. Bookings commence Monday 18 March for Intensive lessons.

Inflatable Fun!

12-3pm daily (weather permitting). Café and BBQ facilities available. A fun day out for the whole family!

Onsite Café

Kick back with a coffee and light meal anytime at the NAC cafe.

F5F Nature WeaversLet’s make Nature Names!

Go exploring for natural treasures then turn them into a fabric banner for your door at home!.

Please wear closed toed shoes and a hat and bring a water bottle for our nature walk.

For 3–5 years

Noosaville Library:

Tuesday 2 April, 10am

Cooroy Library:

Wednesday 3 April, 10am

Cookies and Canvas

YouTube sensation

Michelle the Painter will guide us through an online tutorial, creating the adorable Popsicle Pals painting, followed by a delicious cookie snack.

Children aged 8+ Bookings required

Noosaville Library:

Thursday 4 April, 9am - 11am

Cooroy Library: Monday 8 April, 9am - 11am

Games

Have fun playing a variety of board games, giant connect four and more!

Ages 3+ drop-by session no need to book.

Cooroy Library:

Thursday 4 April, 2-4pm

Noosaville Library:

Wednesday 10 April, 2-4pm

From Friday 29 March – Sunday 14 April

LEGO, Spheros and Ozobots

Have fun completing structured activities or let your creativity shine and do your own thing. Recommended ages 5–12years. Bookings required.

Cooroy Library: Friday 5 April, 9-9.45am or 10–10.45am

Noosaville Library: Friday 12 April, 9–9.45am or 10-10.45am

Junior Book Cafe

Join us at the junior book café and share your love for books. What’s on the menu? Chats: share your thoughts, ask questions, discover new perspectives. Swaps: bring a book and exchange it for a fresh adventure.

Ages 8 – 12years. Bookings required Noosaville Library: Monday 8 April, 11am-12noon

Thrive youth week activities

Join us for Thrive, a youth week festival hosted by Noosa Council in partnership with Pomona Community House. Events include Chiggy’s skateboarding and an arT-shirts. Enjoy yoga, boxing, meditation and art activities. Live music and games will be scattered across the grounds, with the day concluding with a Battle of the Bands featuring local talent. Don’t miss out on this awesome day!

Pomona Community House: Thursday 11 April, 9am–5pm

All Kids@Art Workshops

Ages 6–12 years $15pp

Charcoal

Animals

Facilitated by katy Bain

Tue 2 Apr, 10.30am–12pm

Create your own animal drawing while exploring and playing with charcoal! Learn to manipulate charcoal with a variety of tools, such as kneadable erasers, paper stumps and brushes, then apply your new skills to your artwork. Make your animal life-like or create a quirky creature.

Making Faces

Facilitated by artist Natalya Hughes

Fri 5 Apr, 10.30am–12pm

Create your own dynamic portrait guided by renowned artist Natalya Hughes along with her daughter Violet! Extending on activities included in the exhibition The Castle of Tarragindi, make your own unique portrait incorporating collage, pencil, ink and watercolour.

Game On!

Tue 9 Apr, 10.30am-12pm

Innovation meets creativity in this workshop where you will design your own game! Utilise recycled materials to make game pieces or characters, paint a board and let your imagination run wild as you develop the story and rules to form a game.

Imagine, Create, Play!

Tue 9 Apr, 1.30 - 3pm

Join us for a creative adventure where you will design and make your own game to take home and continue the fun. Put a spin on a classic like snakes and ladders or develop your own unique game!

Puppet Creatures

Facilitated by artist Odessa Mahoney-de Vries

Thu 11 Apr, 10.30am-12pm

Join the fun at this puppet building workshop! Create quirky puppets on sticks using paper and a wide range of colourful craft materials. This is a handson construction workshop encouraging creativity and storytelling.

Teen Art Workshop

Ages 13–18 years $15pp

Beyond the Lines; Perfecting Portraiture

Facilitated by artist Odessa Mahoney-de Vries

Thu 11 Apr, 1-3pm

Build your skills during this Portrait Workshop! Dive into drawing and painting while mastering proportions, shading, and colour mixing. Select your favourite portrait image on the day or bring in your own for inspiration.

Hub Holiday Program

Breaking family violence cycle

Years after a new collaborative to improve services for domestic and family violence at Noosa Magistrates Court was set in motion, outgoing Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart is pleased to see it is almost at its final stages.

Cr Stewart said the idea for the new initiative, which provides legal support for the respondent and the aggrieved, came about after she met with former magistrate Brian Kilmartin, who presided over a special DV court in Beenleigh.

“At the invitation of Noosa Council, key stakeholders, Queensland Police Service, specialist domestic and family violence service, SunnyKids and advocacy group Zonta Club of Noosa met back in early 2021 and identified a crucial gap in legal information and appropriate support services being available at the Noosa Magistrates Court for individuals and families experiencing domestic and family violence.

“Noosa Council staff have done a great job in helping facilitate further discussions with key stakeholders to progress the initiative, which will provide legal support for the respondent and the aggrieved at Noosa Magistrates Court.”

SunnyKids, Queensland Police Service, Centacare, UnitingCare and the Zonta Club of Noosa will be actively working together to provide presenting clients with the vital resources and information required to gain a thorough understanding of the court processes.

“This will mean that both the aggrieved and respondent will leave court with an agreement outlining the terms of the protection order so they have a very clear understanding of their rights and the processes involved,” Cr Stewart said.

SunnyKids believes this new initiative identifies a significant gap in the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032.

SunnyKids CEO Kathleen Hope said with-

out appropriate and adequate resources to ensure vulnerable people remain safe in their community, we are another step behind achieving this mission, and another step behind ensuring women and children remain free from harm.

“Navigating the court system is not easy and a coordinated community and system response will go a very long way in reducing recidivism for individuals choosing violence,” she said.

“This initiative will strengthen our aim in breaking the cycle of violence through active engagement with critical support programs in our community.

“A collective and integrated approach to helping women during this extremely chal-

lenging period in their life, is the very least we can do.

“There is so much more work that needs to be done to ensure all women receive adequate information and resources to help guide them during this difficult phase and during the court process.”

Griffiths Parry Lawyers and Notary director Rebecca Wilson said they have gone above and beyond to ensure all the required legal and ethical requirements have been met so this initiative could come to fruition.

“We have been a part of the Sunshine Coast Community for 50 years and we know that the need for domestic and family violence support continues to increase every year,” Ms Wilson said.

“Our participation in this project reflects our commitment to the growing needs of our community. Alicia Lucas is a valuable team member and has been dedicated to this project since its inception. We would love to see this program released in more courts across the region, but it needs more local support.”

Zonta Club of Noosa have funded significant improvements to the waiting room, creating a more supportive environment for women and children, and improving consultation spaces for Centacare to provide support and linkages to wrap-around services.

Zonta Club of Noosa president Robyn O’Neill said they were proud to support the Courthouse project as part of their mission of building a better world for women and girls in our community.

Cr Stewart said after Covid-19, the Noosa Shire saw a significant increase in domestic violence.

“I have been championing prevention and awareness work for domestic family violence in the Noosa Shire through the Mingle with the Mayor Balls and was humbled to receive a special commendation award for the Local Government Association of Queensland’s (LGAQ) third annual Alison Woolla Memorial Award for Local Leadership in Preventing Domestic and Family Violence last year,” she said.

“This collaborative initiative is just another step towards the shire’s local domestic and family violence response and it is pleasing to see it almost in its final stages during my last few weeks as mayor because it has been years in the making.

“And I will continue to drive it forward.”

Sunny Kids are still seeking a second law firm to provide pro bono legal support one day per fortnight in the Noosa Magistrates Court for aggrieved parties. Anyone interested, please contact Kathleen Hope at SunnyKids. https://www.sunnykids.org.au/ /admin@sunnykids.org.au

Outgoing Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart.

Noosa charity builds hope

A $5000 donation from Noosa’s Smile for a Child charity helped Sunshine Coast-based charities Project Vietnam and Khmer New Generation Organisation Australia (KNGOA) build four houses and four toilets for families in Cambodia.

Project Vietnam committee member Ian Bath said each year Project Vietnam and KNGOA send a team of volunteers to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in January and February to construct homes and facilities for impoverished children and their families.

This year a team of 18 volunteers travelled to Cambodia to build the houses and toilets for children and their families who had no adequate shelter or toilet facilities.

“Sanitation is one of the major problems in Third World countries,“ Ian said. He thanked Smile for a Child for the generous donation.

“Ten years ago, Khmer New Generation Organisation Australia constructed a learning centre in a rural area in the north west of Cambodia, where impoverished children can receive free Khmer literacy, maths, English and IT lessons. Smile for a Child’s donation

also funded the purchase of school uniforms, school supplies and food for these needy and vulnerable children,“ Ian said.

“Thank you again to Smile for a Child for helping us make a difference to the lives of children and their families who live in such desperate circumstances and assisting with the educational needs of children.

“Education is recognised as the pathway out of poverty.

“Our extremely proud volunteer teams have just returned after completing extremely worthwhile projects in the rural areas of the aforementioned countries.“

Ian said the charities were always looking for volunteers, be it singles or couples.

“If you are interested in doing something really worthwhile, and at the same time being part of a fun team, please visit our website for further information,“ he said.

Both Project Vietnam and KNGOA are registered charitieswith the ACNC and have tax deductibility status

For more information, visit projectvietnam. com

Destiny Rescue proudly reaches

Sunshine Coast-based Destiny Rescue, a leading international organisation dedicated to combating human trafficking, recently celebrated a historic achievement as they marked their 14,500th rescue since the organisation’s inception in 2001.

Destiny Rescue, alongside its decade-long supporter Caloundra City Autos, commemorated the milestone with an event attended by almost 100 of its key supporters, staff and local identities.

Destiny Rescue Australia chief executive officer Paul Mergard expressed his gratitude to Dan Hunt, dealer principal of Caloundra City Autos, for hosting the event and reflected on the significance of reaching 14,500 rescues.

“Caloundra City Autos has helped our organisation rescue 50 children since they started supporting us over 10 years ago.We’re incredibly grateful to the whole team for their ongoing support and for sharing this celebration with us.

“This milestone is not just a number, it represents the countless stories of survival, hope, and resilience.

“Each rescue is a testament to the dedication of our team, the unwavering support from our partners, and the courage of survivors who inspire us every day,“ he added.

Mr Mergard said Destiny Rescue rescues on average 16 people every day of the year, currently holding rescue operations in 12 countries around the world including Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia, Nepal, Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and countries in Latin and Central America.

“When our teams are going undercover

into bars and establishments right across the world, we don’t have to dig very deep before we find children being exploited.”

Mr Mergard said they are engaging in impoverished communities or other environments where kids are being exploited, and unfortunately, Australians are a huge part of the problem.

“Unfortunately we find that South East

Asia is often a destination that Australians visit with the specific intent to exploit children, and there’s a growing trend of Australian men and women exploiting kids online,” Mr Mergard said.

“We recently held a raid in the Philippines where we were able to rescue a five-year-old girl who was being exploited online. After the rescue, we were able to hand over to the

Australian Federal Police the names of 395 Australian men that were involved in the exploitation of that little girl.”

Mr Mergard said they partnered with international police to free children from these situations, and hand over the details of Australian abusers to the Australian Federal Police to ensure they receive the full force of the law.

“We’re working with the federal government, encouraging them to strengthen the laws and change the definitions around modern slavery because it excludes child sexual exploitation.

“We want to see those laws tightened and the penalties increased so there’s more deterrents against people exploiting children across the world,” he added.

Mr Mergard said even as they celebrate 14,500 rescues there is still a lot more to be done and Destiny Rescue was grateful for the number of people organising community fundraisers this year to help support their cause.

“We’ve got a whole bunch of people organising incredible fundraisers this year, getting involved in the community doing fun runs, walks, pull-up challenges, and other fundraising initiatives. We’re so grateful for these amazing humans.

“As we continue our mission, we invite businesses, communities, and individuals to join us in the fight against human trafficking by raising awareness and fostering collaboration,” he added.

On average it costs Destiny Rescue $1800 to rescue a child. To donate or become a rescue partner, visit destinyrescue.org.au

Sunshine Coast-based Destiny Rescue is a leading international organisation dedicated to combating human trafficking.

A house built for a family in Cambodia with funds from Smile for a Child.

A sign acknowledges the charities.

A toilet provides better sanitation for a family.

Quarry chat at roundtable

Outgoing Mayor Clare Stewart chaired the 12th Kin Kin Quarry roundtable meeting last week, the final one for the term of council.

A Council spokesman said the productive discussions cemented the group’s ongoing dedication and commitment in the battle against Kin Kin Quarry operator Cordwell Resources.

Acting CEO Larry Sengstock said the catchup was important to keep the hinterland community groups, agencies, Noosa MP and staff informed.

“We respect the legal process and remain hopeful a decision is imminent, but the meeting was a good opportunity to reassure the community that this matter continues to be important to us as a council and the co-operation of all stakeholders has been pivotal to this legal challenge,” he said.

Final submissions in the legal case were made in June 2022 before his Honour Judge Long SC in the Planning and Environment Court.

The case relates to Council’s allegations set out in court by its barrister Mitchel Batty that the application was filed by council for the relief for the community from haulage trucks, in five areas.

The five areas relate to allegations of the quarry’s non-compliance of its Quarry Management Plan (QMP) in failing to avoid truck convoying, covering of loads, operating hours and use of quarry trucks during school bus hours, and the allegation the impact of the quarry’s intensification of work constitutes a material change of use.

Counsel for Cordwell Resources, QC Errol Morzone, informed the court his client strongly objected to the allegations.

Mr Morzone told the court the Kin Kin Quarry had continued to operate within its approved authority.

Mr Sengstock told the roundtable meeting that the council has and continues to do what

it can to ensure Cordwell Resources is operating within its approval and QMP.

“During this term of council, significant funds, resources and staff time have been allocated to fighting this matter alongside the dedicated, passionate hinterland community,” he said.

“That resolve remains strong,”

“We appreciate this is difficult for those living through this,

“It has been a three-year fight, which effectively started in early 2021 and this council has stood alongside the impacted hinterland community every step of the way to ensure Cordwell Resources adhere to the existing Quarry Management Plan.” he said.

Mr Sengstock said there was an extensive list of actions implemented over the last three years.

The journey so far:

· Council Funded and worked with community to take legal action in the Planning and Environment Court.

· Community provided extensive, detailed witness statements for the court case.

· Mayor has written two open letters to Cordwells (January 2021 and June 2021) with no action to our suggested requests.

· Council continues to remind all trucking companies using the quarry of the QMP traffic management requirements and warned them that infringements will be issued for any breaches.

· Council has previously issued notices/infringements to the quarry operators for alleged breaches of the approval.

· A camera and traffic counter has been installed on Sheppersons Road for surveil-

lance and monitoring purposes to ensure Cordwells and truck drivers are adhering to the quarry management plan requirements.

· Council officers conduct regular inspections of the quarry operations, and occasionally conduct joint inspections with officers from the state’s Department of Environment.

· A dedicated officer was engaged to liaise with impacted hinterland residents and has been the conduit between council and residents on a range of matters/issues

· In December 2022, Mayor arranged for Assistant Minister for Local Government Nikki Boyd to spend the day in the hinterland to tour the quarry and impacted roads.

· Mayor, Acting CEO and TMR officials held a face-to-face meeting with then Transport Minister Mark Bailey, seeking action from the Queensland Government

· Council made a submission to the Federal Government under the EPBC Act over a vegetation clearing application by the operator. It was one of 91 submissions made to the Federal Government regarding the application.

· Mayor wrote to Minister Tanya Plibersek to articulate council’s concern over the vegetation clearing.

· Council has issued enforcement notices to the operator over alleged breaches of the QMP regarding the construction of a fixed screening plant onsite.

· An annual audit of the quarry operations is also undertaken by an external independent auditor specialised in stormwater management, with Cordwells required to reimburse Council’s costs for this audit.

· Council in partnership with community members, facilitated two public meetings to explain the legal process.

Noosa Hinterland residents at court for the final hearing in June, 2022. Picture: NICK COOKE

Dismay at disrespect

This year I decided to become more engaged in our Council elections as I felt it was time for a shake up here in Noosa.

I have been saddened and dismayed by the lack of respect shown to those brave souls who have put themselves forward for election.

The Australian value of ‘fair play’ has gone missing.

An election sign we placed in our front yard for a good friend and neighbour had the word ‘Toxic’ spayed over the candidates image. This childish behaviour sways my vote towards the victim.

I also deplore the deliberate attempts by a small group of people to diminish the reputation of candidates- mostly women as it happens- by spreading smears and untruths about them. Free elections are one of the greatest triumphs of our democracy and should not be weaponised in this way.

There should be fair play during these events and those people who abuse this spirit should be hauled into line by the candidates they are representing.

Many years ago I had the honour and privilege of playing in the Australian women’s cricket team. In each game played, the relationship between the two teams was fiercely competitive yet always respectful.

All games were played by the rules, in the right spirit and in a climate of goodwill, fellowship and pride.

Elections are also fiercely competitive and there is no reason why they should not be contested in this same spirit.

There should be no place in this celebration of democracy for disrupters, antagonists and tribal warriors. Globally we can see where that sort of behaviour leads. I hope that whoever are elected as our Mayor and Councillors will insist that such tribalism be stamped out. We want to live in a Shire that is beautiful in both Nature and Soul.

Patsy Fayne, Noosaville

$148m Recovery Honey Pot

Margie Maccoll (Noosa Today P1: 23 February) outlines the progress reported to Council by the Disaster Reconstruction co-ordinator on the expenditure of $148m for the March 2022 rainfall damage across the Noosa Shire. Given that this is three times the Council’s annual budget, the paucity of information provided in the article and by Council on the proposals over the past two years to ratepayers is disappointing.

It is only since funds became available that some residents adjoining Black Mountain Road ($50m rebuild) and Black Pinch Road ($10m? repairs) have been informed that works were starting.

This was a letter box drop by recently contracted community consultants. Over the past two years, Council has been reluctant to reply to impacted landowner’s letters or formally invite them (and Community) to discuss proposed designs and potential impacts on property boundaries before letting tenders. Landowners were not given formal notices before surveyors, etc and machinery entered their land. It was left to the successful engineering contractors, who only recently obtained written agreements with some landowners to enter their properties. Fences are being pushed over; and there has been no communication from Council on this or who is responsible for damage caused by livestock that escape onto public roads.

Given the size of these engineering proposals, I’m not aware of any environmental impact and other studies having been made available for public comment. Given Noosa’s green image, Council’s planning laws and State requirements, perhaps this is an oversight. Along Black Pinch Road and the Noosa Trail (on Eastern Branch Road) patches of rainforest, tall gums, and the Landcare’s extensive plantings have been cleared. Similar clearing is likely along Black Mountain Road. Trees stabilise embankments and with their removal, only expensive engineering solutions remain. Minor repairs by Council’s workforce could have provided safe outcomes for these low use roads with maintenance whenever slopes move in wet seasons, as will continue to occur in these unstable volcanic hills.

Council must provide NoosaToday with details and the costs of each recovery project to allow transparent public scrutiny of this large taxpayer expenditure.

Dr Jim Porter, Cootharaba

LENSCAPE

Update park management plan

By insisting on fundamental changes to the format of the King of the Mountain Race as a condition of issuing a permit for 80 athletes to run up Mt Cooroora over a couple of hours on one Sunday in July, the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) conveniently diverts attention away from its own, sole responsibility to manage the condition of the summit track for the remaining 364 days of the year.

The administrative instrument for taking care of Tuchekoi National Park is a formal management plan that dates from 2013 and which should have been reviewed last year in accordance with QPWS guidelines and practices. It is hopelessly out of date and inadequate, given the growth in numbers of people using the park for recreational purposes since the pandemic and the popularity of the upgraded Cooroora Trail between Cooran and Pomona. This was funded by the federal government and Noosa Council and not the QPWS.

Greater usage of the park requires more resources and funding to preserve its condition year-round. The over-emphasis on the activities of just 80 users seems disproportionate to the QPWS’s wider responsibility.

The Service should not just have a conversation with the Cooroy-Pomona Lions Club, the organisers of the King of the Mountain race

– now stopped permanently – about the condition of the Tuchekoi NP tracks and environment, but with the wider community also. As the QPWS acknowledges on its website: “The race has historical significance and economic significance for the town of Pomona.” True.

Strengthening and diversification of the hinterland local economy includes offering an authentic nature-based tourism experience that also serves the recreation needs of residents, a fact verified in public consultation around a Pomona Place Plan.

The QPWS conditions, so onerous that the organisers felt they had no choice but to stop the race, has implications for the Noosa Council Destination Management Plan and the Local Economy Plan.

Can we expect the QPWS to put a cap on the number of participants in the Noosa Ultra Trail marathon, now a world famous running event, as was the King of the Mountain? And what of the future of the Noosa Great Walk?

It behoves the QPWS to open up a broader conversation with the community about the management of a natural asset that may involve wider solutions, such as closing the summit track for one month every year for restorative rejuvenation. Certainly, more money and resources should flow from the Queensland Government to maintain Tuchekoi National Park as part of a realis-

tic and effective new management plan that takes account of its continual popularity.

Brian O’Connor, Pomona

Price blowout

I purchased a black ink cartridge the other day and it cost more than the printer.

Then the manufacturer advised my colour ink was low, not depleted, just low. So till I replace them it won’t work.

Who’s in control?

When I deposit cash into the ATM ‘it’ tells me how much I’ve deposited.

But it’s my money. ‘NAB your money’ and yep take your car, house or business too.

Honestly, who’s the joker here?

If our politicians aren’t held accountable for their deceit why do we expect it of our youth?

When I next see a parent pushing their pram across the road while scrolling I’m going to call out –

“Not your child huh?”

The world is upside down because the good people have done nothing.

Jen Oakley, Noosa

Continued page 30

The extremely elusive Eastern Whipbird is such an incredible bird - how lovely it was to have seen this magnificent bird going about its business at our property this morning. It was even more special to have been able to capture a photograph today of this extraordinary bird.

The Eastern Whipbird is so often heard, but for me to see it in the wild is a rather rare occasion. Just sharing its beauty, said Leanne Airey who captured this image. If you have a Lenscape please email it to newsdesk@noosatoday.com.au

The Guide

PICK OF THE WEEK

Close to home: Sarah Lancashire as policewoman Catherine Cawood.

HAPPY VALLEY

ABC TV, Friday, 8.30pm

After a seven-year wait, the third and final season of this supreme crime thriller lands on free-to-air. Featuring a fascinatingly ordinary protagonist in Yorkshire policewoman Catherine Cawood (played with bewitching emotional dexterity by Sarah Lancashire), this sterling British whodunnit from Sally Wainwright is a masterclass in character-led drama. Damaged and dogged, Cawood’s tragic personal life hasn’t clouded her sense of humour, or her innate sense of justice. In this thrilling six-episode conclusion, it’s seven years later in Cawood’s chaotic life too, with her grandson Ryan (Rhys Connah) now 16. In a fulfilling twist, a gangland crime leads Catherine to Ryan’s locked-up father (Grantchester’s James Norton).

That

6.00

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Kenya Wildlife Diaries. 10.55 News. 11.05 Going Places. Noon The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show. 1.25 Going

THE EMERALD ISLES WITH ARDAL O’HANLON SBS, Sunday, 7.30pm

Irish comedian Ardal O’Hanlon (pictured) whips off any rose-coloured glasses for this very engaging and witty tour of his homeland. The Father Tedand DeathinParadisestar is an impeccably playful presenter in this three-part sojourn, airing in full tonight. He employs the dubious wisdom of the 1840’s book Ireland,itsScenery,Character,etc.by Mr and Mrs Hall to answer his own question: ”Are we really a bunch of superstitious, godfearing, whisky-sodden chancers?” Tune in for this affectionate and fun travelogue in which O’Hanlon nimbly explores everything from religion to storytelling in some of Ireland’s under-the-radar towns.

LIDIA’S KITCHEN

SBS Food, Monday, 6.30pm

If you don’t have a nonna in your life to impart invaluable Italian cooking know-how and wisdom, Lidia Bastianich (pictured, below) is the big cheese. And even if you do, she’s a welcome addition to everyone’s stockpile of cosy, mouthwatering cooking shows. Returning with her ninth season, there are 26 episodes to feast on. From the keenly simple “Salt Your Pasta Water!” and “Cheese Please!” (with helpful exclamation marks included) to “Bread and Beans”, “Southern Italian Favourites”, “Potato, Potato” and “Just Braising”, Lidia leaves no dough unturned. In tonight’s premiere, “What’s For Dinner?”, easy meals are the go, with an antipasto rice salad highlighting Lidia’s simple ethos.

AARON CHEN COMEDY SPECIAL

10, Tuesday, 9.15pm

We’re all impatiently awaiting the return of the hilariously quirky comedy Fisk, the homegrown series from Kitty Flanagan that has surged to a global hit. In the meantime, here’s your chance to get your fill of star Aaron Chen (pictured, left). The stand-up comedian’s turn as a mullet-haired probate clerk, known as the “webmaster” has seen the Sydneysider’s popularity skyrocket. In this performance of his show, IfWeren’tFilmed,Nobody WouldBelieve, Chen showcases his deadpan humour, albeit with a smile on his face. The HaveYou BeenPayingAttention? favourite has a unique style with his deceptively timid yet chatty set about the minutiae of life, including making friends with taxi drivers and learning to cook online.

4.30

NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Melissa King provides a plant hack.

8.30 MOVIE: My Best Friend’s Wedding. (1997, Ml, R) After a woman’s longtime friend announces his engagement, she realises she loves him. Julia Roberts, Cameron Diaz, Dermot Mulroney.

10.45 To Be Advised.

12.25 The Arrangement. (Mav, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 9News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 2. Penrith Panthers v Parramatta Eels. 8.55 Golden Point. Post-match

NRL wrap-up.

9.45 NRL: Penrith Panthers Undisputed. (PGl, R) Delves into the Penrith Panthers.

11.20 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (Mls, R)

12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.20 Pointless. (PG, R) 2.20 The Garden Gurus. (R) 2.50 Talking Honey. (PG) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Postcards. (PG, R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Ready Steady Cook.

Hosted by Miguel Maestre.

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. Irish comedian Graham Norton presents the first of two compilations of highlights from the recent series.

10.50 Fire Country. (Mv, R) A delivery truck crashes into the fire station.

11.40 The Project. (R)

12.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

10 PEACH (52, 11)

And A Half Men. 11.00 Frasier. Midnight Home Shopping. 1.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. 2.30 Just For Laughs Montreal. 3.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. 4.30 Home Shopping. 5.30 Joseph Prince: New Creation Church.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

7MATE (74)

Saturday, March 16

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast.

9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

12.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R)

1.30 Miniseries: Life After Life. (Mas, R)

2.40 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (R)

3.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R)

4.00 Universe With Brian Cox. (R)

5.00 Better Date Than Never. (R)

5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Australian Story: Call Of Duty – Anjali Sharma. (R) Profiles young activist Anjali Sharma.

6.30 Back Roads: East Arnhem Land, NT Pt 2. (PG, R) Rae Johnston continues her visit to Arnhem Land.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Miniseries: Life After Life. (Mav) Part 2 of 4.

8.25 Endeavour. (Mav, R) Part 1 of 3. A grisly discovery in a college garden raises suspicion among a celebrated Oxford orchestra.

10.00 House Of Gods. (PGl, R) Isa struggles to meet his financial commitment.

11.00 Happy Valley. (Malv, R) A body is found in a drained reservoir.

12.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6am

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.05 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.15 Love

Your Garden. (PGa, R) 10.10 Vintage Voltage. (PGl) 11.00 Urban Conversion. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Gymnastics. Artistic Apparatus World Cup. Highlights. 4.00

France: A Journey Through Time. (R) 5.00

Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG, R) 5.35 WWII Women On The Frontline. (PGav)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road. (PGa) Part 2 of 4.

8.30 Royal Crisis: Countdown To Abdication: The Secret Scandal. (PGa) Part 1 of 3. Documents the biggest scandal ever to engulf the British royal family.

9.30 The Wonders Of Europe: Alhambra, Treasure Of Andalusia. (PGav, R) Part 4 of 4. The story of the people who built the Alhambra, one the most visited monuments in Europe.

10.30 Those Who Stayed. (Mal)

11.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Milan-San Remo.

3.30 Face To Face. (Ma, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R)

4.55 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SEVEN (7)

6.00 NBC Today.

7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) Highlights from the past week. 11.30 Horse Racing. The All-Star Mile and Chandon Ladies Day.

5.00 Seven News At 5.

5.30 Creek To Coast. A look at the latest in outdoor activities.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Football. AFL. Round 1. Gold Coast v Adelaide. From Heritage Bank Stadium, Queensland.

10.00 The Irrational. (Ma, R) After a passenger plane crashes into the Potomac River, Professor Mercer and the team are asked to investigate the pilot’s personal motivations and piece together clues to reveal the truth.

12.00 The Arrangement. (Mav, R) Terence learns something surprising.

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) A look at a variety of destinations.

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) Information about pet care.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Get Clever. (R) The wonders of science are explored.

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R) A look at locations that highlight living well.

7TWO (72)

6am Lola.

Continued. (1961, PG, French) 7.10 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 9.20 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989)

11.10 American Hustle. (2013, M) 1.40pm A River Runs Through It. (1992, PG) 3.55 The Falcons. (2018, PG, Icelandic) 5.50 Mr Holland’s Opus.

6am Morning Programs.

11.30 The 4WD Adventure Show. Noon MXTV. 12.30 Timbersports. 1.00 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 2. Race Tasmania. Day 1. 3.00 Blokesworld. 3.30 Bossy’s Bucket List. 4.00 Supercar Customiser: Yianni. 5.00 Storage Wars: NY. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Ford V Ferrari. (2019, M) 10.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair.

7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Surfing Australia TV.

12.30 Great Australian Detour. (R) 1.00 My Way. (R) 1.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PGam, R) 2.30 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II. (PGa) 3.30 Renovate Or Rebuild.

4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. (PG)

6.00 9News Saturday.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PG) Experts help people declutter their lives.

8.30 Election Night: Nine News Special. Coverage, results and analysis as votes are counted in elections across Queensland.

9.00 MOVIE: Jason Bourne. (2016, Mav, R) An assassin is forced out of hiding when one of his old allies uncovers information about his past. Matt Damon, Tommy Lee Jones.

11.25 MOVIE: Into The Blue 2: The Reef. (2009, MA15+sv, R) Chris Carmack.

1.10 Renovate Or Rebuild. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 Getaway. (PG, R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Healthy Homes. (R) 9.30 Food Trail: South Africa. (R) 10.00 To Be Advised. 11.00 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 11.30 Australian Survivor. (PG, R) 12.30 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.00 All 4 Adventure. (PGl, R) 2.00 Wildlife Rescue. (PGm, R) 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30 GCBC. (R) 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Taste Of Aust. (R) 5.00 News.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R)

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PG, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

7.40 The Dog House. A couple who dream of very different dogs are searching for a pooch they will both agree on.

8.40 Ambulance Australia. (Mad, R) NSW Ambulance crews race to a call for a slashed throat and perform life-saving CPR on teens.

9.40 Ambulance UK. (Ma, R) With a spike in staff illness due to COVID-19, the ambulance service calls on the military for help.

10.55 So Help Me Todd. (PGv, R) Todd seeks help from his ex-girlfriend.

11.50 FBI: International. (Md, R)

12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

6am Children’s Programs. 2pm Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Grand Prix of St Petersburg. H’lights. 3.05 MOVIE: Middle School: The Worst Years Of My Life. (2016, PG) 5.00 Kenan. 5.30 MOVIE: Sonic The Hedgehog. (2020, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Legally Blonde 2: Red, White And Blonde. (2003, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Bad Moms 2. (2017, MA15+) 11.35 Dating No Filter. 12.05am Made In Chelsea. 2.00 Late Programs.

Pooches At Play. 9.30 Diagnosis Murder. 11.30 Luxury Escapes. Noon Jake And The Fatman. 1.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 2.00 JAG. 5.00 Escape Fishing With ET. 5.30 Bondi Rescue. 6.00 Soccer. A-League Men. Round 21. Perth Glory v Western Sydney Wanderers. 9.15 NCIS. 10.15 NCIS: Los Angeles. 12.05am FBI: Most Wanted. 2.00 48 Hours. 3.00 JAG. 5.00 Home Shopping.

12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 Dream Gardens. (R)

3.00 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.30 The Cook And The Chef. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R) 4.40 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R)

5.30 The ABC Of... (PG, R)

Anh’s Brush With Fame: Jane Seymour. (PG, R)

Compass: Homegrown Imam. (PGa)

ABC News.

Death In Paradise.

(Mv) A former

of motherhood.

9.30 Happy Valley. (Malv, R) A body is found in a drained reservoir.

10.30 A Life In Ten Pictures: Robin Williams. (PGln, R)

11.20 Harrow. (Final, Mav, R)

12.15 Significant Others. (Madl, R)

1.05 Rage Vault. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.05 Catalyst. (PG, R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

Friday, 15 March,

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.10 Vintage Voltage. (PGl) 11.00 Urban Conversion. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic. 12.55 Starblasters Cricket. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. (R) 2.30 Volleyball. Australian Beach Tour. Gold medal matches. 4.30 Cycling. Paris-Nice. Highlights.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Emerald Isles With Ardal O’Hanlon. (PGa) Part 1 of 3. Irish comedian and actor Ardal O’Hanlon explores the islands off the coast of Ireland.

10.30 Pompeii: The Origins. (Mv, R) Explores the development of Pompeii. 11.30 Egypt’s Lost City of Canopus. (PG, R) An investigation into Canopus.

12.25 Spain’s Secret Conquest. (Mav, R)

2.45 Chernobyl: The New Evidence: Fallout. (PGa, R)

3.40 Grayson Perry: Divided Britain. (Ml, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.

6am Morning

Programs. 3.00 The Story Of. 4.00 Cycling.

Bike National C’ships. Downhill. H’lights. 5.00 WorldWatch. 5.30 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic. 6.00 TVNZ

1News

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG)

House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

To Be Advised.

Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.

8.30 Lockerbie. (PGav) Part 1 of 4. Documents the events surrounding the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, focusing on the investigation into the tragedy on both sides of the Atlantic.

10.30 Quantum Leap. (Return, Mav) Ben finds himself in 1978.

11.30 Autopsy USA: Gilda Radner. (Ma)

12.30 MOVIE: Jesse Stone: Death In Paradise. (2006, Masv, R) Tom Selleck. 2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00

NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

From 4 Pines Park, Sydney. 5.00 News: First At Five. 5.30 My Way. 6am Morning Programs. 9.30 My Market Kitchen. (R) 10.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 10.30 Pooches At Play. (R) 11.00 Buy To Build. (R) 11.30 Healthy Homes. (R) 12.00 Australian Survivor. (PG, R) 1.00 Planet Shapers. (R) 1.30 Cook With Luke. (R) 2.00 4x4 Adventures. (PGl) 3.00

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) It’s time for a commitment ceremony.

8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.

9.40 9News Late.

10.10 The First 48: Last Hope/ Truth And Consequences. (Mav, R)

A teen’s life is cut short in Atlanta.

11.10 Transplant. (MA15+m, R)

12.00 David Attenborough’s

A Perfect Planet. (PG, R)

1.00 World’s Greatest Engineering Icons. (PG, R)

2.00 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PGa, R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Fishing Australia. (R) 5.00 9News Early. 5.30 Today.

Taste Of Aust. (R) 3.30 Farm To Fork. (R) 4.00 My Market Kitchen. (R) 4.30 GCBC. (R) 5.00 News.

6.30 The Sunday Project. Panellists dissect, digest and reconstitute the daily news, events and hottest topics.

7.30 Australian Survivor. (PG) With only days remaining, someone’s in the firing line and another must make an impossible choice.

8.40 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R) After ransomware is used to cause the controls on a dam to malfunction, Ernie and a team of hackers are tasked with finding the culprit responsible before power and water is cut off to the island.

10.40 FBI: International. (Mv, R) The fly team chases a tech tycoon.

11.30 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

Monday, March 18

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Landline. (R) 11.00 Antiques

Roadshow. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

1.00 Australia Remastered. (R)

2.00 Parliament Question Time.

3.00 The Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 Tenable. (R)

4.10 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00 Back Roads. (R)

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson.

8.00 Australian Story.

Presented by Leigh Sales.

8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program exposing scandals, firing debate and confronting taboos.

9.15 Media Watch. (PG)

Hosted by Paul Barry.

9.35 Q+A. Presented by Patricia Karvelas.

10.40 ABC Late News.

10.55 The Business. (R)

11.10 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)

11.45 Planet America. (R)

12.15 Grand Designs. (R) 1.05 Parliament

Question Time. 2.05 Tenable. (R) 2.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.30 Catalyst. (R) 5.30

7.30. (R)

NITV (34)

March 19

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Peer To Peer. (R)

9.30 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 10.20 Kew

Gardens: Season By Season. 11.10 Food Markets: In The Belly Of The City. (PGa, R)

12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Blitz Spirit With Lucy Worsley. (PGav, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R)

4.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PG, 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: Rising From The Ashes. (PGa) Hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

8.30 The 2010s: The Social Media Boom. Takes a look back at how social media seemed to fulfil the promise of the internet connecting people.

9.20 24 Hours In Emergency: Something Changed. (Ma) An elderly man is admitted to St George’s Hospital after being found struggling to breathe at home.

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Blanca. (Final, MA15+v)

11.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av, R)

3.25 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Mas, R) 4.20 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch.

9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Insight. 1.35

Brooklyn Nine-Nine. 2.00 Cycling. AusCycling

Mountain Bike National C’ships. Downhill. H’lights. 3.00 WorldWatch. 5.50 Brooklyn Nine-Nine. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown.

8.30 Taskmaster. 9.25 Ten Year Old Tom. 10.30 The Matchmakers. 11.30 Late Programs.

6am

Beauty And The Beast. Continued. (2014, PG, French)

SEVEN (7)

6.00 Sunrise.

9.00 The Morning Show. (PG)

11.30 Seven Morning News.

12.00 To Be Advised.

1.30 Motorbike Cops. (PG, R)

2.00 The Chase. (R)

4.00

6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGl) A nationwide search for the next singing superstar continues with the top six performers.

8.30 The Irrational. (Mav) Alec agrees to testify as an expert witness in a wrongful death trial for a friend of Kylie. As he faces an old nemesis, he discovers competing emotions around an accidental shooting.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 S.W.A.T. (Mav) An auction house gets robbed.

12.00 MOVIE: Farewell, My Love. (2000, MA15+lv, R) A woman avenges her parents’ murder. Gabrielle Fitzpatrick.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) It’s time for the homestays as the remaining couples experience life in their partner’s home environment.

9.00 To Be Advised.

10.00 100% Footy. (M) Features the latest rugby league news.

11.00 9News Late.

11.30 Court Cam. (Mv, R) A judge’s temper gets the best of him.

12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.00 Pointless. (PG, R)

2.00 Hello SA. (PG)

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 9News Early.

5.30 Today.

6am Morning Programs.

9.00 The Greatest Aussie Caravan. 9.30 NBC Today. 10.30

(3)

10.30 Kurt Fearnley’s One Plus One. (a, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC

You Think You Are?

Dame Judi Dench. (PGa, R) 8.30 Insight. Presented by Kumi Taguchi. 9.30 Dateline: Over Sharenting. Explores issues of childhood exploitation. 10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 Great British Railway Journeys. (R)

11.05 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Mlv) 12.00

Miniseries: Bonnie And Clyde. (MA15+av, R) 12.40 Trom. (Malv, R) 3.10

Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Mal, R) 4.05 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour:

Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines

6am

6.00

6.30

Patrol. (PGa) Officers pull over a duo who have swapped seats. 8.30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (Ml) Gordon Ramsay steps in to reassess South Brooklyn Foundry’s priorities

WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Christians Like Us. 1.40 One Star Reviews. 2.05 How It Feels To Be Free. 3.10 WorldWatch. 5.50 Alone: The Beast. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Vikings: The Rise And Fall. 9.25 Stone Cold Takes On America. (Final) 10.15 Hudson & Rex. 11.55 The Investigation. 1am Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Room For Improvement. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 Feel Good Road Trips. 3.00 The Hotel Inspector. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.40 A Touch Of Frost. 10.55 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.30 Newstyle Direct. 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 Explore. 2.00 Dr Quinn. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Saraband For Dead Lovers. (1948) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 New Tricks. 8.40 Agatha Christie’s Marple. 10.40 Late Programs. 7TWO (72) 6am Children’s Programs. 7.05pm Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Spicks And Specks. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 9.10 Upstart Crow. 9.45 Double Parked. 10.10 Portlandia. 10.55 Back. (Final) 11.20 Would I Lie To You? 11.50 Unprotected Sets. 12.45am No Friend But The Mountains, A Voyage Through Song. 2.10 ABC News Update. 2.15 Close. 5.00 Clangers. 5.10 Kiddets. 5.25 Late Programs. ABC TV PLUS (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Motor Racing. Formula E. São Paulo ePrix. H’lights. 1.00 Scorpion. 3.00 Seinfeld. 4.00 Family Ties. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 Raymond. 7.00 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Ghosts Of Girlfriends Past. (2009, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 Dating No Filter. Midnight Medium. 1.00 Below Deck Mediterranean. 2.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 American Pickers. 11.00 Pawn Stars. Noon Outback Opal Hunters. 1.00 Adventure Gold Diggers. 2.00 Frozen Gold. 3.00 Billy The Exterminator. 3.30 Cities Of The Underworld. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Outback Truckers. 9.30 Heavy Tow Truckers Down Under. 10.30 Ice Road Truckers. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Dr Strangelove. Continued. (1964, PG) 7.00 The Caine Mutiny. (1954, PG) 9.20 Race. (2016, PG) 11.50 Voyage Of The Damned. (1976, M) 2.40pm The Movie Show. 3.15 The Music Of Silence. (2017, PG) 5.20 Selkie. (2000, PG) 6.55 The Eagle Huntress. (2016, PG, Kazakh) 8.30 Drive My Car. (2021, MA15+, Japanese) 11.50 Sound Of Metal. (2019, M) 2am Late Programs. 7MATE (74) 6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm True North Calling. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.30 Where The Dreamings Come From. 6.40 News. 6.50 Kenya Wildlife Diaries. 7.45 Wellington Paranormal. 8.40 Ice Cowboys. 9.30 Over The Black Dot. 10.15 Rugby League. English Super League. Salford Red Devils v Wigan Warriors. Replay. 12.15am Late Programs. NITV (34)

6am

4.30 Bold. (PGasv) 5.00 News.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

7.30 Australian Survivor. (PG)

With only the final four contestants remaining, tensions are on the rise as deals are exposed.

8.40 FBI: Most Wanted. (MA15+v, R) The team races to prevent more killings as its search for an embezzling businessman who is wanted for his wife and daughter’s murder. Jess takes advantage of his empty nest to properly court Sarah.

11.30 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert.

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

Or No

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Australian Survivor. (Final, PG) After 45 days of battling it out in Samoa, the final three are pushed to their limits.

9.15 Aaron Chen Comedy Special. (PGal) A stand-up comedy performance of Aaron Chen’s IfWeren’tFilmed, NobodyWouldBelieveshow.

10.15 NCIS. (Mdv, R) The NCIS team investigates the death of a US Navy commander who trained athletes. 12.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

9.30 Ready Steady Cook. 10.30 The Middle. Noon The Big Bang Theory. 1.00 Charmed. 3.00 The King Of Queens. 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 Becker. 5.30 Frasier. 6.30 Neighbours. 7.00 The Big Bang Theory. 8.30 Two And A Half Men. 10.00 Rules Of Engagement. 11.00 Frasier. Midnight Shopping. 1.30 Stephen Colbert. 2.30 Two And A Half Men. 3.30 Bold. 4.30 Shopping. 6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 8.30 Diagnosis Murder. 9.30 Jake And The Fatman. 10.30 JAG. 12.30pm In The Dark. 1.30 NCIS. 2.30 Jake And The Fatman. 3.30 Diagnosis Murder. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 Bull. 9.30 FBI. 10.30 Socceroos Preview Show. 11.00 FBI. 12.50am Home Shopping.

The Late Show

2.20

Wednesday, March 20

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Q+A. (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 The Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 Tenable. (R)

4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00 Back Roads. (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 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. A satirical news program exposing the humorous, absurd and downright hypocritical.

9.05 This Is Going To Hurt. (Final, Mal) Adam faces a tribunal over his malpractice.

9.50 Planet America. (Final) A look at the US political climate.

10.20 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (R)

11.00 ABC Late News.

11.15 The Business. (R)

11.35 Rosehaven. (PG, R) 12.30 Grand Designs. (R) 1.15 Parliament Question Time.

2.15 Tenable. (R) 3.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.30 Catalyst. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.20 Make Me A

Dealer. (R) 10.10 Kew Gardens: Season By

Season. 11.00

Food Markets: In The Belly Of

The City. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00

Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30

The Point:

Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.45

The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 World’s Most Scenic

Railway Journeys. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30

Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Australia’s Sleep Revolution. (PGa) Part 3 of 3.

8.30 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (Premiere, M) Jimmy Carr hosts a comedic game show where paying attention pays off.

9.30 Kin. (Final, MA15+alv) Conflict is put into overdrive as Michael and Jimmy find common ground.

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Blinded. (Malns)

11.45 The Wall: The Chateau Murder. (Mal) 3.05 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Ms, R)

4.00 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SEVEN (7)

6.00 Sunrise.

9.00

The Morning Show. (PG)

11.30 Seven Morning News.

12.00 MOVIE:

6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGas)

7.30 The 1% Club. (Final, PGls) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.

8.35 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.35 Crime Investigation Australia: The Cangai Siege. (MA15+alv, R) Takes a look at the 1993 Cangai siege, the culmination of a murder spree that claimed the lives of five people.

11.05 The Latest: Seven News.

11.35 Talking Footy.

12.35 Parenthood. (PGa, R)

1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6am The Eagle Huntress. (2016, PG, Kazakh) 7.35 The Man Who Knew Too Little. (1997, PG) 9.20 Selkie. (2000, PG) 10.55 The

3.30 Cities Of The Underworld. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.30 The Force: Behind The Line. 9.30 Highway Cops. 10.30 Busted In Bangkok. 11.30 Late Programs.

NINE (8, 9)

7.30.

6.00

7.35 Bettany Hughes: The Silk Road Treasures. Bettany Hughes explores Azerbaijan.

8.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Umbria. (PGl) Stanley Tucci visits Umbria.

9.20 The Vanishing Triangle. (Malv)

10.10

10.40

7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. (PG) Hosted by Graeme Hall.

8.30 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. (PG) Judges Mel B, Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel each choose a roster of their favourite acts from around the world in the hopes one of them will be crowned champion. Hosted by Terry Crews.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 The Amazing Race. (PG, R) Hosted by Phil Keoghan.

12.30 Fortitude. (MA15+av, R)

4.00 9News Afternoon.

4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG)

5.30 WIN News.

7.30

At First Sight. It is time for the dinner party.

9.00 Under Investigation: The Good Snitch. (Mlv) Liz Hayes and her team of experts investigate the death of star witness Andrew Petrelis.

10.00 9News Late.

10.30 See No Evil: Shaken

And Disturbed. (MA15+av)

A look at three murders.

11.30 The Equalizer. (Mav, R)

12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.10 Pointless. (PG, R)

TEN (5, 1)

6am Morning Programs. 8.00 Ent. Tonight. (R) 8.30 Neighbours. (PGa, R) 9.00 Bold. (PGav, R) 9.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 10.00 GCBC. (R) 10.30 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 11.00 Dr Phil. (PG, R) 12.00 10 News First: Midday. 1.00 Ent. Tonight. 1.30 Australian Survivor. (PG, R) 3.00 GCBC. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Neighbours. (PGa) 4.30 Bold. (PGlv) 5.00 News.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Contestants compete in a high-stakes game where they must beat The Banker to win a cash prize.

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

7.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma) NSW Ambulance delivers a baby and saves a four-year-old with a critical heart condition.

8.30 FBI: International. (Mav) As the clock ticks on Forrester’s reassignment, the FBI Fly Team heads to Austria to find an American teen who was kidnapped as a child and whose abductors are now holding a second young girl captive.

11.30 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

10 PEACH (52, 11)

6am The Late Show

With Stephen Colbert. 7.00 Becker. 8.00 Dr Phil. 9.00 The Middle. 10.00 Rules Of Engagement. 11.00 Becker. Noon Frasier. 1.00 NBL Slam. 1.30

The Big Bang Theory. 2.00 So Help Me Todd. 3.00 Rules Of Engagement. 4.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 4.30 Becker. 5.30 Frasier. 6.30 Neighbours. 7.00

The Big Bang Theory. 8.30 Two And A Half Men. 10.00 Rules Of Engagement. 11.00 Late Programs.

9GO! (82, 93)

10 BOLD (53, 12)

6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 8.30 Diagnosis Murder. 9.30 Jake And The Fatman. 10.30 JAG. 12.30pm In The Dark. 1.30 NCIS. 2.30 Jake And The Fatman. 3.30 Diagnosis Murder. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 9.25 Hawaii Five-0. 10.20 NCIS: Hawai’i. 12.15am Home Shopping. 2.15 Diagnosis Murder. 4.05 JAG.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PG) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

8.40 Gogglebox Australia. TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

9.40 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav, R) The team joins forces with Elliot Stabler to hunt down an evil mastermind.

10.30 Blue Bloods. (Mv, R) Jamie searches for an arsonist.

11.30 The Project. (R)

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

NITV (34)

Our Stories. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00

Bamay. 6.30 News. 6.40 Kenya Wildlife Diaries.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. 8.30 Bones Of Crows. 9.30 MOVIE: Kill Bill: Vol. 2. (2004, MA15+)

Midnight Late Programs.

6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Soccer. A-League Men. Round 21. Perth Glory v Western Sydney Wanderers. Highlights. 8.30 Diagnosis

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku

ACROSS

1 Philosopher, Rene – (9)

6 Ukraine city (4)

10 Indian Ocean country, – Lanka (3)

11 Extreme conservatism or rightism in politics (11)

12 Brings to life (8)

13 Urging, – on (6)

14 Greeting (Ital) (4)

15 Forbidden by law (7)

20 Order (7)

21 Prefix meaning 1 billionth (4)

25 French male name (6)

26 Disparage (8)

28 Disenchant (11)

29 Suitable (3)

30 Directs (4)

31 Banishment (9)

DOWN

1 Send out (6)

2 Curved sword (8)

3 Antenna (6)

4 Journeyed (9)

5 Location (4)

7 Roma is its capital (6)

8 Journey (6)

9 HitchhikersGuide author, – Adams (7)

16 Fanatic (9)

17 List of employees (7)

18 Seasoned smoked beef (8)

19 Impetus (8)

22 Eight-legged animal (6)

23 Time of the year (6)

24 Austrian capital (6)

27 Car (4)

Using

15

No. 176

No. 176

No. 176

On The Soapbox

Thomas Draper

Dog focus for final concept

This is Concept 5 from Tom Draper, his final professional engineering article for the time being.

It is a major departure from the 7 Star hotel proposalTom presented last Friday in Concept 4.

The daily task for those of you that love your dogs and in addition need a bit of exercise yourselves, is to walk the dog.

A little separation from passing automobiles and some quietude ‘off the beaten track’ may seem desirable.

Well, one does not have to travel very far In Tewantin, (the ‘lovely place’), to do this. Known and used regularly by some dog owners is Tewantin’s Memorial Ward Park.

It has been observed over the years, that dog walkers keep their animals on a leash most of the time, which is fine since there is a childcare centre on the western border and a children’s play area in the north-east.

It is alarming, however, for one to see from time to time, e-bicycles and e-scooters racing through the park at breakneck speeds, scaring most out of their wits.

It is time to ‘nip the flower in the bud’. It is suggested that signs be placed at the 5 Ward Park entrances stating ‘dismount from all eride devices before entering’. An appropriate fine could be posted.

Now, on the matter of ‘FLOW’.

The Morrindil Street Child Care Centre is at the west end of the park.

First time park visitors and dog walkers entering from the east find themselves walking right up to the dead end fence surrounding the childcare centre from inside the park on a concrete path. It’s very disconcerting.

If the offending section of paving was demolished it would not be missed.

The conflicting area could be returned to public garden with suitable plantings to screen kiddies mesh-fenced outdoor play area integrating in to a proposed buffer zone. (See below).

A grand loop within the park is already being taken from time to time by adventureous

LETTERS NOOSATODAY.COM.AU

From page 24

Electric effect

Does anyone know what happened to those traumatised people who, in 2019, lost their weekends and their utes to electric vehicles which wouldn’t tow their boats? How many more have been affected? Just asking for more details.

walkers in dry weather. This year, however, it has been far too soggy for most.

On the matter of dog walking in particular, it would be most agreeable for dog owners if they had a concrete paved circuit within the park. See Drawing TDP-0056 hereby.

It should be separated from the childcare centre by a treed buffer zone. The buffer would surely be appreciated by management.

(See drawing).

The park is also a transit area routing shop-

Margaret Wilkie, Peregian Beach

Disrespect upsetting

As a supporter of our Ladies Soccer Teams And especially those who have been chosen for overseas teams and are being paid handsomely for it.

I find it upsetting to read if one of them

pers and tourists every which-way. For some inconceivable reasonc however, while a diagonal path from Ward Street to the heart of the shopping centre exists, there is no direct path for pedestrians from the Shell Station to Blakesley Street, Cardell Road and Noosa Marina.

To correct the forgoing see the accompanying drawing which depicts a long awaited bypass to complete the before mentioned Marina route.

oversteps the lines of respect to any of those in authority there, or even to anyone who calls it their home and degrades it with unnecessary bad language.

I find it hard to comprehend that certain words used were not brought to the attention of higher authority but left for over 12 months until it was more appropriate.

I like many more only to know the bare facts

A couple of swirls (short paths) adjacent to the bypass would be most sensible for dog walkers, one to close the circuit within the park, and the other to take dog owners to the doggy-doo bags dispenser.

Its sensible town planing, while only minor, not the advice of a special interest group.

That’s it folks. It is hoped you found the unbiased 5 Concepts over the last five weeks of interest.

of what happened and surmising or expecting to believe what we have been told before it goes to court is just a guessing game.

I am almost sure of one thing.

One is a Chelsea FC supporter and the other is probably not a Soccer Fan but listens to those in a higher position.

Ernest Wright, Tewantin

Charlie

Doggy circuit proposed in Ward Park Tewantin with link to the marina.

The Bolton Report

Sandy Bolton, Noosa MP

Taking a look at ‘consulting’

Consultations, or getting your views on government proposals, projects or provisions, take many forms. On multiple occasions I have called state government out on their inappropriate timeframes and processes for consultations, hence totally understand the frustrations from communities when ‘having your say’ falls short of expectations!

It was interesting at a recent ‘Meet the Candidates’ session to hear the cry for more consultation, when in history there has never been so much, and so often. So, is it a case of quantity versus quality needed?

Let’s look at this. A decrease in participation in our annual MP Community Survey had me thinking that there is either a level of complacency, or that ‘feedback fatigue’ has set in!

When you look at the volumes of state, federal and local government submissions/surveys and polls open on just about every aspect of our lives, this is understandable. In addition, there are plenty of organisations, advocates and businesses also running surveys and polls, which can increase the feeling of being overwhelmed.

Or is it that residents feel that no matter what they say, their views will be disregarded?

This is definitely not the case in our office! Given this is one of our avenues to determine the priorities of our community, thoughts on potential solutions to issues and importantly on legislation, I wonder what it will take to get the ‘disengaged’ engaged, the ‘fatigued’ revitalized, or the disillusioned ‘reinvigorated’?

For myself as an Independent Member of Parliament, our annual survey, as well topic specific polls are vital as I am Noosa ‘centric’. This is unlike political party MPs who are restricted to broad party policy or state-wide election commitments. This can lead to a vast majority of our residents being deeply in opposition to a party’s stance reflected by their elected representative, which yes, can lead to a feeling that your voice does not matter. This is not the case in Noosa.

In amongst our standard annual questions, we list specific matters that may have started to emerge in state chamber (such as nuclear power), from resident/organisation advocacies (such as North Shore day permit numbers) or used as part of ‘wedge’ politics (such as making public the sex offenders register). This last one is a good example, as it has been brought up again this month on Facebook after nearly 4 years as part of getting ready for the next state election! That political parties who have utilised this type of ‘wedging’ in an ‘A-Z’ motion (which is one that includes many unrelated items) have never put a Private Members Bill or Private Members Motion dedicated to it in all that time, demonstrates the games played. Sadly ‘politicking’ is short of facts, and big on manipulative grabs.

Additionally, we host ‘as needed’ surveys on Noosa matters that may be contentious (such as clothing optional beaches), or that could see our community split down the middle, such as one just released on trialing non-lethal shark control methods during whale migration season to end entanglements at Noosa Main Beach.

Our polls are designed to be quick, not leading or misleading, and provide credible information links for those who would like to know more. Our aim is to get genuine, uninfluenced feedback, and to increase participation!

Why is this important? Because the results of our survey’s form what aspect of advocacy we take forward, or how I will vote on behalf of Noosa. And for the naysayers who believe governments do not listen to our communities, they actually do, though not as speedily as I would like!

One example is since 2021 I have taken a position on behalf of Noosa from survey results regarding an expanded ‘On Country’ program as a form of relocation sentencing for repeat youth offenders, leading to me being 1 of 5 MP’s from 93 to support a similar concept via a Katter Private Members Bill. Relocation sentencing removes the offender from the en-

vironment that enabled the offending, providing the schooling or training needed to create a new pathway, which detention has not been able to provide as has been reiterated during our Youth Justice Reform Committee’s Inquiry. As a result of this advocacy, this alternative option for the courts is now being made available, demonstrating how your voice has been listened to, and used! Other examples include Voluntary Assisted Dying and the Cooloola Great Walk Eco Tourism Project, which I have written on.

In addition, the issue of political parties and MP’s sending postal votes applications to residents without notifying that responses go to the parties ‘headquarters’ first before ending up at the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ). This is ‘hoodwinking’ and I cannot comprehend why this has not been remedied, however given the Federal Government has now said it is not ‘okay’, we have the extra support needed to see this practice that both sides of the house have been complicit in, end. Add in using newsletter subscribers and electoral roll details to send political marketing via text, email and mail, or even the infamous robocalls? This is an outright impingement on your rights to privacy and even though currently ‘legal’, Queenslanders deserve transparency on how their personal details are used.

Now, what was interesting from this year’s annual survey that will form Noosa’s position? For clarity, I look at 80 per cent and beyond as a rationale to take a stance as 60 per cent, even though a majority, can be ‘tainted’ due to the unknowns in the process including advocates hand mailing our survey to memberships which can ‘skew’ results.

Here we go! In the 80 per cent realm was increasing funding for hospice and in home palliative care. Having achieved so much in this space since I first secured the $100k to get Katie Rose Hospice accredited and subsequent government contracts, more must be done as the financial modelling for contracts is insufficient.With the various hospices now working with Palliative Care QLD in a collaborative advocacy, I have no doubt we will see a proper funding model versus the current ad hoc nature.

As well, amending legislation to ensure nature conservation is the priority above all else in National Parks. Having already taken this forward in response to the views from our polling regarding the Cooloola Great Walk Eco Project, I look forward to this being resolved.

That all athlete accommodation is transferred to community housing providers on

completion of the Games and capping expenditure to current levels is a‘no brainer’ as every Olympic Games ever held has contributed to rental increases and further displacement of residents. This is not okay given our ongoing crisis, and alongside the cross bench we will continue to take that forward.

Others include the banning of cage hen eggs before the current target of 2036, reviewing biodiversity overlays and koala mapping, and reducing the number of day permits to Cooloola during peak times which is due out any day.

There were two clear ‘no’ messages in the survey, though not in the 80 per cent majority as there were many that were undecided. One was regarding government agencies using glyphosate for weed control and raising the age of criminal responsibility.

The most divisive at 50/50, were daylight savings (yes, every year!) and using nuclear power as part of reducing emissions (thought that would have been a high majority against?) with the hydrogen option faring better with 60 per cent in support, over 30 per cent undecided, and 5 per cent against.

Now let’s get to how surveys can be ‘interfered’ with, and responses utilized for specific aims?

Leading questions are designed to achieve a specific result. Here are two examples from the opposite end of the spectrum! “With nuclear power one of the most dangerous forms of providing electricity, do you support?” Alternatively, “With nuclear power being one of the cleanest, economical and environmentally friendly forms of electricity, do you support?”

You can see how the ‘skewing’ can occur!

Additionally, too much information can leave one ‘bamboozled’ and ‘overloaded’ and have us all reaching for Google to better understand, resulting in a ‘forget this survey, too hard!” Alternatively, no information can lead to basing opinions on social media or media misinformation, which leads to a response that lacks the knowledge needed to make an informed decision.

Whichever way you present a survey, there will be critics, mostly from the ‘vested interest’ realm who want their own slant pushed forward, which ultimately defeats the purpose of real consultation.

Now that you have the low down on surveys, I hope you can see their relevance! So please, add your voice to the ‘for’ or ‘against’, and inspire your family, friends and neighbours to do so as well!

For all of the results from this year’s annual survey, including those that were a ‘majority’ however did not make the magic 80 per cent; line, head to www.SandyBolton.com/Your-

Say-Annual-Survey

And for those who wrote commentary, be assured I have read them all. Anyone who voted in a minority is always included in investigations, and referred to should these come into Chamber. Items that are not under the jurisdiction of state government or a State MP, are compiled and send to Noosa Council, or the relevant Federal MP.

Next month I hope to be able to give you my ‘take’ of my committee’s inquiry into youth justice, including the facts that might not be so popular?

Noosa MP Sandy Bolton consulting with the community.

Youth Justice Reform Select Committee Chair and Noosa MP Sandy Bolton.

Noosa MP Sandy Bolton.

The world is watching our Facebook fight!

An open letter to Prime MinisterAnthony

Albanese

Dear Prime Minister, Your first response to Facebook brazenly announcing they’ll stop paying for our news that they use to make a fortune from was…perfect!

“That’s not the Australian way,” you said.

Exactly. Australians hate bullies. Australians fight for a fair go. And this battle is not just a fight for a fair go here - the whole world is watching.

Meta, the trillion dollar tech giant that owns Facebook has built an empire out of content they don’t own. They don’t produce anything. They ‘share’ the great work of others and keep the cash.

The Australian government was the first in the world to call out this scandal, and in 2021 the News Media Bargaining Code forced them to finally pay for news content. But not anymore.

Meta is betting that if they bully the Australian government, they win the world.

PM, this is a fight for the future of news and democracy. This is fight against fake news and a fight for a fair go for all journalists who hold the powerful to account, all around the world.

Let’s make sure Australia shows Facebook what a fair go is. The world is watching.

Yours sincerely,

Andrew Schreyer President Country Press Australia

Protecting our paradise

Protecting Noosa Spit Doggy Beach from erosion is a top priority for council.

Boat wash and tides have taken their toll, leading to channel migration and shoreline damage. To counter this, council is embarking on a sand nourishment project aimed at defending the beach against further erosion.

The project involves three key phases:

1. Sand dredging and channel reopening: sand dredging will open new navigation channels, moving marine traffic away from Doggy Beach.

2. Creation of sand plugs: sand plugs will be strategically placed at either end of Doggy Beach to redirect river flow away from this vulnerable shoreline.

3. Beach renourishment: fallen trees will be removed, and more than 160,000 tons of sand will be deposited to replenish Doggy Beach, restoring its natural beauty and resilience.

Scheduled between April and September 2024, the project aims to minimise disruption on marine life such as fish spawning and plant life cycles.

During works, Doggy Beach itself and part of the adjacent car park will be closed to the public, including swimmers and recreational marine craft (powered and non-powered).

Once the main channel reopening is complete, marine vessels will be redirected. As a result, the surrounding body of water in front of the beach will also be closed.

For more details, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions factsheet available on the Council’s website under the Works in Progress section. Let’s work together to safeguard the beauty and integrity of Doggy Beach for generations to come.

Doggy Beach Sand Nourishment

Works: April - September 2024

Sand nourishment is planned to occur in a number of phases to protect Doggy Beach from erosion.

Doggy Beach will be CLOSED to all users during the entire project.

Scope of works

(as indicated in map above)

Phase 1 - sand dredging to reopen the Noosa River channel.

Phase 2 - create sand plugs to redirect river flow from eroded shore.

Phase 3 - remove fallen trees and renourish Doggy Beach.

noosa.qld.gov.au

By Zero Emissions Noosa Electrify everything is the current catchphrase among people concerned about saving on their energy costs and leaving a comfortable future for our kids.

Yet, seemingly, the term is critically misunderstood. Recently, Zero Emissions Noosa ran a series of forums to help the community answer burning questions they had about the transition from traditional fossil fuels to more sustainable technologies, like batteries and energy monitoring and control systems to reduce carbon emissions locally.

Although these sessions were well attended, it seemed there was much misconception and misunderstanding about what the term means. Many assume that simply installing solar on their roof ticks the box in offsetting their household energy usage and associated costs.While this is a good start, there is plenty more to be done to reduce everyday household costs and associated emissions.

So, what does electrify everything mean?

In its simplest form it means replacing technologies or processes that use fossil fuels, like internal combustion engines and gas hot water services with electrically-powered equivalents, such as electric vehicles, or heat pumps. These replacements are more cost efficient, and reduce emissions as electricity generation moves away from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Other examples include converting gas cooktops and barbecues to induction. Although counterintuitive, when combined with solar efficient electric appliances, this will help us to achieve our targets as opposed to their gas counterparts. By electrifying everything in your home or business, including shifting to electric transport and using renewable energy sources to power your electrified home, you will save money on energy bills.

To achieve the full carbon reduction benefits of electrifying everything, electricity generation needs to shift to renewable sources. Power grids also need to expand their capacity and flexibility to accommodate the growing demand for electricity and generation of re-

newables.

With tremendous opportunity to reduce emissionsbyusingenergyfromrenewableenergy supply chains, electrifying everything is an important strategy to reach the renewable energy targets set at the state and federal government level.

While in recent years the number of people getting their energy from renewable sources (mainly solar) has been increasing steadily, to reach the necessary emission reduction targets, the speed of this move will need to drastically increase to reach the targets set.

If this all seems intriguing, daunting or somewhat overwhelming, the team at ZEN, supported by Noosa Council and Noosa Junction Association, will be hosting the EV and Electrify Everything Expo between 9am-1pm, 16 June. This is a great opportunity to talk to suppliers of electrify everything products, including electric transport to find out how you can make the switch and save money at the same time.

The Expo will take place at Sunshine Beach Road, Noosa Junction, and will be bigger and better than ever.

For more information, visit the expo website at noosaevexpo.com.au

Contact us if you wish to sponsor or exhibit at the event. Are you interested in finding out more or joining Zero Emissions Noosa? Go to zeroemissionsnoosa.com.au.

Protecting Noosa Spit Doggy Beach from erosion is a top priority for Council.

Campaign Diary Week 6

As

of pre-polling in Noosa Heads and Cooroy,

eager candidates, their supporters and other influencers filled the path from parking to voting with corflutes and persuasive conversation.

Of the influencers, the most visible and vocalappearedtobelobbygrouptheNoosaBoating Fishing Alliance. While NBFA itself has no candidate in either race, it does have the only non-candidate how-to-vote card, which backs former Noosa River Stakeholder Committee member Nick Hluszko for mayor and has Cr Amelia Lorentson, who spoke so eloquently to the NBFA-packed public gallery in council late last year in favour of postponing consideration of the Noosa River Management Plan, as No 1 on the councillor ticket. Candidate Hluszko, in his hand-out, advocates partnering with the State on a river strategy but calls the Conservation Park proposal“total overkill”, while in hers Cr Lorentson seems to have moved on to solving traffic congestion through electric school buses. But while the NBFA’s carefully worded how-to-vote card emphasises “community needs and services’ for hinterland, river and coast, it’s alleged, however, the river is the only real issue.

There is a school of thought that a vote for sitting male councillors will deliever a ban on powered craft. However, mayoral candidate Frank Wilkie on his campaign social media and in a full page ad in Noosa Today last week confirmed that: “Claims that Noosa Council wants to lock up the river and ban motorised boating and fishing are absolutely false.”

Day 38, 6 March … OR DIG IT UP

A year is a long time in politics, let alone a decade.

But in a quiet week for real news on the campaign trail, the usual suspects on social media dug even deeper into the time tunnel to re-present an opinion piece from the CourierMail of 2013, hoping to fool a new generation of residents and voters into thinking it was today’s news.

The article claimed that a “Sunshine Coast green group [was] running [a] private business in Noosa National Park, and not paying a

cent in rent”. The “green group” was of course Noosa Parks Association, which has championed environmental initiatives in the shire for more than 60 years, whose sales of books and T-shirts at the park information centre run by its volunteers enabled it to contribute (with Noosa Council and State government) of the state forestry buyback for national parks in 2022, thus completing Noosa’s “ring of green”.

When Rod Ritchie, convenor of the Residents For Noosa Facebook page, pointed out that this was old news, river person and frequent social media poster Trevor Clarey responded: “Well Rod, it may be old news

to you, but to our Noosa it’s New News. How sad is it that our local media hide this stuff from its [sic] community. I’m really surprised mayoral candidates Morral [sic], Nick Hluszko [and] Ingrid Jackson aren’t all over this.”

Day 41, 9 March AND SPEAKING OF…

Full disclosure, that is, it’s time to disclose that this concludes Campaign Diary’s six week rumble through the jungle of local politics.

It’s been fun, but all good things must pass.

Two powerhouse beauty professionals join forces

Dermal Solutions and Radiant Skin & Body Clinic have now opened in Noosaville to bring a holistic approach to natural beauty.

The clinic has a team of professional therapists with years of experience in the industry who are dedicated to providing the highest level of clinical and cosmetic treatments, tailored individually for each client.

Their vision focuses on empowering individuals with healthy, informed beauty choices that will improve their skin and body for overall well being with added dietary tips.

They only use medical grade natural skin care products which treat the root causes of skin issues and common triggers of skin problems.

Their aim is to give clients a total holistic map to improve their skin and health.

The clinic only uses the latest medical grade and laser equipment plus RF skin tightening, ultrasonic fat cavitation, hydrodermabrasion, advanced facials and peels.

Dermal Solutions Australia is one of Australia’s leading suppliers of laser and beauty equipment, providing training in all aspects

of beauty plus laser therapy. Their staff are government accredited with QLD Radiation Health for professional laser training and treatments.

Radiant Skin & Body Clinic is located at

Suite 5A/95 Eumundi Noosa Road, Noosaville. Contact them on 0407 888 772

For clinic services, products and specials visit their website at radiantskinandbodyclinic.com.au or dermalsolutions.com.au

Radiant Skin & Body Clinic

Transforming Your Skin & Body

Professional

•

Dermal Solutions and Radiant Skin & Body Clinic have opened in Noosaville.

NBFA at the pre-polls.

Picture: NOOSA MATTERSEverything old is new again!

Jo Tramacchi from Radiant Skin & Body Clinic.

Noosa Civic Shopping Centre is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated Skateboard Holiday Fun promotion with renowned local Chiggy’s Skateboarding. Back by popular demand, the learn-toskate workshops are set to add a dash of excitement to these upcoming school holidays.

Event details:

· Dates: Tuesday 2 April – Friday 12 April (excluding weekends)

· Times: 10am – 2pm (half-hour sessions)

· Cost: $5 per session (receive a $5 Centre voucher* on check in)

· Location: Noosa Civic Shopping Centre

Young skaters of all ages and abilities are invited to join the workshops, where they will gain confidence, skills, and determination in a safe and supportive environment. The sessions, conducted by professional coaches, promise an engaging and fun-filled experience for participants.

As an added bonus, each workshop attendee will have the chance to win exciting giveaways, including skateboards and other cool prizes.To secure a spot, bookings are essential. Over the course of 9 days, 1,080 spots are available, with 8 half hour sessions a day, and just 15 children per session. These spots are set to book out fast, so don’t delay!

Easter Bunny Extravaganza:

In an extra special treat for families, the Easter Bunny will be joining the festivities on Saturday, 30th March, from 10am to 2pm. Easter Bunny will be spreading joy throughout the centre, handing out special gifts to shoppers of all ages. Don’t miss this opportunity to capture memorable moments with the Easter Bunny and share to our Instagram page, tagging #noosaeaster and #NoosaCivic to be in the draw to win a $50 Noosa Civic gift card.

Skater Word Hunt

For those looking to add an extra layer of fun to their visit, Noosa Civic is hosting a SkaterWord Hunt from 2 to 14 April. Participants can pick

In an extra special treat for families, the Easter Bunny will be joining the festivities on Saturday 30 March.

up a word hunt sheet at the Centre and embark on a journey to spell out the mystery word. Completed forms can be entered into the draw for a chance to win a Skater prize pack valued at over $300. Drop your entry into the competition box located next to Priceline.

Don’t miss out on the Skateboard Holiday Fun and Easter Delights – a perfect blend of skill-building and holiday joy for the whole family. Join us at Noosa Civic Shopping Centre for an unforgettable experience!

Plus, Noosa Today and Noosa Civic are running an Easter competition for kids to win a $300 Easter prize for colouring in the picture featured in Noosa Today.

The works of art can be delivered into Noosa Civic Shopping Centre management during office hours. They will be displayed during the holidays at Chiggy’s workshop.

Child’s

fun

For more information, visit Noosacivic. com.au Don’t miss the highly anticipated Skateboard Holiday Fun workshop with renowned local Chiggy’s Skateboarding.

Unveiling ‘Omaya’

In the realm of fine jewellery, there exists a profound symbiosis between craftsmanship, inspiration, and symbolism.

The Omaya Collection, born from the creative synergy of Paul and Bridie Minzenmay, stands as a testament to this intricate dance. Inspired by the interconnection of all things, this collection weaves a narrative of rebirth, spiritual growth, and collective intelligence.

At its heart lies the serpent, a timeless symbol of renewal and transformation.

Within the Omaya Collection, the serpent embodies the eternal cycle of life, serving as a potent reminder of our capacity for growth and evolution.

Paul’s masterful handsets each diamond with meticulous care, adorning the serpent with a pave setting that shimmers with undeniable allure. The natural emeralds, delicately placed as eyes, speak to the collection’s reverence for nature’s inherent wisdom and beauty.

Yet, the Omaya Collection extends beyond the serpent’s embrace, embracing the essence of the flower as a symbol of connection and collective intelligence. Handmade by Paul, and showcasing an Australian Argyle Diamond centrepiece, each piece within this collection is a tribute to the inherent interconnectedness of all living things, celebrating the harmony found within the natural world.

As wearers adorn themselves with these exquisite creations, they become part of a larger narrative—a story that transcends individuality and celebrates the universal truths that bind us all.

The Omaya Collection serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of our shared journey and

Snake necklace from The Omaya Collection.

the transformative power of unity.

Find Minzenmay Poeta at 5/62 Hastings St, The French Quarter, Noosa Heads.

Tewantin shopping strip buzzing with new stores

By Abbey Cannan

A Tewantin shopping precinct left half vacant after being hit by fires last year has grown to a must-do buzzing business strip.

Shops on Hilton have bounced back better than ever thanks to some resilient business owners, new entrepreneurs, and their loyal local customers.

The fire, which was deliberately lit in the early hours of Good Friday in 2023, was a savage blow to business owners preparing for one of the busiest holidays in the annual calendar.

Close to a year later, Bean Theory cafe owner Jennifer Mendes has thanked their loyal customers and is eager to welcome new people to the precinct.

“We can’t thank our community enough for their support as we continue to get back on our feet after a run of tough times,“ Jennifer said.

“After the Covid pandemic, floods and

then the fire, we are certainly learning to become a resilient bunch.

“There’s some exciting new businesses joining us in the strip soon, so keep an eye out for these shops in coming weeks.“

The precinct currently features; Noosaville Fish Market, Tewantin Vets, Bean Theory Cafe, Sew it Seams, Noosa Brow Company, Automatic Spray Tan Booth, and Lakeside Laundromat.

Where else can you get a coffee, a seafood lunch, all while getting your pet cared for, your laundry washed, and clothing alterations, fresh brows, a sun-kissed tan, in the one location?

Find the friendly and convenient shopping strip with plenty of parking at the corner of Hilton Terrace and Earl Street, Tewantin.

Be sure to follow the businesses on socials to show your support and keep up to date.

Surf club greatly expands

Noosa Surf Life Saving Club has invested in an offsite training centre which is expanding to cater to emergency services, corporate clients and schools, alongside the expanding club which continues to grow in all areas including surf education and surf sports, club president Ross Fisher told club supporters at a breakfast meeting last Friday.

“Life saving is our core basis and the reason we exist,“ he said.

The summer drowning report showed there were 99 drowning deaths with the majority on coastal areas. It would have been much worse without the efforts of surf life savers who performed 5700 rescues, 25,000 first aid treatments and 1.3million preventative actions, he said.

In its 96 year history the Noosa club continues to boast no lives lost between the flags and its vision remains on service delivery to ensure zero preventable deaths, Ross said.

Recently engaged education officer Sam Cashman spoke about his role in surf education.

After working in the legal industry in Northern Territory Sam decided it was time to serve the community in some other capacity when the opportunity came up to work in surf education.

Sam told the meeting surf education fell into the areas of lifesaving training at club, commercial training and the schools surf education program.

He said at their new state-of-the-art commercial training centre built at Noosaville the club had teamed up with Allens Training (a company that delivers nationally accredited first aid and workplace health and safety courses), widening the scope to commercial businesses for training in workplace health

and safety, first aid and fire safety and its future was looking bright.

Sam said thanks to sponsors the club had more than 3500 students go through its surf education program.

That’s 31 schools going through the pro-

gram and a lot of students getting basic education of the beach,“ he said.

“It’s a lot of remote and regional and international students as well as local students.“

Meeting MC Peter French said it was important to acknowledge the role of sponsors to the

club.

“Your sponsorship enables us to deliver major programs across Noosa and beyond and deliver our life saving services, as well as provide assets for our sports competitors and programs,“ he said.

Tony’s unique take on Noosa’s abundant wildlife

At the next Friday Forum, Tony Wellington, former Noosa mayor, wildlife enthusiast and amazing photographer, will talk about the many creatures that call Noosa home.

His focus will be on how he went about selecting material for his latest book, The Nature of Noosa, as well as the wildlife he documented in the West Cooroy State Forest.

Tony’s previous book Wild about Noosa has sold out and his new book The Nature of Noosa features beautiful photographs of the breeding, feeding and antics of different animals across Noosa’s diverse ecosystems.

Tony has always been passionate about increasing the environmental protection of our forests andWest Cooroy will be the final, large parcel of state forest in the Noosa Shire to be converted to conservation status.

Although the state government announced a year ago that this 1150 hectare of diverse habitat would become national park, it now seems to be heading towards ‘conservation park’ status. Nevertheless, the

addition will be a useful stepping stone in a corridor between the Yurol/Ringtail sections of Tewantin National Park and Mapleton Forest.

Come along to this forum on March 22nd to learn more about the West Cooroy Forest conversion and be inspired by Tony, a passionate environmentalist, author and photographer. The Nature of Noosa will be available for $60 with payment via cash or card.

Everyone is welcome at the Noosa Parks Association Environment Centre, 5 Wallace Drive, Noosaville. The forum starts at 10:30am and morning tea is available at 10-10.25am. Entry is $5 by tap and go at the door which includes morning tea/coffee.

Join the bird observers at 8.30am in the carpark for interpretive birding.

For more information: noosaparks.org. au

Red-browed finch performing a stem display.

Picture: TONY WELLINGTON

Outgoing Mayor Clare Stewart, Noosa SLSC president Ross Fisher, Wide Bay MP Llew O’Brien and club sponsor Tom Offermann of Tom Offermann Real Estate.

BISTRO

BISTRO STAGE- 8pm

After more than half a century at the forefront of Noosa beach and business, new retirees Ian and MaryJo Young reflect on the halcyon days, reports PHIL JARRATT.

Love and budgie smugglers

It’s the classic Noosa love story, with maybe a dash of surfer/clubbie rivalry and just a hint of Baywatch.

More than half a century since it began, surf life saving veteran and businessman IanYoung says: “The truth is that Mary-Jo saw me on the beach in front of the surf club in my budgie smugglers and my red and yellow cap and couldn’t resist.”

He roars with an infectious laugh that Noosa Surf Club stalwarts will know well from their life member, life governor and chairman of the supporters club for the past 20 years.

Youngie is a bloke who gets things done, and one of the best things he got done early in the piece was to win the heart of Mary-Jo.

This month they called a halt to their commercial activities after more than 40 years of hard work running successful businesses selling everything from cakes to carpets, making time to serve the community as they went.

Mary-Jo, originally from Santa Barbara, California, arrived in Noosa in 1971 with her then-partner, surfboard designer and glasser Peter Moschogianis, on the first leg of a world trip with other Santa Barbara surfers.

Although they mixed with the leading lights of the surfing world at that time, including Bob McTavish and Kevin Platt, Mary-Jo says she was most definitely not a “surf chick”. “Maybe a bit of a hippy,” she allows, “but I’d been a hairdresser, often made up with my hair styled – so definitely not part of the scene.”

She gave birth to their first child at the old Cooroy hospital, but then they moved on to Europe, basing themselves in Biarritz with the French surfing community.

Finally they returned to California, sold up and emigrated to Noosa, where a second child was born at Cooroy. But the relationship with Peter didn’t last, and Mary-Jo found herself a single mum in a frontier town.

She recalls: “Coming from Santa Barbara, I thought Noosa was a bit primitive, but oh so beautiful. I wanted to make it my home, and then I met Ian.”

Ah, the fateful day at Main Beach.

A diesel fitter from Brisbane, Ian Young had spent time in Noosa but in 1972 he decided to follow his sister and her family here and make it his home.

He had soon met surf club president Keith King, got his bronze, started doing patrols and in short time was dazzling and dating the pretty gal with the cute bob and the funny accent, while plying his trade at Daddow’s Motors for six years before starting a 16-year stint in charge of machinery maintenance for Noosa Shire Council.

Mary-Jo recalls: “I already had two kids and then Ian and I had another one, but I remember in those early days being able to live in Noosa on $50 a week, covering food, rent, electricity, everything. You couldn’t go out because there was really nowhere to go.

“We bought our first house on Belmore Terrace at Sunshine Beach for $65,000 when it was still a dirt road and kangaroos used to bound down the road in the morning to swim at the beach.”

Ian’s job at council brought him in touch with the movers and shakers of town in the days when council chambers was still located at Pomona, and he recalls some riotous Friday nights with councillors and staff at the Pomona pub, but the real social hub for the family became the Noosa Heads surf club, where the kids went through Nippers, Mary-Jo was the first aid officer for a time and Ian rose through the ranks, becoming increasingly involved at local, regional, state and national level.

In a remarkable surf life saving career, Ian has been granted life membership of the Noosa club, the Queensland association and the Australian national council, and in 2015 he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for services to life saving and the Noosa community. Part of that service was to take an innovative approach to the design of rescue boats, using his years of workshop experience to develop a prototype aluminium hull jet boat powered by a diesel engine, giving them greater range and speed than their fiberglass predecessors. Since the first one went into service in Noosa in 1989, they have become the standard for

surf clubs all over Australia.

Ian is also proud of his role in installing the first rescue beacon at Alexandra Bay, the furthest beach from the Noosa club. “We just put a radio in an old metal meter box,” he modestly explained at the time.

With the kids getting older and the town getting busier, in 1984 Mary-Jo and her friend Julie Dawson decided the time was ripe to open a business, so although they knew nothing about running a shop or making a cake, they bought a cake shop called Piece of Cake in Noosa Junction.

Says Mary-Jo: “We really knew nothing about business but we were very successful right away, and then when they opened up the Junction shopping centre [Noosa Fair] we couldn’t bake enough per day to supply the market. We were supplying all the restaurants as well as over the counter sales, so we opened another shop in town I called Noosa Tarts.

The name was a bit embarrassing when

we went to trade functions, and the staff got a little embarrassed from time to time, but it was fun. And no, we didn’t wear fishnet stockings.”

Later, Mary-Jo went into a solo business, taking over Florentine’s gift store at the thenSheraton on Hastings Street. It too was a runaway success for 12 years.

She recalls: “This was in the time when Hastings Street was still owner-run boutiques, not multinationals. We were all selling interesting stuff you couldn’t buy elsewhere, but that was set to change.”

Ian, meanwhile, had worked for the man since leaving school, but by the 1990s he too was feeling the urge to give the wheels of commerce a spin.

He quit the council and looked for a business to buy. In 1994 he found it in the small local franchise of Solomon’s Carpets. He built it up and it was soon thriving.

He says: “One of the best parts about the business for me was that I would be in about

five different houses every day, meeting really great people. And I was never been bitten by a dog in 30 years!”

After closing Florentine’s, Mary-Jo joined Ian at Solomon’s, but at the end of February they brought down the curtain on that chapter of life with the sale of the business, and are looking forward to a quieter retirement.

But Ian is adamant his days in surf life saving are far from over.

He says wistfully: “The supporters club has become an incredible success. Over the past two Christmas periods we’ve been right near the top for beer sales for Queensland! It’s funny when you look back at what it once was.

“Saturday nights in the old club were family nights, we’d be there with all our kids and the women would make the meals. It was very different, but you have to move with the times.

“Now it’s a business but it’s still a club. And it’s still our club.”

The Youngs at home.

At the club. Supplied.

Ian with surf club colleague and old mate Ron Lane. Picture: NHSLSC

Proud couple with Ian’s OAM, 2015.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Early beach days for Mary-Jo and Ian.

On edge for sculpture event

Arts Connect Inc has announced its 15th annual Sculpture on the Edge event will take place from 22 November to 1 December at Flaxton Gardens in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

Entries are now open to sculptors with an opportunity to be part of the competition and 10 day exhibition.

Sculptors are encouraged to submit details of their work online to be selected for the exhibition and participate in the competition that takes place on the first day of the event. Each sculpture will be judged by an expert panel for visual impact and interest as well as quality.

The winners are announced on day two with a total cash prize pool of $22,000 up for grabs.

There will be Sculpture on the Edge 2024 prize categories for Sculptor of the Year; Highly Commended Sculptor; Local Sculptor; Upcycle Sculptor; Encouragement Award; Sculptor’s Choice and the popular People’s Choice.

All sculptors selected to exhibit will have their sculptures on display, and available for purchase, for the entirety of the event.

This year’s theme, A Creative Feast, will encourage art lovers both locally and from interstate to visit Flaxton Gardens where they can feast on art, food and the views across the entire coast from the edge of the Blackall Range.

Event coordinator Debbie Weaver said, “Sculpture on the Edge is back for its 15th year

this November and today we are encouraging sculptors across Australia to enter their sculptures for a chance to win, exhibit and sell to the

public. “The event is a highlight in the arts calendar as we profile and support sculptors by provid-

ing them with a platform to showcase and exhibit their work. We hope to see a record number of sculptors enter.”

Last year’s event saw over 5000 people attend to view and purchase 192 sculptures.

In addition to the competition and exhibition, the Sculpture on the Edge line-up will include a series of workshops as well as an opening and closing function with networking opportunities for sculptors and art lovers alike.

Sculptors have until 31 August to enter.

Award winning podcast records at Sunshine Coast

The StoryCast Studio, which is located at Kawana Library, is acoustically treated and is free for community members with a current library membership to use.

The space provides users with access to quality microphones, a podcast production mixer/interface, Audacity editing software and the library’s free WiFi.

Hamish Adams-Cairns and Victoria Vanstone, podcast hosts of Sober Awkward, have been recording their weekly episodes in the StoryCast studio since November 2023.

Hamish said the podcast was about the weird and the wonderful world of sobriety.

“We tell our worst stories so that other people that used to drink, or still do can feel

less embarrassed about theirs,” Hamish said. Last year the podcast was awarded Australian Wellness Podcast of the Year at the Aus-

tralian Podcast Awards.

The pair started recording in the StoryCast Studio because of the professional setup.

“We used to record in Victoria’s four-year old’s bedroom, which is not professional at all,” Hamish said.

Victoria said a lot of people work from home now, and it’s nice to come out, be in the library around people, and the equipment is amazing.

Since opening in 2021, many members of the community have utilised these podcast facilities to develop new digital skills, record and produce their podcasts and more.

The StoryCast Studio allows anyone to

Feather fiasco at Sea Life for penguins

Pint-sized feathered friends are trading their sleek style for a ’feathery chic’ makeover at Sea Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium.

The little blue penguins are amid their annual ’catastrophic moult,’ shedding their feathers to strut into autumn with an entirely new ensemble.

Despite being the world’s smallest penguin species, little blue penguins boast an impressive count of around 10,000 feathers each.

With 17 penguins going through the catastrophic moult, a staggering 170,000 feathers will be dropped into the exhibit during this unique event, keeping the team remarkably busy.

Unlike other bird species that moult gradually over an extended period, little blue pen-

guins take moulting to the next level, making it an incredibly captivating process.

From November to March, the penguins undergo a rapid and dramatic transformation, shedding and regrowing all their feathers in just one to two weeks!

During the moulting season, penguins lose their waterproofing so can’t take to the water to feed. This adds an extra layer of significance to their pre-moult stage, during which they put on up to 500g of extra weight to sustain them throughout the feather renewal process.

Jess Hart, mammals manager, Sea Life Sunshine Coast, said, “Little blue penguins are known for their resilience and adaptability, and their catastrophic moult is a testament to the wonders of nature. It’s intriguing and a

little comical to witness these penguins flaunting their extra chunky, extra fluffy appearance during this time.“

So far, three penguins, Sapphire, Ziggie, and Dasher, have completed their catastrophic moult and are happily showing off their brandnew feathers. Born at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast only last year, Ziggie and Dasher, embarked on this journey for the first time.

Daisy Barrett, marine animal specialist, Sea Life Sunshine Coast, said, “While Sapphire, Ziggie, and Dasher have already wowed guests with their transformed appearance, the majority of the colony is now moulting.

“This is a unique opportunity for guests to witness an incredible natural phenomenon in action.”

explore, create and produce podcast content on any subject that is of interest in a welcoming environment. Libraries are expanding their reach into new technology and making it available to the community for free.

To book a session at the StoryCast Studio visit the Sunshine Coast Libraries website.

StoryCast Studio Details:

Location: Kawana Library, 30 Nanyima Street, Buddina

Session Times: Monday to Friday: 9.30am – 11.45am/ 12pm – 2.15pm/ 2.30pm – 4.45pm

Saturday: 9.30am – 11.45am

Not a member yet? Join online or speak to a friendly staff member at your local library.

A night of magic and illusion

Get ready for a spectacular night of magic and grand illusion with one of Australia’s leading illusionists, Anthony Street performing his new show Spellbound at The Events Centre, Caloundra on Thursday 11 April.

The star and producer of the stage phenomenon, Celtic Illusion will be bringing his Grand Illusion show Spellbound to Caloundra for the first time.

Witness levitations, impossible vanishes, mentalism and a death-defying escape as Anthony pushes the boundaries of reality and distorts your senses.

With his unique and edgy style performing one of the oldest of art forms, Anthony will enthral and astonish you, and keep you on the edge of your seat.

Will you dare to believe your eyes? Don’t miss this exciting performance coming to The Events Centre this April.

EVENT DETAILS:

· VENUE: The Events Centre, Caloundra

· DATE and TIME: Thursday 11 April at 7.30pm

· TICKETS: From $74.90

· BOOKINGS: Call 07 5491 4240 or visit theeventscentre.com.au

Pint-sized feathered friends are trading their sleek style for a ‘feathery chic’ makeover.The little blue penguins are amid their annual catastrophic moult.

Hamish Adams-Cairns and Victoria Vanstone, podcast hosts of Sober Awkward.

Artist Amanda Stuart holding her sculpture.

Tina Cooper with her sculpture.

Pictures: PETER WALLIS FOR THE COMMS. PEOPLE

Celebrating top jazz guitarists

Among other stringed instruments, guitars have played a vital role in the development of a diverse range of musical genres; they are portable, flexible, and musically adaptable.

The Noosa Heads Jazz Club is featuring two highly acclaimed jazz guitarists at its monthly concert at Pomona’s Majestic Theatre on 28 March to showcase popular jazz classics woven together with panache by the mastery of

From singing and bush care to service clubs and art, there are a wide variety of groups in Noosa.

RSL WOMEN’S AUXILIARY

The next meeting of the Tewantin-Noosa RSL Women’s Auxiliary will be held on Friday 5 April. Please Note:We will meet at the Royal Mail Hotel, Tewantin, at the usual time of 10.30am. All members, friends and visitors welcome. Phone Kay 5447 5042.

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

YANDINA COUNTRY MUSIC

Yandina welcomes guest artists The Gecko Brothers to the ACMA concert on Sunday 17 March. You’ll also enjoy popular country music and other upbeat, crowd-pleasing favourites from local artists backed by a great house band. See you at the Hall of Fame, 24 Steggalls Road, 12 noon start. Raffle and door prizes, BYO lunch, free tea and coffee. Entry $10, members $8. Enquiries 0437 191 004. We are a not-forprofit organisation and the proceeds will go towards the upkeep of the hall.

QCWA

First street stall for the year for QCWA Tewantin-Noosa is on Thursday 21 March 8-10.30am or earlier if sold out. Baking, jams, preserves, expert handicrafts and plants. Social Cuppa, Chat & Create meetups every Thursday 9 - 11am. Everyone welcome for a chat and make new friends. Next branch meeting Wednesday 27 March 5-7pm at QCWA Hall, next to Tewantin PO. Enquiries Jennifer 0409 063 738

RED CROSS

Red Cross Tewantin - Noosa Branch meet monthly on the third Friday of each month. the next meeting will be on Friday 15 March at Tewantin Noosa RSL. Doors open 10am followed by meeting. All welcome. For more information contactValerie 0466 846 110.

VEGGIE VILLAGE

Veggie Village at Rufous St Peregian Beach is a community garden growing organic fruit, herbs and vegetables. Membership is open to anyone who wants to learn more about gardening, share their knowledge or just make some friends. Veggie Village has individual plots for rent plus communal plots that we look after and share. Contact us on info@veggievillage.org.au or visit veggievillage.org.au

GARDEN CLUB

The next meeting of the Tewantin Noosa Garden Club will be held on Monday 11 March at the Anglican Church, 17 William Street, Tewantin. The guest speaker will be a representative from Bendigo Bank who will speak on credit card fraud. Plant sales competition table raffles and afternoon tea. Guests welcome. For more information contact Len 0417 604 889.

LEARN UKULELE

Ukulele Group Lessons now available with Cherry the Ukulele Lady. A 6 week course will

guitarists Russel Bayne and Dave Burrows, who are accompanied by a distinguished ensemble of clarinetist, Paul Williams with John Conley on string bass and Pat Robbins on drums.

Russell has been playing guitar since he was 12 years old and has made a name for himself as one of Australia’s premier jazz guitarists.

be starting soon near Cooroibah. Each lesson is one hour long with a cuppa afterwards. (Adults only). For more details - 0410 573 629.

BOOMERANG BAGS NOOSA

Fabric donations always needed. Boomerang Bags are sewn from recycled fabric with the aim of reducing single use plastic bags and minimising landfill from discarded textiles. Any unwanted fabric, doona covers, sheets, denim, curtains or upholstery fabric can be dropped off at Wallace House (near the Noosa library) on a Monday or Wednesday morning or phone Ned on 0411 784 911.

WAVES OF KINDNESS

Waves of Kindness Care Centre Cooroy meets at the Uniting Church Hall, 51 Maple Steet Cooroy on Tuesdays. Join Our Ladies Craft Group every Tuesday from 10am to 12pm for morning tea, BYO craft.We are open from 1pm to 3.30pm for Welfare Appointments. Call 0499 091 352.

ACTIVITY WITH PARKINSONS

The Parkinsons Activity Group, provides activities for Parkinsons sufferers, the activities range from Boxercise in the Box Office, 25 Project Avenue (0422 485 482) Georgina, Physio-led exercise (0490 444 255) Emily, SpeechTherapy voice and choir (0400 037 901) Edwina. Call Ann for an info pamphlett on 0458 009 601. Parkinsons Group meets the third Friday of each month at Noosa Tewantin Bowls Club at 10.30am for information and lunch. You need to stay active and socialise to help deal with the symptoms.

LIONS CLUB NOOSA HEADS

Want to make friends and assist the community?We are a small, friendly club who will celebrate our 50th year soon.We need people to assist us with the NoosaTri later on in the year.We have varied activities and projects to raise funds to assist the local community. We meet the the Tewantin RSL. Please phone Keetha 0421 250 614 to enquire.

COMMUNITY GARDEN

The Noosa Community Garden is back in full swing attracting a lot of new members. “Our mission is to create a place of positive impact throughacommunitygardeninarelaxed,social and sustainable environment through growing together“. Our summer gardening hours are Friday 7.30-10am. After harvest which is shared amongst the gardeners, we enjoy a chat over a cuppa. Further details please call Erika 0409 300 007.

CLASSICAL MUSIC GROUP

Our Classical Music Group meets in a private home in Noosaville each Thursday from 2-4pm and either watch a Classical Music DVD or listen to Classical Music CDs. There is no charge but I do appreciate a donation of $2 for afternoon tea/coffee biscuits. Please phone Lyn on 5449 0537 for more details.

FABULOUS 60S PLUS

We are a fun, friendly, seniors social group. We welcome couples and singles to join us for morning coffee everyTuesday at the Noosa Marina wine bar Tewantin, from 10am and every Thursday at the Boathouse on the Noosa River from 10 am. We also have a monthly program of lunches, dinners, picnics, walks and other fun activities. Contact Joan on 0419 517 869 for more details.

PHOTO CLUB

We meet on the second Monday of each month at Uniting Church Hall, 6 Grasstree Court Sunrise Beach at 7pm. The club comprises all levels of expertise form novice to professional. The night comprises a guest speaker, supper and

Dave Burrows has entertained Noosa and the Sunshine Coast audiences at festivals and concerts and is an accomplished luthier (a builder of stringed musical instruments). He has been building guitars for over 30 years and has sold his instruments to guitarists around Australia.

Music starts at 1 pm, and bookings can be made at noosajazzclub.com

our monthly critique of member’s work. Visitors welcome.

NOOSA U3A FRIDAY TALKS

U3A Noosa Friday Talks are held at 1.30 pm at U3A, 64 Poinciana Ave, Tewantin.

Friday 22 March - Associate Professor Kevin Alford - The story of Captain James Cook as you have never heard it.

Full details available on U3A website u3anoosa.com.au/ or phone 5440 5500.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

Workshops (bookings required):

Colour intensive for watercolorists with Jan Lawnikanis: Saturday and Sunday 23 & 24 March, 9 am – 4 pm.

Monoprinting with Lizzie Connor: Saturday and Sunday 13 & 14 April, 9 am – 4 pm. Abstraction, Acrylics and Artistry with Janey Richards: Saturday & Sunday 20 & 21 April, 9 am – 3 pm.

BathingBeautieswithCathySpencer: Wednesday 24 April, 9 am – 4 pm.

To book events phone 5474 1211, email create@noosaartsandcrafts.org.au or visit noosaartsandcrafts.org.au

FAMILY HISTORY

The Heritage Centre at 17 Emerald Street in Cooroy welcomes visitors to research family and local history.Volunteers are there to help.

Access a wide range of resources including a library, computers, digital databases and subscriptions to MyHeritage, Ancestry.com, FindmyPast and more.

Open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 9.30am-1pm Information ph. 07 3129 0356 or visit genealogy-noosa.org.au

WOMEN’S SHED

At Noosa Women’s Shed our focus is to teach women tool-based skills. Members can attend tool learning sessions on Mondays and Saturdays in our workshop.

On the second Saturday of every month, we have a general meeting, held at Noosa Seniors, 11 Wallace Drive Noosaville from 1.30pm. All are welcome. Come along and hear our story, tour our shed, chat with like minded women. Find out more about us at noosawshed.com.au or facebook.com/NoosaWomensShed

MENS SHED

Want to join a group of like-minded men for mateship, camaraderie and networking? The Noosa Men’s Shed provides a venue for the men of Noosa to gather in an environment of traditional Australian mateship. It aims to advance the health, well being and social inclusion based on individual interests of the members.

Apart from social interaction, support and companionship, the Shed offers facilities and support for many activities: woodwork, metalwork, gardening, arts studio, music, hobbies (leatherwork, technology, amateur radio), health and wellbeing, bee keeping, aquaponics and hydroponics. Membership is $120 per year and application forms are available from the Shed office on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 11am at Rotary Lane off Wallum Lane, Noosa Springs.

TEWANTIN NOOSA LIONS

Looking for something exciting and different. We Serve is our motto and we have fun doing it. Interested? Contact us - we meet at Tewantin Noosa RSL club first and third Tuesday of the month 6.30pm.We would love to meet you.

SUNSHINE SOCIAL CLUB

We meet for coffee 10am every Saturday at the

Dave Burrows.

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.

VIEW CLUB

Noosaville Lunch time View Club supports the education of children through The Smith Family Charity. On the second Thursday of the month we have a Friendship Day where we meet for lunch at various venues. On the fourth Thursday of each month we have our club meeting at the Tewantin RSL at 11.30am with a guest speaker and update on our Learning for Life students. For more information call Wendy Brooks on 0417 267 281

PROBUS NOOSA RIVER

Our club offers many activities: art, craft, book club, canasta, coffee mornings, creative writing, golf, lunch outings, Mah-jong, Scrabble, theatre (local and Brisbane), walking trips, ukulele and wine appreciation Nights. Monthly meetings are on the first Monday of each month at the Girraween Sports Complex Clubhouse (Entrance off roundabout adjacent Eenie Creek Rd and Langura St) at 9am. Call 0410 687 639.

SINGING IS GOOD FOR YOU

If you enjoy music and would like to join a fun loving, vibrant, friendly group who sing beautiful, joyful, easy to learn songs from around the world in a relaxed and fun atmosphere we would love to hear from you.We meet Tuesdays at 4 till 5.30pm at the CWA hall in Eumundi. All levels of ability accepted and no auditions. Come and give it a try. For more information call Joan on 0419 517 869.

Tewantin-

Noosa Meals on Wheels

Weekly roster for Tewantin- Noosa

Meals on Wheels beginning Monday 18 March

Monday Drivers: Tony, Darryl, Ray Z, Maria and James, Driver needed for F Run, Elsa, Lorraine, Jason, Driver needed for J Run, Driver needed for K run.

Kitchen: Geoff, Renee

Tuesday Drivers: Bruce, Paul H, Tania and Friends, Penny, Driver needed for E run, Driver needed for G Run, Carlee and Gordon, Driver need for K run

Kitchen: Chris, Ann,

Wednesday Drivers: Martina, Kevin Mc, Alan and Cynthia, Kevin, Elsa, Melody and Kath, Simone, John and Helen, Paul

Kitchen: Denise, Chris, Judi, John, Jerry, Christina

Thursday Drivers: Kyle, Darryl, Sue, Donna and Julie, Margo and Jim, Kerryn and Stuart, Ian, Martina, Michael, Sharon and Mal

Kitchen: Donal, Vicki, Sharon

You can also check the roster on our website mealsonwheels-tewantin-noosa. org.au

If you are unavailable or can do an extra run, please phone the kitchen on 54497659.

We are looking for drivers and kitchen volunteers.

Smooth sails

The Noosa Yacht and Rowing Club was delighted to witness the remarkable turnout marking the commencement of the Sailability season last week.

Sailability aims to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to experience the joy of sailing, mirroring the enjoyment many others regularly experience.

The Noosa Yacht and Rowing Club boasts qualified instructors, seasoned volunteers, and top-notch equipment to facilitate sailing for individuals of all abilities.

Under the guidance of qualified sailing instructors, each participant sets sail on a 12foot Vagabond sailing dinghy, a widely used vessel for sailing training across Queensland. Carers are encouraged to accompany participants aboard to ensure a smooth transition, if needed.

Safety is paramount, with a dedicated safety boat constantly monitoring the activity.

Additionally, a new mobility transfer device has been acquired to assist individuals with mobility challenges, simplifying the transfer to

the boat.

Sailability, a non-profit international program, was introduced to Australia in the 1990s and has been offered at the Noosa Yacht and Rowing Club since 2010.

Its success relies heavily on volunteer and community support. Donations are warmly welcomed, and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Community events like the Noosa Come Together Festival and Noosa Gaff Rig Regatta, held on June 8 and 9, contribute crucial funds to this esteemed program.

The Sailability program runs annually from March, every Thursday morning, except during school holidays, spanning 24 weeks. The season culminates in a Regatta and BBQ celebration in September.

Participants can access support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) via their NDIS Plan Manager. Contact the Noosa Yacht & Rowing Club on 5449 8602 to register your interest.

‘Living Well’ in Noosa

To foster a healthier and more connected community, Noosa Council’s Living Well program has launched a series of activities specifically designed for young people aged 12 to 24.

The diverse range of activities aims to connect community organisations and health programs with young locals, aligning with the Living Well program’s overarching goal of promoting a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

The weekly offerings include free yoga flow sessions, art classes, meditation workshops, and a weekly drop-in centre, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Community programs officer Josiah Tharps said the new initiative helps sup-

port mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing within the youth community.

“The free sessions are run by professional highly skilled facilitators, bringing the best classes available,” Mr Tharps said.

Mr Tharps said another highlight is next month’s Thrive Youth Festival in Pomona.

“We are looking to engage our youth in the hinterland and this new festival promises a dynamic blend of entertainment, education and fun,” he said.

The festival is on 11 April at Pomona Community House as part of Queensland Youth Week.

To find more information and to participate, booking details can be found on the council’s website.

Getting ready for Thrive Youth Festival coming in April. (Left to right) Kate, Miatta, Tao, Jordan and Callum with Noosa Council Community Programs Officer, Josiah Tharps.

The Sailability season kicked off last week with a great turnout. Picture: NEALE BERTRAM

It’s all about the cheese

By Erle Levey

What is it about cheese that has intrigued, inspired and sustained us for so many generations?

It has been around for ages - since 8000BC when farmers in Europe, Central Asia or the Middle East learnt how to make it from coagulated dairy products.

Yet cheese still holds a sense of mystery.

This month artisan Sunshine Coast hinterland producer Woombye Cheese Company will reveal some of the mystique at a cheesetasting evening at the West Woombye cellar door of the factory.

The art of cheese-making came to Australia with the First Fleet, but for many years most of it was factory-processed cheddars.

Today, cheese can be enjoyed in so many ways - in baking, on pizza, as part of salads, as a fondue or by itself.

The natural taste brings people together in different settings and surroundings.

To unlock some of the mystique and explore the history of this extraordinary food, Beth O’Leary of national award-winning Woombye Cheese Company will be holding a Cheese Masterclass at the company’s cellar door on Thursday, 28 March, from 6-9pm.

Woombye Cheese has been recognised nationally and on the world stage for its produce - particularly for the Blackall Gold Washed Rind.

It has been ChampionWashed Rind Cheese (Australian Grand Dairy Awards) on a number of occasions and in 2023 was crowned Grand Champion product at the 2023 Australian Grand Dairy Awards.

Now it has been awarded second prize in its section at the World Championship Cheese Contest inWisconsin, USA - the largest technical cheese competition in the world.

Woombye Cheese has been acknowledged by Slow Food Noosa as a Snail of Approval artisan for the way in which they ensure their products are developed in alignment with the Slow Food values of good, clean and fair food.

Beth will be presenting a tale of local cheesemaking and Easter cheese platter workshop at the factory on Blackall Range Rd. It promises to be an informative and fun evening to:

· Learn about the history of the cheesemaking process.

· Take part in a delicious Woombye cheese tasting.

· Learn how to curate an Easter cheeseboard.

A lucky door prize of a Woombye Cheese Company Brie Baker Kit will also be presented on the night, along with an Amrita Park Meadery beverage to accompany the cheese tasting.

For Beth O’Leary, it will be a chance to share her passion for cheese-making, learnt over nine years with previous owners Graeme and Karen Paynter.

Since the Paynters started cheese-making in 2013, the range has grown to include Camembert, Triple Cream Brie, Blackall Gold Washed Rind, Woombye Ash Brie, Vintage Cheddar and, of course, the indulgent Truffle Triple Cream Brie.

All of the award-winning cheese is made at Woombye – it is the perfect setting with its

panoramic vistas of rolling green hills, creeks and bushland.

“We produce all of our cheese by hand, using traditional methods with care and experience,’’ Beth said.

“If there’s one thing I like more than cheese, it’s telling the story of cheese and what we do here.

“The great part is to try and get the users to understand how it is created. It just doesn’t come from somewhere.

“Cheese is an inherently slow food due to the time it takes to make.

“It’s a food that brings people together for a shared experience and it’s made by hand, using locally sourced products.

“It’s such an emotive food and that’s what I love to share when people visit us.

“In practice, we try to be sustainable by recycling whey - our waste product - and source milk from local farms to make a true handmade artisan product while adhering to traditional methods.

“In doing so we create opportunities for our staff and acknowledge their achievements.’’

For Beth, who took over atWoombye Cheese after two years of travelling around Australia with her family, cheese making is something she has long dreamed about.

This was the opportunity to do something about it. She grabbed the chance with both hands and turned the dream into reality.

“To be honest, I thought I might one day open a little cheese shop but life had other plans.

“I had done lots of cheese courses, classes

and tastings. Then in 2019 we travelled Australia and during this time, visited over 30 cheesemakers across the country.

“These visits really fuelled my passion for cheese and when we returned home and Woombye Cheese needed a new owner, it felt like the perfect thing to do.

“I have found it to be a fun and welcoming community to be a part of.’’

Cheese has nutritional benefits together with wellness and enjoyment. It provides essential nutrients for building strong bones and it takes only 40gm per day to achieve this.

“It also contains a protein called casein,’’ Beth said, “which makes you feel good and wanting more.’’

The making and enjoyment of cheese in Australia has come a long way from the processed Kraft cheddar in foil wrap and a cardboard package that we had as children on salads in summer.

Recent turning points would have been the influences brought by the European migration in the 1950s and ’60s.

“We’ve definitely come a long way with cheese in Australia ,’’ Beth said.

“Some of the first soft cheeses imported were in a can and didn’t resemble cheese at all. Yet over the past 30 years there has been a trend toward artisan cheese.

“Our Blackall Gold Washed Rind is the closest to a European cheese that an Australian maker produces, which speaks volumes in terms of how much we’ve progressed.

“It’s very popular and that’s an encouraging sign.

time. This big salty bath helps to preserve the cheese, form the rind and add flavour. Each cheese has a different time to brine depending on what is trying to be achieved. 383295

“While the Kraft cheddar in the blue box still has its place, it great to see people expanding their palate and appreciating Australian specialty cheese as well.’’

When it comes to the enjoyment of cheese, the key thing to remember is not to overcomplicate it.

“Pair it with whatever you like or serve it solo,’’ Beth said.

“Cook, melt, drizzle, fondue, raclette, grate or serve it on a cheeseboard – just make sure it’s a quality local product.’’

Serving and storing cheese is an art in itself, Beth said. If, for some reason, it gets opened and isn’t entirely consumed at once then it is best to wrap the leftover cheese in baking paper and put into a sealed container.

For Woombye Cheese, attaining Slow Food Snail of Approval status comes from ensuring it is locally sourced and produced.

As a result, this insistence on quality has brought recognition at shows as well as in the market place.

“We try to improve where we can and look at ways to be sustainable.”

Although cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium, it is also rich in calcium and protein, and some fermented types contain probiotics.

There are very few who don’t love this diverse and delicious food product. We are very fortunate to have some wonderful local cheese-makers right here on our doorstep.

For the cheese workshop and cheese tasting bookings, search for: Slow Food Woombye Cheese Event.

Beth O’Leary of Woombye Cheese at the cellar door of the factory in West Woombye. 383295 Beth O’Leary of Woombye Cheese at the cellar door of the factory in West Woombye. 383295

Woombye Cheese Blackall Gold has been named Champion Cheese at the Australian Grand Dairy Awards for the second year in a row in taking out the Washed Rind category. 383295

Brine

It was like the first day back at school as Queensland endurance horse riders started the 2024 season. ERLE LEVEY was at Imbil’s Stirling Crossing Equestrian Centre for a few lessons.

Riding off to a stirling start

By Erle Levey

The 2024 Queensland Endurance Riding Association (QERA) season got under way in style at Imbil this month.

There was a mix of experienced riders returning for the year and newcomers being welcomed into the fold for the Stirling’s Starter.

Seasoned horses were side by side with those being brought into the sport at the Stirlings Crossing Equestrian Centre.

There were 137 riders registered for the seven events over the two days - from 10km and 20km introductory rides to 40km intermediate and the 82km endurance event.

It was the first QERA endurance ride over this distance in a year will see a high number of competitions throughout the Mary Valley and the Burnett regions.

These include the Far-A-Way Easter Endurance Carnival at Imbil Showgrounds on March 29-April 1; the Stirling’s Classic at Stirlings Crossing, Imbil, on May 4-6; Biggenden June 15-16; QERA State Championships at Widgee on July 20-21; Blackbutt-South Burnett Club on Sep 7-8; and Wondai on Sep 21-22.

The year will culminate with the Tom Quilty Gold Cup at Wirrina Cove, South Australia, on October 19-20, with a strong contingent of local riders expected to take part.

The setting at Stirlings Crossing Endurance Centre for the starter over Saturday-Sunday was near perfect: ringed by forested ranges with crystal-clear night skies and the sound of running water from Yabba Creek.

The day temperatures were hot and humid, and the course through the picturesque Imbil State Forest was regarded as challenging due to the hills and the firm surfaces of the trails.

Yet riders welcomed the chance to lay the foundations for 2024, bringing in new horses and building their stamina for the events ahead.

Temperatures had been tipped to be in the mid 30s so the decision was made to start the 82km event at 3pm, 90 minutes after the scheduled start to avoid the main heat from the day.

The 40km event got away at 2.30pm, with the 20km and 10km starting at 3.30pm to get them back to ride base before dark.

Sunday saw a further 40km, 20km and 10km events starting from 5am.

Volunteers make it possible

Without the band of volunteers that step in at Stirlings Crossing events such as this would not be possible.

Endurance provides a setting for riders, family and friends to get together due to their love of horses.

QERA and the Stirlings Crossing Endurance Club are very organised and proven to be capable of running such rides.

Thanks to an amazing community in the Mary Valley the core group of committee and volunteers stays much the same.

As a result there is a great network of vets, stewards and medical staff.

In endurance riding, to complete the course is to win.

Veterinary checks of horses are held before and at the end of each event, as well as after each 40km leg in longer rides.

Care is also taken to ensure the welfare of riders.

Then there are the hosts, the Sample family, for the work put into preparing the course and the centre.

The volunteers help with timing, data entry, communications, providing food as well as hot or cold drinks for the team.

There are teams to fill water points, arrange for riders and horses to be returned to base in case of injury, illness or a mishap.

Then there are the facilities to check, let alone ensure that power stays on during blackouts.

82km Stirling’s Starter

Riders at the event ranged in age from five to 74 years. To take part in an open class there is a minimum requirement of having completed two 40km and three 80km events over any period of time.

Horses must be five years old, and to compete in the open class need to have completed three 80km rides in a timeframe of 90 days of competition.

Line honours and heavyweight award-winner was Gympie’s Grant Jocumsen riding GJ Horsemanship Tango in a time of 7:25:56.

Mother and daughter Karen Winkel and Aanja Hamelink crossed the line in the same time as Grant, and shared equal first placing in the lightweight section.

Mary Duncan, riding Bonnybrooke Samara, was leading junior - also with a time of 7:25:56.

Saasha Grogan riding S’Shaada Material Girl took out the middleweight section at 8:02:00.

Exciting year ahead

As the name implies, the Stirlings Starter is the first QERA endurance-length ride for the season.

It will be an exciting year for riders with a good number of events scheduled for the Gympie and Burnett regions.

Australian Endurance Riders Association (AERA) secretary and QERA ride calendar coordinator Kim Moir said the next event to look forward to would be the Far-A-Way Easter Endurance Carnival at Imbil Showgrounds on March 29-April 1.

There are 10 events scheduled over four days, with the 320km marathon the showpiece.

One of the longest endurance horse riding events in Australia, it is held in demanding terrain as well as conditions.

Far-A-Way was started at Dealbata, near Kenilworth, in 1986 by a group of riders who were travelling to theTom Quilty Gold Cup that year.

They had decided to take a team to the first travelling Quilty; to be held in South Australia. Sitting around the campfires, they thought of a

Starting out: Five-years-old Regan Eastaughffe and Super Sonny after Sunday’s 10km event.

signature ride for Queensland.

Within a few months, the committee was established and the new marathon event was to be known as The Far-A-Way.

It will start at 4am Friday, 29 March, and finish Monday afternoon.

Like the Tom Quilty, the marathon has become quite an ambition of riders.

“It’s not everyone’s wish,’’ Kim Moir said, “but those that is, they are extremely keen on it.

“It’s a big ask. They need to have a horse ready for that distance.

“It’s a matter of getting the condition up for horse and rider.

“Competitors can be any age, as long as they are an open rider and so is the horse.’’

The Far-A-Way offers something for everyone, with a 20km every day, 80km Saturday and Monday, with options of 5km and 20km on Sunday.

The Kilkivan Great Horse Ride is to be held the following weekend, 5-7 April, with trail rides and events.

Discussions are taking place for a 40km QERA ride on the Sunday.

The Stirlings Classic at Stirlings Crossing, Imbil, on May 4-6, is, as the name implies, a highly-regarded event on the ride calendar.

The weekend comprises a 120km ride plus a couple of 40km events.

The Classic is taken seriously by riders and seen as a development event for those wanting to focus on competition.

The Biggenden weekend of June 15-16 is always popular and will see 20km, 40km and 80km rides.

It is being held earlier this year to make room on the calendar for the inaugural Won-

dai ride in September.

A highlight of the year will be the QERA State Championships at Widgee on July 20-21, with a 40km and 160km ride.

Holding the championships at the recreation grounds is in recognition of the history of theWidgee Endurance and Trail Riding Club and the facilities on offer.

Widgee has a strong committee and a lot of community support for the ride.

There is a long connection with horse events from its rural past, but that is becoming stronger as more and more riders move to the area.

The inaugural Wondai ride weekend on September 21-22 is being organised by the Dingo Creek Endurance and Community Club. Ride co-ordinator Virginia Barber said Wondai was another name for dingo … the creek that runs through the town and forestry. Rides will include 80km, 20km and 40km. There will be a series of social rides in the lead-up, starting Saturday, 23 March, with a social dinner, and the rides on Sunday.

Results

· Heavyweight: Line honours and heavyweight winner: Grant Jocumsen riding GJ Horsemanship Tango in a time of 7:25:56.

· Middleweight: 1. Saasha Grogan riding S’Shaada Material Girl, 8:02:00. 2. Antonia Forstpointner, Performance Park Wings Of Fire. 3. Gayle Holmes, Barakee Holy Tomoly.

· Lightweight: Equal first: KarenWinkel, riding Ranek Boz, and Aanja Hamelink, Picnic Park Klassiqua, 7:25:56. 3. Emma Shone, Brookleigh Syria.

· Junior: 1. Mary Duncan, riding Bonnybrooke Samara, 7:25:56. 2. Neeve Whittaker, Bacchante Catching Fire.

Pam Kurner of Bellingen with Flemingo Saphire. Completion is to win.

Mother and daughter Virginia Barber, riding Maakir Of Bedain, and Georgie Barber on Jayhal Paddington, during the 82km event.

Light and shade at a creek crossing in the 82km event.

Riders get away in the 82km event to start the 2024 QERA season.

Stick to sheltered waters

Conditions at sea have been shocking so there hasn’t been much going on offshore.

With both the wind and swell being terrible, most anglers opted for the inside off Fraser, getting in close to the island where it’s protected from both wind and swell.

There they found longtail, queenfish, Golden trevally, and of course the mac tuna in close, smashing bait up around the Platypus Bay area.

Zman Streakz plastics in the bubblegum colour have been the go as of late, alongside metals being thrown into the schools and winding them in as fast as you can.

Make sure you have plenty of drag on as these fish have some pulling power.

For those who braved the wind and the ocean-like conditions in the bay, there were some decent results with the many drop-offs holding plenty of squire and sweetlip on offer.

These fish were holding right on the lowest side of the drop-offs with all that fresh still around.

The best baits have been pilchards and squid and fresh mullet and prawns.

For those lure anglers little Zman paddle tail soft plastics have been the go with the lightest weight jighead you can use to still get the lure to the bottom.

The people who sent it up the creeks managed some big jacks getting around with heaps of 50s models.

Most are coming out of the Straits with that clearer water.

Laydowns and run-off drains have been the best bets and creek mouths with that clearer

water are better still.

With big tides this week we should see some clearer water starting to get around.

Those fishing the Straits have found good numbers of barra and threadfin salmon getting around and jacks and little blue salmon as well.

With lots of rain through there on the weekend, run-offs were fishing amazing for jacks and barra.

The threadfin salmon have been found on deep rock bars and shallow drains, eating jelly prawns, so little prawn imitations have been working a treat. A 92mm clone prawn lightly weighted have been the go.

If you’re looking to up your chances even more, a little bit of Pro Cure prawn scent has made the difference for some anglers, only getting bites after applying the scent.

Flathead and whiting have been getting around in good numbers on the sandflats at the moment.

The whiting is feeding well as always on freshly pumped yabbies, and soldier crabs have also been a bait of choice.

On the lures side, small walk the dogs, poppers, and splash prawns have also done the damage with light line and leader being the key to success.

Some bigger flatheads have been caught drifting sand flat and mud flat edges with soft plastics working the best alongside little divers.

On the beaches, the water temperature is still up there a little so reports of any good tailor are still hit and miss.

Dart on the other hand has been out by the millions.

These fish inhabit the closer gutters and tops of the waves.

If you’re looking for an easy way to get your kids into fishing this is it.

These fish are easy to catch using a size 6 baitholder hook loaded with prawns, pippies, or worms.

Good numbers of jews have been getting caught at dusk and dawn, while heaps of little trevally alongside good pelagics have been caught throughout the day.

For all the latest information log onto www. fishingnoosa.com.au for up-to-date bar and fishing reports, don’t forget to drop into Gympie’s Newest tackle store “The tackle Shop”, Tackle World Noosa, and Northshore Bait & Tackle in Marcoola for all the right equipment, bait and advice to get you catching.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and remember Tight Lines and Bent Spines!

Stay active and fit with plenty to do around Noosa

From sport to dancing or walks, there’s plenty of ways to get active in Noosa.

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. No team is required; just come along and play. Registration is $37, then $5 for each game you play.Wednesday 6-7:30pm, Noosa Netball courts, McKinnon Drive, Tewantin. Call Jane 0407 480 125 for more information.

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.

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 social bowls every Tuesday and

Saturday afternoon.

There is no need to book, simply turn up at 12 noon. For further information contact Maureen (club president) on 0419 588 661.

SUNDAY DANCE

Every Sunday, from 12.30, at theTewantin Masonic Hall, Moorindil St. We start by teaching basic dance steps, then Waltz, old time, New Vogue, Ballroom Dances and a little Latin. We run through to 4pm. Lots of fun and dancing, including a 20 min. 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

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 improving flexibility with an easy active fitness plan. Please call Donna on 0419 373 319.

CROQUET

Every Sunday morning is Come andTry Day at the Club in Noosa Waters’ attractive grounds in Seashell Place. Be at the Club by 8.15am where experienced trainers will help you understand what this strategic game is all about. And remember our offer – four free lessons before you need to think about joining. For further information ring Niven on 0428 799

987. 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.

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. Wednesday mornings: 8.45am-10.15am in Tewantin. Phone Margaret for details on 0425 269 988.

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 aroundtheworld,onFridaysfrom10-11.45am 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.

TAP DANCING

Come and join the fabulous foot percussionists every Thursday at The Uniting Church Hall, Werin St, Tewantin. Beginners start class at 4.45pm and do combined work with the intermediate class from 5-5.45pm.The intermediate class runs from 5-6pm. Contact Helen on 0448 621 788 for more.

SOCIAL BALLROOM DANCING AT POMONA

EveryTuesday evening from 7-9.30pm Pat and Norm Young organise a social evening at the Pomona Memorial School of Arts Hall. Cost is $4. It is a very enjoyable evening as Pat and Norm provide New Vogue as well as Old Time Dancing. Come and see if you will enjoy it or phone 0407 456 939.

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. Class- es 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.

Tye’s tasty mangrove jack.

Noble and Hill best of best

Caleb Noble and Richelle Hill have won the men’s and women’s titles at the Mooloolaba Triathlon, with Noble taking a dramatic photofinish victory while Hill stamped her authority on the race.

Noble claimed the men’s win in the most dramatic of fashions, edging out Charlie Quin in a photo-finish.

The pair were side-by-side throughout much of the 10km run leg and entered the finish chute together, with Noble making a dive for the line to win by the barest of margins.

Both Noble and Quin crossed the line in 1:45:53, with Kurt McDonald rounding out the podium a minute and a half further behind.

“It was pretty cool, I remember just coming home the last two kilometres with Charlie, he’s one of my good mates,” Noble said.

“We had a few surges and stuff like that, I finished second last year so it went right down to the wire and I had to push and do the big dive at the end so I was stoked to get the win.

“I took it out hard on the run and once Charlie caught me I sat behind him in the headwind to save a bit of energy but it was probably the last k I sort of really had to believe and had about three or four surges and then the dive at the end,” he said.

Noble was at the front of the field all morning, leading out of the water and pushing ahead on the bike. The Sunshine Coast-based athlete took a slender lead onto the run, with himself and Quin pushing hard the whole way to the line.

“I was really happy with my swim, I took off solid and then had a gap out of the water and then on the bike it was really windy, I’ve never really ridden in winds like that before so I sort of had to save energy and I held the front, came into T2 with a bit of a lead and then took off on the run,” said Noble. “I had to hold my pace and I really had to dig deep at the end and I’m so happy to get the win.”

Richelle Hill won the women’s race in 1:56:51, four minutes ahead of defending champion Lotte Wilms, with Emily Donker third.

“I feel ecstatic, I’ve had a few races recently

Finals glory

By Alec Munn

The Sunshine Coast Cricket Division 1 semi-final was scheduled for two days of play over the last weekend at Read Park, Tewantin. The Tewantin Noosa Cricket Club were to challenge the Coolum Cricket Club in a play-off to see who went through to the grand final.

Despite a magnificent wicket being prepared for the match, the consistent rain we’ve been having made the field unplayable and the match was called off before it even started. The Tewantin Noosa team, being minor-premiers now play Caboolture at Read Park over the next two weekends for grand final honours.

Head down and support your local team with the first day’s play starting at 11.30am this Saturday.

Our junior boys and girls had their endof-season awards night last week.

The club saw a lot of growth in junior cricket this season and, in particular, the number of female cricketers getting involved, many for the first time ever. Hopefully this trend continues into the next season.

Amongst the many awards and trophies given out were these few notable mentions: Completing 100 Club games, Aedan Mayo and Rory Ramsden. Individual Spirit of Cricket, Brandon Henderson. Most Promising Junior, Cooper Maloney. Most Promising Female Junior, Holly Montano. Spirit of Cricket Team of the Year, The All-Girls League. Michael Sobey Bursary winner, Bailey Hozier.

Community sporting clubs just wouldn’t exist without the efforts of their volunteers. The Tewantin Noosa Cricket Club would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the volunteers who made the junior season the success it was.

where I made a few silly mistakes and I’ve just been so eager to put together a really good race, I’m really happy with that,” said Hill.

“A result like this means everything, it gives me confidence to go forward in the sport and progress and learn more, it’s a great atmosphere, I felt so good out there, everyone was cheering and it was great.”

Hill came out of the water alongside Wilms, with the two out front on the 40km bike leg, with Hill surging late to open up a minute lead heading onto the run. From there she didn’t look back, extending her lead the whole way to the finish line.

“I had a really good swim, I got on Lotte and I felt comfortable and I was comfortable with that, got out of the swim with fresh legs which leading up to this race I wasn’t sure, they kind of felt a little bit dead so I was hoping that I could just get into that race atmosphere and just feel good which I did,” said Hill. “I ran into that first transition, grabbed my bike and I was out there, I got into a really good rhythm on the bike, it was tough into the headwind on the way back but it played out really well and I felt comfortable on the run.”

Sunday’s Standard Distance Triathlon featured a mix of experienced campaigners and

newcomers to the sport, with around 3500 athletes out on course together, with almost half of those racing for the first time.

The 2024 Mooloolaba Triathlon was the 32nd running of the iconic Sunshine Coast event, with over 5000 athletes racing over the two days.

For more on the Mooloolaba Triathlon visit mooloolabatri.com.au/

The Mooloolaba Triathlon is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland and features on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar.

WBBL Brisbane Heat player Courtney Sippel and Brandon Henderson.

Caleb Noble taking the win at the Mooloola Triathlon.

Picture: ALEX POLIZZI

Talking Sport

Ron Lane

Karate action in Noosa

Recently Karate Noosa hosted an international training Seminar, located at its new training address of 75 Beckman’s Road Noosaville, State School Hall. Under the guidance of Kawasaki Sensei a renown international karate instructor: Kawasaki sensei, a graduate of the famous JKA (Japan Karate Association) instructor program: while in Japan he is based in Kamakura. In Noosa his program consisted of 8 hours of intensive training: this being broken up into 4x2 hour sessions. Two Saturday and two Sunday. Students travelled from Gold Coast, Brisbane, Malaney and Pomona: one student took the opportunity to fly in from Perth, just to train under this renowned sensei. The extremely high level of Shotokan karate, was obvious.

When the class of 60 plus students, took to the training matts and stood in line to go through their formats, it was indeed interesting to note the strict discipline of movement and silence that came into play. After a set time, a break of some 10 minutes for water was allowed. This they drank from their water bottles, which had been placed neatly in line behind the training mats. During this time, there was little or no breach of discipline and all movements were polite.

Another obvious fact, as they collected their gym bags and started home, their composure was still one of quiet discussion and polite movement: however, their smiles and quiet exchanges, said it all. It was definitely a good training session: one that all students had enjoyed.

Bryan sensei first had the privilege of meeting Kawasaki sensei in Japan in 1994, and later trained with him for many years in Tokyo. He also had the privilege of taking students to Japan in 2017,2019,2023, to train with Kawasaki sensei, in his home town of Kamakura. Training was focused, on correct basics, with heavy emphases on the use of hips to generate power. He also bought two students with him to experience the Australian way of life, and also test a new student karate exchange program, that Bryan sensei and Kawasaki sensei, are setting up. Interesting to note, that during his time the only town he visited was Noosa. “We definitely look forward to having Kawasaki sensei, back in Noosa in 2025,” said Bryan, head sensei of Karate Noosa.

Noosa Outriggers

The mighty Noosa Outriggers have 7 teams and a number of juniors making the long drive down to Coffs Harbour this weekend.This type of thing shows the spirited and support that is alive and well within the boundaries of this club. And perhaps the most important of all is the number of our youth that are keen to take part.

“After the first three rounds of racing, Noosa is coming third behind Mooloolaba and Brisbane on the overall seasons, ladder total: so we need a solid performance to climb that all important ladder of success,” said club spokesman Colin Jones” The program is broken into three sessions. The morning events sees competition over a short course, 8km in length followed by the juniors, then a long course in the afternoon sees races of 16 kms. The following week we have the Battle of the Bays hosted by Brisbane Outriggers racing for small craft: OC1s and OC2s between Cleveland and Scarborough.

Our Seahorse Athletes

It is now two weeks since the Noosa Seahorse Nippers played host to visiting surf club families and their little nippers from all up the Queensland coast. They came to take part in a very important inaugural surf lifesaving event, on Noosa’s Main Beach. Known as the Joint Disability Program the first of its type in Australia, it was an outstanding success.

Who would have ever imagined, that some day our families whose children’s lives revolved around wheelchairs, would ever dream of taking them through the soft sands of Noosa’s Main Beach for a days outing: and even more finish off with a swim in the surf. But now that impossible door has been well and

truly opened. And no longer, will it be forever closed.

So successful has it been, that families have already asked if we can lock in the same dates for next year: so they can start, preparing funding and accommodation. There can be no doubt that following this year’s success, next year should be bigger than ever. There will be forever times that will stay with us, things that were so important not only for the beach and tourism but also in particular our wheel chair wonders.

By that we mean the beach mats. These mats that were laid from the steps front of the surf club to just several meters short of the surf. To some people it may not have seemed such a big thing, but to our nipper families, with, seahorse nippers in wheel chair plus beach bags and umbrellas it was like a miracle.

It was also first major financial involvement from that league of gentlemen the Tewantin

Noosa Lions Club, whose donation helped make the mats a reality. Not to be forgotten they, for the second time, made another donation, this time to the Noosa Nippers Joint Program. Others, whose generosity was noted were Noosa’s RACV Resort and the Restaurant at Noosa Surf Club, Mooloolaba Surf Club and Noosa Shire Council: involved in many ways for many months. These are just a few of the many. To everyone, a very big thank you.

Another whose support goes beyond the pale, were the Knights from way up north in the surf club at Port Douglas: Irene, club president, and husband Grant, Surf Sports Director. They arrived a week prior to the big weekend and took part in the Noosa Seahorse Nippers Final Saturday. “The program had a lot to offer, it was very positive and it came together beautifully: and we had a lot of chats with many different people.”

“The thing I noticed were the people work-

ing behind the scenes: they deserve congratulations and well done.” From husband Grant, “This was great, not only for the surf club, but also for lifesaving in general: great to see families from the Gold Coast. If we can have it the same time next year it would be very good. The experience has been outstanding.”

It is occasions like this that help bring back the old fashion interclub friendships and the willingness to help new clubmates. But above all, it helps give heart and friendship to those less fortunate: and helps expose them to the world of surfing. Something that prior to the Seahorse Nippers, was believed to be beyond their every-day world.

To all the workers, many thanks you clubbies. And in particular our donors: your donations were a massive help to the visiting families.

Karate Kawasaki workshop group. Flag races with a buddy.

The Dukas family Mikayla, 14, and Brandon, 13, with dad Bryan sensei and Kawasaki sensei (second from left). Seahorse nipper Lucas cruises in on a board.The board race begins for Seahorse nippers.

Noosa Outrigger medal winners at the recent Sydney Harbour Challenge.Seahorse nippers join in the flag race with a hand from helpers.

Picture: ROB MACCOLL

Life of Brine

Phil

On the nose at surf festival

Although the weather could have been kinder, it was wonderful to see the Noosa Festival of Surfing get underway last weekend in the best conditions seen at First Point for the event since 2019.

Once upon a time you could put your house on a Coral Sea low forming offshore in early March and sending endless days of long, tapered swells into Laguna Bay to peel off the rocky foreshore at First Point in precision, creating some of the best longboard waves in the world for the festival. In the‘20s climate change has made our swell season far less predictable, and a record accumulation of sand after a prolonged lack of cyclonic activity has robbed us of those perfect peelers, substituting a wider and somewhat fickle sand bank.

But last weekend, as we waded through the junior heats and numerous novelty events, a curiousthingstartedtohappen.Forthisoldfestival competitor and one-time administrator, it was like dejà vu all over again! It wasn’t quite First Point but the growing swell was sending clean lines into the bay, and if you chose the right one, you could ride it from point to beach, just like the old days.

Sunday’s junior finals clearly tested some of the younger competitors, copping a few sets on the head as the tide retreated, but there were some standout performances. In the girls Under 15, Cash Hoover combo-ed the field to win the title convincingly, while in the U-15 boys, Noosa’s Lennix Currie was equally convincing, taking the event from beach-mate Ryder Worthington with 10-year-old super grom Hunter Williams third. Malia Ilagan took out the girls U-18 from MiaWaite, while in the U-18 boys Lennix Currie beat Arthur Randell to make it a clean sweep.

I had a bit to do with the creation of Noosa’s noserider event a quarter century ago, so I’m always happy to see it run at First Point which is made for it, although with flexibility in the schedule, it would have been nice to see the invitees given a bit more tide underneath their dancing feet. Still, a select group of the world’s best put on an amazing display of tip time control with flourishes last Sunday afternoon. It’s too bad the Sahara Desert on Main Beach means you can’t watch low tide surfing from the beach bar because these were the kind of jawdrop performances that benefit from a beer or two.

It was great to see old stagers and mates Jye Lee and Jared Mell sharing waves and draping heels, but when it got to the pointy end of the Laguna Bay Longboards Noserider Invitational, we had a final of three local guys and a Californian, a local gal and her Californian counterpart. Putting the ladies first, Noosa’s Kirra Molnar and Avalon Gall put on an exquisite display of noseriding with grace and flow, while locals Clinton Guest and Bowie Pollard used a combination of local knowledge and superior weight distribution to clock some amazing times.

But in the end it got down to Noosa’s 2022 world longboard champ and multiple festival champ Harrison Roach and some amazing soul arch 10s and delicate dances, against Kaimana Takyama’s dexterity on the wide-tailed model designed by his dad. And Kai got the well-deserved win.

As we go to press early week, the swell is pumping and looks like hanging in all week, as does your correspondent, if only by a slender thread in one of the (very) senior divisions. We’ll have a full wrap on the surf festival in Life of Brine next week. Stop picking on Peniche!

The surf commentariat has been having a grand

old time rubbishing this week’s WSL world tour event in Peniche, Portugal, because, well, it’s been cold, stormy and the surf has been pretty much rubbish, while South East Queensland, particularly Burleigh for the teams last weekend, has been going off.

The argument goes that no one wants to be in Portugal in March, so put the Snapper Rocks Pro back on the tour and let the surfers make the short hop across the Pacific from the Hawaiian events to surf in a similar climate. It makes some sense. The Peniche event used to

run in October, when Atlantic swells are more predictable and generally cleaner, and the water is warmer, and it fit into the schedule next to France, as it should. The other argument is that Peniche’s Supertubos is not a world class wave.

It can be, but not that often. I first surfed it in 1973 when it was called Sardines for the sardine processing factory on the dune where the contest venue is now, that leaked a river of blood into the break, making it a little spooky, but fun.The last time I was there, in 2018, I rode a longboard at Mohle Leste, next to the har-

bour break-wall where we used to free-camp all those years ago, and where they held the comp out of the wind the other day, to more howls of derision.

In at least a dozen visits over 50 years, I’ve seen Peniche morph from a little fishing village to the surf school epicentre of Europe, but I still love its old world charm, and I’d hate to see it disappear from pro surfing.

Oh, and for the record, as I write, we only have two Aussies left in the draw – Tyler and Ethan.

California’s Avalon Gall rides the tip in the nose rider. Water Photos by Melissa Hoareau/NFOS.

Bowie Pollard poised for third place.

Youngest competitor 10-year-old Hunter Williams.

Junior finds a nice one where First Point used to be.

Harry from the beach. Picture: FENNA DE KING Medina on the comeback trail.

Harrison Roach a study of concentration.Tyler Wright throws spray at Peniche. Picture: WSL

Kirra Molnar on a beauty. And the winner is ... Kai Takayama.

PROPERTY

PROPERTY MATTERS

ERLE LEVEY

The

price in a definite

and through a transparent process.

Something that has changed is the times of putting properties on the market. The peak holiday periods were considered the prime times to offer a place for sale.

Yet that has shifted. It’s still important to present a property to as many interested parties as possible but there is another dynamic - offer it when there is less competition.

The right time to put a property on the market is when it is ready to be sold.

That is part of the reason why we are getting such quality stock on the market now.

And there will always be buyers for prime properties, especially when we see a stability in the market coming from the hold on interest rates.

SPECTACULAR COASTAL VIEWS

Roark Walsh of Tom Offermann Real Estate has four-bedroom, four-bathroom, two-car beachside house with pool at Sunshine Beach that is set for auction at 1pm Saturday, 16 March.

Recently renovated and in a highlysought precinct, 27 McAnally Dve has arguably the largest and best views in Sunshine Beach, Roark said.

“It’s got that height to see from Double Island to Caloundra.

“You step down into the view - from the kitchen, the dining and the lounge onto the entertaining balcony.

“Three of the bedrooms come with ocean views and terraces. The entertainment areas are really spacious

and there is good off-street parking.’’

The multi-level house has classical proportions and a sophisticated yet laidback aesthetic.

The custom kitchen which abuts the pool area comes with black granite-topped cabinetry and feature black-and-white, herringbone-tiled and window-to-garden splashbacks.

On this level is a guest bathroom and over-sized bedroom with ensuite, built-in robes and terrace. Yes, wake up to those views.

There are two bedrooms on the ground level, one with built-in robe; the king bedroom has an undercover terrace with ocean views; there’s a share bathroom; and the laundry has a walk-in linen store.

When it comes to waking to waves breaking on the foreshore, on the top level is the super-sized, penthouse-style bedroom suite with eagle’s eye views.

The ensuite is open, has an oval spa bath to soak in, natural stone-topped cabinetry, walk-in robe and a dedicated office. It has custom cabinetry and a westfacing terrace with stairs to the pool that comes complete with gazebo.

CHARMING RIVERSIDE PENTHOUSE

It’s one thing to have river views but it’s another to have the river virtually right below you.

That’s what’s on offer with a two-

bedroom, two-bathroom riverside apartment 18/2 Hastings St, Noosa Heads, that goes to auction Sunday, 17 March, at 10am.

Jill Goode at Tom Offermann Real Estate said there has been “heaps of inquiry’’ about this penthouse as while there were other top-floor apartments in the complex, this was the only one looking onto the river.

“It’s a fabulous view. The response has been quite amazing.

“There have been people on holidays who have come up to look.

“The Queensland owners have looked after it as if it was their child. That made it like home and they have been making the most of Noosa.

“There’s the ferry going up and down the river, kids jumping in the river and swimming. And then you can go into the ocean across the street.’’

The views from the terrace stretch from Noosa Hill, along Noosa Sound waterways, and west to Mt Cooroy.

The apartment features Italian-tiled open plan dining and living spaces, pale grey modular sofa and ottoman coffee table, comfy cane chair, glass-topped dining table, dome-shaped cane pendant, timber with white fabric chairs, also specially selected seaside art, artifacts and accessories.

The contemporary U-shaped kitchen with plantation shutters, beige stone-topped cabinetry, has all the latest appliances

while the undercover terrace is an extension of indoors.

There are two bedrooms with a beach look, plantation shutters, a television and built-in robes.

The main king suite has a pastel creamtiled ensuite, opens out to the terrace and has those views – from bed.

The second bedroom with double and single beds is on the north west side. The bathroom with stone-topped cabinetry and plantation shutters adjoins and a fullyequipped laundry is next door. The single secure undercover car park also has a storeroom for boards etc.

FEEL THE PACIFIC BREEZES

Designed to maximise lifestyle, privacy, and facilitate seamless integrated indoor and outdoor living, an elegant David Geitz residence at Peregian Beach is perfectly positioned on its elevated 809sq m block.

The four-bedroom, two-bathroom, twocar house with pool at 34 Lowry St goes to auction Saturday, 23 March, at 10am with Tracy Russell of Tom Offermann Real Estate.

Tracy was conducting an inspection at the time we spoke and said there has been good interstate and local interest in the home.

It’s an attractive two-level home with high ceilings, plenty of natural light and designed to catch the coastal breezes.

A four-bedroom, four-bathroom, two-car beachside house with pool at 27 McAnally Dve, Sunshine Beach, is set for auction at 1pm Saturday, 16 March. 393775

The property is proving to have good appeal to the market, Tracy said, from families as well as couples.

The house has a timeless feel about it, with a touch of the Pacific about it … influences from California and Mexico.

Positioned 600m from a patrolled surf beach, it is very much about courtyard living with a calming water feature mixed with lush, verdant, tropical gardens reminiscent of tropical North Queensland.

The entry sets the tone with its exterior gated doorway, walkway across a timber platform to the bespoke timber double doors leading into the grand foyer and curved gallery.

With elevated ceilings the sense of spaciousness is heightened, and the home is cooled by ducted air-conditioning and ceiling fans as well as the gentle breezes.

The floor plan facilitates family-friendly living with communal space both indoors and outdoors.

As well as an outdoor fireplace there is a poolside terrace and pavilion.

Three separate terrace areas are central to the effectiveness of the home’s design and functionality, with the second bedroom enjoying access to its own private courtyard, and then an upper-level bedroom.

The main bedroom suite opens out to a

European-style courtyard with pond, water feature and outdoor shower, while the ensuite has a spa bath.

AUCTION ACTION

FRIDAY, 15 March

Noosa Sound

28 Mossman Ct: 4bed, 4bath, 2car waterfront house, pool, jetty, on 607sq m, 12pm, Mike Hay 0417 624 059 David Conolly 0438 259 956 Century 21 Noosa

SATURDAY, 16 March

Noosa Heads

· 8 Samara Pl: 4bed, 2.5bath, 2car house, 10am, Sharon McLure 0400 084 975

The McLure Group Noosaville

· 17 Russell St: Three three-bedroom

apartments offering 9bed, 3bath, 5car, 12pm, Eric Seetoo 0419 757 770 Tom Offermann Real Estate

Sunshine Beach

· 27 McAnally Dve: 4bed, 4bath, 2car house, pool, 1pm, Roark Walsh 0437 447 804 Rebekah Offermann 0413 044 241 Tom Offermann Real Estate

SUNDAY, 17 March

Noosa Heads

· 18/2 Hastings St: 2bed, 2bath, 1car penthouse apartment, 10am, Jill Goode 0418 714 653 Tom Offermann Real Estate. ●

A four-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house with pool at 34 Lowry St, Peregian Beach, goes to auction Saturday, 23 March, at 10am. 393775

A four-bedroom, four-bathroom, two-car beachside house with pool at 27 McAnally Dve, Sunshine Beach, is set for auction at 1pm Saturday, 16 March. 393775

A four-bedroom, four-bathroom, two-car beachside house with pool at 27 McAnally Dve, Sunshine Beach, is set for auction at 1pm Saturday, 16 March. 393775

A two-bedroom, two-bathroom riverside apartment 18/2 Hastings St, Noosa Heads, goes to auction Sunday, 17 March, at 10am. 391825

A four-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house with pool at 34 Lowry St, Peregian Beach, goes to auction Saturday, 23 March, at 10am. 393775

A two-bedroom, two-bathroom riverside apartment 18/2 Hastings St, Noosa Heads, goes to auction Sunday, 17 March, at 10am. 391825

Lookingfor aone-in-a-million exclusiveinvestment opportunity,acomplexwiththreeentire floorthreebedroomapartments,amere70m to theNoosaRiver’s white-sandshore?Thisisit,all 3unitshaveHoliday LettingApproval. Easyto baskinthepleasureofhaving oneofNoosaville’smostsought-afteraddresses,and aquietcomplexaptly called‘Illoura’,anAboriginal word for‘beautifulplacenear water’.Eachsizeable

apartmenthas abrightwhitebreezy-beachaesthetic thankstoa recentmakeover;furniture andaccessories inthetiledopenplanliving,diningandkitchenarea witha monochromaticpalettetocomplement;and north-eastfacingundercoverterraces. Fromthe top floordrinkintheviewsoftheNoosaRiver,whileonthe groundleveladoorway leads to aprivatecourtyard andlawn.

Auction

Saturday 16 March12pm

View

Saturday 11.00am

Agent EricSeetoo 0419757770 eric@offermann.com.au

AUCT IONSATURD AY 12 PM

17 RUSSel lS TReeT , NOOS AV ILL E

27MC ANAll YD RIve , SUNSHINEBEACH

Reachforthe stars fromthehighestpointinSunshine Beach,as youimagine floatingonCloudNineabove animposing rooftop terrace whichseeminglyspills overthe CoralSea,with explosive180-degreeviews sweepingNoosaNational Parkalongtheeastern coastlineofwhite-water wavesandglisteningshores,to Mooloolabaandbeyond.Insideishighandmighty,has classicalproportionsand asophisticated yet laidback

aesthetic.Admirehow doorsfromthe overgenerous openplanlivingspacesdisappearandmorphinto the wideeast-sideundercoverterrace.Similarly,outtothe luminescentpoolonthesouth-side. Perfectfor aquick dip, afew lapsbeforestartingtheday,yogaunderthe Pandanusorbreakfastinthegazebo.

Auction Saturday16March1pm view Saturday12.30pm

Agent

Roark Walsh

0437447804

roark@offermann.com.au

Agent

RebekahOffermann

0413044241

rebekah@offermann.com.au

18/2 HASTINgS ST reeT , NOOSAHEADS

Ifhiddentreasureisa penthousenestledbetween the western-endofsophisticatedHastingsStreetand besidetheNoosaRiver,withspectacularviewsover theprivatejetty, verdantNoosaHill,alongNoosaSound waterways,hinterlandforbestsunsetsandmore, you have foundit.

Openthedoor,sighandpeekaheadfromtheentry wayto theItalian-tiledopenplandiningandliving

spaceswitha muted coastalpalettealsospecially selectedseasideart,artifactsandaccessories.Push asidetheglassdoors, torevealtheextensionof indoors,anundercoverterracewhichwrapsthe southand west sidesandaffordswideriverviews overthe walkwaytotheSofitelNoosa PacificResort wharfwheretheNoosaFerrypicksupand returns passengers,andonthewestside,NoosaWoods.

A

Auction

Sunday 17 March10am

View

Saturday 12.00-1.00

Sunday 9.30am

Agent

JillGoode

0418714653

jill@offermann.com.au

AUCT IONSUN DA Y1 0AM

18 CO ORAN CO UR T, NOOSAHEADS

Ifescaping toyear-roundforeversummers of tranquillitytoatopoftheclass waterfront residence, withits ownwhitesandbeach,spacefor two boatsand only ashort walk to HastingsStreet,soundstoogood to betrue, startpacking.Swoon overtheexpansive livingareasboasting asunnydesign-forward aesthetic, alsotheextensivedeck,whichappearsperchedonthe 20-metrewater’sedge.Note thereare onlyfour steps

to thewhitesandtidalbeach,soeasyforlaunchinga kayakintotheshimmeringriver.Thejettyisperfect forsundowners, yet longenoughfor apowerboat requiringdeeper water. Access to theNoosaRiverand theEvergladesisclose.

Auction Saturday23March12pm

View Saturday& Wednesday10.00-10.30

Agent

JulieBengtsson

0418980247

julie@offermann.com.au

Agent

NicHunter

0421785512

nic@offermann.com.au

1/4 AV OCET PA RADE , PEREGIANBEACH

Showcasing sweeping180°whitewaterviewsthatare trulyspectacular;thisend townhomeinasunnycorner positionwith aprizednorth-easterlyaspect,directly oppositeBeachAccess52- issoclose to thesandand surf youcanseeandhearthe wavesbreaking,feelthe caressofthesalty seaair,plusgetthesandbetween your toeswithin80-metresof yourfrontdoor. Watchthewhalesontheirmigratoryjourney,the

surferscatchinga wave,andthecontainershipsmaking their waytoandfromthePortofBrisbane,fromthe comfortandprivacyofyourexclusiverooftop terrace. This wouldmakeafabulousholiday home,permanent sea-change,orinvestment,withplentyofpotential to value-add;in asought-afteroceansidepocket,just15 minutes’ walk to thevibrantvillagehub.

Price $1.85M

View

Saturday 12.00-12.30

Agent

TracyRussell 0413319879 tracy@offermann.com.au

14 BURGESSDRIVE , TEWANTIN

Fromthemoment youwalkin,highpitched ceilingsandanabundanceofnatural lightbouncingoff renovatedinteriors,welcomes youtoput your owntouchonthis spaciousandelevatedsinglelevelhome.An expansivebackyard istheperfectblank canvasforgardeningenthusiastsandjust begsfor acentralpooltoentertain by Sittingamongstqualityhomesin atightlyheldpocketwedgedbetweentheborders ofNoosavilleand Tewantin,enjoya safestrollwiththelittleones to thegatesof localschools,ortakea6minute drivetohaveacoffeealongtheNoosaRiverand start yourday.

A 4 B 2 C 2

Auction

Saturday 6April12pm

View

Saturday9.00-9.30

Wednesday 4.00-4.30

Agent LaurenChen 0412672375

lauren@offermann.com.au

12/388 DAVID LO WW AY , PER EG IANBE AC

H

Experiencetheepitomeof coastallivingatBeautyby theBeach,wherethe tranquilityoftheseaside awaitsjuststepsfrom yourdoor.Nestledonthedune overlookingthe CoralSea,thisspacious townhouseoffersasereneescapewith coolingseabreezes,thesoothingmelodyof waves,andbreathtakingoceanviews. Inside, find yourselfenvelopedin relaxationamidstfreshly renovatedcoastal interiors,abundantnaturallight,andunobstructedviewsofmanicuredlawnsand native flora.WithdirectbeachaccessandproximitytoPeregianVillage’scharming amenities,including cafes,restaurants,andboutiqueshops, Townhome12presents theultimate beachsidelifestyleforthoseseekingbothconvenience and coastal beauty.

A 2 B 2 C 1 D

Price $1.195M

Agent

TracyRussell 0413319879

tracy@offermann.com.au

ON THE COVER

ENVIABLE 18M WATERFRONT

AN enviable, incomparable street in a quiet cul de sac of Noosa Waters, boasting a larger than most, idyllically north-facing site, has a wide waterfrontage, knockout wide water views and a 180-degree panorama sweeping Mt Tinbeerwah to the Noosa Hill.

There is no compromise when it comes to a striking contemporary residence and first impressions do count. A lush widearboured Poinciana makes an effective statement against the white facade, and walkway with gardenias and bromeliads, to the main entry with its custom timber and glass panelled door.

Inside it is clear, serious sophistication is at play. Natural light, via lofty ceilings, picks up the glow of the Italian-tiled flooring drenching the vestibule and hallway.

Look ahead to open plan living and dining areas where doors, the width of the residence seemingly disappear blurring indoors to out, and extensive undercover terraces that almost morph into the luminescent award-winning pool and spa. Beyond is a maintenance-free lawn and a concrete pad for water toys abutting the revetment wall, an enticement perhaps for canoeing enthusiasts to explore the upper reaches of the Noosa River to the Everglades.

There are numerous scenarios for entertaining. The alfresco terrace with a water feature wall has an outdoor kitchen, integrated barbeque and fridge. Dine indoors? The lavish L-shaped kitchen has stone-topped white cabinetry including an island breakfast bar with designer metallic five-ring pendant, a long side bench with pull out pantry, upper glassfronted cabinetry grey lustre finger-tiled splashback, a butlers plus walk-in pantry, and all the high-end appliances the consummate entertainer would desire.

Five oversized bedrooms are well appointed and three are upstairs. Stealing the limelight is the premier king suite with terrace access. There are two walk-in robes, an ensuite with stone-topped twobasin cabinetry, mosaic-tiled splashback, separate toilet and a freestanding spa bath to drink in those northerly views across the waterways and beyond. Also on this level in the south wing are two bedrooms with builtin robes, a bathroom and a powder room.

Downstairs is a large bedroom with builtin robe and ensuite, also a guest bathroom, which can be accessed from outside where there is an outdoor shower. The laundry

HOME ESSENTIALS

room is next door and has access to a drying area.

Storage and store rooms are aplenty throughout the residence including the three-car garage.

“There’s nothing like enjoying the good life of Noosa Waters,” comment Tom Offermann Real Estate agents Michael McComas and Rebekah Offermann who are taking the property to auction on Saturday 23 March 2024, “especially when this near-new residence has spectacular views of the waterways, also access to the main stretches of the Noosa River via the lock and weir system. Keen kayakers and paddleboarders will be happy exploring the neighbouring crystal-clear waterways.

“The prestigious Noosa Waters’ canal development has truly raised the bar on the highest possible standards of environmental and urban design, innovation and community living. Pride of ownership is evident in the manicured gardens and parks and there’s a prevailing overtone of family safety and security.”

Facts & Features:

· House Area: 460m2

· Land Area: 800m2; 18m waterfrontage; northerly aspect

· Pool/Terrace: 4.8mx11.5m w heated spa, cabana & water feature/2.6mx11.5m + 4.4mx5m both undercover

· About: Ausmar build 2020; owner occupied 2021; custom timber w glass panelled front door; Italian ceramic tiles throughout; staircase w blackbutt treads & marine ply balustrading; 9m timber ceiling entry; monochromatic palette; extensive storage throughout; ducted air/fans; louvres/insect screens; security system; open plan living/dining w seamless connection to outdoors; Laundry room w drying courtyard; 3-car extra-deep garage w epoxy flooring & storage; Tesla battery; 5 bedrooms – upstairs x 3 – premier king suite w 2 WIRs, expansive ensuite w stone-topped 2 basin cabinetry & mosaic tiled splashback, freestanding spa bath, sep toilet, opens to terrace w northerly aspect over waterways & beyond; sth wing 2 w BIRs, bathrooms & powder room; downstairs 1 w BIR & ensuite + guest bathroom

· Kitchen: L-shape w stone-topped white 2-pac cabinetry incl 3.3mx1.3m island breakfast bar & 4m side bench w pull out pantry, soft close drawers & upper glass-fronted cabinetry; grey lustre finger tiled splashback; designer metallic 5-ring

Address: 40 The Anchorage, NOOSA WATERS Auction: Saturday, 23 March 2pm

Description: 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3 garage, pool Inspect: Saturday 12.00-12.30pm

Contact: Rebekah Offermann 0413 044 241 and Michael McComas 0447 263 663, TOM OFFERMANN REAL ESTATE

chandelier; Bosch 6-hob gas cooktop + oven; butler’s pantry w Bosch dishwasher + WIP; alfresco terrace outdoor kitchen w integrated Beefeater BBQ & fridge

· Exterior: front garden w water feature, Poinciana tree, frangipani, gardenias & bromeliads; 9Kw solar system; 9,000L water tank; auto irrigation system; out-

door shower; side gate; waterside pad for kayaks, canoes etc; maintenance free lawn; olives trees; kitchen garden

· Location: walk to Noosaville village, Gympie Terrace restaurants and numerous parklands; 3-min drive to Hastings Street and Noosa Main Beach ●

HOME FOCUS

TROPICAL SANCTUARY TO SAVOUR: PRIVATE AND LUSH

DESIGNED to maximize lifestyle, privacy and facilitate seamless integrated indoor and outdoor living, this elegant residence is perfectly positioned on its elevated 809m2 block boasting lush, verdant, tropical gardens, reminiscent of the tropics in Queensland’s far north combined with a halcyon Bali-like vibe, that is so soothing and relaxing, inviting you into a zen-like oasis of serenity.

The entry very much sets the tone for the ambience of the residence with its exterior gated doorway, walkway across a timber platform to the bespoke timber double doors leading into the grand foyer and curved gallery. You’ll feel instantly immersed in a cocoon of calm.

With elevated ceilings the sense of spaciousness is heightened, and the home is cooled by ducted air-conditioning and ceiling fans, gentle breezes circulate throughout, and there’s even an outdoor fireplace to enjoy a favourite bevy out on the terrace on a crisp autumn or winter’s evening.

A well-designed floor plan facilitates family-friendly living with wonderful communal space both indoors and outdoors for gathering to ’break bread’ and create cherished memories over laughter, fine food, and a plentiful supply of bubbles for all those toasts! Soak up the bright

HOME ESSENTIALS

sunshine on the poolside terrace or head undercover for some shade under the pavilion, and the rest is history.

Three separate terrace areas are central to the effectiveness of the home’s design and functionality, with the second bedroom enjoying access to its own private courtyard, the master opening out to a European-style courtyard with pond, water feature and outdoor shower, and the rear of the home fully terraced and entertainmentready!

Located on the northern side of Peregian, in a leafy dress-circle street,

just six minutes’ walk to the beach and footsteps to Lowry Park. From the green of the parkland to the golden sands and sparkling blue of the ocean, there’s so much natural beauty to embrace. Buzzy Peregian Bach village is just a five-minute drive, quality public and private schools are within a 10-minute radius, and it’s 15 minutes to sophisticated Hastings Street.

“I’m so excited to bring this incredible residence to market, it really embodies the very essence of peaceful, private coastal living whilst also providing amazing entertaining spaces and alfresco zones,“

enthuses Tom Offermann Real Estate agent Tracy Russell who is taking the property to auction on Saturday 23 March 2024. From morning yoga by the pond through to a relaxing post-work drink on the terrace – it’s the complete lifestyle package.“

“It’s well-located, cleverly designed, and the ambient gardens complement the residence beautifully. It has been much-loved and there is still potential to further value-add and take this home to a showstopping next-level.“ ●

Address: 34 Lowry Street, PEREGIAN BEACH Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Inspect: Saturday, 16 March 11.00am-11.30am and Wednesday, 20 March 11.00am-11.30am Auction: Sat, 23rd Mar 10:00am Contact: Tracy Russell 0413 319 879, TOM OFFERMANN REAL ESTATE

8SAmArAPLACE,NOOSAHEADS

•Elegant Design: Anear-newhomefeaturing the finest finishesandfixtures

•SophisticatedLayout:Enhanced bywide hallwaysandan impressivestaircase

•UltimateComfort:Equipped withstate-of-the-art ducted air conditioning

•PrimeLocation: Withinfive minutesshort walk toNoosa Junctionandclose tobeaches

•LifestylePotential:Comes withagenerousallotmentthat offers thepossibilityfor apool

SHARONMcLURE

0400084975

sharon@themcluregroup.com.au

t hemclureg r oup.com.a u

4 A 2.5 B 2 C 570m2

OPENHOmE

Sa t u r day1 6 t hm a r ch a t 9:30a m -10a m

AUCtiON

Sa t u r day1 6 t hm a r ch a t 10 a m On-s it e

Serenity & Indulgence

Indulge inthe epitomeofsophisticatedlivingat140ShorehavenDrive, NoosaWaters Set on692m2 a luxuriousresidencethatseamlessly blends modernelegance withthe allureofnature.Thisimpeccable home isstrategicallypositioned tocapturebreathtakingviewsofboth the neighbouring parkandtranquilwaterways,creatinganambienceof serenityandexclusivity.Never to bebuilt out waterviewswithout the waterfrontprice tag.

Thegrandeurofthisresidencebecomes immediately apparent asyou step intothe meticulously designedspace.Bathed innatural light,the interiors boast a harmonious flowleadingeffortlessly toenchanting outdoor entertaining areas thatembrace the beautyofthe surroundinglandscape.

140 Shorehaven Drive, Noosa Waters

PrivateSale | $2,650,000

View | Saturday16 March11-11.30am

GeorgiaScharer 0477652148

SPACIOUS TOWNHOUSE IN BOUTIQUE COMPLEX

HERE is a wonderful opportunity for buyers looking for a stylish holiday apartment, a “lock and leave” down-sizer, or a roomy home and garden for permanent living.

In the small, quiet cul de sac of Barbados Crescent, a 20-minute walk or short drive in one direction finds Hastings Street and Laguna Bay, and in the other direction finds the beautiful Noosa River with its parklands, retail, restaurant and medical facilities.

Just around the corner in Munna Crescent is the perfect launch area for the kayak or stand-up paddle on the Noosa River, or to simply sit on the river’s edge and watch the passing boats.

There is a large fenced courtyard to the front of the apartment, ideal for children, pets, dining and gardening, and a shady area to the side which is a pretty spot to enjoy a coffee or wine after a day at the beach!

The sparkling complex pool in its tropical garden setting is adjacent to the apartment, and provides privacy and a

HOME ESSENTIALS

Address: 4/5 Barbados Crescent, NOOSAVILLE

leafy outlook.

Downstairs includes a very large open plan living room, separate dining area and well designed kitchen with ample storage and bench space. A downstairs full-sized laundry with toilet is a very practical feature, one not often found in town-house style apartments.

Upstairs, the two spacious bedrooms

with large wardrobes and built in desks share an extra-large, modern two-way bathroom. The main bedroom easily accommodates a king-sized bed and two full width sets of drawers, with ample room to spare.

The second bedroom is currently set up with a queen bed and a single bed to accommodate extra guests. For those

Description: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 garage Price: Offers Over $1,300,000 Considered

Inspect: Saturday and Wednesday, 11am-11.30am Contact: Anne Powell 0419 332 973, LAGUNA REAL ESTATE

auction

buyers who do not need the single bed, this extra area could be utilised as a private study nook or reading area.

Note that the apartment is being sold fully furnished.

The apartment features modern white plantation shutters on all windows downstairs and the large glass entry door and adjacent windows. Air-conditioning, ceiling fans and large windows for good air flow provide year-round comfort.

The apartment has enjoyed excellent holiday rental occupancy for several years, with many repeat bookings, so is a ready-made investment for the astute purchaser. Alternatively, it would be ideal for those wanting to live permanently in a quiet street in a tightly held, central Noosa location.

There is very little on the Noosa market at the moment of this calibre, in this location, and in this price range.

Enquire now, attend an Open Home, and make it yours. ●

StunningHome,PicturePerfectSetting

Address 61-63Tallgum Avenue,Verrierdale

Bed 4 Bath 2 Car 4

Auction 4thAprilat1pmOnSite

Land 2.2acres

View Sat1:30-2pm Thurs21st1-1:30pm

•Splitlevelhomewithduallivingopportunities

•Restoredtallowwood floors,openplanliving

•Plantationshutters,LEDlights,skylights

•Modernkitchen,stonebenches,largeisland

•2 decks, 1coveredwithremoteblindsand fans

•Landscapedgardens,3-phasepower,pond,private •SuitWFH,extended family,guests,teens,Airbnb

KessPrior 0404344399 kess@hinternoosa.com.au

0754491186,777EumundiNoosaRoad,DoonanQLD

Sunday17thMarch

9.30am

10.00am

11.00am

12.00pm

NoosaSprings

Saturday16thMarch

10.00am -10.30am340/61NoosaSpringsDr

11.00am -11.30am 108/61NoosaSpringsDr 322

11.00am

NoosaWaters

PeregianBeach

11.00am

NoosaHeads

Friday15thMarch

12.00pm -12.30pm28MossmanCourt4

Saturday16thMarch

10.00am -10.30am 8SamaraPlace 422 AuctionTheMcLureGroup0400084975

11.00am -11.30am 124/1EdgarBennettAve 221 AuctionTheMcLureGroup0400084975

Sunday17thMarch

10.00am -10.00am 18/2HastingsSt 221 AuctionTomOffermann RealEstate0418714 653

Saturday23rd March

12.00pm -12.30pm 18 CooranCt 443 AuctionTomOffermann RealEstate0418980247

Noosaville

Saturday16thMarch

12.00pm

NoosaWaters

Saturday23rd March

Saturday23rd

Saturday13thApril

Marvellous FamilyHome

68 FuRnESSDRIVE,TEWAnTIn

4 A 2 B 2 C

•Stylish,coastalsophisticationandnewly renovated

•Fourbedrooms,masterwithensuiteandprivatepatio

•New,GullDesignkitchen;new appliances,loadsofstorage

•New flooringthroughout;splitaircon; ceilingfans

•Large shed;doublegaragewithnew motor

•Fully fenced yard,professionallandscaping andirrigation

•Two minutes to localshops;childcare andschoolsnearby

•16minutes to MainBeach; 5minutes to NoosaMarina

FORSALE OffersOver$1,195,000Considered VIEW Sat10-10.30am

ChrisForde

0411328488

chris@lagunarealestate.com.au

www.lagunarealestate.com.au