Noosa Today - 22nd March 2024

Take care in the sun

Love of reptiles and wildlife Umpire abuse never ok

20-page liftout Property Guide

INSIDE

Festival rides the waves

By Phil Jarratt

It’s been a long time since we saw beautiful longboard waves pour into First Point for most of the Noosa Festival of Surfing, which is one reason that NFOS 2024 was pretty special.

Another is that with the return of a small but highly visible international competitor contingent, we started to shake off the post-Covid blues and put what we used to call the “eight days of pure stoke” (it’s now nine) back on the global surfing agenda. And the fact that California’s Kaimana Takayama took out the prestigious Noserider Invitational over the first weekend was another major plus in attracting the best surfers from all the major markets. Yep, the Noosa Fest is back!

Continued page 4

Final countdown

By Margie Maccoll

With preferences still to be counted in the Mayoral race, the first preference count is pointing toward Frank Wilkie taking the top job.

With almost 74 per cent of the first preference vote counted on Wednesday morning when this publication went to print, Frank was in the lead with almost 40 per cent of the vote, followed by Ingrid Jackson with almost 24 per cent, Nick Hluszko with about 21 per cent and John Morrall with about 15 per cent.

It could be the end of the week before the final count is in.

On Tuesday Frank said he was very grateful to have had such solid support and with preferences still to be distributed, was looking forward to seeing the mix of candidates the community selects and working well with them.

Frank has served three terms on council including two as deputy mayor.

When it comes to election campaigns he describes them as “both enjoyable and personally difficult” providing lessons to be learnt.

“Campaigns can be brutal. In the age of social media, especially more so,“ he said.

“Having won and lost elections, I’ve only

got respect for any candidate who nominates and runs. It’s important we remember that they and their families are human.

“This time, there’s been new participants, like the rise of the My Place citizens and fishing groups. Both gave voters their own information and How to Vote Cards and sought to influence the result. It’s said that all is fair in love, war and politics.“

Frank said his team had been “committed to running a positive, issues-focused and factbased campaign”.

Should the results stay in Frank’s favour and

he is elected Noosa Mayor, when councillors adopt their new roles on 3 April his first priorities will be to help settle in the new team so they can be making decisions in the best longterm interests of the community as quickly as possible.

“Apart from keeping rates as low as possible and ensuring the council is set up to deliver quality services and facilities, residents are wanting actions to address traffic congestion and crowding, short term accommodation impacts and better environmental protections,“ he said.

Continued page 3

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Incredible performances from girls of all ages symbolised the spirit of NFOS 24.

Picture: MELISSA HOAREAU

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EDITORIAL

Phil Jarratt Journalist

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Margie Maccoll Journalist

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Abbey Cannan Journalist

E: abbey.cannan@NoosaToday.com.au

Erle Levey Journalist

E: erle.levey@NoosaToday.com.au ADVERTISING

Julia Stevens Account Manager

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Naomi Fowkes Account Manager

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Michelle Gibson Account Manager

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Karen

E:

Neighbours unite

Council aims to foster community connections and enhance disaster resilience with a series of engaging events to celebrate Neighbour Day.

Angela Romanowski, Community Recovery and Resilience Officer, said that while Neighbour Day falls on March 31 , this year Council is ready to open the celebrations with not one but two events in the Shire within the week.

“We are so excited to bring the community together, re-introduce and foster neighbourly connections, and impart crucial disaster resilience knowledge in a fun and informal setting both at the Kin Kin and Noosaville locations,” Ms Romanowski said.

The Noosaville event will be held on Tuesday, March 26, from 3pm to 5pm, at“The Park”, 34 Lake Entrance Boulevard, and attendees can enjoy a free afternoon tea. The event will feature music, valuable disaster resilience information, emergency kit examples, and engaging colouring activities for children.

The second event – a Neighbour Day BBQ, hosted by Kin Kin Community House - will take place on Wednesday, March 27, at the Kin Kin Oval from 3pm to 8. The Cooroy Pomona Lions Club will provide the BBQ from 3 pm to 5 pm, accompanied by live music, disaster resilience information, and enjoyable colouring activities for children.

The events are open for everyone within the local neighbourhood, and they are free to attend.

Council’s Community Recovery and Resilience team is excited to meet locals on the day, adding that this Council initiative is only one of many of the community engagements planned for 2024.

“We believe that a connected and resilient community starts with us. As a region we have been through a lot, but the Noosa region is famous for its inclusive and neighbourly attitude.We’re here to build on that for the future,”

Win a double pass to see RESPECT at The J

Noosa Today readers have the chance of winning a double pass to see RESPECT at The J on 27 April - 2pm matinee and 7.30pm.

The electrifying show RESPECT journeys through Aretha Franklin’s courageous life of love, tragedy and triumph, while showcasing her greatest hits over the last 50 years!

Starring Australia’s ‘Soul Mama’, Angie Narayan, RESPECT is a masterful piece of storytelling about family, loyalty and victory, layered with glorious harmonies and sassy repartee!

Taking you back in time where it all began in the 1960s, you explore Aretha’s childhood, the church, meeting her first love,

the Civil Rights Movement, her musical crush and the profound impact the song RESPECT had on the world!

‘NaturalWoman’, Say A Little Prayer’ and ‘Son of a Preacher Man’ are just a taste of Aretha’s classics you can expect!

Moving to the 1980s, ‘Sisters are Doin’ it for Themselves’, ‘Freeway of Love’, ‘Everyday People’ are just some of the hits you are guaranteed to hear. There is one big surprise near the end of the show that no expects but has people literally in tears!

Competition closes Friday 19 April. To enter the competition visit noosatoday. com.au/competitions

As Noosa today goes to print vote counting continues for the new Council with Frank Wilkie leading the Mayoral vote with almost 40 per cent of the vote, followed by Ingrid Jackson with almost 24 per cent, Nick Hluszko about 21 per cent and John Morrall about 15 per cent.

It’s been a close race for the councillors as the vote counting has shown.

It has been a hard fought campaign for all with social media chat descending often into debate that was less than ideal and lobby groups pushing their opinions.

It takes bravery to stand up to represent the community amid all the slings and arrows thrown at the candidates during this campaign.

One former mayor admitted at one of the Meet the Candidate events that he wouldn’t want to do it in today’s social media climate.

So well done to all the candidates, those who have been voted in for the council term and those who missed out.

Across the state there has been a vote for change in several council wards with many incumbents looking like losing their jobs.

Griffith University political analyst Paul Williams said there appeared to be a mood for change which he attributed to general dissatisfaction across some, but not all, regional parts of the state.

“So we know that voters, particularly in regional Queensland are unhappy with a range of issues,” Professor Williams said.

He said cost of living was the biggest issue, followed by youth crime.

- Margaret Maccoll

Ms Romanowski said. This initiative is made possible through joint funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Angela Romanowski and Summer Wallbank get ready for Neighbour Day events.

Mayoral candidate Frank Wilkie on Election Day.

Pictures: ROB MACCOLL

Mayoral candidate Frank Wilkie with campaign supporters Alan Williams and Patrick Canfield.

Voters queued in long lines in the rain as the voting day neared its closing time.

Mayoral candidate John Morrall on Election Day.

Mayoral candidate Nick Hluszko on Election Day.

The very best of the fest

From page 1

From a purely surfing perspective, what was also heartening was the first sign of First Point getting back to its old form. While competitors were not quite graced with the peeling rock runners of old, there were consistently rideable waves from point to beach as the solid easterly swell finally started to gouge out the sandbar that made the point virtually disappear for more than four years.

While the swell, which peaked on a rather wild and woolly Tuesday, created a few challenges for the oldest and the youngest competitors (meaning over 70s and pre-teens), it also gave the best longboarders in the country and around the world plenty of opportunities to shine. Meanwhile, Barney Cool’s Beach Bar rocked on every day from 12 noon, with the occasional wet and windy squall doing nothing to deter spectators and revellers. Off-beach, entertainments included surf film screenings at The J, a chat show with world champions Peter Townend and Tom Carroll, plus screening of the cult classic Big Wednesday at the Noosa Surf Museum, and the all-day Brewfest at Noosa Dolphins Rugby Club.

Festival results are in Life of Brine, page 43

Continued page 5

John Fraser on his way to a win in the Over 60s.

Perennial finalist Eric Walker slides one in the Over 70s.

Archie Doble tucks into a tube.

View from the judging tower on Big Tuesday.

UK’s James Parry on a runner.

Noosa’s Matt Cuddihy gets 10.

World champs Peter Townend and Tom Carroll at Noosa Surf Museum with NT’s Phil Jarratt. Pictures: MELISSA HOAREAU

Bit of junior boogie in the beach bar.

Throughout the festival, hard-working French photographer Melissa Hoareau could be seen swimming against the sweep to capture world class water images of all the action, running across Main Beach to shoot events on the sand andinthebar,orjumpingonherscooter to visit an off-beach event.

Originally from the French Riviera, Melissa has become passionate about water photography and surfing only since her arrival in Noosa, where she loves.

Nothing better than grabbing her camera and fins and running out through the park to shoot her favourite spots,TeaTree and Boiling Pot.

She says: “The ocean feels home to meandwaterismyelement.Iloveworking in the middle of graceful surfers and playing with the beauty of nature.”

We’re delighted to present her highlights of the Noosa Festival of Surfing here.

To see more of Melissa’s work, visit melissahoareau.com

Melissa.

Perennial finalist Eric Walker slides one in the Over 70s.

Barney Cool’s Beach Bar.

The judges.

Pictures: MELISSA HOAREAU

Senior competitors leave the water.

Bit of junior boogie in the beach bar.

“No one knew who I was two months ago,“ she said.

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised to have been able to get such a positive response in such a short time.

“I think people have responded to someone being real and being able to talk to the issues people care about rather than about myself.“

Nicola believes her skills in financial literacy have also been a boost to her voting popularity.

“Everyone wants to know their rates are being spent wisely. Everyone can see the benefit of that,“ she said.

Of her first campaign and with nothing to compare it with Nicola said candidates and volunteer supporters had gotten along well but a fishing lobby group which had members stationed at election booths and confronted voters with their opinions and how to vote cards, had been “really disappointing“.

“That was the only real conflict,“ she said.

“There were elderly women standing up to them saying they didn’t believe them. It was pretty awful.

“That seemed quite unfair for someone else to get fliers printed to get around expenditure rules. I had to have how to vote cards approved.“

Nicola said the voting result showed people were not swayed by the tactics.

Candidate Tom Wegener whose current vote count returns him to office, also raised the issue of the “confronting“ lobby group.

“They’ve hijacked the election. It’s quite concerning I think,“ he said.

“You can tell lies if you’re not an associated body, you can print out any how to vote cards you want.

“We’re in this new world of lack of truth.“

At one election booth a fishing lobby group member told Noosa Today “what we’re saying is we don’t believe locking the river down in a conservation park is the way to go. We believe there are other ways of doing it, to clean the river up, let’s put the pressure on the state government.

“I’m concerned people need to know what the conservation park is and what exactly are its powers,” the man said.

Last October, Council did not approve a

Noosa River Catchment Plan which had been six years in the planning, deferring a decision on it until July this year. The move came after Council staff raised the possibility of initiating a Conservation Park on the Noosa River as a way of providing Council with a platform in decision-making on the state governmentcontrolled river.

At the time Council acting CEO Larry Sengstock said: “Council is not going ahead with a Conservation Park, this Council is considering a Noosa River Catchment Plan that includes

an action to consider a Conservation Park. Consideration of a Conservation Park would be a lengthy and comprehensive process and re- quires a number of steps including public consultation and a detailed feasibility assessment of natural, cultural and socio economic values of the river. If this were to proceed this process would take some time before any future Council considered going ahead with a Conservation Park over parts of the river”.

Continued page 7

Candidate volunteer supporters Peter, Louie, Jenny and Moses.

Election candidate volunteers Bruce, Flossie, Tony, Madonna, Richard and Colin

Councillor candidate Tom Wegener on Election Day.

Election: who’s

By Phil Jarratt

After a campaign marred by record levels of noise and nastiness, both on social media and in the real world, Noosa electors appear to have chosen experience over exuberance.

And as the tumult and the shouting died away last Sunday, as positive people began to look at what we’d gained, rather than lost, with Frank Wilkie expected to be mayor and the likely composition of the new council seeming relatively balanced and workable, whether you voted for all of them or not, it looked like the class of 2024 could possibly play well together. And after the frequent toxicity of the previous council, that’s a huge plus.

But, of course, as this edition goes to press Wednesday with only a shade over half the councillor votes counted, and less than a percentage point separating three sitting councillors from three candidates just outside the cut,

anything could happen and probably will, so consider this analysis speculative.

What is not speculative is that the dominant figure in the election of six Noosa councillors is NicolaWilson, the chartered accountant and financial analyst from Cooroy who has led the female-dominated count since it began, and seems certain to emerge as the most powerful woman on the new council, ahead of Cr Amelia Lorentson, who may well poll second after four years of pushing her cause for re-election and more recently courting the favour of the Noosa Boating and Fishing Alliance in suspending the Noosa River Plan.

Cr Lorentson, predictably, will be a serious player in the 2024 council, but in Ms Wilson, the shire seems to have found new blood in the form of a well-informed professional with the common touch.

While not unknown in local political circles,

Election countdown on

From page 6

the strong vote for Wilson may be seen as a vote for the new, particularly in the light of her cut-through analysis of tourism versus resident amenity.

Running third as this edition went to press was the lesser known Jess Phillips, a former police negotiator – could have used her on occasion in the last council – who captured the elector imagination without ever really stating her vision for Noosa, other than that she would focus on waterways, waste and community safety.

Next (as of Wednesday AM) we had three sitting councillors in order of Brian Stockwell, Tom Wegener and Karen Finzel, with Leigh McCready, Alecia Staines and Cr Joe Juresivic just below the cut but improving. With the key booths of Noosaville, Noosa Junction and Tewantin still to be counted, the smart money midweek was on the return of Lorentson,

Stockwell andWegener, with new bloodWilson and Phillips and last slot going to either Finzel or Juresivic.

There may well be late shifts, but if this is to be more or less the composition of the new council, it represents a substantial move forward in teamwork, and a likely repudiation of the bullying allegations and gender war of the previous council.

Nothing is certain, including the likelihood of a three-four voting base on all issues, but it seems very likely that Noosa has voted for a sensible, sustainable approach to a difficult future.

PREDICTION:

MAYOR: Frank Wilkie

COUNCILLORS: Nicola Wilson, Amelia Lorentson, Jess Phillips, Brian Stockwell, Tom Wegener, Joe Jurisevic.

Lending a hand on the campaign were volunteers Sunday Wegener and Henry Tuffley.

Councillor candidate Leigh McCready keeping out the rain on Election Day.

Councillor candidate Jess Phillips on Election Day.

Parkyns on heritage trail

By Phil Jarratt

Fifth generation members of one of Noosa’s leading heritage families, brothers Nick and Will Parkyn

a week-long trek around the shire and beyond in honour of their famous and much-loved forebears.

Hiking and packrafting down the Mary River to Gympie and then back down the headwaters and lakes of the Noosa River, the brothers are visiting the near-forgotten sites of their family history, starting at the site of greatgreat-grandfather Richard Bray Parkyn’s Gonamena Farm on the Mary near Kandanga, and finishing at great-grandfather Jack Parkyn’s wharf at Noosa Marina before wandering up the hill for Saturday afternoon celebration at the Parkyn’s Hut information centre.

Welcome to Planet Parkyn!

When Noosa Today first wrote about plans for the heritage trek late last year, they were somewhat grander than what has come to pass. A grant application fell through, so instead of taking a videographer along Nick and Will are shooting the adventure on their phones, and instead of more elaborate sleeping arrangements they are dossing down on their pack-rafts under a tarp with a net to keep the bugs away. “It’s saved us a lot of weight,” Nick, a glass-half-full kind of guy, said on Monday night from their camp at Tagigan Creek, near Wolvi, where Jack Parkyn built a cabin and set up home on the land with bride Daisy in 1912.

As I wrote of the marvellous Parkyn clan last year: “From the moment 22-year-old Richard Bray Parkyn took the gangplank down off the Dunbar Castle and planted his feet on Queensland soil in September 1878, five generations of Parkyns have never been afraid of having a go. Whether it was Cornish miner Richard making his fortune managing Gympie mines and building one of the first Noosa River shacks on what would become known as Gympie Terrace, before reinventing himself as a farmer and later a Widgee Shire councillor, or his son Jack building the foundations of the

Noosa tourism industry with the Miss Tewantin (the“sexiest boat on the river”) and later pioneering the caravan park concept at Munna Point, or his son Howard, a teenager in 1929, unhitching the chain to allow his mate Lionel Donovan to be the first to drive his Chevy Tourer across the brand-new Doonella Bridge ahead of all the dignitaries, before becoming the savviest Noosa businessman of his generation, the Parkyn boys (and gals) have never been known to take a backward step.”

By the early 1900s Richard Bray Parkyn was well established financially and had built his river “shack”, Miner’s Rest. He had also begun to buy tracts of rich farming land on the Mary River near Kandanga Creek where he built the homestead he named Gonamena Farm after the family home in Cornwall. He had shunned the land at an early age to work in the mines, but now he took early retirement from the Great Eastern Gold Mining Company and became a gentleman farmer.

At the site of Gonamena Farm last weekend Nick and Will launched their rafts and paddled down the Mary to Gympie over two days, where they explored sacred family sites, such as the old family home on Mellor Street, the remains of the Great Eastern and Crown and Phoenix gold mining operations, and Richard Bray’s grave in Gympie Cemetery.

From Gympie they hiked 24 km to Tagigan Creek, where they were setting up camp when I contacted them. As NoosaToday went to press, they were well into another full day’s hike to the upper reaches of the Noosa River, where they would relaunch the packrafts and begin the long paddle downriver to Teewah Landing and Johns Landing, where Jack Parkyn once conducted river tours on the Miss Tewantin.

As Nick told me last year: “Reading the stories of the old deeds in local history books, and looking into the eyes of my ancestors in the old photos, is like looking in a mirror of sorts. This trek and the inevitable highs and lows of the journey, will pay homage to them and to the waterways, and connect us through our DNA to those that paved the way.”

Charlie Muecke

BMedSc (VisSc) MOpt Optometrist

Down on Gonamena Farm, 1900.

Will and Nick Parkyn on the trek.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Riverside camp.

The packrafts.

Noosa.Radio launches!

After a year in development and much anticipation, the airwaves of Noosa are finally about to radiate warmth and energy with the launch of Noosa.Radio, the region’s first and commercial streaming radio station.

Going live today, Friday 22 March, you can listen now via the free Noosa.Radio app (available in Apple’s App Store and Google Play).

Noosa.Radio isn’t just another radio station; it’s an authentic, overdue on-brand representation of today’s Noosa - curated and championed by locals, for locals and for every Noosa enthusiast in the country. And given Noosa’s popularity as Australia’s leading destination, there’s lots!

The vision of a group of local business and broadcast professionals to meet the demands of a rapidly growing region, this is a station that’s not just about great music, but about encapsulating the spirit and stories of the Noosa Shire, from Main Beach to the Hinterland.

Boasting over 20 talented presenters, it will be broadcasting live from the Noosa Surf Museum via the free Noosa.radio app.

By harnessing the power of cutting-edge technology, it is set to tap into one of the world’s fastest growing media channelsstreaming radio - a new norm in this post-Spotify music world.

Founder, chief executive officer and presenter Mark Sutton says, “Noosa.Radio is more than just tunes and news.”

“It’s a celebration of the place we love, capturing its rich stories, iconic characters, and unforgettable moments in a way other ‘outside’ stations haven’t been able to do.

“After the boom in this region there was clearly a big gap for this amazing town to finally have its own unique ‘Noosa Sounding’ commercial station for both residents and visitors, as well as to give local businesses a fresh powerful marketing reach.”

Noosa.Radio is as much about the stories and news as it is about the great music, and

who better to share them than the station’s presenters.

All are local identities with solid radio experience and an unparalleled passion for music and the wonderful Noosa Shire.

As well as blissfully upbeat sounds from the sixties to the noughties and exclusive interviews with the town’s key personalities, the many carefully curated programs will cover the topics that matter to locals - including health and wellness, surfing, tourism, wining and dining, property, the environment and round ups of all the local events in the region.

Co-director Andrew Squires says, “After a staggering amount of work and technical

preparation this last year we are now finally on air! And we’re not just another station. We’re Noosa’s heartbeat, a feel-good soundtrack to a cool way of life so many came here to seek.”

Keeping things beachy and retro, the station also boasts a head-turning, pineapple yellow 1973 VW Surf Kombi.

This iconic outside broadcast van is more than just a mobile billboard; it’s a symbol of Noosa.Radio’s commitment to being in the heart of the sun-soaked action; serving as the exclusive Green Room for guests during the station’s on-location broadcasts.

Noosa.Radio will also have unwavering commitment to the community, operating as

a social enterprise, liaising with council and Tourism Noosa with the station donating a percentage of profits to partner charities such as Katie Rose Hospice.

Sandy Bouton MP described this addition to Noosa’s colorful scene as “fabulous” while Sharon Ragues, CEO of Tourism Noosa said “This is such an exciting venture for Noosa and the timing couldn’t be better!”.

As the sun rises over the surf and the music plays, Noosa’s radio scene will never be the same. Noosa.Radio - Here Comes The Sun! Visit www.noosa.radio

Song text requests: 0432 389 300

The Noosa.Radio team. Presenter Gina Menchaca.

Taking on Australia’s best

Two leading Sunshine Coast tourism operators will compete against Australia’s best in Friday night’s Australian Tourism Awards, being held in Darwin.

Creative Tours and Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat will be aiming to translate their gold medal performances in the Queensland Tourism Awards to national honours.

Premium tour operator, Creative Tours, will represent the Sunshine Coast in two categories – Tour and Transport Operators, and Excellence in Food.

Montville based Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat will be aiming to take out gold in the Hosted Accommodation category.

Visit Sunshine Coast CEO, Matt Stoeckel, wished the two operators all the best in the national awards, saying their gold medal success in the Queensland Tourism Awards reflected the exceptional quality and professionalism of the product they delivered.

“Josh Donohoe and the Creative Tours team deservedly scored a rare double gold in the Queensland awards and their pioneering development of tours focusing on the Sunshine Coast’s rich food and drink trails deserves recognition on the national stage,” said Mr Stoeckel.

“Josh has played a key role in building the Sunshine Coast’s position as Australia’s Craft Beer Capital, and more recently he has contributed to our innovative Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry program, which is promoting the region’s agritourism attractions.

“I would also like to congratulate Ali and Xochi at Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat who are no strangers to the National Tourism Awards winning gold in 2022. They are one of Australia’s most decorated properties and deservedly named by Trip Advisor as the “most romantic hotel in the world”.

“For their efforts, they already have a cabinet full of trophies and their recent improvements to the property with two new luxury cabins should impress the judges.

They are renowned for their attention to detail, the way they operate in such pristine environments and their personal and professional service...plus their homemade croissants are to die for!

“They are true ambassadors for the region and their constant investment in the property is reflected by the world-wide audience they attract and the incredibly positive guest responses they receive.”

Ali and Xochi said they were “thrilled to be representing the Sunshine Coast and

Queensland in the hosted accommodation category” and“it is an honour to be nominated with some of Australia’s best accommodation”.

Creative Tours owner Josh Donohoe said he was excited to be competing for gold at the national tourism awards off the back of the state level win and consecutive gold awards in the ‘Experiences’ category in 2022 and 2023 at the Sunshine Coast Business Awards.

“We are so proud of our recent achievements and awards and honoured to be representing the Sunshine Coast against some of the country’s best tourism businesses,” he said.

And he said there was more than additional award wins on the horizon for Creative Tours as they prepared to bring their newest tour offerings to the Sunshine Coast in 2024.

“This year we are focusing even more on showcasing our amazing local farmers, producers and restaurants who champion and support the local businesses in our region.

Customers can expect guided tours of local markets, food and drink pairing events, plus some unique offerings for The Curated Plate, Noosa Eat & Drink and GourMay festivals,” Josh said.

Noosa AFL grounds transforms into open-air

Reed and Co is set to transform the Noosa Tigers Football Grounds into an open-air cinema this Easter.

Gather your family and friends to experience the Noosa AFL grounds come alive and transform into a magical night with the movie Peter Rabbit.

This free community event on Saturday 30 March promises to be an unforgettable evening under the stars.

Pack a picnic or indulge in the delicious food trucks on offer.

The clubhouse canteen will be open, along with the bar for those over 18 years of age. Don’t forget your picnic blankets and portable chairs.

Arrive from 5:15pm to enjoy live music, food and drink as the sun sets.

Reed and Co will be announcing the winner of their 2024 Easter Colouring Competition. Kids, it is not too late to enter at reedandco.co/eastercompetition/ Register your interest for the Twilight Cinema by Monday 25 March so the event organisers know how much popcorn to prepare.

For more information and to register, visit reedandco.co/twilight-cinema/

Event details:

· Date: Saturday 30 March 2024

· Time: arrive from 5:15pm, the movie, Peter Rabbit, will commence from 6:15pm

· Location: Noosa Tigers AFC, 149 Weyba Road, Noosaville

Please note this event is weather-dependent, so please keep an eye on Reed and Co.’s social media channels and website for any updates.

Reed and Co will be announcing the winner of their 2024 Easter Colouring Competition.

Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel and Sunshine Beer Craft Beers Tour owner Josh Donohue

Gabrielle’s a warm smile

By Abbey Cannan

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like working at a medical centre and dispensary; Budding Wellness practice manager Gabrielle Forden is here to spill the tea.

Created by Dr Cheyne Mitchell and his pharmacist business partner, Alya Abdulmaksoud, Budding Wellness specialises in endocannabinoid support (ECS) therapy to improve quality of life.

At the Noosa Junction clinic, Gabrielle oversees daily operations, ensuring patients receive the highest quality of support on their medical cannabis journey.

“One of the most fulfilling parts of my role is our holistic approach to patient care and witnessing the profound impact it has on the patients’ lives,” she said.

“We go beyond just providing cannabis products and focusing on understanding each patient’s unique needs and goals. This allows us to address not just physical symptoms, but also mental and emotional well-being, empowering patients to take control of their health.”

Joining Budding Wellness was a natural progression for Gabrielle, as it allowed her to continue working alongside Dr Mitchell, the clinic’s founder.

“I had the privilege of working with him at a previous clinic. When Dr Mitchell decided to establish BuddingWellness, I knew I wanted to be part of this new venture,” she said.

“His dedication to putting patients first and his vision for creating a clinic that goes beyond conventional care resonated deeply with me.”

Seeing Budding Wellness grow into a thriving community hub has been incredibly rewarding for Gabrielle.

“We’ve witnessed the positive impact on patients’ lives as we’ve expanded our services to meet their evolving needs,” she said.

“I’m proud to be part of a team dedicated

to advancing medical cannabis and holistic healthcare, and I’m excited to continue contributing to our clinic’s success.”

BUDDING WELLNESS

YOUR PARTNER IN HOLISTIC HEALTH

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

NO REFERRAL REQUIRED

SAME DAY SCRIPTING

CLINIC TRANSFERS AVAILABLE

We are a locally owned and operated clinic, with an on-site dispensary located in the heart of Noosa.

We offer Face to Face and Telehealth consultations for patients interested in Endocannabinoid support based therapies. With Individually tailored treatment plans, we have a holistic approach to patient care.

Living with a chronic health condition is increasingly common. We may be able to assist with improved quality of life for some of the following medical problems:

• Anxiety / Depression

• Chronic pain

• Insomnia

• Cancer symptoms or treatment side effect management

• Seizure disorders

• Neurodivergent conditions (ADHD, OCD, ASD)

• Movement Disorders (Restless Leg Syndrome and Tics)

Dylan goes to Parliament

Pomona resident, Dylan Hafey has been selected to represent the Noosa Electorate at the 2024YMCA QueenslandYouth Parliament (QYP).

“Ever since I can remember, I have wanted to be an advocate for meaningful change and fight for positive outcomes. This is why I am so grateful for this opportunity, as well as being selected for the Justice, Police, Community Safety and Corrective Services portfolio,” said Dylan.

QYP is a parliamentary education, community engagement and personal development program run by the YMCA in collaboration with the Queensland Government. Every year, 93 newYouth Members, between the ages of 15 and 25, are selected (one from every state electorate) for the program. Beyond bridging the gap between legislators and youth in Queensland, QYP also provides an outstanding opportunity for personal development, be that in leadership skills, public speaking and legislative experience.

Dylan has been a born and bred Noosa local his whole life and is heavily involved within the community in a professional ca-

pacity and through volunteering. He is also an Australian Scout Medallion recipient and the current Treasurer for Noosa Toastmasters.

“I look forward to working with the other 92 Youth Members from other electorates across Queensland on legislation, speaking with stakeholders, State Members (MPs) and good ole fashion debate in chamber on many issues. Any ‘mock’ Bills we pass are then given to MPs for their consideration. Thank you to everyone who supported my nomination, I am immensely proud to be representing Noosa,” Dylan said.

Dylan Hafey in his role as theYouth Member can be contacted via noosa@ymcaqyp. org.au. For more information on the QYP, please visit https://ymcaqueensland.org.au.

For anyone under 25, the Queensland Child and Family Commission is hosting a two-day Youth Summit on 10 and 11 April 2024 at the Emporium Hotel, South Bank, Brisbane. Register for free and find more information at www.qfcc.qld.gov.au/youth/ summit

Dylan Hafey

For more information or to book an appointment, visit buddingwellness.com.au or call (07) 5440 4900.

Drop into the Budding Wellness clinic to chat through any questions at Shop 6, 4-6 Sunshine Beach Road, Noosa Heads.

Budding Wellness practice manager Gabrielle Forden is ready to welcome you at the Noosa Junction clinic.

Budding Wellness owner Dr Cheyne Mitchell.

Budding Wellness pharmacist business partner Alya Abdulmaksoud with Dr Cheyne Mitchell.

Students gearing up

Sunshine Beach State School is gearing up to pedal its way into the heart of active travel as it joins the nationwide celebration of National Ride2School Day.

Set to take place on Friday 22 March, this event promises to infuse fun and vitality into the school day as students, teachers, and parents embrace the joy of riding, walking, scooting, and skating to school.

National Ride2School Day stands as Australia’s premier event promoting active travel, with Sunshine Beach State School students poised to join over 360,000 participants across the country.

It marks a vibrant occasion where the community unites to kick-start healthy habits for the future while engaging in the thrill of eco-friendly transportation options.

Established in 2006, Ride to School Day is an integral component of the National Ride2School program, orchestrated by Bicycle Network, a non-profit organisation dedicated to championing cycling across all age groups.

Last year alone, more than 870 schools and 360,000 students partook in the festivities, underscoring the nation’s growing enthusiasm for active living.

In an era marked by declining rates of active travel, with only 25 per cent of Australian children walking or riding to school compared to approximately 80 per cent in the 1970s, initiatives like Ride2School Day assume paramount importance. The benefits of active travel extend far beyond physical fitness.

Firstly, it helps children meet their daily ex-

ercise requirements, fostering healthier lifestyles and improved academic performance. Moreover, by reducing pollution and promoting cleaner air, active travel demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

Physical education teacher, Cameron Porter, highlighted the multifaceted advantages of participating in Ride2School Day.

“It’s not just about getting from point A to point B,“ Mr Porter said.

“It’s about instilling lifelong habits of physical activity, environmental consciousness, and road safety awareness.“

Indeed, road safety education forms a crucial aspect of Ride2School Day, offering a prime opportunity to impart essential skills for navigating streets safely.

As students pedal, scoot, or skate alongside friends and family, they not only build stronger social connections but also internalize the principles of responsible road behaviour.

Mr Porter said, “Ride to School Day 2024 provides a perfect platform for teaching children about road safety in a practical, engaging manner. It’s a chance to empower them with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate their journeys safely.“

With wheels in motion and spirits high, Sunshine Beach State School students are poised to embark on an unforgettable journey towards healthier, happier lifestyles.

Sand

Doggy

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

School coins hope for those with cancer

Students at Noosa District State High School, spanning from year 7 to 12, have banded together to make a meaningful impact through their participation in the lead up to The World’s Greatest Shave Fundraiser.

Over the course of two weeks, students diligently collected coins during their Home Group time, fostering a spirit of unity and competition among the year levels to create the most impressive coin line.

At the Pomona Campus, the enthusiasm was electric as year 7 and 8 student leaders gathered in the library on Friday 8 March to display their collected coins.

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

Year 7, in particular, stood out with an impressive line stretching over 8m long. Among them, Year 7A shone bright, amassing an impressive $82.35 in silver coins alone.

Reflecting on the achievement, junior secondary campus coordinator, Callum Gordon, expressed his admiration.

“It’s truly heartening to witness our young students rallying behind a cause that supports those affected by cancer,” he said.

Giving students the opportunity to fundraise and be part of a national event, is one example of how NDSHS is creating empathic and compassionate learners.

Year 7 and 8 student leaders gathered in the library to display their collected coins.

EXPL

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ANCIENT ADRIATIC TREASURES

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Experience the renaissance of Lisbon, newly invigorated with trending galleries and restaurants. Cruise the Douro River, the oldest demarcated wine region and a UNESCO Site.

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WINE

Book focus

As a part of Sunshine Beach State School’s academic talent program, senior students embarked on a literary adventure participating in the ‘Beyond the Book’ Literature Festival held at the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC).

The event, previously known as ‘Voices on the Coast’, offered students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of literature and creativity.

The school’s academic talent program caters for a range of children from all year levels through enrichment opportunities such as the literacy festival.

Students who attended the literacy festival were accompanied by the school’s dedicated academic talent teachers, Jane Lethlean and Sarah Price, who said the students delved deep into the heart of storytelling, meeting beloved authors and illustrators who brought words to life.

At the festival, they engaged in interactive workshops, explored the university campus, and envisioned themselves as future scholars.

Year 6 student Isabel, expressed her excitement at meeting Mick Elliot, acclaimed author, TV producer and self-proclaimed mischief maker, whose infectious energy captivated the audience.

Maddy who is a Year 5 student, cherished the chance to glimpse university life, setting her sights on attending UniSC in the future.

Award-winning author Louise Park held the audience spellbound as she shared insights into crafting compelling heroes and villains, drawing from her own family history in her book Last Man Out: A Portrayal of the Gallipoli Evacuation. T

he bravery of John Alexander Park, Louise’s grandfather, who remained behind during the Gallipoli evacuation, left a lasting impression on the young minds.

Sami Bayley, a scientific illustrator, engaged students with her tips on drawing creatures,

Sunshine Beach State School students shine at the Beyond the Book Literature Festival.

while Katrina Nannestad encouraged them to unleash their creativity through writing.

Oliver Phommavanh shared humorous anecdotes and writing tips, while Zannii Louise wove ‘story magic’ to inspire budding writers.

Sarah Armstrong, among the esteemed authors present, led students through the intricacies of character creation and research for her latest novel, ‘Big Magic’.

Year 6 student Eliana praised the workshop for its educational value and insights into the writing process.

Sunshine Beach State School’s academic talent teachers emphasised the festival’s role in inspiring a love for reading and writing among students.

The ‘Beyond the Book’ Literary Festival proved to be a transformative experience for Sunshine Beach students involved in the academic talent program, igniting their passion for literature and creativity.

As they returned to school, their hearts and minds brimmed with newfound inspiration, ready to embark on their own literary adventures.

Students celebrating the inaugural Student Leadership Development Day on Friday 1 March.

History in the making

Student leaders from both Noosa District State High School campuses gathered for the inaugural Student Leadership Development Day on Friday 1 March.

The event, organised by FionaYoung and Callum Gordon (student leadership coordinators), marked the first time in the school’s 60-year history that all student leaders have gathered under one roof.

With over 60 bright and enthusiastic young people, activities aimed at building confidence, identifying growth areas for events, and learning about processes were at the heart of the day.

The development day began with an opening address from principal Stacy Wilmore, who applauded the bright and passionate young people who have chosen to stand up and be part of something bigger than themselves.

A highlight of the day was senior leaders leading various activities, encouraging leaders to engage in conversations with each other and connect with someone from

a different grade.

The essence of the leadership development day was providing student leaders with an opportunity to enhance their understanding of what leadership entails: how a leader communicates, behaves, and acts.

Callum Gordon, junior secondary campus coordinator, emphasised the significance of young people developing their leadership skills.

“Our year 7-12 leaders are the future of our country. Witnessing them step out of their comfort zones, build bridges, and engage in rich conversations is inspiring,“ he said.

The insights gained from the leadership development day will serve as a catalyst for shaping the culture of Noosa District in the coming years.

Developing capable, resilient, and independent leaders is just one example of how Noosa District State High School is setting the gold standard in education and opportunities.

Skateboard

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-to-skate 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 nine days, 1080 spots are available, with eight 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 30 March, from 10am to 2pm. Easter Bunny will be spreading joy throughout the centre, handingoutspecialgiftstoshoppersofallages.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 Skater Word Hunt from 2 to 14 April. Participants can pick 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

fun

featured in Noosa Today. Don’t miss the last chance to get your entry in!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.

For more information, visit Noosacivic.com. au

Young skaters of all ages and abilities are invited to join the workshops.

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

A record $50,000 raised

Members of the Sunshine Coast legal fraternity raised a record-breaking $50,000 for the Suncoast Community Legal Service (SCLS) at a wine dinner held at Venue 114 last Thursday, with every cent raised going towards ensuring access to justice for the most vulnerable in the local community.

Now in its fourth year, the annual fundraising event — hosted by leading Queensland compensation law firm, Travis Schultz & Part-

ners (TSP) — welcomed more than 200 guests who generously participated in a lively auction while tasting some of Australia’s best wines.

The SCLS, founded in 1984, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. As an independent community organisation, SCLS serves as a first point of contact for free advice and referral services and relies on the support and generosity of Sunshine Coast lawyers, volunteers and the public.

TSP Managing Partner, Travis Schultz said this year’s fundraising and networking wine dinner did not disappoint to bring that muchneeded support.

“Thanks to the generosity of the guests, event sponsors, supporters and friends who have once again come together to help, we have now collectively raised $136,923 from this annual wine dinner over the last four years.

“We are grateful to the community and profession for their ongoing involvement to support the vital work of the SCLS, meaning more people can get help with their legal problems before the issue becomes overwhelming.

“Everyone in our community should have access to legal advice when they need it, and that’s why the Suncoast Community Legal Service is so important to the Sunshine Coast region,” Mr Schultz said.

In the past 40 years, SCLS has provided each year an average of 3,000 free advice sessions to the local community, 2,000 information activities, and 18 community legal education opportunities.

Noela L’Estrange President of the SCLS, and former CEO of the Queensland Law Society, said it relies heavily on the support of partnerships, fundraisers, and volunteers to make it possible to continue offering services such as these to the Sunshine Coast’s 350,000-plus residents.

“The community is growing in numbers every year and with it, so does the demand to help financially disadvantaged people with free legal advice,” Ms L’Estrange said.

“This year being our 40th anniversary, is also a celebration of the 90-plus volunteers across the Coast who donate their time to those who can’t pay for their own legal advice. Our community of legal volunteers across the

Sunshine Coast have given countless hours over the years to make justice accessible to all.

“Partners likeTravis Schultz & Partners, and annual fundraisers like this event, raise funds that go toward our Community Lawyer Program. These programs run in seven locations across the Sunshine Coast including Maroochydore, Caloundra, Nambour, Noosa, Beerwah, Maleny, and Pomona.

“This work directly impacts the community’s resilience and wellbeing, and our biggest supporters in the legal fraternity understand this, and for that, we are indebted,” Ms L’Estrage said.

This year, special guests Mayor Mark Jamieson and Mayoress Lorrell Jamieson were welcomed for the second year, along with the Deputy Chief Magistrate Stephen Courtney.

The inspiring keynote address was delivered by Robyna May, an author and legal technology consultant who spoke about the transformative impact of AI within the legal industry.

The audience was treated to a three-course meal and lessons in wine pairing by Garth Eather, with a selection of premium wines by Mareeba Park Wines - who have won more than 500 medals at Australian and international wine shows and are rated a Top 100 Australian Winery by renowned wine critic, James Halliday.

Guests enjoyed a lively auction, led by Grant Smith, with five exclusive items, from luxury mountain escapes to golf experiences that were generously donated by sponsors Coastline BMW, Toomey Family Law, SV Partners, Sunstate Jewellers and Meerea ParkWines.

To find out more about the Suncoast Community Legal Service, visit suncoastcommunitylegal.org

Jackie Courtney, Deputy Chief Magistrate Stephen Courtney, Sarah Quilliam, Hugh Powell (Travis Schultz & Partners SC Leader).

Garth Eather, Robyna May, Travis Schultz, and Noela L’Estrange.

Lisa Shipp, SCLS Employed Lawyer.

E-scooter safety a must

Speeding along main roads, doubling your mate or your child, using your mobile while riding and not wearing a helmet are all offences for e-scooter and e-skateboard users under rules brought in to improve safety of riders, drivers and pedestrians.

Harsher penalties and new offences have been introduced in response to concerns raised by residents and advocacy from MPs including Noosa’s Sandy Bolton.

Earlier this year Noosaville resident Scott Thorson wrote to us after his wife was knocked to the ground by a youngster on an electric scooter racing past on an e-scooter on a Noosa Junction footpath. She suffered a scraped elbow and the rider just kept going.

In a bid to improve safety and compliance Highway Patrol Sunshine Coast have twice led police campaigns called Operation Doodlebug to educate riders on these personal mobility devices.

“Personal mobility devices (PMDs), including e-scooters, can be a fun, sustainable and a low-cost transport option for getting around the Sunshine Coast, however, there are laws riders must follow,” a Queensland Police Service spokesperson said.

“Designed for single person use only, an escooter is not permitted to travel faster than 25km/h, with the maximum allowable speed for riders on a shared path or footpath being 12km/h. Riders can suffer serious injuries if they fall off, with excessive speed a common factor in many PMD incidents.

“Riders must also be aware that PMDs can only be used on paths and roads where the speed limit is 50km/h or less and are not permitted to travel on a main road or highway.

“Other safety measures include a person riding an e-scooter having to wear a helmet at all times, not drinking and riding and not using a mobile phone while in motion.

“Riders who fail to abide by these rules could face fines, including a fine of up to $1161 for using a mobile phone.”

Rules for e-scooters, e-skateboards and segways

Age limits and Doubling:

Children 11 years or under must not ride escooters, e-skateboards, or similar devices. 12-15-year-olds can only ride them with adult supervision.

16-year-olds and over are allowed to ride these devices but it is against the law to carry a passenger, no matter how big or small. These devices have been designed for one person at a time and fines apply for doubling.

Where you can ride then:

· Paths – footpaths, shared paths, separated

Wide Bay traffic blitz: 851 speeding fines

A traffic blitz in the Wide Bay Burnett district has resulted in more than 1200 infringements, with police targeting dangerous driving behaviours.

As part of a targeted operation to improve road safety outcomes, officers conducted 7246 Roadside Breath Tests between 31 January and 25 February, resulting in 13 motorists being charged with drink driving offences and 37 motorists returning positive Roadside Drug Tests.

Police issued 851 traffic infringement notices for speeding, including seven for driving more than 40 km/h over the speed limit.

Seven people were issued traffic infringement notices for using their mobile phone while driving, 16 for failing to wear a seatbelt, and 10 for driving without a licence.

In one case, a motorbike rider was allegedly detected travelling at 163km/h in a 100km/h zone, upon inspection the motorcycle was also found to have defects. A 22-year-old Urangan man was issued a traffic infringement notice for high-end speeding.

Acting Inspector Gareth Bosley from Road Policing Group said the “Wide Bay Burnett

District has seen six fewer lives lost on roads this year compared to the same period last year”.

“However, some of the driving behaviours seen by police were alarming.

“In two instances police cars were forced off the road by other vehicles overtaking illegally. Unfortunately, in all too many instances, this is how lives are lost.

“Also of concern was that in several instances, unmarked police cars were overtaken by other drivers travelling at high speed

“The operational results prove these strategies are effective in disrupting dangerous behaviour on our roads and police will continue to target these irresponsible behaviours for everybody’s safety,” Acting Inspector Bosley said.

“There was a 40 per cent reduction in total crashes in the last month during the conduct of this operation.

“One life lost is too many and whilst people continue to drive irresponsibly, placing others, their passengers and themselves at risk of death or serious injury, police will continue to deliver targeted operations to keep reducing road trauma.”

paths and bike paths – max 12km/hr

· Local streets (speed limit of 50km/h or less, no dividing centre line) – max 25km/hr

On-road bike lanes (where the road speed limit is 50km/h or less, or where the lane is physically separated from the road).

Police can issue on the spot fines of more than $500 for anyone speeding on e-scooters, e-skateboards, and similar devices. Stay within the limit for everyone’s safety.

Mobile phone use:

It’s illegal to use handheld mobile phone whilst riding. Mounting a phone on the handlebar is ok only if not distracted.

Safety gear:

You must wear a helmet with the straps fastened when riding an e-scooter, e-skateboard, or similar devices. This can be an approved bicycle helmet or a motorcycle helmet.

All rideable devices must have lights and reflectors to use at night or in hazardous conditions and be fitted with effective brakes.

If your device has handlebars like an escooter, it must be fitted with a warning device like a bell.

For more information visit streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/pmd/get-the-facts

Be aware of bitumen scammers locally

Sunshine Coast Police are warning the community to be aware of bitumen scammers. Bitumen scammers use high pressure sales techniques to convince their victims to employ them to reseal their driveways. The scammers often use fake identification and will not be part of a legitimate business. Scammers will either demand payment upfront and then refuse to do the work or complete the work to a very poor quality and use threats and intimidation to obtain payment.

If you think you are being scammed, try the following:

· Give a firm refusal; a reputable business won’t be upset if you refuse their services.

· Seek more information from independent sources such as family, friends, websites or past clients.

Reputable businesses will be happy to

provide you with full contact details so that you can follow-up on their services.

· Obtain a written quote.

Seek an agreement with the person offering the service that all monies will be paid at the satisfactory completion of the job and not up front.

Regulatory authorities who are responsible for license and regulation of various trades such as plumbing, building and electrical etc, should be contacted to ascertain if the person is currently licensed.

If your inquiries reveal the business is legitimate, you can always contact them later.

If you believe you have been affected by this scam please contact the Office of Fair Trading or your local Police Station.

If you feel threatened by a person claiming to be from a company, tell them to leave, close the door and call 000 immediately.

Sunshine Coast Police are warning the community to be aware of bitumen scammers.

Police have issued 851 traffic infringement notices for speeding.

Doubling is not allowed in e-scooters.

Police can issue on the spot fines for speeding.

E-scooters are only allowed on local roads with a speed of 50km/hr or less.

Ambitious trial for young offenders

The Queensland Government has announced a relocation sentencing trial through an expanded intensive On Country Ppogram for youth offenders.

This has been welcomed by Independent Noosa MP Sandy Bolton whose advocacy and support were based on her annual Noosa MP Community Survey, which saw over 80 per cent of respondents supporting ‘sentencing repeat youth offenders to remote rehabilitation/work/education facilities and programs’.

“Being only one of five MPs (from 93) last year to support relocation sentencing as an extra option for the courts, this announcement is a positive step in reducing youth crime. However, the element missing is that it should also incorporate non-Indigenous youth. This ensures that options for rehabilitation are not segmented, as walking a path to not reoffending should be one done together,” Sandy said.

The expanded-On Country trial will provide an essential rehabilitation pathway incorporating education or training for jobs, as well practical life skills including cooking, cleaning, budgeting, setting up bank accounts and obtaining identification, all skills needed to break the cycle of offending.

“Our advocacy for an expanded On Country program and support for relocation sentencing commenced in 2021 including in a speech on a Youth Justice Bill in April that year, and further in Parliamentary speeches last year. This provides both the residential component and the extra time needed to effect real change, that was missing from previous rehabilitation programs.

“Since November 2023, I have attended many instrumental meetings and public hearings, as well visited watch houses and detention centres across parts of regional Queensland, in my role as chair of the Youth Justice Reform Committee. This has provided vital insights for our Inquiry, especially in relation to serious repeat offenders. Relocation sentencing is a positive start in addressing the very real gaps that currently exist.”

As one witness said at a public hearing, there is no one ‘silver bullet’, it will take silver ‘buckshot’ to reduce recidivism and its con-

tributors of households impacted by alcoholism, domestic violence and mental illness, school absenteeism, lack of access to mental and physical health services, as well pathways to education and work when exiting detention.

“Consistent in submissions and hearings have been a number of issues including around sentencing options, funding for not for profits delivering programs, securing and retaining staff, as well that solutions need to be community led and place based. Our aim is to have an interim report and recommendations completed by the end of March,” Sandy said.

More information on the Youth Justice Select Committee, previous issues papers and submissions are available at parliament.qld. gov.au/youthjustice

The Queensland Government is seeking expressions of interest, which are open until 12 March, for organisations and individuals that can provide property or a program that includes education, employment, training or other support to deliver the relocation sentencing trial. Further information on this is available on Sandy’s website at SandyBolton. com/Noosa360

High-risk dingo collared

Rangers have fitted a GPS tracking collar to a dingo (wongari) displaying heightened risk activity and entering a fenced area on K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island).

The dingo was fitted with the collar last week and will wear it for the next two months so rangers can track her movements and identify where the animal breaching fence lines.

“The collar will provide regular updates that will help rangers with risk mitigation activities such as increased patrolling and education of people around her,” said Dr Linda Behrendorff from the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.

“It will also hopefully help pinpoint the specific location where the dingo is entering the fenced area, so rangers can then prevent that access.

“We have received regular reports about the dingo’s high-risk behaviour, which includes stalking and dominance testing.

“Previous research has shown that people tend to keep their distance from collared dingoes, and visitors to the Eurong area are reminded to Be dingo-safe at all times.

“Collars have been used on K’gari since 2011 for various reasons including research and to track high risk dingoes, and camera collars were used to provide unique insight to their actions and their movements.

“Tracking collars are used in other countries to assist in managing animal/ human interactions, and this one will automatically drop off after two months.

Visitors and residents on K’gari (Fraser Island) are encouraged to report any negative dingo encounters to a QPWS ranger, or phone 07 4127 9150 or email dingo.ranger@des.qld.gov.au as soon as possible.

Coast Guard highlights decrease in river traffic

The Noosa Coast Guard have noticed a significant decrease in river traffic and vessels crossing the Noosa River Bar during February.

This has been confirmed by the refueling stations who have noticed similar reductions in sales this year.

Apart from fewer boats being on the river, the bar conditions were also unfavourable for smaller boats and, together with the weather, deterred some from venturing out.

Flotilla Commander Lindsay Hall confirmed they had 14 assists during the month, with jet skis suffering from mechanical issues and insufficient fuel being the cause for most requests for assistance.

On 13 February, they undertook an interesting assist off Teewah Beach.

“We were called to assist a single-handed sailing yacht that had declared a Mayday, 13 NM north of Noosa Bar off Teewah at around 1900 hrs.“

John Waddams and a crew of five were activated.

The yacht had engine problems and was struggling to keep off the shore in strong winds and seas averaging three metres.

After initial problems locating the vessel in the pitch dark and, despite briefly sighting a flare, they were rapidly on scene with the assistance of a SAR helicopter which found the vessel.

The vessel was taken in tow towards the south working well clear of the shore to reduce wave effects. The solo sailor on the yacht was unable to fully drop the sails due to fatigue and the conditions, which made the hook up challenging.

This resulted in a long tow which took over five hours, averaging around 4 - 5 knots

for the duration.

During February, members of QF5 had the opportunity of meeting with Police Minister Mark Ryan and several senior executives from the Marine Rescue Implementation Team.

This meeting, together with several other meetings, provided members with updates on how the transition from Coast Guard to Marine Rescue Queensland would occur and the strategies that are being put in place to ensure that transition.

From the public’s point of view, it is very much business as usual.

At this stage, the new legislation will take effect on 1 July 2024, with the first flotillas transitioning around that date. The current expected transition date is set to be around February 2025 or slightly later.

The new Rotary Rescue’s hull has been completed, with delivery expected around late April or early May 2024.

The construction for the Coast Guard’s second vessel, Bendigo Rescue has now begun and hopefully it should be finished in May or early June 2024.

Once the vessel has been commissioned, the current Bendigo Rescue will be offered for sale to either another Coast Guard flotilla or to the public.

The John Waddams replacement is next in line for production and should start immediately after the completion of Bendigo Rescue. It is expected to be delivered with its new Airbirth around November or December 2024.

Coast Guard vessels John Waddams and Rotary Rescue.

Noosa MP Sandy Bolton visited watch houses and youth detention centres as chair of the Youth Justice Reform Committee.

The Guide

LOCKERBIE

Seven, Sunday, 8.30pm

JIMMY DOHERTY’S NEW ZEALAND ESCAPE

SBS Food, Saturday, 7.30pm

Perhaps it’s unfair to declare that New Zealand’s sublime natural scenery eclipses the genial manner of presenter Jimmy Doherty (pictured), but in this gorgeously shot series that’s the only way it should be. Dotted with snow-frosted mountains, heavenly blue expanses and even some top-notch whiskey and buffalo milk, it’s an expedition filled with the scenic spoils of Kiwi produce and spirit. It’s a happy-go-lucky four-part travelogue, kicking off with the British presenter and farmer visiting the haven of Stewart Island, where he learns to gravity fish. A women-only deer farm and the country’s oldest distillery are also on the fun-filled itinerary.

Colin Firth is set to star in an upcoming miniseries about the 1988 disaster, but in the meantime there’s this meticulous true crime documentary about terrorist attack on Pan Am Flight 103. Using archival footage and extensive interviews with those involved, it’s a compelling and very moving examination of grief, which wraps up tonight with a movie-length instalment. Almost 40 years have passed since the terrible tragedy, but it still feels like yesterday for Margaret and Hugh Connell, who were among the first to find the plane’s wreckage in their small Scottish town. Tonight, the verdict is revealed, leaving Dr Jim Swire, the father of one of the victims, gobsmacked.

MASTERMIND AUSTRALIA

SBS, Monday, 6pm

Notorious for its tough questions, there’s no holding back on the torrent of knowledge and intellect in the new season of this quiz caper. Premiering tonight with its sixth season, along with host Marc Fennell (pictured), here’s your cheat card to get ahead of the curve… if you wish to accept a little sneaky heads up. With a fresh episode every weekday, everything from pop culture to art and politics is covered. Tonight’s return features NRL State of Origin from 1985 to 2005, Survivor:All-Stars, the human brain, and the Battle for Hill 60, but you can also brush up on Fawlty Towers, ParksandRecreation, New Order, the Solomon Islands and Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer this week.

PICK OF THE WEEK

ALONE AUSTRALIA

SBS, Wednesday, 7.30pm

Armed with only 10 permitted items, such as a sleeping bag, a water bottle and perhaps a toothbrush, there’s no bluffing in this extraordinary survival series. Returning with its keenly anticipated second season after hooking audiences with its Tasmanian-set debut last year, the stakes are high for the 10 competing survivalists after no doubt taking feverish notes from reigning champion Gina Chick’s audacious feat winning the 250,000 cash prize. This time they’re in New Zealand’s South Island, where being cold takes on a painful new meaning. Featuring NSW tradesman and wild game hunter Jack and Victorian wilderness adventure guide Suzan (pictured), there’s no shortage of skill and chutzpah.

4.10

5.10

10.05

10.35

11.05

11.20

12.10

1.45

NITV (34)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30

9.20

10.15

4.15

The World Tonight.

5.30 ANC Philippines

6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News.

6.00

7.00

9.00

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.30 MOVIE: Maid In Manhattan. (2002, PGls, R) A senatorial candidate falls for a hotel maid, believing she is a socialite. Jennifer Lopez, Ralph Fiennes, Natasha Richardson.

10.45 MOVIE: Argo. (2012, Malv, R)

A CIA agent launches an undercover operation. Ben Affleck.

1.15 The Arrangement. (Mav, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 9News.

7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 3. Sydney Roosters v South Sydney Rabbitohs. 8.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Sydney Roosters versus South Sydney Rabbitohs match, with news and analysis.

9.45 MOVIE: The Infiltrator. (2016, MA15+dlv, R) A US agent tries to bring down a drug kingpin. Bryan Cranston, Diane Kruger.

12.10 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (Mls)

1.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 2.05 Pointless. (PG, R) 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)

R)

9.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 10.00 Albert Park

All Access. 11.00 Motor Racing. Formula 1. Round 3. Australian Grand Prix. Day 1. 4.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. (PGav) 5.00 10 News First.

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. (Final) Irish comedian Graham Norton presents the second of two compilations of highlights from the recent series.

10.50 Albert Park All Access. (R) Commentary and analysis ahead of the race.

11.50 The Project. (R)

12.50 Fire Country. (Mmv, R)

1.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

Saturday, March 23

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. (Mv, R) 1.30

Miniseries: Life After Life. (Mav, R) 2.35

Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.05

Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 3.55 Universe With Brian Cox. (R) 4.55 Better Date Than

Never. (R) 5.25 Landline. (R)

5.55 Australian Story. (R)

6.30 Back Roads: Gunbower

And Torrumbarry, Victoria. (R) Presented by Heather Ewart.

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

7.30 Miniseries: Life After Life. (Masv) Part 3 of 4. Following a whirlwind romance, Ursula struggles to adapt to married life with Derek.

8.30 Endeavour. (Mav, R) Part 2 of 3. A crime wave of the kind more usually associated with London has taken hold of Oxford. A homeless man is assaulted while a young PC has been found dead and a notable artist is reported missing.

10.00 House Of Gods. (Ml, R) Sheikh Mohammad’s plans struggle.

11.00 Happy Valley. (Mal, R) Faisal comes under increasing pressure.

12.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

ABC TV PLUS (22)

2.30 Dream Gardens. (R) 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.30 Cook And The Chef. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs NZ. (PG, R) 4.45 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.30 The ABC Of... (Final, PG, R)

6.00 Anh’s

6.30

7.00

News.

7.30 Death In Paradise. (Mv)

A water taxi driver is murdered.

8.30 House Of Gods. (Ma) Seyyed Modhaffer devises a new and risky way for Isa’s payments to be transported to Iraq.

9.30 Happy Valley. (Mal, R) Faisal comes under increasing pressure.

10.30 MOVIE: Suffragette. (2015, Malv, R) Carey Mulligan.

12.15 Significant Others. (MA15+s, R)

1.05 Rage Vault. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Catalyst. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.10 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.15 Love Your

Home And Garden. (PG, R) 10.10 Vintage Voltage. 11.00 Urban Conversion. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Gymnastics. Trampoline World Cup. Highlights. 3.10 Portillo’s Greatest

Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 5.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG, R) 5.35 The American Fuhrer.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Britain’s Most Beautiful Road. (PGa) Part 3 of 4.

8.30 Royal Crisis: Countdown To Abdication: Collision Course. Part 2 of 3. As scandal engulfs the British royal family, the government tries to intervene.

9.30 From Paris To Rome With Bettany Hughes: Paris, Annecy And The Cote D’azur. (PG, R) Part 1 of 4. English historian Bettany Hughes sets out on a grand tour of France and Italy.

10.25 Those Who Stayed. (PGa) Follows the story of Egor.

11.05 Between Two Worlds. (Mal) Marie begins a job at the army base.

12.00 Suspect. (MA15+av, R)

3.30 Face To Face. (Mals, R)

4.30 Bamay. (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. Golden Slipper Day and William Reid Stakes Day.

5.00 Seven News At 5.

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

Seven News.

6.00

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) A man is reluctant to answer officers’ questions.

7.30 MOVIE: Oblivion. (2013, Mlv, R)

A drone repairman stationed on Earth must rescue a stranger from a downed spacecraft. Tom Cruise, Morgan Freeman.

10.05 MOVIE: Passengers. (2016, Ma, R)

A spaceship carrying thousands of passengers has a malfunction in one of its sleeping chambers. Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Sheen.

12.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne SuperSprint. Day 1. Highlights.

1.35 Medical Emergency. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Get Clever. (R)

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

7TWO

6am

Fried Green Tomatoes. Continued. (1991, PG) 7.25

Mrs Lowry And Son. (2019, PG) 9.05 Bye Bye Birdie. (1963, PG) 11.10 Undine. (2020, M, German) 12.50pm The Hole In The Ground. (2019, M) 2.30

A Monster In Paris. (2011, French) 4.10 Spread

Your Wings. (2019, PG) 6.15 Capricorn One. (1977, PG) 8.30 Traffic. (2000)

6am Morning Programs.

1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Bossy’s Bucket List. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Drag Racing. NDRC Top Fuel C’ship. H’lights. 4.00 Supercar Customiser: Yianni. 5.00 Storage Wars: NY. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 Football. AFL. Round 2. Sydney v Essendon. 9.30 AFL Post-Game Show. 10.00 MOVIE: The Commuter. (2018, M) 12.10am Late Programs.

6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra:

Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Surfing Australia TV.

12.30 My Way. 1.00 Ageless. (Premiere)

1.30 Living On The Coast. (Return) 2.00

Great Australian Detour. (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. (PGl) The team revisits some past favourites.

8.30 MOVIE: Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard. (2021, MA15+lv, R)

A bodyguard and a hitman must embark on a life-threatening mission as they try to save the life of the hitman’s wife. Ryan Reynolds, Salma Hayek, Samuel L. Jackson.

10.45 MOVIE: Sleepless. (2017, MA15+dlv, R) A cop searches for his kidnapped son. Jamie Foxx.

12.35 Renovate Or Rebuild. (R)

1.35 The Garden Gurus. (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)

6.00 What’s Up Down Under. (R)

6.30

Leading The Way With Dr Michael Youssef.

7.00 Camper Deals. (R) 7.30 Escape Fishing With ET. (R) 8.00 Albert Park All Access. (R) 9.00 Motor Racing. Formula 1. Round 3. Australian Grand Prix. Day 2.

4.30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. (R)

5.00 10 News First.

6.00 Ready Steady Cook. (R)

Hosted by Miguel Maestre.

7.00 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith.

8.10 The Dog House. (PGa) A family considers an energetic cockapoo pup who their seven-year-old immediately falls in love with.

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

10.10 Ambulance UK. (Mlm, R) A patient is stuck on a bus.

11.25 So Help Me Todd. (PGa, R) Todd decides to take an experimental drug.

12.20 FBI: International. (Mav, R)

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

6am Children’s Programs.

2pm Motor Racing. Formula E. São Paulo ePrix. H’lights. 3.05 MOVIE: Step Up 2: The Streets. (2008, PG) 5.05 Kenan. 5.35 MOVIE: Alvin And The Chipmunks. (2007) 7.30 MOVIE: Journey To The Centre Of The Earth. (2008, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Stargate. (1994, PG) Midnight Made In Chelsea. 2.00 Below Deck Mediterranean. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic. 12.55 Swan Football. (R) 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike Championship. Round 2. Highlights. 4.00 Motor Racing. World Rally-Raid Championship. Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. Highlights. 5.00 Wonders Of Scotland. (PG, R) 5.30 Harbour From The Holocaust. (PGavw, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Unlocking The Secrets Of The Nazca Lines. (PGa) A look at the Nazca Lines.

8.20 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Cyprus. (PGas, R) Bettany Hughes explores Cyprus.

9.15 A Year From Space. (PGavw, R)

Satellite images tell the story of 2022.

10.35 Latest Secrets Of The Hieroglyphs. (R)

11.35 Beyond The Cut.

11.40 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Gent-Wevelgem. Men’s race.

2.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Gent-Wevelgem. Women’s race. From Flanders, Belgium. 4.00

Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R) 5.00

NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise.

10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Football. AFL. Round 2. Western Bulldogs v Gold Coast Suns. 3.00 Jabba’s Movies. (PG) 3.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Weekender.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Australian Idol. (PGl) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie. 8.30 Lockerbie. (PGav) Part 3 of 4. The FBI case against the two suspects is strong but circumstantial.

10.50 Quantum Leap. (Mav) Ben takes on the role of a bank teller.

11.50 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 2. Melbourne SuperSprint. Day 2. Highlights.

12.50 MOVIE: Jesse Stone: Sea Change. (2007, Msv, R) Tom Selleck.

3.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30

6.00 Fishing Australia. (R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. (PG) 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. (PG) 1.00 Fish Forever. 1.30 Drive TV. 2.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 3. Parramatta Eels v Manly Sea Eagles.

5.00 News: First At Five. 5.30 My Way.

6.00

7.00

At First Sight. (PGls) It’s time for the final commitment ceremony.

10.10 The First 48: Standing Ground. (Mal, R) A gridiron player is gunned down.

12.00

6.00 Mass For You At Home. 6.30 Key Of David. (PGa) 7.00 Tomorrow’s World. (PG, R)

7.30 Motor Racing. Formula 1. Round 3. Australian Grand Prix. Day 3.

4.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. (R) A decadent food showdown.

4.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGlm, R) The lifeguards are in need of saving.

5.00 10 News First.

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

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (Return, PGals) A group of Aussie celebrities competes in a test of survival in the wilds of Africa.

9.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mv, R) When a US Navy seaman is involved in a murder, the NCIS team is called to work the case on their day off. Lucy is surprised to find out Whistler turned down a promotion in Washington, DC, to stay in Hawaii.

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

12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings. Morning news and talk show. 6am

Monday, March 25

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Landline. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (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)

4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00

Roads. (R)

6.30 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.

9.05 Media Watch. (PG)

Hosted by Paul Barry.

9.20 Q+A. (Final) Presented by Patricia Karvelas.

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.50 The Business. (R)

11.05 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)

11.35 Planet America. (R) 12.10 Grand Designs. (R) 1.00 Parliament Question Time. 2.00

Tenable. (R) 2.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.30

Catalyst. (PG, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00

NITV (34)

7.35 First Australians. 8.45 Karla

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (Return)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Finding Your Roots: Family – Lost And Found. (PGa) Hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

8.30 The 2010s: Taking It To The Streets. Takes a look at how the 2010s was a turbulent decade of social and political upheaval.

9.20 24 Hours In Emergency:

A Love Like No Other. (Ma)

A 26-year-old is rushed to St George’s.

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Christian. (Premiere, MA15+d)

11.35 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Mav, R)

3.10 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SEVEN (7)

6.00

2.00

6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Australian Idol. (Final, PGl) After all the weeks of auditions, judging and singing, the winner of the competition is crowned.

9.00 The Irrational. (Mav) Alec takes a case involving a young burn victim and arson involving a house fire that forces him to confront some trauma from his past. Phoebe and Rizwan compete for an important research grant.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 S.W.A.T. (Mav) A terminally ill inmate escapes custody.

12.30 MOVIE: Until We Are Safe. (2016, MA15+av, R) Beth Grant.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Drag Racing. NDRC Top Fuel C’ship. H’lights. 2.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Melbourne SuperSprint. H’lights. 3.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Melbourne SuperSprint. H’lights. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30 American Pickers.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)

It’s time for the final dinner party.

9.00 My Wife, My Abuser. (MA15+alv)

Part 1 of 2. Documents the story of Richard Spencer and the abuse he endured at the hands of his wife.

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

11.00 9News Late.

11.30 Court Cam. (Mlv, R)

12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.55 Pointless. (PG, R)

1.45 Hello SA. (PG)

2.15 Talking Honey. (PG, R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30

A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 9News Early.

5.30 Today.

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 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) As the celebrities adjust to camp life, they come face-to-face with some of the jungle’s most terrifying snakes.

9.00 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mv, R) The FBI fugitive task force team is called to Vermont after a couple growing illegal marijuana massacre their employees. Barnes begins to regret not taking any time off to bond with her new baby.

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

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Scorpion. 3.00 Bewitched. 3.30 Full House. 4.00 Sunnyside. 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: Three Amigos! (1986, PG) 10.35 Seinfeld.

11.35 The Nanny. 12.05am Medium. 1.00 Below Deck Mediterranean. 2.00 I Dream Of Jeannie.

2.30 Full House. 3.00 Late Programs.

Tuesday, March 26

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 Kurt Fearnley’s One Plus One. (R)

11.00 Antiques

6.00

And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The 1% Club. (PGl) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.

8.30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (Mal) Gordon Ramsay heads to Long Branch, New Jersey, where he comes to the aid of Max’s

Australia. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch.

10.00

NITV (34)

6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes. 8.30 All 4 Adventure. 9.30 iFish. 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. 10.20 NCIS: Los Angeles. 11.15 Evil. 12.15am

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

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

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities continue to adjust to jungle life and must now allocate chores around the campsite.

9.00 NCIS. (Mv, R) The team investigates the case of a US Navy reservist whose body was found in a car at a gun range.

10.00 NCIS: Los Angeles. (Mv, R) An ATF agent goes missing.

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

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

Wednesday, March 27

ABC TV (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.30

Nigella Bites. (R) 10.55 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 Prince Charles: Inside

The Duchy Of Cornwall. (PG, R) 4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.15 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00 Back Roads: Port Campbell, Victoria. (PG, 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 Melbourne Comedy Festival: The Gala. Charity performance on behalf of Oxfam Australia, hosted by Lizzy Hoo.

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.20 The Business. (R)

11.35 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (R)

12.20 Rosehaven. (PG, R)

1.15 Parliament Question Time. 2.15 Grand Designs. (R) 3.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.30 Catalyst. (PG, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

SBS (3)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Paul O’Grady: For

The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.00 Wonderful

World Of Baby Animals. (PG, R) 10.55

Mountain Vets. (Ma) 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. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Return, Ml) Ten survivalists take on the wilderness.

8.30 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (Mals) Jimmy Carr is joined by celebrity players Lorraine Kelly, Alex Horne, Aisling Bea and Asim Chaudhry.

9.25 Miniseries: Litvinenko. (Ma) Part 1 of 4. British police investigate the poisoning of a former KGB officer Alexander Litvinenko.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Blinded. (MA15+s)

11.45 The Wall: The Orchard. (Return, Mals) 3.05 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.05 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SEVEN (7)

6.00 Sunrise.

9.00

11.30

The Morning Show. (PG)

Morning News.

Unwritten Obsession. (2017, Mav, R) Haley Webb. 2.00

Chase. (R) 4.00

News At 4.

5.00

Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (Premiere, PG) Hosted by Lee Mack.

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

9.30 Unbelievable Moments

Caught On Camera. (PG) Footage of headline-grabbing moments captured on camera by members of the public.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 Talking Footy. A look at the week’s AFL news.

12.00 Parenthood. (Ma, R)

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

NINE (8, 9)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG)

11.30 9News Morning.

12.00 To Be Advised.

1.30 Ageless. (R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG)

3.00 Tipping Point. (PG)

4.00 9News Afternoon.

4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars. (Ml) Hosted by Gordon Ramsay and Janine Allis.

9.00 Under Investigation. (Mv)

Liz Hayes and her team of experts investigate the shooting of Kumanjayi Walker by Constable Zachary Rolfe.

10.00 9News Late.

10.30 See No Evil: Savage By Name.

(Mav) A look at the murder of Tierra Hall.

11.30 The Equalizer. (MA15+av, R)

12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.10 Pointless. (PG, R)

2.05 Destination WA.

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.

9GO! (82, 93) 6am

Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. Continued. (1990, PG) 7.50 The Color Purple. (1985, PG) 10.35

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. (PGlm, R) 12.00 10 News First: Midday. 1.00 Ent. Tonight. 1.30 To Be Advised. 3.00 GCBC. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Neighbours. (PGa) 4.30 Bold. (PGav) 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 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities face the ultimate test of the jungle, all in the hope of winning money for their chosen charity.

9.00 FBI: International. (Mav) The team delves into a case involving an American who killed an elderly German man in Berlin who appears to have been a covert asset of the ruthless Stasi in East Germany during the Cold War.

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

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

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

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.

8.30

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

NITV (34)

MOVIE: Natural Born Killers. (1994, MA15+) 11.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Bettany Hughes: Treasures of Bulgaria. (PGa) Bettany Hughes explores Bulgaria.

8.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: London. Stanley Tucci explores how Italian immigration has transformed London’s food scene.

9.20 The Vanishing Triangle. (Malsv) Lisa is given a terrible choice by the killer who is making her decide who to save, Susan or Mandy.

10.10 SBS World News Late.

10.40 Illegals. (Malsv)

11.40 La Jauria. (MA15+sv, R)

3.30 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am

6.00 Seven Local News.

6.30 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGas)

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

8.30 America’s Got Talent:

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.

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

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) As the competition continues, the celebrities receive their luxury goods from home.

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

10.00 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav, R) Rollins struggles on her return to work.

11.00 Blue Bloods. (Ma, R) Baez and her daughter are targeted.

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

No.

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Australian desert (7)

5 Spectacles (7)

9 Filmed information (11)

10 Miriti palm (3)

11 Pot belly (6)

12 Hinged (7)

14 Passionate (4)

15 Attraction (10)

17 Perspicacious (10)

19 Male elephant (4)

20 Electromotive force (7)

22 Flippancy (6)

25 Fall behind (3)

26 Unwanted (11)

28 Defecate (7)

29 Equal; even – (7)

DOWN

1 Team (4)

2 Car-fixers (9)

3 Boy’s name (5)

4 Uncaringness (11)

5 Indian state (3)

6 Whenever (7)

7 Avoid (5)

8 Absence of motion (10)

12 Reporters (11)

13 American theatrical/musical institution (10)

16 Impartial (9)

18 Rubbing out (7)

21 Sound reasoning (5)

23 Piece of poetry (5)

24 Scottish loch (4)

27 Pass away (3)

DECODER

No. 177

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS

4 LETTERS AYES

9-LETTER WORD

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim:

15

5x5

No. 177

QUICK QUIZ

1 Which festive song is the No.1 best selling single of all time?

2 The Bellagio, MGM Grand and Mirage casinos feature in which Steven Soderbergh film?

3 How many days were in an ancient Roman week?

4 What does it mean to be a polyglot?

5 Which of Jane Austen’s books was originally titled FirstImpressions?

6 Who were the winners of the first ever soccer World Cup in 1930?

7 What is the term ‘hi-fi’ short for?

8 For which supporting role was Cate Blanchett (pictured) awarded her first Academy Award?

9 In Norse mythology, Bragi is the god of what?

10 Which land mammal has the most powerful bite?

No. 177

No. 177

Championing hope for kids

In an inspiring display of resilience and courage, Tessa Perry, 4, has become a beacon of hope in the fight against childhood cancer on the Sunshine Coast through rallying the community to support the Children’s Hospital Foundation this Easter.

In November 2023, after a trip to her local emergency department complaining of stomach pains, Tessa was thrust into a challenging battle for her life when she was diagnosed with stage-four neuroblastoma – a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

“Learning Tessa had only a 60 per cent chance of survival left us shocked, scared and absolutely terrified,” Tessa’s mum, Renee shared.

Tessa has recently completed her fifth round of induction chemotherapy and is now gearing up for a major operation to remove a main mass, followed by a challenging phase of at least two months in isolation to reset her system, culminating in a complete bone marrow transplant.

“Being away from home during Tessa’s treatment is incredibly hard, but the Children’s Hospital Foundation has been a lifeline, easing the burden and making our stays less boring,” Renee added.

Now, Tessa and her family are stepping forward as the faces of the Sunshine Coast region for the Children’s Hospital Foundation Easter Appeal, aiming to motivate the community to support sick children through shopping at Woolworths.

This Easter, 100 per cent of donations to Children’s Hospital Foundation made at Sunshine Coast Woolworths stores will go towards the Queensland Children’s Hospital to ensure Queensland kids likeTessa receive the best possible care and treatment – when it is needed most.

Since 2016, Woolworths customers have raised over $330,000 for sick Sunshine Coast children through the Easter Appeal.

Children’s Hospital Foundation chief executive officer, Lyndsey Rice is thrilled to seeWoolworths lend a hand to support the Children’s Hospital Foundation Easter Appeal, to ensure the Queensland Children’s Hospital can continue to deliver world- leading care for our state’s children.

“Through shopping at Woolworths this Eas-

ter, you can make a genuine difference in the care and treatment that children and their families receive at the Queensland Children’s Hospital each and every day,” Ms Rice said.

Queensland Children’s Hospital was recently recognisedbyNewsweekasthe10thbestpaediatric hospital in the world – the highest ranked in Australia and the Southern Hemisphere.

“Whether you live in Cairns, Mount Isa or Brisbane, we want Queensland families to know that their child will receive the best possible care and treatment when facing the unimaginable,” Ms Rice added.

“A $2 donation on check-out can make a

huge impact for sick kids and we are incredibly humbled to have the support of theWoolworths community once again in 2024.”

Queensland Children’s Hospital treats the state’s sickest and most critically injured children. Each year, there are approximately 1696 inpatient admissions, 13,810 outpatient admissions and 550 emergency department presentations from children in the Sunshine Coast region.

Woolworths general manager in Queensland, Danny Baldwin, said: “Since 2016, our Queensland customers continue to exceed expectations in their generous and steadfast

support of organisations like the Children’s Hospital Foundation through the annual Easter Appeal.”

“This is a great example of how a little good can add up and have a huge impact on the lives of sick kids and their families across the state.”

Woolworths customers will be able to purchase a $2 egg-shaped wall token or donate to the Children’s Hospital Foundation to benefit Queensland Children’s Hospital at all Woolworths stores across the Sunshine Coast until 2 April 2024.

For more information on the Children’s Hospital Foundation, visit childrens.org.au

Pregnant women too reliant on vitamins instead of food

Pregnant women trying to stay healthy for their babies are relying too heavily on multivitamins instead of good food in their second trimesters, according to a new study led by the University of the Sunshine Coast and Mater Research.

The pilot study, led by UniSC health researcher Dr Linda Gallo and Associate Professor Shelley Wilkinson of Mater Research, warned this over-reliance could have potential harms during pregnancy and suggested increased dietician involvement in pregnancy care was needed.

The study, which has been published in the journal Maternal and Child Nutrition, involved surveys, health assessments and blood and plasma testing of pregnant women attending Brisbane’s Mater Mothers’ Hospital in 2019.

Almost 90 per cent of the 127 pregnant participants reported using supplements, with the majority choosing multivitamins in an effort to meet dietary intake guidelines for folate, iodine and iron.

Dr Gallo said the findings raised concerns about excess nutrient intake during pregnancy.

“Many women are taking these supplements as a pregnancy ‘safeguard’ without considering potential harms,” said Dr Gallo, a nutrition expert.

“In this study, more than 80 percent of participants were still taking a multivitamin in the second trimester, which is not consistent with guidelines.”

Associate Prof Shelley Wilkson said there only two essential nutrients needed to be taken as a supplement or tablet during pregnancy.

“Unless a deficiency in other vitamins and minerals is shown, the recommendation is to take an extra 400 micrograms per day of fo-

lic acid from the month before pregnancy to three months after you become pregnant – as well as a supplement containing 150 micrograms of iodine,” ProfWilkinson said.

“It’s really important to be careful that you aren’t overdosing on multivitamins—more is not always better—and megadoses of vitamins and minerals can be harmful to your baby.”

Dr Gallo said multivitamin use in high-income countries and high doses of folic acid, iron, and iodine had been associated with negative outcomes for both mother and baby.

“These include gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm birth, low birth weight, increased body fat and poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes,” she said.

The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating recommends a variety of nutritious foods in pregnancy, including whole fruits and vegetables of different types and colours, dairy or calcium-enriched alternatives, increased serves of wholegrains and iron-rich foods such as lean red meat or tofu.

Previous studies have indicated that less than 40 per cent of pregnant women eat the recommended serves of fruit, and less than 25

per cent eat the recommended serves of vegetables and legumes.

The study also revealed women who received private obstetric care and consumed meat-rich diets were more likely to use multivitamins in pregnancy.

Dr Gallo said that in high-income countries such as Australia, where food is plentiful and fortification is mandated, multivitamins should be used with greater caution in pregnancy.

“A varied whole food diet offers superior benefits to supplements, although multivitamins may be appropriate for pregnant people whoareunabletomeetnutrientrequirements through food alone,” she said.

Prof Wilkinson’s advice for a healthy pregnancy is to take a “food first approach”.

“Food is where good nutrition starts – and it’s something that should be enjoyed too,” she said.

“Making good food choices will usually minimise any need for supplements and will help you have a healthy gut microbiome.”

The research forms part of long-term Queensland Family Cohort study, in collaboration with The University of Queensland, which has been analysing the health of Queensland families for five years.

Brisbane woman Claire Broesder, 30, is 37 weeks’ pregnant and due to give birth at Mater Mothers’ next month. She has avoided all multivitamin supplements, but took the recommended folate supplements in her first trimester and was also prescribed an iron infusion by her doctor.

“During my pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, I have been careful to eat a balanced, varied diet and it seems to be working – my baby is in one of the highest percentiles for growth and I can’t wait for him to get here,” she said.

Claire Broesder.

Tessa’s mum, Renee Perry with her family.

Tessa Perry, 4, has become a beacon of hope in the fight against childhood cancer.

Tan not worth melanoma

By Abbey Cannan

A melanoma diagnosis at the age of 27 left Noosa local Ashling Lorger feeling guilty for her teen years spent tanning at the beach with friends and lying to her mum about wearing sunscreen.

The former Below Deck star has now joined this year’s national Melanoma March campaign, urging Australians to help raise vital research funds and add their voices to calls to stop the glamourisation of tanning.

Her family knows all too well the seriousness of sun safety, after Ashling’s father was diagnosed with stage four melanoma when she was six years old.

“I was so little when it happened. I remember seeing my mum extremely upset,” Ashling said.

“We visited Dad in the hospital and I saw the big scar. I remember him saying he had 64 staples and 12 stitches. He had to go through a course of radiotherapy.

“Twenty years ago, all of the surgeons and specialists at that time, they said that he might not make it because technology wasn’t up to scratch as to where they would have liked it to be. So, my family kind of prepared for the worst. He was a bit of a miracle that came back from stage 4 and got the all clear. He’s still alive and kicking at 64 years of age.”

As expected, Ashling’s mum was super vigil with her about sun safety growing up, which worked until she reached high school and started to fold to peer pressure.

“A tan was a good thing growing up here in Noosa,” she said.

“I would spend a lot of time on the beach, so I was definitely influenced by my friends around me to get a real tan.

“I will admit that I did a lot of my damage probably from the age of 14 to 16 or 17. By the time I was 18, I was getting all of my regular skin checks and they found a BCC (basal cell carcinoma) on top of my left breast and I had that removed. So from the age of 18, that’s when I’ve been extremely weary of sun protection.”

Ashling blamed herself for the diagnosis, wishing she just listened to her mum.

“I felt guilty because I knew that I had been sun-burnt numerous times in my younger years and I always said to mum ‘Yeah, I’ve got sunblock on’, when I actually didn’t. I was actually wearing tanning oil and sitting out in the sun all day long at the beach on the school holidays. There is a history of melanoma in my family and I should’ve known better.

“I was lucky enough to keep up with my six

another six or 12 months, it could have been a different story.You just don’t know how quickly and how rapidly melanoma can transform.”

Australia has the highest melanoma rates in the world. One person is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes and one person dies from the disease every six hours.

It is the most common cancer affecting 20

“Tanning is not healthy or beautiful. It’s not

worth the wrinkles; the scars; let alone your life,” Ashling said. “If you want to avoid a potential melanoma diagnosis, sun-protection is vital, even more so up here where the sun is so strong.”

Melanoma Institute Australia’s (MIA) Melanoma March Sunshine Coast will be held on

Sunday 24 March at Buhk Family Park, Alexandra Headland.

Organised by volunteer committees impacted by melanoma, the Melanoma March events raise vital funds for melanoma research, which will also impact other cancers, and provide an opportunity for patients and families to come together to support each other and remember those lost to the disease.

This year’s campaign also aims to shine a spotlight on the dangers of tanning and the need for greater investment in national prevention strategies.

MIA chief executive officer Matthew Browne said, “Changing attitudes towards tanning and improving the community’s understanding about prevention, early detection, and year-round sun safety is crucial to stopping more lives being cut short by melanoma.”

Those who can’t attend an event can still support the campaign by getting active and hosting a March Your Way activity with friends or individually.

To register or donate to Melanoma March, go to melanomamarch.org.au.

Regenerative farming links with good health

A weekend workshop linking regenerative farming with good health is to take place at Kin Kin in March.

Eastwell Farms will host the inaugural HEART Summit on Saturday-Sunday, March 23-24 at their Kin Kin property in Moran Group Rd.

This ground-breaking event aims to bring together farmers, health educators, and success mentors at the forefront of regenerative agriculture and health optimisation for a transformative experience.

The HEART Summit offers attendees a unique opportunity to delve into the intersection of agriculture and health, fostering connections and insights to pave the way for a healthier future.

Participants will engage with thought leaders and innovators from various disciplines, gaining valuable knowledge and practical strategies to enhance their well-being and connection with agricultural practices.

Key highlights:

Regenerative Agriculture: Learn from experts in the field about regenerative farming practices that restore and enhance the environment.

Quantum Health: Explore cutting-edge approaches to health and wellness that integrate mind, body, and spirit.

Circadian Health: Discover the importance of aligning lifestyle with natural rhythms for optimal health.

Quantum Dentistry: Gain insights into holistic dental care and its impact on overall well-being.

Succession Planning: Navigate the challenges of intergenerational farming and business succession with expert guidance.

Women’s Reproductive Health: Address women’s health issues with a focus on holis-

tic approaches and empowerment.

Special Guests: Join renowned speakers including Max Gulhane MD, Jalal Khan, John Moor, Deb McLucas, Rob Bauman, Stacey Curcio, Bryant Ussher, Andrew Zerner, and Jack Milbank. Plus, culinary delights by chef Matt Golinski.

“We’re excited to create a platform where farmers, health professionals, and individu-

als passionate about holistic well-being can come together to exchange ideas and inspire positive change,“ says Bryant Ussher, cofounder of Eastwell Farms.

This is a chance to be part of a transformative event that bridges the gap between agriculture and health.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.eastwellfarms.com.au

Bryant Ussher of Eastwell Farms at Kin Kin. 391462

Noosa local Ashling Lorger has joined this year’s national Melanoma March campaign.

Ashling had a melanoma removed last year and is vigilant about sun safety.

A passion for reptiles

By Margie Maccoll

They’e not cute and cuddly but lace monitors or goannas, one of the largest monitor lizards in the world, are residents of Noosa and have captured the interest of Wilvos (Wildlife Voluteers Association) wildlife carer Rob Siddall since he was a boy living in England.

Noosa Today spoke to the Tewantin resident and gardener who for almost 25 years has ploughed his energy and enthusiasm into caring for all types of sick and injured reptiles including goannas and snakes along with the occasional wallaby and koala and released them back to the wild as a Wilvos volunteer.

“As a kid I was into dinosaurs, as kids are. There weren’t any dinosaurs around so the closet thing to that was a monitor lizard, but I got a fire salamander.

I didn’t get any goannas until I was in my twenties and I had to give them up. I couldn’t bring mine from England,” he said.

As fate would have it, in the first year of Rob and his wife Lisa having moved to Australia, on a trip to the markets with his visiting parents, they came across a lace monitor on the road that had been hit by a car. “I scooped him up and took him to the vet. He said he’d rehabilitate him and I thought I’d like to do that, so I joined the Wilvos. I’ve been doing it ever since.”

Since then he’s seen a lot of lizards and pythons, then one day some people reported an injured kangaroo at Kandanga to the Wilvos hotline.

“I went out. There was a baby in the pouch. I slept with the baby in my shirt. By morning when I was going to drop it off to Sylvia (Wilvos chair Sylvia Whiting and specialist wallaby carer), I didn’t want to let it go. She said give it a try. It was wonderful.”

Sadly not all wildlife caring is successful as the wallaby had been, and many animals can’t be rehabilitated and released back to the wild.

“A lot of stuff, you go out and there’s not much you can do. Most of it is cars or dogs or cats. They shake the sh*t out of them and it breaks the spine.

“If they’re hit by cars it shakes their retinas loose, they often go blind - then you can’t do anything for them.

“But you get the odd win and the win is what it’s all about. It’s always worth it.”

Rob urges anyone who sees injured wildlife to help it. “People don’t want to pick them up but they could call Wilvos,” he said. “The vets don’t charge for looking after wildlife. Some look after them themselves some pass them on to Eumundi (Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre).”

Rob recently released two goannas that had been passed on to him by Sunshine Coast Vets.

Very hardy creatures, lace monitors don’t need a lot of looking after.

From the time eggs are laid the baby lizards face life only on their instincts. Pythons incubate their eggs but once hatched the young are independent.

Rob has hatched a number of eggs over the years, placing python eggs in an incubator until hatched and lizard eggs in a pot with mulch and leaves.

Reptiles can get viruses, but mainly it’s trauma that Rob deals with, most the victims of car strikes.

Depending on their size and the size of their food source reptiles eat only once a week, once a fortnight or even once a month.

“When they’re small they eat lot of insects, other reptiles, other goannas - whatever fits in the mouth, and they eat a lot of carrion - that’s why they get run over,” Rob said.

Monitors forage for food on the ground or by climbing trees. They detect their prey with a special sense organ in the roof of their mouths called Jacobson’s organ. By flicking their long forked tongue out of their mouths, they transmit scent molecules to this organ.

“If it’s winter you need to keep them warm, here it is warm,” Rob said.

“They brumate (enter a state of deep sleep). You see big goannas sometimes walk out into the sun and warm up, they need the heat to digest the food.”

Goannas like to eat chickens and eggs and that often brings them into conflict with humans.

“I had one couple of years ago that was shot. It may have been taking chickens or peo-

ple’s eggs and got shot.

“It came from the vet. It’d been run over, but they removed a bullet from his back so he’d been shot as well. Bit like the Terminator really.

“I think he’d had a feed of a chicken, it’s probably why he was a bit slow getting across the road.”

In 2005, University of Melbourne researchers discovered that all monitors may be somewhat venomous. Previously, bites inflicted by monitors were thought to be prone to infection because of bacteria in their mouths, but researchers showed that the immediate effects were more likely caused by envenomation. Bites on the hand by lace monitors have been observed to cause swelling within minutes, localised disruption of blood clotting, and shooting pain up to the elbow, which can often last for several hours.

Over the years Rob has had the occasional bite which “really stings”.

“A lot of them are quite placid. Pythons are quite chilled. You pick them up, they treat you like a tree,” he said.

“They do get used to you but my job is not to get too close to them. You worry if they become too used to you they may lose their instinct. You don’t want them to think here

comes a person it’ll feed me.”

After bringing them back to optimal health Rob seeks out the best available place to release them with a water source, food source, tree hollows to hide and sleep in and relative safety.

“The larger ones have their territories and like to go back to their territories.

“It’s finding somewhere suitable to let them go.You don’t want to put them back where they came from, if they were attacked by dogs, or hit by a car.

“It’s not just people’s pets, it’s habitat loss.

“I always think little ones have it a bit harder. They may get eaten by kookaburras.

“You get them up to scratch and think there’s only 10 per cent chance they’ll grow up, but if he makes it he’s going to be a lot happier.

“You try to let them go into something where they can hide and be safe.

“They want to be wild, you just hope they don’t get eaten.

“You let them go and you don’t see them again, you don’t know.”

If you see sick or injured wildlife you can call the Wilvos 24 hour hotline on 5441 6200. For more information visit wolves.org.au

A resident water dragon at Rob’s Tewantin home.

Rob with a young lace monitor.

Getting up close to the wildlife.

Reptile wildlife carer Rob Siddall.

Picture: ROB MACCOLL A baby python Rob nursed back to health.A wallaby joey rescued from its mothers pouch.

BISTRO

BISTRO

BISTRO

31st MARCH

Native bush foods have been part of the Australian landscape since time immemorial. ERLE LEVEY is both surprised and delighted at what can be found in the bush.

Surprises in the backyard

We might travel the world yet that what we are seeking could be right at our back door.

That’s the case with bushfood plants.

Veronica Cougan from Witjuti Grub Bushfood Nursery in the Obi Obi Valley has made native bushfoods her passion.

Not only do the plants supply tasty, nutritional produce, they are stunning trees, shrubs, ground covers and vines that will turn a garden into a unique and beautiful sanctuary.

I had met Veronica a few times at markets and festivals and her bush foods had always intrigued me. Growers of native bush foods had also recommended I talk with her.

That was why we were recently enjoying a morning coffee and shortbread biscuits on the verandah of her Obi Obi property.

Veronica had been working in the nursery since sunrise and by mid-morning was ready for a break.

It’s such a pristine location in the Obi Obi Valley, and just at the foothills of the Blackall range. There’s the distinctive sound of the whip or coach birds in the bush, also the call of the channel-billed cuckoo as it prepares to gather its young before their migratory flight up to New Guinea.

The three-and-a-half-acre property is on the high side of the road and the lush creek flats, with the Kenilworth ranges further to the west.

“We’ve had consistent rain since the end of December,’’ Veronica said. “It had been one of the driest winters on record until then, and people were getting their rainwater tanks refilled.

“Since then it’s been consistent and the countryside is looking amazing.’’

Veronica’s two dams were almost dry.

That’s summer in Queensland and the humidity of the wet season means it’s hard to keep up with what needs doing - there is so much growth.

Most plants are grown by Veronica from seed but some are from cuttings.

The emphasis is on variety and ensuring the plants do not become extinct - after all, some have been around since time immemorial, from the times of dinosaurs.

The property has a north-easterly aspect, where some of the fruit trees are growing, and there’s a series of plantation tunnels, sheds and shade houses down on the flat areas.

Dad planted natives and rainforest trees, and things like that at home, so I was already very pro-native plants. The native edibles were kind of an extension of that.”

Bush foods are planted throughout the property and, as Veronica explained, many of them are not instantly recognisable as edibles.

“You might not recognise that they’re an edible fruit or somebody points out something about them. For example, the scrambling lily, the edible new growth tips of delicious sprouts are called bush asparagus.

“The shape is like a spear of asparagus, the taste and texture is something like the pod of a snow pea.’’

Then there is the anise myrtle. Much like the lemon myrtle you can eat the tips ... they taste just like an intense black jellybean. The taste is amazing.

With the cinnamon myrtle the leaves can be dried and used as a spice or as dried-flower arrangements.

“It’s called Carol,’’ Veronica said. “When the flowers are spent, the bracts that are left on the tree can be used in flower arranging as filler.’’

Veronica’s journey into bush foods started at NambourTAFE where she was studying horticulture.

“While I was there I met a friend and we did our outcomes together. We started propagating bush food plants until we had enough to start selling them.’’

For centuries bush food plants have been an integral part of the staple diet and lifestyle of Australia’s indigenous people.

Today these native foods are being used in ways as varied as our multicultural backgrounds.

There about 250,000 species of flowering plants in the world. Yet with 10,000 years of settled agriculture only about 100 species have been cultivated as significant food plants - even fewer constitute the staple foods of the developed and developing world.

It is estimated there are upwards of 5000 different bush food plant species across Australia utilised and harvested seasonally by aboriginal people.

Bush foods played a significant part in Australia’s colonial history keeping explorers alive and settlers healthy.

They helped ensure Captain Cook’s success

and the first colony’s survival. Without bush foods, explorers such as Sturt and Leichhardt would have failed in their efforts - from either scurvy or starvation.

Witjuti Grub Bushfood Nursery started in 1996-97. Veronica’s children were at school so she went from working nights at what was the Hyatt Coolum Resort to getting a day job propagating.

“It started slow. Attending TAFE to learn about propagating was a personal journey. We started discovering the bush foods.

“It wasn’t actually taught there as suchbut I was realising they were here, and I knew nothing about them.

“I thought they were amazing, and I just wanted to learn more.

“I wanted to see people growing them and using them because I was wondering why I didn’t know more about them I guess.

“Looking at them in books, the pictures were just so beautiful. They were stunning plants.

“We spent a lot of time out walking, sourcing seeds and things in Sunshine Coast area ... from the coastline to the hinterland.’’

Veronica was living at Woombye at the time but had bought the Obi Obi property.

Their first nursery was out towards Kenilworth and Veronica was working in other nurseries nursery on an off for eight years.

Yet her awareness of bush foods started much earlier.

“I had grown up in a family that included aunties, uncles and cousins and that, with my mum and dad, we would always go away on holidays together.

“The whole family had a pro-native plant thing going on and environmental awareness.

“So way back then, like 50 years ago, we were taking bags on family holidays and picking up rubbish off the beach.

“I grew up on the north side of Brisbane.We would go to Noosa or Pottsville, and Rainbow Beach when you’d hardly pass another car.

“So I guess it was just being in the family with that awareness.

“Dad planted natives and rainforest trees, and things like that at home, so I was already very pro-native plants.

“The native edibles were kind of an extension of that.’’

Witjuti Grub Bushfood Nursery at Obi Obi. 389249

Veronica Cougan at her Witjuti Grub Bushfood Nursery. 389249

Veronica grew up at Boondall - there was no entertainment centre - it was just a dirt road down to Cabbage Tree Creek where they would fish.

“There used to be cattle down there and small crops. I used to sit on the back verandah and swing my legs over and the cattle would graze through our yard from the paddock across the road.’’

Veronica knew at first sight the Obi Obi property was the one for her.

“I was looking all over the Sunshine Coast and didn’t have a huge amount of money.

“Everything I saw was a little not quite right and then I saw a ’for sale’ sign on the road up here.

“I came and had a look at it and because I had seen a number of properties already, and found out it was within my price range, I just acted that afternoon.’’

Veronica has a wide variety of native bush food plants she is propagating - about 60 to 70 trees, shrubs, herbs, ground cover and vinesand is doing most of it on her own.

These include lemon aspen, native ginger, midyam berry, curry myrtle, finger lime and Gympie lime, a range of tamarind, beach cherry, native guava and sandpaper fig.

There is native mint, warrigal greens, native

yam and native violets.

At this time a year the property maintenance is out of control, Veronica said, and it’s time consuming just trying to keep up with everything.

“I would like to plant more varieties but it gets down the list.

“We’ve had good rain so it’s coming up to a good time. The weather will cool down a bit.’’

The worst prospect for new plants is for frosts to strike in winter.

That happened on three days in August and September not many years ago.

“It was three mornings in a row and I was down there at the pump at 5.30 in the morning hosing everything down, trying to stop it from freezing the plants.

“I did that until after the sun came up but it still did heaps of damage - the frost even damaged plants in the shade houses as well, and that doesn’t happen very often.

“Putting plants in the ground, you have to be aware of where you plant things.

“This property had been part of a dairy, so it was all cleared - there were no sheltered spots to start planting things.

“You start off with the hardy stuff and then create micro-environments to put in the other

plants and create a bigger range on the property.’’

There are certain plants, such as the Atherton almond, thatVeronica has tried a few times and it just hasn’t flourished because there isn’t enough shelter yet.

“It’s one that I’m putting in again in the next couple weeks. I’m trying it again.

“It’s the second-most tasty nut we’ve got after the macadamia, as far as native nuts go.

“It’s like macadamia/almond, and grows okay in South East Queensland and to the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales.’’

Veronica regards the bush foods as being “incredibly flavoured.’’

It gives great enjoyment to give people tastings.

“It’s a really full-on experience, there is just so much flavour. A little bit does go a long way.

“And they’re also very nutrient-dense.

“That saying - to make your food your medicine - is very true with bush foods.

“The Davidson plum is jam-packed with vitamin C. You can just tell by the deep red colour the amount of antioxidants they have.

“They contain Lutien, which is really amazing as they are starting to use it in a lot of skincare products because it helps support col-

lagen growth.

“The Davidson plum has always been one of my favourites, since the very first. They use the jerseyana variety, which is the Davidson plum from the Queensland border into North New South Wales.

“If it’s in a spot where it’s happy you can get 700-800 fruit in season - which is over summer - and that fruit has only got very flat seeds in it so that’s a whole lot of usable flesh.

“It offers such good value and just so beautiful, the way that it gets the pink flowers on the trunk, and then you get all of those fruits.

“Then you’ve got your North Queensland Davidson plum as well, that fruits in winter.

“It’s a really tall, slender tree - like a palm tree fern. They’re both rainforest trees and shoot up to get the light.

“Everything needs a bit of sun to get fruit on it, so a lot of the commercial growers will go with the Queensland one because of the autumn and winter fruiting, when fruit flies are not an issue.

“In summer it’s muggy, hot and humid which means fruit fly can be an issue, so that’s why it’s good to pick the fruit up first thing in the morning, Continued page 32

An array of native bushfood. 389249

An array of native bushfoods.389249

Native violets. 389249 River mint. 389249

Gympie limes. 389249

Native turmeric or Cape York lily. 389249

Davidson plums. 389249

Atherton almonds. 389249

Backyard full of surprises

From page 31

“I go out with the bucket and will pick up all the Davidson plums, bring them in here ready for processing during the day. That way I don’t have any old fruit lying around the tree and I don’t have any fruit fly issues with them.’’

That’s the same with any fruit - and anything you cut off the tree.

Good gardening means taking old fruit and branches away so they don’t spread diseases.

“If you are cutting out a fungal disease from your tree, if you drop your cuttings then all of that is just going back into your tree.

“It’s important to remove it so that there’s no pest or disease lingering around to go back on the living parts of the tree.’’

The majority of plants Veronica establishes come from seed as you are strengthening the genetic diversity.

You only have to look at the macadamia nut or bauple nut, which has its origins in the Mary Valley region about the time of the dinosaurs. It must be similar with the bunya pine.

Just like it was with the first people of Australia 60,000-70,000 years ago, it is important to obtain food from within a small radius and bush foods can help sustain low food miles.

There is a need to maintain some of the heritage seeds and plants as well, rather than be reliant on major seed companies.

The level of maintenance needed for native fruit trees is not a yes or no answer.

“You can say they’re natives, and are much more adapted to this climate,’’ Veronica said.

“You can just put them in the ground, nurture them for a little while and then let them do their own thing.

“Yet every year we have different weather patterns, so they will respond accordingly.

“You might get a great crop once every four years or something like it. If it’s out in the wild and you want them to act like fruit trees - and give you what you want every year - it takes a lot out of them.

“The Davidson plum for example, I know it’s going to start flowering in spring - so I’ll give it some compost, some fresh mulch and deep water it once a week.

“They don’t respond well to pruning, so just wait for the fruit to drop.

“On the other side of it, there’s the hardiness of the natives - such as the finger lime with its tiny leaves.

“Anything with that small a leaf doesn’t transpire much, so it’s not losing a lot of moisture up into the atmosphere.

“The dry period that we just went through from May to December, I heard that it was the driest May to December since they started recording the weather.

“The exotic citrus hardly had a leaf on them. It was just like a bare-branched plant sitting there.

“Yet the little finger limes, they stood proud and they actually produced some fruit ... so they’re definitely tougher.’’

Our walk through the property finds native turmeric or Cape York lily, that has a strong earthy taste ... a bit like potato.

Then there is winter apple, a hardy ground cover and edible, with sweet berries.

River mint, bush mint or native mint is sweet to taste and can take more sun than your normal mint.

The best eating on our walk of discovery was the creek sandpaper fig.

As well as supplying native food plants for the home gardener and commercial grower, Veronica conducts workshops. Included are four or five a year at Aunty Dale Chapman’s gathering place My Dilly Bag Bay at Forest Glen.

“I enjoy the workshops. I did a double workshop presentation to students at Sunshine Beach High School recently.

“They do some really good things at schools these days. There’s nothing better than teaching and you open a fruit up in front of someone, and they go ’wow’ ... or they taste it.

“I love watching the expression on their

face when they taste it, and especially when they appreciate it - their enthusiasm - and you can see that they’re thinking ’this is exciting. How can I use this?’

“Then they want to plant it at home. That’s what it’s all about - getting these bush foods into peoples’ backyards so they can grow it and have that really healthy produce to eat.

“It’s just incredible for the environment, we’re bringing your local species back into our backyard instead of exotics, and it really encourages the wildlife.

“As well, we are seeing birds nesting in a tree or something eating some of the fruit. I really like that because they’re so displaced these days with so much clearing and everything.

“It’s really good to keep them - to be able to call your area their home as well.’’

At the end of our walk Veronica pointed out the native bees that had been collecting the seeds of the apple berry to put around the opening to the hive.

Things such as this make you so much more aware of the benefits of being in nature and observing it.

We really do have so many surprises in our back yard that we should be thankful for, but also be aware of the need to protect the environment and keep these treasures for generations to come.

Native fingerlimes. 389249

Sandpaper figs. 389249 Wild currants. 389249

Scrambling lily or wild asparagus. 389249

Cinnamon myrtle.

389249

Busy bees gathering pollen.

389249

Fitbarre at Body Art fest

After the impressive success at the Christmas Extravaganza last year, Noosa FitBarre dancers have been invited to perform the Silver Waltz to Tchaikovsky’s music at the upcoming Australian Body Art Festival on Sunday 21 April.

The dancers, whose ages range from the late 40s to middle 80s, attend weekly adult ballet classes with Angelika Burroughs, a professional ballerina at the Performing Arts Factory.

“Looking at how young, energetic, and passionate these dancers appear proves that staying fit with ballet is their secret to youth. Age doesn’t matter when your passion and love for ballet sparkles in every step and movement you make,” Angelika said.

El Duende Flamenco group led by Susana Menotte a professional stunning dancer, who has been attending Angelika’s classes, will share the stage to enchant the audience with a vibrant and diverse selection of captivating Spanish folk dances.

Join us in supporting Leon D’Aulnais, a sprightly 83-year-old, and Christine Hamilton as they take the stage to perform a breathtaking Pas De Deux - Adagio from the “Genzano Flower Festival.”

“With Leon’s gallant charm and Christine’s

classically strong presence, their performance promises to be nothing short of sensational, exuding youthfulness and grace,” Angelika said.

“Adding to the excitement, Christine Hamilton will also showcase her talent with a technically challenging variation - Kitri from Don Quixote.

Hailing from Mudjimba, Christine’s journey into designing leotards, skirts, and ballet dresses began after joining FitBarre Adult Ballet Classes, where she discovered her hidden talent for sewing. Christine, with her keen eye for design and craftsmanship, has adorned numerous dancers in the FitBarre class with her exquisitely crafted creations, adding a touch of elegance and flair to their performances.

“The multitalented Christine Hamilton made her first tutu for herself for her Kitri performance, and it looks fabulous.”

Make sure not to miss this spectacular group of dancers as they grace the Eumundi Amphitheatre stage on Sunday 21 April at 10am at 76 Memorial Dr, Eumundi, for a morning filled with artistry, passion, and the timeless beauty of ballet.

Historic wreck memories live on in seaside tribute

The rich history of an iron-hulled steamer, driven ashore during a cyclone in 1893, lives on in a new seaside park.

Inspiring youth and taking many back in time, the 129-year-old S.S. Dicky wreck has been immortalised and now on display in an interpretive installation for the Sunshine Coast community to enjoy.

The‘barnaclewall’featuresrestoredwreck pieces, artefacts, lifebuoy, replica bell, and stories of locals inspired by the S.S. Dicky.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Liveability and Natural Assets Group Executive Bill Haddrill said these impressionable works were the final piece of the Dicky Beach Precinct Plan.

“It’s great to see the finishing touches completed ahead of the school holidays for everyone to enjoy,” Mr Haddrill said.

“The wreck’s significance to the local area will continue to live on and serve as a really fun way to share the memories and history of what the S.S Dicky meant to our community.

“Come and take a look at the interpretive elements and ship pieces featured on the viewing deck, which has direct line of sight to the location of the grounding.

“This second stage of works complements the first with connecting pathways, improved beach access, custom furniture and seating which encourages locals and visitors to grab lunch from the nearby shops, or just spend time outdoors.

“Earlier upgrades include the new skate park and major upgrade of the beachside park, including S.S. Dicky propellor relocation, new and improved community facili-

ties such as the public amenities, connecting pathways, a new picnic shelter and beach showers.

“With the finishing touches completed, it has become a really inviting and welcoming space for locals and visitors to enjoy with something for all ages and abilities.”

Local Graham Smith said he was pleased to see the S.S. Dicky’s heritage on display.

“I think it’s a job well done!” Mr Smith said.

“Colin White and I were strong advocates for the precinct upgrade since 2013 and were on the S.S. Dicky Taskforce to ‘bring the bell home’.

“It was a great achievement to find the original bell and to now have its history on display alongside the replica bell is great.

“It’s a dream come true to see the heritage ring on at Dicky Beach.”

The upgrade is a welcome addition to the Dicky Beach Coastal Pathway upgrade which aims to better connect locals and visitors to the park and with businesses across the street, the Dicky Beach Holiday Park, beach and surf lifesaving club house.

The project is supported by the Sunshine Coast Council Arts and Heritage Levy.

The Levy, which is a contribution by every rateable property, is used to document, research, conserve, protect, promote and provide access to those tangible and intangible items, places, facilities and events that define the stories, history and values of the people, communities and culture of the Sunshine Coast.

Long time locals Colin White (left) and Graham Smith, members of the S.S. Dicky Taskforce, inspect the new interpretive signage and wreck pieces of the S.S. Dicky.

Look through the telescope to spy the original location of the S.S. Dicky wreck.

Leon D’Aulnais and Christine Hamilton wearing her self-made tutu.

Story time for the adults

We read stories to our children but why not to adults?

This World Harmony Day the Eumundi Connection Hub will be running a ‘by donation’ story telling hour, where adults can come along and have a story read to them. It will be a mythical story to let the imagination go wild.

The book reading group is just one of the activities recently begun after Emotions and Relationships specialist Lisa Jayne established the Eumundi Connection Hub on Facebook.

After moving to the area about two years ago by January this year Lisa was looking for more connection with the community and soon discovered she wasn’t alone in her aim.

A conversation with a friend inspired her to post a notice seeking people interested in a book club or writing group.

“I was overwhelmed with responses - 93 in two days,” she said.

Lisa created the Eumundi Connections Hub on Facebook and groups have unfolded in interesting ways.

“We have a book club and have already had an author talk which was attended by 30 people, a writing group and a morning tea every

Tuesday,” she said.

“From these connections, women were sharing with me the things they were interested in, or wanted to do yet didn’t know how or have the vehicle.

“I work as a facilitator in my own business, so for me organising these groups was a joy to do. There was a young mum with her baby looking for support and so a mums and bubs group is in the process of establishing.

Sunset musical delight launches

Kick back and enjoy live, local music at Seasonal Sessions this Easter long weekend.

Bring your family and friends to this family friendly event and embrace autumn at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden on Saturday March 30, from 3–6pm.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Exhibitions and Programming Officer Liz Capelin said four season–focused musical events were scheduled for 2024.

“Our first event will celebrate autumn with three local artists performing for guests to enjoy – Tess Fapani, Demi Casha and duo, Shaye and Lee Hardisty,” Ms Capelin said.

“Think family picnic vibes and the serenity of bushland birds mingled with the rich melodic tones of voice and saxophone, and the rhythmic strum of guitar and banjo.

“There will also be fun activities for the kids to get crafty and creative.

“The bushland is a majestic backdrop for community events, and Seasonal Sessions will easily become your new favourite quarterly sunset gig.”

Seasonal Sessions: what you need to know

Bring: Your own picnic including chairs or rug and be prepared take your rubbish home. Tickets: Tickets at botanic-garden.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/whats-on are strictly limited due to Botanic Garden carpark capacity. Price: Pre-booked $30 per vehicle (no matter how many passengers so the more friends and family on board, the cheaper per person).

Pre-booked $10 per person active arrival tickets available if you walk, ride or arrange drop-off and pick-up (no parking required). More events: Keep an eye out for the next three other Seasonal Sessions events planned for 2024:

· Saturday 22 June, 2 – 5pm

· Saturday 21 September, 3 – 6pm

· Saturday 21 December, 3 – 6pm Shaye and Lee

“There was a lady who loves reading stories and has been reading to elderly people. I thought it would be fabulous to have an evening for adults just to sit back and be read to - and as world harmony day is coming up, it seemed perfect.”

In her work Lisa helps people feel empowered and connected through relationships so she has used her skills in the groups to help people coming in feel emotionally safe, connected and nourished.

“All the events are no cost or by donation so its very easily accessible opportunity to enjoy connection,”Lisa said.

Harmony Day is held annually on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March.

The Harmony Day story reading will be held on Thursday 21 March at Eumundi CWA Hall at 7pm.

For more information visit Eumundi Connection Hub on Facebook or email Lisa on lisa@lisajayne.me

Standing tall

Tens of thousands of Australians who visited the former Bellingham Maze on the Sunshine Coast in the 1990s and 2000s would remember the large Dutch windmill that stood prominently overlooking the maze complex.

Times changed and Bellingham Maze’s windmill stopped turning and was in desperate need of revitalisation when Adam and Robyn Cheshire came along and bought the property and began a multi-million dollar transformation of the park into Amaze World, which was unveiled in 2022 after the first stage of a five-year renaissance program.

And what an A-maze-ing transformation it has been, culminating in the relaunch of the 13 metre high Dutch windmill.

With its completion, those driving along Tanawha Tourist Drive will once again be able to marvel at the sight of the majestic windmill with its spinning blades and new vibrant nighttime lighting.

The windmill renovation project was part of a larger investment in modernising and expanding Amaze World, which has seen the addition of new mazes, puzzles, playgrounds, mini-golf and augmented reality experiences inside the venue, along with enhanced dining and group facilities.

“We are thrilled to unveil the rejuvenated windmill to our visitors,” Adam Cheshire said, owner of the award-winning AmazeWorld.

“It’s not just a renovation; it’s a celebration of history and community. This iconic structure holds a special place in the hearts of Sunshine Coast locals and tourists alike, and we’re delighted to breathe new life into it.“

Robyn Cheshire, owner of Amaze World, added, “The windmill has always been a symbol of adventure and discovery for those travelling through the Sunshine Coast. We’re excited to welcome both new and returning guests to experience the magic of Amaze World and its iconic windmill.“

The re-launch of a 13 metre high Dutch windmill.

Hardisty in water.

Tess Fapani.

Embrace autumn at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden.

Eumundi Connection Hub group meet for morning tea.

ARIA to premiere in Noosa

Noosa Arts Theatre has announced a world premiere of David Williamson’s 56th play, ARIA.

This play is sure to entertain, both funny and poignant; it is a must this April and May.

Local actress and well loved performer, Jo Hendrie plays the lead, Monique, and shines as the diva holding onto a youthful ideal that she is more talented than she is.

Frank Wilkie, Noosa Mayoral candidate, plays one of her sons alongside of locals Tom

Middleton and Jackson O’Sullivan.

Their wives are played by Sharon Grimley, Michelle Allen and Lauren Harvey. Hot Fm’s Sam Coward is the director.

Every year on the birthday of her three sons, who were all born on the same day, Monique gathers them together to mark the occasion. Her husband Kevin died years ago, but her three sons, who she idolizes, have more than filled the gap. Unfortunately for all the wives, Monique, highly strung and imperious, doesn’t

hold the same high opinion of them.

At the crowning moment of the gathering she sings a famous Opera Aria to remind them that until she met and married Kevin, she was destined to become a Diva.

Her gatherings have always been fraught in the past but this year is something else again.

DATES

· Preview: April 18 at 7:30pm – all tickets $35

· Gala World Premiere Red Carpet Event: April 19 at 7:30pm – all tickets $75

· Evenings: April 25, May 2, 3, 9, 10 and 11 May at 7:30pm

· Matinees: April 20, 21, 27 and 28, May 4, 5 and 12 at 2pm

TICKETS

· Adults $45 | Concessions $37 | Member/ Group $35 | U18 $25

· For tickets call 5449 9343, visit noosaartstheatre.org.au/ or head to 163 Weyba Road, Noosaville open Tuesday to Friday 10am2pm.

Movie producers encouraged to submit their films

The Noosa International Surfilm Festival is calling upon filmmakers from across the globe to submit their surf movie for consideration to be played at this year’s festival which will be held at the Noosa Event Cinemas from 8-10 August.

Festival event founder and producer Jesca Maas said she was excited to see the quality of films which would all be in the running for prizes including Best Feature Film, Best Cinematography, Best Short Film and The People’s Choice Award.

“The Noosa International Surfilm Festival is all about bringing together the best surf films from around the world and delivering them to an appreciative audience in a place like Noosa which has such a rich surf history.

“We are super stoked to provide this platform to all surf film makers wherever they are in the world. Whether they are a short or feature length film, a documentary, an animation or something totally new and wild, we’d like to see it.

“We particularly want submissions that are related to surf culture, particularly those

General Classifieds

Acclaimedstorytellerandsurfculture podcaster,LaurenHill.

Picture:NATHANOLDFIELD

SurfCultureresearcherandsustainable boardmanufacturer,TomWegener.

Filmmakers whose films are selected to be screened on the big screen at the festival will be notified in the week of June 10th.

Judging panel:

· Jon Frank | Renowned surf photographer and cinematographer

· Kirra Molnar | Professional Longboarder and President of the Noosa World Surfing Reserve

· Lauren Hill | Acclaimed storyteller and surf culture podcaster

· Mick Sowry | Award winning filmmaker, producer and writer

· Nathan Oldfield | Renowned filmmaker

· Peppie Simpson | Australian Longboard Champion

that tell a story. We don’t want the standard wave after wave kind of film, we want stories that can evoque all kinds of emotions, those that inspire, make people laugh or even bring a tear to your eyes. We are accepting all types including short films, feature films, documentaries, travelogues, fiction and animation,” Jesca said.

· Spencer Frost | Award-winning surf filmmaker

· Tim Baker | Award-winning surf culture author and journalist

Submissions are open from early March until 1 June via the Filmfreeway platform filmfreeway.com/NoosaInternationalSurfilmFestival

· TomWegener | Surf Culture researcher and sustainable board manufacturer.

For more information visit: noosainternationalsurfilmfestival

A fine walk, by the gum

It’s time again for the Noosa Botanic Gardens Autumn Plant Sale – on Saturday March 23 from 7am to midday.

As always, Noosa Botanic Gardens Friends have been flat out readying a huge stock of indoor and outdoor plants and seedlings to beautify your homes and gardens, with bargains galore.

But wait … there’s another added attraction this time … March 23 is also National Eucalypt Day, and Noosa Botanic Gardens are not short of a range of east coast and local gums in its eight-hectare paradise, so a special Eucalypt Discovery Walk has been devised, starting from 9am (arrive by 8.45am), to give you the chance to look at mature examples of these native trees. Tube stock of local eucalypts including koala food tree species will be available at the Plant Sale.

And you will be surprised by how quickly they grow in their native environs.

Numbers are necessarily limited for the Walk, so secure your place at https://noosabotanicgardensfriends.com/events-calendar/

The Walk will start from the main shelter, down towards the SEQ Water park from where the plant sale is taking place.

For further information and/or weather check on the day, look for Noosa Botanic Gardens Friends’ page on Facebook.

From singing and bush care to service clubs and art, there are a wide variety of groups in Noosa.

AIR NOOSA

Australian Independent Retirees (AIR) next meeting: Investment Discussion Group will be on Thursday 21 March at 9.30am at Uniting church, Grasstree Court, Sunshine Beach. Guest speaker from SMSF Association. Phone 0478479049 Facebook AIR Noosa

BIGGEST MORNING TEA

Book a table for Sunny Fundraiser’s Biggest Morning Tea for our fight against cancer. The Biggest Morning Tea will be held on 22 May at The Noosa Boathouse, Gympie Terrace, at 10am. Cost $25pp. To book phone Annie on 0409385566.

BRIDGE LESSONS

Noosa Bridge Club are running an 8 week course of beginner lessons starting Monday 8 April at 9am.This course will cost $80 and cover all the basic concepts of bridge and includes sessions of supervised play. For more information or to register phone 54471341 or email info@noosabridge.com or visit our website www.noosabridge.com

ORCHID SOCIETY MEETING

Noosa District Orchid and Foliage Society welcomes new and existing members to its monthly meeting this Saturday 6 April, at 1pm, Tinbeerwah Hall. (Meetings are held first Saturday of each month Feb-Nov.) Learn more about growing orchids and foliage with our friendly club. For more information visit noosaorchidsociety.com.au

SEWING NEWS

The Guilded Lilies Sewing Group will meet on Saturday 30 March at the Masonic Hall, Moorindal St, Tewantin, 9am-3pm. New members and visitors welcome. We do all sorts of sewing, hand and machine, dressmaking, quilting and embroidery ect. We are a friendly group and welcome new faces. Phone Angela 0408068148.

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

QCWA

Learn to Make a Tied Fleece Blanket on Thursday 28 March atv9-11am. $2 donation, includes morning tea, all welcome. Branch meeting

Wednesday 27 March 5-7pm. Thursday 4 April

- Tastes of Morocco: Sampling Moroccan Food 9-11am $2. All events at hall next to Tewantin PO, Enquiries Robyn 0428385747.

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

LEARN UKULELE

Ukulele Group Lessons now available with Cherry the Ukulele Lady. A 6 week course will 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 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.

· Friday 19 April – Alison Simpson –This is your life… how to get your memoir published. 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.

· Bathing Beauties with Cathy Spencer: 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

Weekly roster for Meals on Wheels

Weekly Roster for Tewantin- Noosa

Meals on Wheels beginning Monday 25 March

Monday Drivers: Tony, Darryl, Driver needed for C Run, Geoff, Rosemary, Joy, Lorraine, Jason, Robyn, Judy and Eileen

Kitchen: Geoff, Denise, Janet

Tuesday Drivers: Laguna, Lin, Tania and Friend, Penny, Driver needed for E Run, Driver needed for G Run, Carlee and Gordon, Bill and Cecily

Kitchen: Chris, Ann, Glen, Starh

Wednesday Drivers: Martina, Council, Alan and Cynthia, Kevin, Everlyn and Mary, Catherine and Trevor, Simone, John and Helen, Bronwyn and Nick

Kitchen: Denise, Chris, Judi, John, Jerry, Christina

Thursday Drivers: Kyle, Darryl, Ray Z, 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-tewantinnoosa.org.au

If you are unavailable or can do an extra run, please phone the kitchen on 5449-7659.

We are looking for drivers and kitchen volunteers.

Noosa Botanic Gardens will host a plant sale on Saturday.

Swell keeps anglers inland

With some terrible weather once again this week there haven’t been any reports of fishing offshore, and with winds topping 50 knots and swells reaching up to eight metres, who can blame them?

However, those who snuck out into the bay were rewarded highly with great pelagic fish getting around and putting on a show.

Big queenfish have been schooled up on the sandflat drop-offs lately.

Plastics have been doing the trick either burning or hopping through the schools of queenfish.

Zman Streakz in 3.75 inches matched with a 3/8 or half-ounce jig head has been the trick to getting those fish to bite.

Another amazing sports fish that has been on the bite is the giant herring.

Good numbers of these things always start to come through from this time of year until late September.

If you have never caught a giant herring, these are amazing sports fish that have the wildest fight as they scramble, drag, and jump like crazy.

These fish can be found schooled on pressure edges current lines and drop-offs.

The best way to target these fish is with either plastics or little metal slugs, winding them back through the schools as fast as you can.

Teebar ledge has also been a favourite this week with lots of grassy sweet lip, tusk fish, estuary cod, squire, bream, mosses perch, and even the odd jack and barra lurking around.

Up the creeks, things have been slowing down a fair bit on the jack and barra front but they are still there.

The best way to catch the jacks has been live mullet or fresh mullet fillets, otherwise, garfish

and whitebaits have also been productive.

The Barra have slowed down a lot but persistence has been the key, so keep casting until you get an eat.

The 7 inch Molix RT Shads have been working a treat for those better barra.

On the outsides of the creek’s sandbanks, we have been seeing good numbers of goodsized whiting getting around.

Fresh worms and freshly pumped yabbies are always the best baits when fishing for whit-

ing. Some bigger flatheads have also been found around the flats getting picked up by anglers either fishing for whiting or throwing some plastics around the flats.

The freshwater scene has been on fire.

With a little bit of clean water getting around in the upper reaches of the Mary and the little creeks feeding into it, the bass has been feeding hard.

The MMD BonySwim works a treat for clear

water bass as it’s so realistic they will keep coming back for more.

Plenty of big 40s to 50s bass were getting around, with the biggest reported for the week going at 55cm.

Most bass have been caught on spinner jigs, with a nice little 2.5-inch plastic on the surface, being the go in those low light periods.

Alongside the bass, plenty of toga and sooties have been caught, as well as the odd Mary River cod and yellow belly.

With the beaches being hard fishing because of wind and swell, Borumba has been the scene over the weekend.

Good togas are still getting around in the dam with plenty of 70s being caught.

Little jerk baits and little surface lures have been the most productive.

Plenty of little bass are being caught as well, using jerk baiting in the weed edges.

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 in 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 the Tewantin 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 and Try 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

Every Tuesday 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.

Aiden’s 50cm bass.

Tigers’ new leaders

By Julian Pitts

The Noosa Tigers all conquering Senior Women have just announced a new five girl leadership group under new coach Tony ’Tunza’ Brennan.

This years Captain will be multiple Premiership player and live wire half forward Kellie Barker.

Her attack on the footy and her leadership qualities can never be questioned making her a popular choice as skipper.

Eliza ’Chip’ Trompf and Amelia Monk were named joint Vice captains. Eliza of course a four time Premiership player at the Tigers and a Senior Best and Fairest winner.

Her versatility at either end of the ground or in the ruck has been a huge reason behind the Tigers recent success not to mention her

attack on the footy and opposition.

Amelia Monk has played in three Premierships at Noosa and is just the general across Half Back. She reads the play well and has superb foot skills. Her larger than life personality makes her a fantastic choice to the leadership group.

Our Deputy vice captains are Courtney Dial and Erin McLaughlin. Both Premiership players with the Tigers with Dial just an energiser either down back or in attack. Her attack on the ball is awesome to watch and her selfless efforts continue to lift her team mates. She had a blinder in last years Grand Final.

McLaughlin made a fantastic transition into Aussie Rules with the tall American a key reason why the Tiger girls not only triumphed but we’re unbeaten in 2023. Her ruck work was

sublime and she was also more than handy when resting up forward.Erin’s announcement into the leadership group is so well deserved.

And then last but not least there’s Tony ’Tunza’ Brennan whose coaching thus far has the girls up and about and approaching the Division One jump with plenty of vigour. Tunza has concentrated heaps around winning the contested ball as well as making correct decisions with the ball in hand. Numbers on the track have been great which is testament to the work and vision Tunza brings!

The Senior Women play the highly fancied Cooparoo in their final practice game at Rococo oval next Saturday 23 March from 4pm.

All welcome, so get down and support our Noosa Tigers Women.

Go Tigers!

Ultra-Trail set to welcome 1500 runners

Noosa Ultra-Trail welcomes more than 1500 runners from all over Australia from 21-24 March to experience the spectacular Noosa Biosphere Trails located within Noosa Hinterland.

Now firmly established on the Australian trail running calendar, Noosa Ultra-Trail offers runners a choice of 6 distances, including the Forest 15km, Cross Country 25km, Pomona Sundowner 30km, Out’N’Back 50km, Hinterland Traverse 80km, and the marquee eventthe Ultra-Trail 100km.

The diverse range in distances and terrain has attracted road runners, triathletes, adventure racers, and of course traditional trail runners. The event is a UTMB INDEX level event, attracting some of the best trail runners from across the nation, including race ambassador Kellie Angel (nee Emmerson, a 3 x World Trail Running Championships Australian representative).

Event director Nick Stewart said, “Once again we’re excited to have over 1500 participants come to Noosa for our third event.”

“Not only does this make Noosa Ultra-Trail Queensland’s most popular festival style trail run event, but it also ranks us in the top five in Australia.

“The support we have had from Tourism and Events Queensland, Queensland Parks and Wildlife and Tourism Noosa has been fantastic and we’re thrilled to be able to showcase the Noosa Hinterland to people from around Australia and all over the world.”

Joining Kellie as race ambassadors are Craig Alexander (5 x World Triathlon Champion and 12 x Australian Triathlon Champion), Matt Golinski (nationally recognised celebrity chef and Noosa local) and Kat Harding (yoga instructor and Noosa local).

Across the weekend, a range of lifestyle activities are scheduled to give participants the opportunity to experience the best of Noosa alongside ambassadors.

Over 80 per cent of participants come from outside the region to enjoy the festival nature of the weekend with family and friends who can experience the incredible food and beverage offerings, shopping and scenery that Noosa is famous for.

Race organisers have worked closely with Tourism Noosa to promote the unique and diverse natural landscapes of the locality, including the pristine Hinterland.

As a leader in environmental sustainability practices, and a world recognised Biosphere, Noosa has a number of programs in place to reduce its waste, carbon footprint and impacts on flora and fauna in its national parks and state forests.

Noosa Ultra-Trail participants are able to experience the best of Noosa Hinterland, running through the stunning landscape, along quiet country roads and taking in the exquisite

Coolum on world stage

Coolum Beach is set to make its international debut on the world championship stage after securing hosting rights for the 2025World Bodysurfing championships.

The news follows the success of the annual Coolum Wedge bodysurfing festival which attracts the country’s best bodysurfers to the coast.

Coolum Wedge co-founder Darren Verrenkamp said the phenomenal growth and success of the Festival, now in its fourth year, had contributed to the successful bid for the world titles.

“In just a few short years we’ve managed to grow this event into a national competition attracting competitors from around the world, and we’re excited and proud that we’ve made such an impact in such a short time to secure this event from other high-profile international locations,” Darren said.

“This is largely thanks to the efforts of Dan and especially Bendigo Community Bank Marcoola who has been our anchor sponsor since inception and shares the same community spirit as bodysurfing.”

Ninderry MP Dan Purdie said the fact that Coolum will host an international event at the highest level of competition was a massive coup for the whole region.

“We already know we have some of the best surfing conditions in the world, and to play host to an international event attracting some of the world’s greatest body surfers, together with an international audience is better than any paid advertising campaign,” Mr Purdie said.

“The economic benefits alone from hundreds of competitors and their families will bolster local tourism operators, with the flow-on effects to every other small business in the food chain.”

Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O’Brien said with the eyes of the world on the south-east in the lead up to the Olympics in 2032, this was a perfect opportunity to showcase the Sunshine Coast.

This year’s Coolum Wedge, which is also a qualifier for next year’s championships, will be held from 26-28 April.

The Wedge festival is known for it’s all-inclusive vibe, hosting additional divisions for all ages, from 10-85.

People of all abilities from the casual body surfer to salty veterans love the competition, where competitors cheer each other’s waves on in their heats.

Registrations close 19 April. For more information visit coolumwedge.com

charm of towns such as Pomona and Cooran.

The race precinct, located in Tewantin, welcomes runners back to an exciting atmosphere, with international food trucks and well deserved beverages from Noosa Hinterland Brewing Co on offer.

The Noosa Ultra-Trail team look forward to delivering another successful event, continuing to drive sustainable tourism to the Noosa region, and encouraging everyone to experience the challenge and enjoyment of trail running.

For more information visit noosaultratrail. com.au

Coach Tony ’Tunza’ Brennan with Tigers leading women.

Competitor Jack Lewis produced a superb performance to take out the world’s first IBSA event in 2023.

Coolum Beach has secured hosting rights for the 2025 World Bodysurfing championships.

Ultra-Trail superstar Jacqui Bell.

Finals delayed for cricket

By Randall Woodley

Quote of the week- “Cricket is a game of glorious uncertainties.” - Sir Don Bradman.

For the third weekend in a row the Sunshine Coast Cricket Association First Grade Finals have been disrupted by the weather. On the two previous Saturdays the Tewantin-Noosa Thunder team were to play Coolum Sharks in the semi-finals but both scheduled days were washed out. As the Thunder boys were top of the table they proceeded to the Grand Final. Last weekend the first two days of the three -day grand final were to be played between the two top teams, Caboolture Snakes and Tewantin-Noosa, at Read Park, Tewantin. However, the weather gods intervened again, and no play was possible on either Saturday or Sunday.

The situation now is that next Saturday the two long time adversaries will line up again in a match that will be played over 101 overs. It is not a 50 over a side match but will be played as a normal cricket game with either side batting for as many overs as they decide. Caboolture will need to defeat the local boys in the first innings if they are to claim the title. It will be the Thunder’s role to avoid this outcome. The season statistics indicate clearly that the Thunder team deserve to be in this favourable position.

The Tewantin-Noosa team ended the year with 144 points on the table, winning 14 matches with another four washed out. Caboolture who rely heavily on two batsmen (No.1 and 2 on the association’s season batting ladder) ended the season on 120 points but only won 7 of their scheduled matches with some others abandoned.

The Thunder team have four batsmen in the top ten- Jarrod Officer, Michael Eckard, Ben Laughlin and Andy Batten. The bowling list shows threeThunder players in the top tenZac Murray, Michael Eckard and Ben Laughlin.

The match will be played at Read Park,

commencing at 11.30am on Saturday, March 23rd, and a big gathering of spectators and club supporters is expected. The canteen will be open. This is the chance for anybody who is interested in the countries national sport to come down and enjoy this exciting contest.

The players on show include an ex-international, an ex-Queensland Bulls player and numerous ex-Brisbane First Grade players and regional representative cricketers.

The Thunder First Grade team have already won the 2023-24 season’s 50 overs a side com-

petition and they are confident they can bring home the big trophy next Saturday. Everyone is hoping that the weather will be kind and the grand final can be played out in conditions to allow every player to perform at their best.

Local sporting group calls for respect for umpires

The Sunshine Coast’s largest sporting organisation, Sunshine Coast Netball Association, has launched its Respect 4 Umpires (R4U) initiative following a verbal abuse incident that caught the public’s attention last year.

With 190 umpires in their association aged from 10 and up, the Sunshine Coast Netball Association felt compelled to do something about the unwarranted abuse by players, parents, and coaches, and they’ve gained the support of many local businesses and high-profile personalities including Sunshine Coast Lightning players.

Club spokesperson and key driver of the R4U initiative, Debbie Battaglini explained that the incident in June 2023 shone a big spotlight on the disrespect and abuse directed towards umpires, but unfortunately, it was not a stand-alone incident which led the association to develop their R4U initiative.

“Sadly, it’s something that happens all too often across many sporting codes and clubs with umpires being abused and disrespected and it’s just not on.

“We will not stand by and let this continue to happen so we created the Respect 4 Umpires initiative to change the behaviour of spectators, players and coaches towards umpires.

“Everyone deserves respect, and we’ll make sure the umpires get it. SCNA hosts 10,000 games of netball a year with over 60,000 spectators and every single one of those games needs an umpire. We are working hard to ensure every umpire, as well as members and guests of our club, feels safe and respected here, and we won’t tolerate anyone who doesn’t follow the values and rules of our association,” explained Ms Battaglini.

Belinda Reynolds, head coach of Sunshine Coast Lightning said respect is at the core of their game.

“I think we have such great role models in our sport because we are so respected in the community and that is the way we play the game, we respect our opposition, we respect our officials, umpires included,” Ms Reynolds said.

SCNA umpire convenor Gabby Parker recently attended the coaches and umpires conference run by Netball Queensland where umpire disrespect was a hot topic but without a solution.

“There’s been a lot of talk about this issue, but until our R4U initiative, the answer has always been to just build the resilience of umpires. It’s always been a given that disrespect comes with the territory but it shouldn’t be. Isn’t it time we all did better?” Ms Parker said.

The R4U initiative is a combination of awareness, education and on-the-ground support in the form of dedicated welfare officers in white hi-vis watching over the games.

“Umpires will be given white flags and they can raise them if they feel they are being disrespected. Welfare officers will then come to the aid of the umpires waving a white flag and will diffuse the situation and go through the complaints and warning process if required,” Ms Parker said.

“We’ve also created a compelling video that shows the real story of a young umpire being disrespected and the impact that had on her.

“I think people can get swept up in the competition, forgetting that umpires are people with feelings too and so we hope that through this video and our educational resources, we can change perceptions and be-

haviour,” Ms Parker added.

As part of the launch event, the SCNA arranged for a team-building exercise with Rhythm Culture that symbolised a strengthening of the netball village by rolling out the Respect 4 Umpires initiative and all moving forward to the beat of the same drum.

The R4U initiative will roll out at the SCNA from 4 March and will continue throughout the netball season.

“It’s starting here at SCNA this March but we hope to see our program roll out across all clubs and even all sporting codes because we believe everyone deserves respect and we’ve developed a clear way to remind and enforce respectful behaviour,” Ms Battglini said.

Grace Dempsey and Capri Tyler from the R4U Steering Committee.

Tewantin-Noosa Thunder First Grade Cricket Team who will take on Caboolture Snakes in next Saturday’s Grand Final.

Talking Sport

Ron Lane

Kayaking and lifesaving

Aside from her coaching commitments, as a full-time paid coach for Queensland Academy of Sport for sprint kayaking, Sharlene Kelly has put a proposal together for the Queensland Academy of Sport. This is to reignite the relationship between Sprint Kayaking and Surf Lifesaving.

Happy to say that her proposal has been accepted, and as a result she is heading the collaboration with the QAS and SLSA for Talent Identification across multiply sports, as well as coordinating the sprint kayak program. Both the QAS and SLSA are very excited to be working together to find and crest athletes who will potentially compete at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

Add to this she has also been selected for the Australian team as the U16 Women’s coach for the Asia Pacific Cup. This will be held in Sydney on 9-11 May. “I have built my Noosa area squad to nine athletes in the past 12 months, and most of them compete in surf lifesaving for Noosa and Sunshine Beach SLSC. However, most were not experienced enough to compete at the championships this year,” said coach Kelly. “I am confident we will have a large squad for next season.”

Wes Berg, Head Coach of Sunshine Beach has been a huge supporter of the sprint kayak program. ‘’We are in the process of finalising the program that will see more Sunshine Beach SLSC athletes learn to paddle a kayak: and this undoubtedly, will benefit their surf training.’’

Sharlene took 12 athletes from her squad to race at the recent Paddle Australia National Canoe Championships. One of the 12 athletes, was St Teresas Catholic College student, Tom Maker. Tom raced in the U16 age category, which this year was a tough age group. Tom made the B final of the U16 k1 1000m, and placed 6th in the U16 k4 500m. He also postered some personal best times, which means he is improving.

The other 11 athletes are from Caloundra to Maroochydore. All performed well and all posted best personal times , made the A and B finals in individuals(k1) and finals in team boats (k2 and K4) over 200m ,500m and 1000m. Dakota Luke who competed for Dickey Beach SLSC, and was taught to paddle a kayak just 6 months ago, has been selected for the Australian team to compete at the Asia Pacific Cup in May.

Sharlene was also selected for the Australian team as the U16 Women’s coach for the Cup. The past 12 months have been extremely busy, teaching junior athletes how to paddle a kayak. As a result of the coaching, the program has resulted in over 40 junior paddlers, across the Sunshine Coast, now in training.

To have Sharlene Kelly and Wes Berg working in unity, can only be a massive step in the right direction: for both Lifesaving Surf Sports and future Olympic selection.

Noosa State Titles

The Queensland Surf Lifesaving titles were held on the weekend with first events on the Friday. Originally set for Kurrawa, because of dangerous conditions all were transferred to North Kirra. For the masters, competing Friday, the Noosa competitors came off the beach with a swag of medals. Such were the results, that Noosa finished second overall.

At last year’s AustralianTitles Noosa Masters finished if fifth place, which was a great effort. Now to finish second at the state, in conditions rated as difficult, shows good consistency in team performance.

Also on Friday, the U17and U19 and Opens were competing. In the Open mixed double ski event, Jordan Mercer teamed with Chris Kither to win gold. In the U19 Female Double Ski Kayia Marsh teamed with Caitlan Read to win silver. Against more experienced teams, this was a great effort.

But perhaps the best of all came, when Noosa finished in 4th in the Female Open Taplin Relay: the blue- ribbon event. Despite not winning a medal, this was definitely an outstanding performance. This event which covers three legs, board, ski and swim, has

two members for each leg. On the Saturday, the seas had dropped off and the masters boat crew, swept by Stu Cooper, won the gold medal in their division.

Other crews also qualified for semi, and finals on the Sunday. A highlight for the Sunday was when U17 Rory McIntyre, won the silver in the board race. In the Open women’s reserve boat, swept by Davie Tomba, after a bad mixup at the start, the crew put in a gutsy effort to win the bronze medal.

Once again that master of the sand events Kai Thompson, came home with yet another medal . This time it was the bronze won in the open beach flags. ‘’The overall effort, from Noosa’s inexperienced junior teams, was,” in the words of the Director of Surf Sports, Alan Rogers, “a fantastic effort.”

Next week, we talk with the Head Coach Wes Berg of Sunshine Beach SLSC, regarding their State Titles.

Martial Arts

Now comes the latest news from our local Caza Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Club. Located in Cooyar St Noosa Heads and under the control of ProfessorYoshi Hasegawa,Yoshi bringing us up to date.

“It was my intention of sending you an update regarding women’s only classes. However, there is a major local Sunshine Coast competition coming up on Sunday 24 March.

This tournament, known as the Caloundra Open, is one of the major in tournaments in Queensland and last year was attended by more than 700 students. Proud to say that our Caza club won 1st place Overall and the Kids division.”

In fact, the Caza club has actually won the Overall and Kids division the past 3 years: 2020, 2021 and 2023. This one will be the beginning of three Sunshine Coast tournaments: so prestigious are they, that on previous events, competitors have travelled from all-over Queensland, Sydney and Melbourne. Rugby League

Last Saturday was a great day for Noosa Pirates Rugby League. At Pirates Park there were plenty of juniors in action, starting at the 6s and up to A grade. The ladies, coached by Barry Goldthorpe, missed out when their opponents Beerwah, had to forfeit. They will now wait till Round 2, when they face the defending premiers Kawana, at Kawana.

However, for Noosa Pirates, the upcoming season is indeed looking good. Results of the weekend trial games were as followers. In the Third grade Noosa went down to Mary Valley, 26 to 22. The thirds showed that they will be a strong side after going down narrowly to last year’s premiers. According to coach Tony Mallory, “It was a very close game, tit for tat, but errors on the wrong end of the field cost us

the victory.”

In the Reserve grade, it was Noosa’s day: winning 32 SouthToowoomba 10:Noosa dominating the game right from the start. Hooker Sam Lothian opened the score for Noosa with a smart move from dummy half. New comers Asher Buckman and Glen Jarrett, were fantastic. Numbers have been strong in preseason, and it is expected that this side will push deep, with a great blend of senior and young talent coming through.

Following the Reserve grade, Pirates A’s performed well to finish with a good win over South Toowoomba 24 to 6. As was expected the first 15 minutes was a strong physical affair in the middle of the field.

However, we were able to get the upper hand and stay in control for the remainder of the match,” said Head Coach Michael Duff. “Our opening try was from full back Pat McGinn who sliced South’ defence wide open to score under the posts. Five-eight Matt Craven was a standout: his experience in the halves will be priceless. Dyllan Cousens was solid as always from hooker. Team captain Chris Williams was outstanding, as was his front row partner Jackson Ricotta.”

Next weekend A grade will travel to Mullumbimby for a trial game, while the reserves will take on Coolum at Yandina. Good luck to Pirates in the season ahead.

This weekend A grade will travel to Mullumbimby for a trial game, while the reserves will take on Coolum at Yandina.

Coach Sharlene Kelly took athletes from her squad to race at the recent Paddle Australia National Canoe Championships.

Caza club won first place Overall and the Kids division in the Caloundra Open.

Coach Sharlene Kelly aims to reignite the relationship between Sprint Kayaking and Surf Lifesaving

Caza club has won the Overall and Kids division for the Caloundra Open for the past three years.

Life of Brine

Phil Jarratt - philjarratt.com

Whimper than a bang

Number three stop on the WSL world tour at Supertubos, Peniche, Portugal had its moments but ended with a whimper rather than a bang last weekend, further fuelling the argument that the tour should have been in Queensland, where the water was a lot warmer and the surf was pumping.

Certainly that was the view that Kelly Slater took, announcing himself a no-show on the first day of competition due to continued aggravation following hip surgery, then turning up a couple of days later to rip the bag out of sizeable, perfect Kirra in a session shared miraculously with only a few other surfers of his caliber.There’s some video doing the rounds at the moment that seems to place firmly in the porkies basket the GOAT’s claim to be nursing a hip injury. In fact the trademark roundhouse cutback he executes after a deep double barrel reveals him to be at the top of his game, so what’s he playing at?

At 52 and having broken every sporting record for excellence and longevity, Kelly can of course do precisely whatever he likes, and he does and I respect him for that. Furthermore, he is still such great box office that the WSL is likely to keep throwing wildcards at him regardless of whether he shows up or not.

Slater’s last minute withdrawal gifted the wildcard to 17-year-old Peniche local Matias Canhoto, who was over-awed but showed some flair. But if he was always going to skip it, wouldn’t you think that Kelly would have given enough notice to allow a Challenger contender to fly in for it?Yeah, me too. But enough GOATbashing. With two lasts and a no-show in the events so far, he’s going to need a miracle on the Australian leg to survive the midseason cut (if indeed it applies) but miracles are what Kelly specialises in. Witness that roundhouse at Kirra last week.

Getting back to finals day at Peniche, after watching the men’s quarters and women’s semis, I saw it going to Medina and Tyler Wright, both of them on song, so when theWSL called a lengthy low tide break, I went to bed, only to wake up next morning and discover I was naught from two. Tyler had no answer to Johanne Defay’s exceptional backhand attack in messy but rippable waves. And, having seen off Medina by the slimmest of margins in his semi, San Clemente Two-Percenter Griff Colapinto smashed an out-of-sorts Ethan Ewing.

Colapinto comes to Bells in the yellow jersey with Ethan hot on his heels at two and Jack Robinson at four on the rankings, both of the Aussies looking like final five certainties. In the

women’s Molly Picklum holds onto the yellow with Defay at two. Our next best Aussie is Tyler at eight and heading north, while Bella Nichols and Sally Fitzgibbons are both behind the cutline, but only just. It’s shaping for an interesting home season.

O’Leary-San defects

The little I know of Connor O’Leary I really like, so I’m not going to jump on him for surfing for Japan in the coming Olympics. I believe he takes his Japanese heritage seriously, courtesy of his mother, who surfed for her native country back in the day, and if he medals in Tahiti – as well he might, being a big, powerful and fearless goofy – he’ll stand proudly on the podium wearing the colours of his adopted country.

He won’t be the first or last sportsperson to take an opportunity presented by bloodlines, but I just wish he was surfing for us!

I’ve watched his surfing continue to progress in recent years and it’s great to see him doing

well on the WSL. On the couple of occasions I’ve interviewed him in panel discussions at events I’ve been impressed by the Cronulla kid’s warm nature, quick wit and sense of fun. So I wish him well, but I wish he hadn’t. Does that make sense?

Festival of Surfing results

Noosa Surf Museum Old Mal

1. Jack Tyro

2. Matt Cuddihy

3. Isaac Fields

4. Gavin Idone

5. Dallas Rogers

6. Jared Mell

GemLife Over 75 Mens

1. Danny Bond

2. Bob Smith

3. Glenn Martin

GemLife Over 70 Mens

1. Peter Chapman

2. Eric Walker

3. George Watt

4. Danny Bond

5. Earle Page

6. Steve O’Donnell

GemLife Over 65 Mens

1. Mick Corcoran

2. Peter Chapman

3. Mike Yule

4. Greg Moir

5. Glenn Gilligan

6. Craig Sage

GemLife Over 60 Mens

1. John Fraser

2. Wally Allan

3. Tom Bennetts

4. George Haskas

5. John Hippocrates

6. Peter Bendle

GemLife Over 55 Mens

1. JP Willis

2. Glen Gower

3. Seiichiro Yokote

4. Stephen Tyro

5. Ossie Arikan

6. Owen Cavanagh

GemLive Over 50 Men

1. Glen Gower

2. Ossie Arikan

3. Owen Cavanagh

4. Mick Corcoran

5. Aaron Daniel

6. Dugald McIntyre

GemLife Over 40 Mens

1. Kevin Holt

2. Grant Ferguson

3. Hiroshi Sato

4. Ben Williams

5. Jayce Pioli

6. Tristan Hamson

GemLife Over 35 Women

1. Daisy Valdez

2. Sarah Farlow

3. Juliana Scopel

4. Heather De Labertauche

5. Hannah Etchells

6. Jemma O’Shea

GemLife Over 50 Women

1. Sam Wilson

2. Fenna de King

3. Leissa Halifax

4. Susie Bobbermen

5. Juanita Read

6. Rosie Sinkora

GemLife Over 60 Women

1. Peppie Simpson

2. Kate Dwyer

3. Terri Trivett

4. Jane Frigeri

5. Kim Molnar

6. Deb Tinker

Noosa Surf Museum Old Mal Masters

1. Glen Gower

2. JP Willis

3. Wally Allan

Connor-San doing what he does.

Pictures: WSL

Ethan Ewing tucking in but no cigar.

Kelly goes AWOL at Kirra.

Picture: ANDREW SHIELDS

PROPERTY

AUCTION CAMPAIGNS BRING GOOD RESULTS

PROPERTY MATTERS

ERLE LEVEY

THE

Tom Offermann Real Estate agents Rebekah Offermann and Roark Walsh successfully brought the four-bedroom, four-bathroom beachside house with pool at 27 McAnally Dve, Sunshine Beach, to the market on Saturday afternoon.

Rebekah and Roark signed the contract with auctioneer Gordon Macdonald at $5.8m.

The sale comes hot on the heels of Tom Offermann Real Estate’s sales next door and straight across the road, earning more than $27.5m for their owners in the process.

The buyers at 27 McAnally are locals moving around in the same suburb, which is a current trend, according to Tom Offermann.

“The campaign also attracted interstate interest,’’ Rebekah said, “with everyone mesmerised by the views.

“When people entered the house they thought the views were good on the living level.

“Wait until you get to the premier bedroom suite and rooftop,’ Roark and I we would say

“Our sellers are thrilled with a great result after a short and sharp auction campaign. Roark and I loved working with them.

“This is the third smashing Offermann result in McAnally in six months.“

LOCALS STAYING LOCAL

Sharon McLure at The McLure Group had a great outcome at 8 Samara Pl, Noosa Heads, on Saturday.

The four-bedroom house with two-plus bathrooms and two-car garaging was put to

the market at 10am.

“The auction process was great evidence of the way the process can work,’’ Sharon said.

“The vendors were grateful for the transparency of the auction process.

“There had been pre-auction offers but we stayed with the auction. There was a $1.5m start and bidding got to $1.8m where it stalled.

“That’s when another local bidder jumped in and it went to $1.82m, then in $1000 increments to $1.826m.

“That’s when the property sold to a family living in the area.

“The sellers are over the moon. They are delighted with the auction process as it gives a true and transparent reflection of the market.’’

The latest listing for The McLure Group will be a prestige, five-bedroom home with media room and pool in Noosa Heads.

READY TO DROP ANCHOR?

A five-bedroom, four-bathroom, waterfront house with pool at 40 The Anchorage, Noosa Waters, goes to auction Saturday, 23 March, at 2pm.

In arguably one of the best streets in Noosa Waters, a five-bedroom, fourbathroom, waterfront house with pool goes to auction Saturday, 23 March, at 2pm.

Marketed by Rebekah Offermann and Michael McComas of Tom Offermann Real Estate, the two-level house at 40 The Anchorage enjoys the ideal north-facing, 18m water frontage - wider than many properties in this sought-after estate.

And the striking contemporary residence highlights the fact that first impressions do count.

A custom timber and glass-panelled door opens to the vestibule and hallway where natural lightened lofty ceilings, picks up the glow of the Italian-tiled flooring.

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.

There are numerous scenarios for entertaining. The alfresco terrace with a water feature wall has an outdoor kitchen, integrated barbecue 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 built-

in robe and ensuite, also a guest bathroom, which can be accessed from outside where there is an outdoor shower. The laundry room is next door and has access to a drying area.

PICTURE-PERFECT SETTING

Kess Prior at Hinternoosa has been smashed with inquiry about a stunning home on 8884sq m at Verrierdale that goes to auction Thursday, 4 April, at 1pm.

The four-bedroom, two-bathroom, four-car house at 61-63 Tallgum Ave has undergone a complete renovation to feature raked ceilings with skylights, and open plan living that spills out to split-level decks and rainforest.

The layout is such that it opens up the prospect of dual-living.

There are restored tallowwood floors, plantation shutters, and a modern kitchen with stone benches, five-burner gas cooktop, and large island bench with breakfast bar.

Glass sliding doors lead to two levels of decking. The covered upper deck has remote blinds and fans, while the second deck is open to the the sunshine.

Both decks enjoy glorious views over the landscaped gardens to the tall timbers that serve as a backdrop.

you’ll notice are the soaring raked ceilings and sense of being surrounded by nature. Updates include new paint, fans, restored tallowwood timber flooring, plantation shutters, In one wing of the home there are three bedrooms and modern bathroom with separate toilet.

Sharon McLure of The McLure Group with the buyers of 8 Samara Pl, Noosa Heads, that sold at auction Saturday. 395397

Rebekah Offermann and Roark Walsh, with auctioneer Gordon Macdonald, left, signing contracts at $5.8m after selling 27 McAnally Dve, Sunshine Beach at auction. 395397

4 April. 395397

The second section has its own entrance and would work equally well for a parent’s retreat, accommodating guests or extended family, working from home, or running an Airbnb. It features one bedroom, bathroom, living room and a private deck.

There’s also a 16m by 6.6m shed with epoxy flooring and 3-phase power, workshop area and second laundry. As well as a two-car garage there is a two-car carport and space for caravan or boat.

Other updates include new roofing, gutters, electric hot water system, filtration system and front feature fence.

SERENE SETTING

Going to auction Tuesday, 26 March, at 12pm is a vacant 2ha property at 44 Clearview Dve, Lake Macdonald.

Kess Prior and Caroline Johnston at Hinternoosa are marketing the property that has a cleared 1ha site ready to build on, and ocean outlook.

“It’s in a quiet enclave and next to the Noosa Trail,’’ Kess said. “Surrounded by tall timbers, it is on the ridgetop in a tightlyheld part of Lake Macdonald.

“The area is dominated by multi-milliondollar homes.’’

The property is zoned rural under Noosa Council and includes mixed vegetation of established gums, rainforest ferns, and bushland.

There is power to the top of the block, a large dam with earth wall, and fixed

wireless NBN.

CENTRE OF ATTENTION

A quality home in a sought-after precinct on Noosa Sound is set for auction Saturday, 23 March, at 12pm.

The four-bedroom, four-bathroom, threecar waterfront house with pool and jetty at 18 Cooran Ct goes to the market with Julie Bengtsson and Nic Hunter at Tom Offermann Real Estate.

“It’s a great spot,’’ Nic said, “so close to Quamby Place and within walking distance of Hastings St.

“Cooran Ct is nice and private with fulltime residents ... there is a good sense of community around you.

“A feature is the main bedroom suite downstairs. It’s very capacious ... all the bedrooms are ensuited.’’

The property comes with its own white sand beach and space for two boats.

As well as the expansive living areas there is an extensive deck, which appears perched on the 20-metre water’s edge.

A slate feature wall and wide pivot bespoke glass and timber-slatted front door reveal ever-so lofty ceilings, clerestoryheight glass panes and banks of louvres.

Natural light floods the travertine-tiled floors are in the open-plan living areas, while on the northern side glass sliders reveal a private garden and covered terrace. It wraps around the living and dining spaces and abuts the wet-edge pool

with pool deck and copper-look waterfall wall.

The L-shaped kitchen with granite-topped cabinetry includes a long island breakfast bar, a butler’s pantry and high-end appliances including a gas cooktop.

There are four carpeted bedrooms. On the entry level is an oversized premier king suite with sitting area that looks out to the courtyard-style garden, a substantial walk-in robe and granite-tiled ensuite with stonetopped two-basin cabinetry and separate shower.

There’s also a leisure/media space nearby plus powder room, storage under the stairs and a drying deck is accessed from the laundry.

Three bright bedrooms are upstairs. A sizeable suite on the west side has a terrace overlooking the wide waterway and jetty, a walk-in robe and ensuite. Along the mezzanine walkway past the casual lounge/retreat space with wide vertical windows, are two bedrooms with built-in robes and a bathroom with spa bath.

POPULAR PRICE POINT

The five-bedroom, two-bathroom house at 180 Old Emu Mountain Rd, Peregian Beach, has gone to contract ahead of auction with Lauren Chen of Tom Offermann Real Estate.

The offer came at the half-way point of campaign, from locals looking to downsize from the hinterland to enjoy the coastal

lifestyle, Lauren said.

“We have been a been meeting a lot of buyers in this price range of $1m-plus,’’ Lauren said.

A four-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house at 14 Burgess Dve, Tewantin, due to go to auction Saturday, 6 April, is now attracting attention.

AUCTION ACTION

SATURDAY, 23 March

Noosa Heads

· 18 Cooran Ct: 4bed, 4bath, 3car waterfront house, pool, jetty, 12pm, Julie Bengtsson 0418 980 247 Nic Hunter 0421 785 512 Tom Offermann Real Estate

Noosa Waters

· 40 The Anchorage: 5bed, 4bath, 3car waterfront house, pool, 2pm, Rebekah Offermann 0413 044 241 Michael McComas 0447 263 663 Tom Offermann Real Estate

Peregian Beach

· 34 Lowry St: 4bed, 2bath, 2car house, pool, 10am, Tracy Russell 0413 319 879 Tom Offermann Real Estate

· 180 Old Emu Mountain Rd: 5bed, 2bath, 2car house, 11am, Lauren Chen 0412 672 375 Tom Offermann Real Estate

THURSDAY, 4 April

Verrierdale

· 61-63 Tallgum Ave: 4bed, 2bath, 4car house on 8884sq m, 1pm, Kess Prior 0404 344 399 Hinternoosa. ●

A five-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house at 180 Old Emu Mountain Rd, Peregian Breeze, has gone to contract prior to auction. 391006

A four-bedroom, two-bathroom, four-car house on 8884sq m at 61-63 Tallgum Ave, Verrierdale, will go to auction at 1pm Thursday,

A five-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-car house at 180 Old Emu Mountain Rd, Peregian Breeze, has gone to contract prior to auction. 391006

34 LO wR YS TReeT , PEREGIANBEACH

Designed to maximiselifestyle,privacy,andfacilitate seamlessintegratedindoorandoutdoorliving,this elegantresidenceisperfectlypositionedonits elevated809m2blockboastinglush, verdant,tropical gardens reminiscentoftropicalNorthQueenslandwith ahalcyonBali-likevibe,inviting youintoazen-likeoasis ofserenity. Theentrysetsthe tonefortheambience oftheresidencewithits exteriorgateddoorway,

walkwayacrossatimberplatform to thebespoke timberdoubledoors leadingintothegrandfoyerand curvedgallery,a cocoonof calm.

Located,justsixminutes’ walk to thebeachand footsteps toLowry Park;fromthegreenofthe parkland to goldensandsandthedeepblueofthe CoralSea,there’ssomuchnaturalbeautytoembrace

Auction

Saturday 23 March10am

View

Saturday 9.30am

Agent

TracyRussell 0413319879 tracy@offermann.com.au

18 CO ORAN CO UR T, NO O SAHEADS

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 Saturday11.30am

Agent

JulieBengtsson

0418980247

julie@offermann.com.au

Agent

NicHunter

0421785512

nic@offermann.com.au

40 TheANChORAge , NOOSA WATERS

Anenviable,incomparable streetinaquietculde sacofNoosa Waters,boasting alargerthanmost, idyllicallynorth-facingsitehas awidewaterfrontage, knockoutwide waterviewsand a180-degreepanorama sweeping Mt TinbeerwahtotheNoosaHill.Thereisno compromisewhenit comes to astriking contemporary residence.Insideitisclear,serioussophisticationisat play. Naturallight,vialoftyceilings,picksuptheglow of

theItalian-tiled flooringdrenchingthe vestibuleand hallway.Lookahead to openplanlivinganddiningareas wheredoors,thewidthofthe residence seemingly disappearblurringindoorsto out,andextensive undercoverterracesthatalmostmorphinto the luminescentpoolandspaand‘spill’ to the water’sedge.

Auction Saturday23March2pm

View Saturday1.30pm

Agent

RebekahOffermann

0413044241

rebekah@offermann.com.au

Agent

Michael McComas

0447263663

michael@offermann.com.au

AUCT IONSATURD AY 2P M

10 ROSSCRESCENT , SUNSHINEBEACH

AsilveredIronbarkfaçadeallowslight to articulate extensive spaces,featuring arobustnaturalpalette of slate,burnished concrete,richyet restrainedtimbers, and Wamberalstone,alljuxtaposedwithwideexpanses of floor-to-ceiling,nextlevelwindows,slidingglass doorsandlouvres.

The vast livingspaces,especiallytheloungearea withdoors openingoutonthenorthernside,further explore themodernistdesign byaward-winning architectShaun Lockyer,oozing asenseofintimacyand sanctuary,witha dashofholiday spirit.

Auction Saturday13April1pm

View Saturday12.00-12.30

Agent

RebekahOffermann

0413044241

rebekah@offermann.com.au

Agent

Michael McComas

0447263663

michael@offermann.com.au

7W HITEBE EC HR OAD, NOOSAEADS

Wake up to sunshineand stepintothelight;thistruly stunningCloutdesigned residence,boastingaprized northernaspect,paystributetotheNoosaclimate andlifestyle,andoffersthe verypinnacleofelegant contemporarylivingwherecomfort,style,aesthetics, andfunctionalitymeld together to createperfection. Thisisluxury resort-stylelivingofthehighestcalibre with ashowstoppingalfrescoentertaining zonewith

coveredpavilion,heatedmagnesiumpoolandspa;a self-containedguestsuitewithits ownseparateentry; and afullyequippedhomecinemawithtieredseating… itis averitablelifestylemasterpiece.Insideandout, thisis aresidenceofdistinctionthat’sinspireddesign ensuresitis aliveableasitissumptuous.

Auction

Saturday 13April2pm

View

Saturday &Wednesday 10.00-10.30

Agent

PeterTeWhata

0423972034 peter@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

Saturday10.00-10.30

25/67 GIBSONROAD , NOOSAVILL E

Agent

LaurenChen 0412672375

lauren@offermann.com.au

Lookingfor aquiet, veryprivate,renovatedabsolutewaterfront townhomewith long waterviews,threebedroomsandmultiplelivingareas,in aslice ofparadise?It isguaranteedanenviableunretiringlifestyleisnever-ending,especiallyforwalking, cycling,boatingand fishingenthusiasts.

An expansivelawnstretchesfromthealfrescoterracetothe revetment wall,so fish fordinner, kayakand canoearoundtheneighbouring waterways,or take aboatvia thelockand weir system to theNoosaRiver.Strollalongthemeanderingpathways orviatheunderpass tocafé centralon Gympie Terrace,alsothedog-friendly walkway whichisparallel to theNoosaRiverforeshore Thisis asageinvestmentopportunityina muchsought-afterlocation.

A 3 B 2 C 1 D

Price $1.795M

Agent

JulieBengtsson 0418980247

julie@offermann.com.au

ON THE COVER ELEVATION, CHARM AND LOCATION

JUST imagine waking up to a spectacular ocean vista beautifully highlighted through the Norfolk Pines. Watch the white-capped waves roll in, savour the magic of the sunrise, and soak up the gentle sea breezes from the comfort of your bedroom or whilst sitting out on the deck enjoying your morning espresso. Sound inviting? Sure is.

At the day’s end you can retire to the expansive rear covered deck where to witness a glorious sunset, displayed in all its magnificence, across the hinterland, with a view that sweeps west across the national park and beyond to the mountains…truly breathtaking. This really is the best of both worlds – east to west, sunrise to sunset, offering a rare double vantage point in all its glory.

This charm-filled solidly built double brick residence, tastefully renovated in recent years, still retains its wonderful warmth and charisma, and offers an exceptional opportunity to purchase a holiday investment in one of Peregian’s finest streets, just 170-metres to the beach and 350-metres to the village.

Clerestory-height whitewashed timberlined vaulted ceilings in the main living greet you upon entry and set the tone for what is a thoroughly delightful property. Hardwood timber floors throughout enhance the ambience and appeal; and all the modern comforts including split system air-conditioning, ceiling fans, luxury bathrooms, and quality appliances, ensure comfort and liveability is paramount.

Currently approved by council for short-term holiday letting, this could suit a range of purchasers in the beachside market, from investors seeking income via permanent or short-term rental whilst land-banking this premium site; beachloving families seeking a proximity to the surf that is literally footsteps away; and sea-changers ready to embrace the fullest of coastal lifestyles whilst also seeking exceptional convenience.

The fully fenced block is low maintenance, with a cosy grassy courtyard and sunny terrace on the eastern side and a leafy backyard with room for a pool at the rear. There is no immediate money needing to be spent inside or out, and it’s being sold fully furnished, so is turn-key ready to move straight in or rent out.

“This is a property that will not only appeal because of the stunning views on offer covering both ocean and hinterland,

HOME ESSENTIALS

but also will resonate at an emotional level with many buyers, as it has genuine character and heart,” enthuses Tom Offermann Real Estate agent Jesse Stowers who is taking the property to auction on Saturday 13 April 2024.

“So close to vibrant Peregian Beach village and beach, you truly can live the most incredible lifestyle here with ease; leave the car at home and walk everywhere, you can be enjoying a coffee at one of the fabulous cafes or catching a wave literally within minutes from your front door.”

Facts and features:

· Land Area: 524m2

· House Area: 277m2

· About: solidly built double brick dual level residence circa 1980s; tastefully renovated in recent years; 3 bedrooms; 3 stylish modern bathrooms; 2 living areas; 4.6m vaulted ceilings in living; timber flooring throughout; study at entry; upper deck off main bedroom showcasing sweeping whitewater views; expansive covered rear timber deck with hinterland and national park views; aircon/ fans throughout; builtin study nooks in 2 bedrooms; DLUG; storage under; fully furnished turn-key ready (inventory upon request); has current short-term letting approval

· Kitchen: thick granite benches; ceramic cooktop plus oven and fridge/freezer; Westinghouse dishwasher; central location servicing both living areas and rear deck

· Exterior: charming street appeal; fully fenced sun-drenched grassy courtyard and terrace at front; established native vegetation; room for a pool at rear; onsite space for off-street parking

· Location: dress circle Peregian Beach Street; walk to beach (170m) and village (350m); less than 10 mins to public and private schools; 14 mins to Noosa; 18 mins to airport; 22 mins to Eumundi markets; desirable lifestyle and holiday location ●

Address: 18 Pelican Street, PEREGIAN BEACH, Inspect: Saturday 10-10.30am

Description: 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 garage Auction: Saturday 13 April 12pm

Contact: Jesse Stowers 0414 367 282, TOM OFFERMANN REAL ESTATE

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BLUE-CHIP BEACHSIDE: RENOVATED TO PERFECTION

THIS thoroughly charming beachside residence, tucked away in a whisper-quiet cul-de-sac has undergone a tasteful and comprehensive renovation of the highest calibre. It is truly gorgeous and has been transformed into a modern oasis.

Boasting a prized north-easterly aspect, the home is flooded with natural light and benefits from gentle sea breezes circulating throughout, a reminder of just how close you are to the sand and sea. The alfresco entertaining area and newly refurbished pool are perfectly positioned to maximise sunshine and privacy and are visible from virtually every room. Across two levels the floor plan offers good separation as well as versatility.

The second ground floor living/media room has an ensuite, it could work perfectly as a downstairs master suite / guest bedroom or a space if you work from home. It has its own external entry. A multipurpose space on the upper level could be used as a sitting area/leisure space, homework den or study. This residence is as functional as it is visually appealing, so very comfortable, elegant and liveable too.

No expense has been spared on the transformation with a sparkling new high-end kitchen with luxe finishes and appliances, new luxury bathrooms, new lighting, quality oak timber flooring and plush carpets on the upper level. The elegant and classic interior furnishings have been carefully sourced and selected by Bedouin Traders in Peregian Beach, all designed to be soft and soothing, it has a cohesive sophisticated coastal aesthetic from the outside in. This is truly beachside living in spirit, as well as location.

Not only can you hear the waves crashing onto the foreshore, there are peeks of the Coral Sea from the premier bedroom to savour as you wake up each day. There is an exclusive terrace off the second bedroom, so private and cozy, in fact quite a delightful place to soak up the fresh salty sea air with a cuppa and a good book.

There is covered onsite parking for two vehicles and undercover access direct to your front door. There is room for a workshop at the rear of the garage and additional off-street space for visitors to park. The landscaped garden is low maintenance, an irrigation system keeps it looking lush and green, pockets of grassy space will make small children happy, and pets can also play safely and securely.

Located on the southern side of Peregian Beach opposite direct beach access it adjoins blue-chip Lorikeet Drive. It’s only 200m to the sand, and a 15-minute walk to the vibrant village hub with boutique dining, retail outlets, boutiques, and the Peregian Beach Hotel.

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Major local amenities such as public and private schooling, supermarket and sporting/leisure facilities are within a 5–8-minute drive, and access to the David Low Way is a quick and easy connection north to Noosa Heads and south to Coolum

and the Sunshine Coast airport.

“This is an incredible property, so impeccably presented and exquisitely transformed, it took my breath away when I saw the end result of all the hard work,“ remarks Tom Offermann Real Estate

Address: 7 CORELLA CRESCENT, PEREGIAN BEACH Description: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $3.785M

agent Tracy Russell. “It is truly dressed to impress.

“The buyer can also purchase some of the furnishings if so desired, so just turnthe-key and pop the bubbles. What’s not to love?“ ●

Inspect: Saturday March 23 10:00am - 10:30am, Wednesday March 27 10:00am - 10:30am Contact: Tracy Russell 0413 319 879, TOM OFFERMANN REAL ESTATE

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SOPHISTICATION AND ENTERTAINER’S MECCA

WAKE to the sound of the surf, grab the surf board, kids and towels and it’s toes-in-the-sand, with popular surf breaks in two minutes. For coffee aficionados, vibrant cafe central of Sunshine Beach village is a mere minute away, almost on the doorstep. Yes, all entirely possible especially when you discover the epitome of seaside sophistication is a completely revitalised contemporary apartment with salty breezes, a verdant outlook, northerly peeks of the Coral Sea and lots of look-atme features, such as every entertainer’s dream- a true butler’s pantry.

What’s not to love inside the cool northend beach mecca? Admire the generous open plan living space with white-washed fluted Tasmanian oak wall. Look beyond as eyes are attracted to the brilliant northerly light seemingly shadow-dancing over the beautiful blackbutt floors. Note also how it coalesces naturally with the undercover terrace, where whatever the season, reason or weather, is a perfect alfresco entertaining option.

Complementing the overall aesthetic is the central hub, a bright white designer galley kitchen with stone-topped cabinetry including island breakfast bar, soft close drawers, while the bench along the wall

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has under-cabinetry lighting and a glass splashback reflecting features of the great outdoors.

The latest high-end appliances are of course de rigueur, similarly in the classic butler’s pantry with storage galore. Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver would undoubtedly be impressed.

The barbeque terrace is undercover, has northerly neighbourhood views, ocean peeks and is an option for breakfast.

Another big bonus, (yes there are more), is having three king-size bedrooms. Behind

a ‘hidden’ door is the premier main suite with access to the terrace, a walk-in robe and a stunning ensuite with Italian tiled flooring, stone-topped timber cabinetry, and wall of mirrored upper cabinetry with a finger-tiled splashback.

Along the gallery-style hallway in the west wing, are two king bedrooms with outlooks to nature, and built-in robes. Additional feature in the bathroom is a wall of storage, and the laundry is fully equipped.

“This is a sure-fire opportunity for a

savvy investor,” explains Tom Offermann Real Estate agent Jesse Stowers, adding “one who appreciates the assets of Sunshine Beach as well as the apartment’s location in a boutique complex.

“It offers quiet private living, the fit-out is first-class in every sense, nothing needs to be spent, it is an easy and secure property to lock and leave, and the private pool and sun terrace set amongst lush sub-tropical gardens is a sanctuary for residents and guests.”●

Address: 8/21 HENDERSON STREET, SUNSHINE BEACH Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $2.275M Inspect: By appointment

Contact: Jesse Stowers 0414 367 282, TOM OFFERMANN

FLAWLESS RESORT LIVING IN NOOSA SPRINGS

DISCOVER the elevated design and flawless sophistication of this magnificent resort home. Well presented, this is your chance to immerse yourself in the luxury you deserve paired perfectly with a leisurely lifestyle.

You will love to return to the effortless style of this abode, where neutral colour tones and natural materials exist in perfect harmony. An expansive lounge, enveloped by a staircase, provides a warm welcome inviting you to step inside and explore the sprawling layout.

A crisp white kitchen has been thoughtfully appointed with quality appliances and a sweeping, curved bench with a server window to the covered poolside patio. An elevated dining platform awaits your next dinner party or you can indulge in a casual meal on the patio, with the zen-inspired pool and lush landscaping providing the perfect backdrop.

A large living room, that opens to a covered deck, and a study with a private porch are also on offer. There is a media

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Address: 561/61

room for movie night, plus a guest bedroom with a walk-in robe and ensuite to comfortably accommodate friends and family. A laundry and a two-car garage, with a storage area and golf cart storage, complete this level.

The luxurious upper level is dedicated to the main sleeping quarters and centres around a large, light-filled void. There are two guest bedrooms, both with built-in robes and one with an ensuite and private balcony with views. In the owner’s suite, a plush walk-in robe and a stunning ensuite ensure a serene retreat at the end of the day.

You are also treated to an incredible location within the highly prized Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort. As a resident of this exclusive community, you will enjoy access to tennis, golfing and the day spa. You’re also only moments from the vibrant dining scene of Noosa Junction and the high-end shopping of Hastings Street. Noosa National Park and Noosa Main Beach are also close by. ●

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TWO HOMES AND LIMITLESS OPPORTUNITIES

WITH its private location, two modern dwellings, and proximity to all the essentials, this gem of a property presents almost unlimited opportunities to craft your dream lifestyle. You could live in one and rent the other, run a business, or accommodate extended family – all within a peaceful natural setting where quality and attention to detail are evident at every turn.

Built in 2018, the main home exudes a spacious and comfortable ambience thanks to soaring ceilings, air-conditioning, and plentiful glass to let in the light and fresh air. Recent updates include new curtains, paint, lighting, and top-of-the-range tongue and groove flooring with a 20-year warranty. The versatile floor plan is perfect for entertaining, with a central open plan living zone with spaces for living and dining. A striking travertine plinth and a German-built cast Iron fireplace, which heats the whole house, add to the sense of luxury.

You can cook up a storm in the brand-new kitchen, which boasts an AEG integrated dishwasher and induction

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cooktop, loads of storage, and exquisite stain-and-scratch-resistant marble benchtops and splash back. Glass sliding doors open onto a covered full-width deck with a picture-perfect outlook over the large dam and magnesium pool to the surrounding trees.

The generous master bedroom is the

perfect parent’s retreat with its walk-in robe, ensuite, and direct access onto a private deck. The additional bedroom has a built-in robe and adjoins the stylish main bathroom.

Also recently updated, the separate, selfcontained and wheelchair friendly granny flat features fresh paint, durable polished

concrete flooring, kitchen with oven and cooktop, bedroom with ensuite, its own private patio, and a double carport.

Near the dwellings is a 16 x 9.5 m shed with 9.8 x 3.5 m carport, provision for a bathroom and a brand new 10kw solar system on the roof. Other recent additions are too numerous to list, but include an extra water tank on the shed, automated Irrigation system, exterior cladding, full front perimeter hardwood fencing, new Tallowwood decking, stone entrance, electric gate, and upgrading of the driveway.

The level 3.5-acres, which include lush lawns and 85 lilly pillies planted as a privacy screen, back onto native bushland, with kangaroos visiting each morning and evening. Despite the absolute peace and privacy, the property is only minutes from Tewantin township, close to Lake Cooroibah for water-based activities, and less than 20 minutes’ drive from Noosa Heads. You can let your imagination go wild here, or simply enjoy the tranquility without sacrificing access to essential amenities ●

Address: 16 Yatama Place, COOROIBAH Description: 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 8 garage Inspect: By appointment Auction: Friday, 5 April at 01:00 PM

Contact: Kess Prior 0404 344 399 kess@hinternoosa.com.au or Caroline Johnston 0409 953 311 caroline@hinternoosa.com.au

auction

StunningHome,PicturePerfectSetting

Address 61-63Tallgum Avenue,Verrierdale

Bed 4 Bath 2 Car 4

Auction 4thAprilat1pmOnSite

Land 2.2acres

View Sat1-1:30pm, Thurs1-1:30pm

•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

0754477000,30MapleStreet,CooroyQLD

0754491186,777EumundiNoosaRoad,DoonanQLD

Noosaville

Saturday23rd March

11.00am -11.30am7/279 WeybaRd 311 AuctionTomOffermann RealEstate0412672375

11.00am -11.30am4/5BarbadosCrescent 21+1 O/O$1,300,000ConsideredLaguna RealEstate0419332973

12.30pm -1.00pm2/9LakeWeybaDr 322 $1,685,000TomOffermann RealEstate0475804467

Tuesday26thMarch

12.00pm -12.30pm2/9LakeWeybaDr 322 $1,685,000TomOffermann RealEstate0475804467

Wednesday27thMarch

11.00am -11.30am4/5BarbadosCrescent 21+1 O/O$1,300,000ConsideredLaguna RealEstate0419332973 1.00pm -1.30pm7/213GympieTerrace 221 O/O$1,495,000ConsideredLaguna RealEstate0407379893

NoosaWaters

Saturday23rd March

1.30pm -2.00pm40TheAnchorage

PeregianBeach Saturday23rd

Eumundi

Federal

Saturday23rdMarch

11.30am

LakeMacDonald

Saturday23rdMarch

9.00am

NoosaHeads

Saturday23rdMarch

10.00am

11.00am

NoosaSprings

Saturday23rdMarch

10.00am

11.00am -11.30am

11.00am

Wednesday27thMarch

11.00am -11.30am

Ridgewood

Saturday23rd

Saturday23rd

SunriseBeach

Saturday23rd March

Wednesday27thMarch

SunshineBeach

Thursday21st March

Saturday23rd

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TOWNHOME OFFERING EXCEPTIONAL PRIVACY

TUCKED away in an end position – the largest in a boutique complex of only three, which directly adjoins Ferris Park, this townhome offers exceptional privacy, generous sized indoor and outdoor living, and elegant interiors in this most convenient of Sunshine Beach locations within walking distance to Duke Street dining/retail, the surf club, beach, and national park.

Covering two levels plus secure basement parking and storage under; the home comprises three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus powder room, sunken formal lounge, separate dining, renovated modern kitchen, north-east facing balcony at entry plus upper balcony off master, separate laundry, and covered 4.4x6m patio at rear overlooking glorious, leafy landscaped gardens and an exclusive use backyard.

Presentation is pristine throughout, and features include split system airconditioning in master bedrooms and dining, ceiling fans throughout, stone

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benches in kitchen, Bellini oven, Bosch dishwasher, plush carpets in bedrooms and lounge, skylights in bathrooms, separate bath and shower in family bathroom, and a delightful green outlook from every room.

As truly lovely as the indoor space is for relaxation and dining, it’s the alfresco space that will win your heart; from the cosy balcony off the master perfect for morning coffee or a twilight wine as you soak up gentle breezes, the front balcony

at entry setting an inviting tone for what lies within, through to the ultra-private patio at rear ideal for those weekend BBQs and intimate get-togethers with your loved ones.

Tightly-held by current owners for over 20 years, this is a coveted townhome, particularly well located just 700-metres to the beach, 500-metres to the village hub, and 550-metres to Alexandria Bay Walk through Noosa National Park – everything is from swimming in the sea, dining out,

and bushwalking…it’s a lifestyle to savour in every sense.

Whether purchasing as a holiday home (with the possibility of holiday letting –subject to council approval), a well-located investment in this blue-chip beachside suburb, or a permanent sea change; this is an outstanding opportunity to secure your very own Sunshine Sanctuary.

· North-east facing end townhome

· Largest in quiet block of only 3

· 3 bedrooms – master with balcony

· 2.5 bathrooms, modern kitchen

· Open plan living + separate dining

· Covered rear patio with garden outlook

· Split system A/C x 2 + ceiling fans

· Exclusive use landscaped backyard

· Secure basement garage with storage

· Complex directly adjoins Ferris Park

· Walk to beach, dining, national park

· Held since 2002, now it’s your turn! ●

Address: 1 / 1 FERRIS STREET, SUNSHINE BEACH Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: Offer Over $1.625M Inspect: Saturday 23 March, 10-10.45am

Contact: Kathy Wise 0407 968 300, SUNSHINE BEACH REAL ESTATE

HOME FOCUS

MARVELLOUS FAMILY HOME IN QUIET LOCALE

STEP inside this fully renovated, family sized residence and be captivated by its high calibre finishes and spacious layout.

Nestled in a quiet and upmarket area of Tewantin, this property offers the perfect combination of coastal style, comfort, and convenience.

Boasting four bedrooms and two bathrooms, this solid brick home has been thoughtfully totally renovated to accommodate the needs of a growing family. The master suite features an ensuite and walk-in robe plus a private patio for that leisurely morning cuppa. The remaining bedrooms are generously sized and equipped with built-in robes, providing ample storage space for all. The fourth bedroom is situated at the home’s entrance and would be an ideal home office.

Entertaining is a breeze with multiple living areas, including a light-filled lounge and dining area and a separate media room or relaxation space. Sliding doors open to the covered patio and pretty garden view. The new, Gull Design kitchen is a chef’s dream, complete with a dishwasher, oven and microwave, expansive bench space and more storage than you can use. The open-plan design seamlessly connects the indoor and outdoor living areas, creating a

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harmonious flow throughout the home.

Outside, the property offers a good sized yard over a 665m2 allotment, perfect for children and pets to play freely. A large shed offers additional space for storage or a workshop. The property is fully fenced, ensuring privacy and security for the whole family, plus the garden has been professionally landscaped and is irrigated. Additional features of this exceptional

property include split system airconditioning, ceiling fans, partial screening, new carpets and newly laid timber hybrid flooring throughout. The remote garage with internal access has a new motor and easily accommodates two vehicles.

Don’t miss this opportunity to secure this stunning family home in a highly sought after location. With nothing left to

do but move in and enjoy, this property is sure to impress even the most discerning buyers. Just 15 minutes to Main Beach/ Hastings Street, 5 minutes to Tewantin Village and Noosa Marina.

Contact us today to arrange your inspection, or visit our Open Home. Note: Virtual furniture has been added to some photos. ●

Address: 68 Furness Drive, TEWANTIN Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: Offers Over $1,195,000 Considered Inspect: Saturday 10-10.30am

Contact: Chris Forde 0411-328-488, LAGUNA REAL ESTATE