COMMUNITY CELEBRATES OPENING OF PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
Community members and local representatives were on hand on 11 July to open the newly constructed pedestrian bridge that spans the North Maroochy River, near Seib Rd at Eumundi. Local Anne Doubleday cut the first half of the ribbon to mark the occasion, followed by local Member for Ninderry, Dan Purdie MP and Cr David Law, completing the cutting.
provides pedestrians with a safer crossing option, replacing the previously used narrow road shoulder.
Dan Purdie highlighted the community's longstanding demand for a pedestrian solution in the area. "Since being elected 7 years ago, I have stood side-by-side with the community to fight for funding to build a dedicated pedestrian bridge. I even filmed the dangers of crossing the existing bridge myself using a GoPro to
The 300m of pathway and boardwalk took approximately 7 months to complete, and Cont. p3
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WHAT’S ON?
Pomona Family Fun Day
Pomona’s free Family Fun Day returns on 27 July from 9am-4pm in Stan Topper Park. With bungy trampolines, pony rides, animal farm, snake display, art and craft markets and live music, there’s something for all the family.
Visit the quilt display by the Pomona Sewing Goddesses in the Lions Club Hall across the road from Stan Topper Park from 9am-3pm. Don’t forget to buy tickets in the Lions Helicopter Flight Raffle to win a 30min ride for 4 people over the Noosa hinterland with McDermott Aviation.
Pomona Family Fun Day is a project of the Cooroy Pomona Lions Club, with support from Noosa Council, Bendigo Bank and local business. All proceeds collected by the Lions Club go towards supporting local community initiatives and Lions global projects. Visit: kingofthemountain. com.au.
Pre-loved, Palette and Style Makeover
Katie Rose Cottage Hospice Op Shop and Warehouse is holding an evening of fashion, beauty and colour from 5.30-8.30pm on 31 July at its warehouse, 11a Bartlett Rd, Noosaville.
Discover what colours suit you best and learn how to make your wardrobe and make-up work for you. Style expert Carlie Wacker will outline the essentials of fashion colour styling, and Lara from PONY Beauty Bar Noosa will share makeup tips and tricks. Tickets include bubbles, mocktails and a buffet gourmet grazing plate. Visit: FB Preloved Palette and Style.
Mental Fitness for Men
Men often commit to good physical health, but mental health is equally important. Men’s mental health statistics are getting worse, indicating high levels of anxiety and depression.
Join Karl Baker at the Cooroy Library for a workshop on Mental Fitness for Men called Surfing the Waves of Life, on 4 August from 6-30-7.30pm. Explore how you can increase your mental and emotional fitness. Cost is $10. Bookings: libraryevents.noosa.qld.gov.au.
Karin Knowles at The Majestic
Australian singer-songwriter Karin Knowles brings her Songs & Stories of Australia to The Majestic Theatre in Pomona on 1 August from 7-9pm.
Karin’s Pomona show will pay tribute to the late Judith Durham and the musical legacy of The Seekers. She will also pay tribute to some of Australia’s music icons who helped take Australian music offshore, including Olivia Newton John, Archie Roach, John Farnham and Icehouse. Tickets: themajestictheatre.com.au.
Art Exhibition Yandina
The Yandina School of Arts is holding an art exhibition on 26 July from 10am-2pm with works by local artists. Meet the artists and learn about their styles. Morning and afternoon tea is available. Entry is a gold coin donation. All funds raised go to maintain the Yandina School of Arts Hall. Contact: bookingysoa@gmail.com.
WHAT’S ON?
An Audience with Li Cunxin
Li Cunxin AO – Artistic Director of Qld Ballet from 2012-2023 – will be at The J on 22 August for An Audience with Li Cunxin, hosted by Anthony Lamond.
Li has had a remarkable life. Born in rural China, as a child he was selected to train as a dancer at the Beijing Dance Academy. In his book – Mao’s Last Dancer – Li wrote about his childhood, his defection to the USA and dancing with the Houston Ballet for 16yrs. Li moved to Australia with his Australian wife in 1995 and was a principal dancer for the Australian Ballet. Tickets: thej.com.au.
Off Grid Expo
The Off Grid Expo will be held at the Gympie Showgrounds on 2&3 August from 9am-4pm. The expo has a great variety of stallholders and speakers who will cover many different topics. Whether it’s about disconnecting from utilities, living in a tiny house, being self-sufficient in the garden, or reusing, recycling and re-purposing, this is the place to ask your questions. Visit: offgridexpo.com.au.
Seniors Connect
Noosa Seniors Connect aims to address social isolation amongst older people through free workshops on wellbeing and education. The workshops provide a way for older locals to meet others and to find out about a wide range of available services and activities.
An education session is scheduled at the Cooroy Memorial Hall on 28 August from 12.30-3.30pm. Wellness Sessions take place at Cooran Memorial School of Arts on 29 July from 2-5pm, and Pomona Community House on 30 September from 11am-1pm. To register call Noosa Seniors on 5329 6175.
Sunshine Pantry Twilight Market
The Sunshine Coast, Noosa, City of Moreton Bay, Gympie and beyond is home to more than 900 producers and makers, and many are brought together at Qld’s Sunshine Pantry – an initiative of the Food & Agribusiness Network, Visit Sunshine Coast and Tourism Noosa.
What better place to kick off The Curated Plate Festival than Qld’s Sunshine Pantry Twilight Market on 27 July from 4-8pm at The Station SC, 8 The Avenue, Birtinya. This is a free event, but registration is essential. Visit: thecuratedplate. com.au.
Earth Painting Workshop
Join Lucy Hersey at Leighton Contemporary for an Earth Painting Workshop, from 10am-1pm on 26 July. As well as brewing and making your own paint colours from some unexpected sustainable sources, spend a productive and thoughtful morning mixing and filling a pan of your own handmade paint to take home. There is no need to be an artist. A light lunch and beverages will be served. Limited to 8 spots. The workshop will be held at 5/64 Gateway Dr, Noosaville from 10am1pm. Bookings: leightoncontemporary.com.
Lucy Hersey
COMMUNITY
Woolworths Cooroy development application
Plans to construct a new supermarket in Cooroy have entered the public notification phase, allowing residents to voice their opinions on the application via Noosa Council. Woolworths is spearheading the development of a full-line supermarket, with 8 direct-to-boot pick-up bays, along with retail and alfresco dining outlets, and a 120-place residential aged care facility, on a 6.6-hectare site at the corner of Myall St and Ferrells Rd, opposite the Cooroy Golf Club.
The public notification period commenced on 14 July and will continue until 1 August, during which formal submissions can be made directly to Noosa Council. The development application was initially submitted to council in May 2024 following 2 years of community consultation.
The commencement of the public notification phase follows an information response from town planners Project Urban on behalf of Woolworths, which addressed issues raised by the council in September of the previous year. The response highlighted amendments to the proposed development layout, particularly the relocation of all development outside the riparian buffer area.
The development will feature approximately 250 car parks, most of which will be shaded. The
updated layout relocates the shopping centre closer to Ferrells Rd, positioning the residential care facility nearer to the riparian buffer at the southern end of the site. Additionally, the primary site access has been moved from Myall St to Ferrells Rd, with a new roundabout planned at the intersection.
The shopping centre’s gross floor area has been reduced from 5,626sqm to 5,434sqm, while the residential care facility’s area has increased from 7,558sqm to 9,142sqm. The residential, aged care home has the potential for expansion to accommodate 40 more beds, ensuring privacy
and safety for residents. The overall landscaped area has been expanded, and the shopping centre design has been revised to reflect the Cooroy township character.
An updated economic impact assessment report by Location IQ addressed concerns regarding the need for the development. The report indicated that the provision of supermarket floorspace in the Noosa Local Government Area is currently in line with SEQ averages but is low when accounting for the significant number of tourists. Woolworths supermarkets in Noosa LGA trade at around 40-50% higher than the national average, reinforcing the need for additional supermarket space.
A development approval was granted by SCC for a supermarket at 10 Memorial Dr, Eumundi – at the southern end of town – in July 2024, for the construction of a 1,400sqm shopping centre including a 1,200sqm supermarket and specialty retail stores. Developer Eumundi Holdings – part of the Altum Property Group – was approached for comment on the progress and timeline for construction of the Eumundi supermarket, and whether the proposed development application for a Woolworths in Cooroy would affect their plans. Eumundi Voice had not received a response at the time of publication.
Local Agent.
“Heidi was very knowledgeable about the local market and very professional in her meetings with us. Heidi was also very understanding in how we would like to see our property presented to potential buyers. Feedback was given to us after each viewing which was helpful to us in meeting buyers views and expectations in the current market. Would recommend without hesitation.”
– Grahame & Deborah Seymour Vendors, 18 Babbling Brook Place Eumundi
Heidi Woodman 0419 818 418
COMMUNITY
Sunshine Coast Council delivers budget
SCC’s 2025–26 Budget was delivered recently, with a focus on safer roads, unifying projects and delivering essential services that the community values. Despite economic pressures, the council has limited the minimum general rate rise to $2.10 per week for most owner-occupier ratepayers.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli emphasised that the budget reflects the community's priorities and the need for responsible decision-making, taking into account the results of the recent Living on the Sunshine Coast Survey. The survey highlighted the importance of environmental access, reducing road congestion, and fostering a sense of community.
To ease the burden on households, the council has implemented measures such as reducing the minimum general rate rise, increasing pensioner concessions, and offering interest-free payment plans. The budget allocates $262.3M for infrastructure projects, including $30.2M for road maintenance, $22.4M for park amenities, and $11M for beach sand renourishment.
The council has committed to protecting the Sunshine Coast lifestyle, with investments in libraries, community groups and major events. Mayor Natoli gave an assurance that the council is making tough decisions to achieve these priorities while maintaining financial strength.
Div 10 spending included: $950,000 Eumundi Town Centre placemaking stage 3, $4.5M North Arm Rd gravel road upgrade, $300,000 North Arm public amenity renewal, $10,000 Dick Caplick Park climbing orb and softfall renewal, $40,000 Dick Caplick Park rickety bridge installation, and $229,300 Balkin Rd, Eumundi
stormwater network upgrade. Div 9 budget spending included $50,000 on Noomar Dr Park, Doonan windmill and fence.
For further information on the budget including the capital works highlights in each division visit: sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/budget.
Feedback sought on planning scheme
SCC has opened the proposed Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme for community feedback, emphasising the importance of public input in shaping the region's future. This initiative reflects community values and priorities, aiming to enhance the digital presence and improve customer engagement.
For the first time the planning scheme is fully web-based, making it user-friendly and easily navigable. Residents can explore interactive maps and search their addresses to understand the implications of the proposed scheme for their local areas. Mayor Rosanna Natoli highlighted the scheme as a significant milestone in future planning, emphasising the council's efforts to protect the natural environment, maintain the region's unique character, and address public transport, traffic, and housing affordability.
The proposed planning scheme is crucial for everyone on the Sunshine Coast, as it will shape neighbourhoods and the region. It sets out zones, building heights, design standards, and more, ensuring adequate land for homes, green spaces, community facilities and businesses, while planning for a climate-resilient future.
Key features of the scheme include targeted zone and building height changes, recognition of major regional greenspaces, 18 new local plan areas, adaptation for climate resilience, more industrial land, improved overlay mapping and standards for wildlife protection, and new development codes to enhance design outcomes.
Mayor Natoli encourages everyone to explore the proposed scheme and share their views, stressing the importance of community input in shaping the Sunshine Coast's future. Community consultation is open until 19 September. Visit t.ly/utiqM.
Public meeting to welcome new members
The QCWA Eumundi Branch is excited to announce a public meeting to welcome new members on 26 August at 10am at the QCWA Hall, 78 Memorial Dr, Eumundi. Local women are invited to learn more about the organisation and discover how they can get involved.
With a proud legacy stretching back over a century, the QCWA remains dedicated to empowering women through education, health, community service and friendship. The Eumundi Branch holds meetings each month, with one every second Tuesday at 9.30am, and the other on Tuesday mornings dedicated to craft and friendship activities.
President of the Nambour North Coast Division, Wendy Bebbington OAM emphasised that the meetings offer new members a chance to see what the QCWA is all about and how they can contribute to their community. "The QCWA is more than tea and scones. It is about women making a real difference – locally and statewide."
Eumundi members continue to be actively involved in health promotion, the QCWA Country Kitchens program, craft and community service projects, and fundraising for rural families. Contact Wendy on 0402 723 433 or email nambournorthcoastdivision@qcwa.org.au.
Cancellation of Cooroy Mountain Spring Festival
The Rotary Club of Cooroy has announced the cancellation of this year's Cooroy Mountain Spring Festival (CMSF) and the Cooroy Mountain climb. The decision comes as a result of circumstances beyond the club's control. Despite this setback, the club remains optimistic about the possibility of hosting the beloved event again in 2026, continuing its tradition of community support and engagement.
President of the Rotary Club of Cooroy, Warren O’Neill, expressed his disappointment over the cancellation. "It is disappointing not to be able to hold the CMSF this year as it has raised significant funds in support of local charities and community groups since 2014.”
The CMSF has been a significant fundraising event for the community, providing not only entertainment but also crucial support for various local causes.
Are you Australia’s next MasterChef?
Producers of the TV show MasterChef recently visited Eumundi, setting up a stall at the Eumundi Markets to raise awareness that casting for the next season is now open. They are on the lookout for amazing home cooks from across Australia who might otherwise remain undiscovered. If you think you have what it takes, don't miss out! Applications close on 3 August. For more details and to apply, visit 10play.com.au/casting.
ENVIRONMENT
Spencer - Guardian of the glossies
You are never too young to start a movement that positively impacts the world! At just 14yo, Sunshine Beach State High School student Spencer is living proof. His story isn’t just about birds – it’s about caring deeply, taking action, and creating positive change that protects our wildlife so we can all appreciate a world with flora and fauna.
Spencer’s love of nature started young. “Ever since I can remember, I’ve loved it,” he said. By 6yo, he was attending local environment group meetings and learning from mentors such as Glossy Bob, who nurtured his passion. By 8yo, he was out in the bush tracking glossy black cockatoos, observing how they fed on she-oak cones and mapping where they nested and drank.
A turning point came when he discovered that a key patch of glossy habitat was to be cleared for development. Tragically, that habitat is now gone. “We had around 40 glossies before it was
lost. Now, we’re down to 11. That’s what really started my conservation journey,” said Spencer.
The numbers tell a sobering story of habitat fragmentation and species decline. Spencer realised that without people to speak up for these species, they could vanish before most even notice. Since then, he has become a champion and advocate for wildlife. He launched
My Big Backyard – a citizen science project that urges people to record any species they find on platforms such as iNaturalist or his website. “All data is good data, even spotting the same bird again and again helps scientists understand our ecosystems.”
Spencer has designed wildlife calendars with his own photographs. Thanks to support from
Australia’s leading environmental groups and sponsors, he distributes these to schools, using them to spark conversations and encourage kids to protect local habitats. Through school talks and conferences, he’s helping a new generation see themselves as stewards of the natural world. Spencer also founded World Stand Up for Nature Day on 9 September, inviting people everywhere to take small actions – creating art, planting trees, sharing photos – that collectively build a culture of care. Last year he organised an art exhibition and a panel discussion with local MPs, councillors and environmental leaders to showcase how everyday people can be guardians of nature.
His efforts recently led him to meet his lifelong hero, Jane Goodall. “It was incredible to speak in front of hundreds of young people, teachers and conservationists – and to present to Jane herself,” said Spencer.
Spencer was invited by a Californian-based director to feature in a documentary on extinction and biodiversity loss, which follows his journey from the Sunshine Coast to Tasmania to highlight the plight of the endangered Maugean skate – an endangered species of fish only found in Tasmanian waters. The documentary launches later this month and will be screened locally in the coming months.
So how can we help? Head outdoors with binoculars or a camera. Submit your sightings to citizen science apps. Plant native species, let parts of your garden grow wild, keep pets away from nesting wildlife, or simply pay closer attention on your daily walk. Talk to neighbours, encourage local schools to host nature sessions,
and support groups working to protect habitat. “All these small actions build a culture of care. That’s how we protect the magic of our planet for generations to come", said Spencer. Spencer’s story is a powerful reminder that kindness isn’t just for people – it’s for all living things that share our world. Visit: savesunriseglossies.com.au.
Robyn Simpson
Spencer and Jane Goodall. Photo credit: Phil Hines
trebuchet throws projectiles in an arc, effectively clearing castle walls and striking within.
These kinds of attractions make the Abbey Medieval Festival an important event for younger generations, serving as a living museum. Visitors were encouraged to dress up in period-appropriate costumes, enhancing the inclusivity of, and engagement with, the event.
Kai Telford
Heritage Makers Fair
The Heritage Makers Fair at Gympie was bigger and better than ever with displays, demonstrations and celebrations of heritage skills and arts and crafts including woodworkers, cartwrights, blacksmithing, quilting, rally cars, vintage tractors, petrol bowsers and much more. Congratulations to the Gympie Rotary Club for pulling it all together!
The Amrita Park Meadery team
ART ABOUT
Launch of Artists in Action Art Trail
Excitement is building in Gateway Dr, Noosaville, as the area’s emerging creative precinct prepares to officially launch its inaugural art trail event –Artists in Action. Over the past year, this oncequiet industrial strip has transformed into a vibrant, artistic enclave, now home to numerous working artist studios, 2 contemporary art galleries, photography spaces, interior design studios, clothing stores, a vintage emporium, Affinity Coffee Collective, and more.
With a diverse community of creatives calling Gateway Dr home, it is the perfect time to celebrate and showcase the local talent that has been steadily flourishing. Artists in Action is a weekend-long celebration presented by the Gateway to Art collective. This dynamic event highlights the spirit of local artistry, with participating studios and galleries throwing open their doors across 3 days of immersive art experiences. From painting and glasswork to sculpture and mosaics, there’s something to inspire every visitor.
The event kicks off on 8 August from 4-8pm and continues across the weekend on 9&10 August from 10am-4pm each day. As part of the experience, visitors can collect a Gateway Visitor Card to be stamped at each participating location – collected from the welcome table next to Studio One Noosa. Completed cards will go into the draw to win a $1,000 art voucher and a specially curated hamper filled with locally made treasures from the precinct.
Participating artists and studios include Dianne Mclnerney, Kate Owen, Jo Cook, Lis Eberle, Sean O’Donoghue, Leighton Contemporary, Fiona Bastow, Dallas Lesley at Coast Contemporary Studios, Studio One Noosa and Sunshine Mosaic Art. Contact Studio One Noosa on 0481 155 287 or email: hello@studioonenoosa.com.au.
FINANCE
Who owns the tips?
Now that the end of financial year has finalised, it is important to be aware of your responsibilities regarding tips. Tips may often seem insignificant due to their small amount, however some employees across the country can earn a substantial income from them throughout the year.
Whether you receive tips directly from customers or from your employer, you must declare them as taxable income and keep a manual record of them according to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Often businesses will have a jar or box where customers can leave their tips. The tips are then shared equally among the staff at the end of the day or week, based on the hours worked. However, sometimes customers prefer to give the tip directly to the person who served them. While these situations are less common, they still count as tips. Although this may seem unfair, since a customer may have tipped due to a particular employee's exceptional service, it is the usual practice for most Australian businesses. Employers are not required to report their employees’ tips as a PAYG deduction or include them in their payment summary. As a result, it is recommended to keep tips apart from payroll. While keeping records of tips that are paid to staff is not mandatory, it is advisable to keep receipts or records of how much is distributed to each employee. When tips are collected on behalf of staff and distributed, they don't need to be reported as income or subject to GST, as they don't enter the business. In the case of a tip jar, it’s regarded as extra cash given to employees. However, if the money is kept as income without passing it on to staff, it becomes income for the business and must be reported in BAS and financials. To keep the management of tips simple, consider using a tip jar and splitting the cash among staff at the end of a shift.
KINDNESS COUNTS
Empowering youth to lead with kindness
Our youth are the leaders, carers, educators and changemakers of tomorrow. By encouraging them to choose kindness and empathy daily, we have an opportunity to create generational change – building a future where kindness is the norm, not the exception.
That is the vision behind #HeartHands4Kindness Youth. This global activation encourages young people – and all of us – to take a stand for kindness in simple, visible ways. The first activation connected over 100,000 people worldwide, sparking conversations and small acts that rippled across families, schools, workplaces and communities.
It is more than just a social media photo. Free Activation Kits provide conversation starters and ideas to help make meaningful impact, reinforcing the values that will shape how young people lead, care, and relate to others.
Join us between 5-10 August. Let's support the next generation to choose kindness. Learn more and register at bit.ly/HH4K.
Cooroy Community Bowls Club Championships
The Cooroy Community Bowls Club recently held its annual club championships, featuring both singles and pairs tournaments. These events took place over several Saturday mornings,
bringing together both men and women for some friendly, yet competitive games.
The singles championship faced a slight delay due to wet weather, but once the games commenced, there were no further interruptions. After 15 intense matches, Denis Coulter emerged as the champion, with Bruce Revie finishing as the runner-up.
Following the singles championship, the pairs games began. The final match, held on 5 July, saw Kathy Wiseman and Peter Holt competing against Denis Coulter and Bevan Mahoney. In a thrilling game, Kathy and Peter claimed victory, taking the lead from the 12th end and maintaining it until the end.
The club's triples championship is set to begin on 26 July. For those interested in trying out bowls, the club welcomes newcomers to join social bowls sessions on Tuesday or Saturday mornings. Equipment and coaching are available, and friendly faces are always there to greet you. Contact club President Maureen on 0419 588 661.
Cooroy State School
‘Strive To Succeed’
Pairs finalists l to r: Peter Holt, Kathy Wiseman, Denis Coulter and Bevan Mahoney
In my last Police Beat article, I highlighted the growing issue of young people riding e-bikes in and around Eumundi. The e-bikes in question resemble motorcross motorbikes and are noncompliant with e-bike legislation, meaning they are only suitable to be ridden on private property by individuals of any age. Shortly after my last article, we received information from a member of the public about 3 youths riding these e-bikes in Dick Caplick Park and near the amphitheatre. Eumundi Police responded swiftly arresting 2 of the youths and identifying the third. All 3 youths
have since been charged with 15 offences in accordance with the Youth Justice Act. This has been a great outcome, with the youths and their parents receiving a valuable education about e-bikes.
Last week, we celebrated the official opening of the new pedestrian and cycle bridge on Eumundi Noosa Rd. During my short time in Eumundi, I witnessed an incident involving a cyclist who crashed on the old bridge, which could have been much more serious than it was. I encourage everyone to use the new bridge, which provides a safe route between Eumundi and Seib Rd. I believe this bridge will be popular amongst mountain bikers and walkers who wish to access the trails at the Eumundi Conservation Park. Although the bridge was a considerable financial investment for the government, I firmly believe that any money spent on community safety is money well spent. It's hard to put a value on a life, and if the bridge saves even one, it is worth every dollar.
As for policing, the cooler months continue to be kind to us at Eumundi Police Station, with
Sunshine Coast Council has carefully drafted a proposed planning scheme. It is important to everyone on the Sunshine Coast.
The proposed planning scheme sets out zones, building heights, design standards and much more. It ensures we have enough land set aside for homes, green spaces, community facilities and business, while planning for a climate-resilient future.
Learn about what the proposed planning scheme means for you and the Sunshine Coast.
Submissions close 19 September 2025 Visit haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/newplanningscheme
Proposed Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme
no major crimes to report. In June, we received 120 calls for service, most of which were related to personal crisis, domestic incidents, mental health issues, and community assistance for other personal matters. Policing has come a long way from only locking up the “bad guys”, as we are often the first point of contact for a variety of other matters. As I always say, if it’s on fire call the firies, if you are sick, call the ambulance, and for anything else call the police.
We are continuing to focus on road safety issues and unfortunately drink and drug driving continues to be a statewide issue. In June we dealt with 2 drink drivers and 8 drug drivers, who will all face driving disqualifications once their matters are finalised in court.
Our administration officer Michelle continues to open the station on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoon for all inquiries. As always, stay safe, look after yourself and loved ones.
Sgt Nic Van Der Maat – Officer in Charge Eumundi Police Station Vandermaat.Nicholasj@police.qld.gov.au
ENVIRONMENT
The humpback highway
Whales are migrating north at the moment, heading to warmer waters to breed and give birth before returning to the Antarctic waters from August to November. Some 30,000 humpback whales follow a migration highway along the east coast of Australia.
While Hervey Bay is considered the best location in Qld to view the passing whales, Noosa and the Sunshine Coast also offer some prime viewing locations. From the land, the best spots to see whales passing by are Point Cartwright, Point Arkwright, Moffat Headland and Noosa National Park. By boat or kayak, several tour operators work out of Noosa and Mooloolaba, including an option to swim with whales. Visit: visitnoosa.com.au.
WINTER GETAWAYS
The best glamping sites on the Sunshine Coast
If you are looking to escape the hectic pace of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature surrounded by fresh air and the aroma of marshmallow toasting on an open fire, then winter is the best time to plan a camping trip. If pitching your own tent is not your style, there are plenty of ‘glamping’ options available right here on the Sunshine Coast.
Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp: Located in the heart of the Noosa Everglades, this eco-friendly glamping site offers a unique experience surrounded by pristine wilderness. Guests can stay in luxury tents equipped with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The site also offers a range of activities, including kayaking, bushwalking and wildlife spotting. Visit: habitatnoosa.com.au.
Rivershore Resort: Situated on the banks of the Maroochy River, Rivershore Resort offers a luxurious glamping experience with spacious safari tents that feature king-sized beds, ensuite bathrooms, and private decks with river views. The resort also boasts a range of amenities, including a heated pool, a restaurant, and a bar,
making it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.
Visit: t.ly/KKC4C.
Kanimbia: Situated in the Obi Obi valley, southwest of Eumundi, Kanimbia – meaning hidden valley – offers a serene glamping experience nestled in the heart of nature. This picturesque site provides luxury tents equipped with all modern comforts, allowing guests to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscapes, it is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Enjoy activities like bushwalking, birdwatching and stargazing, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visit: kanimbia.com.au.
Starry Nights Luxury Camping: Located in Woombye, Starry Nights offers a boutique glamping experience with spacious bell tents that are beautifully furnished and equipped with all the modern comforts. The site is set on a private property with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and guests can enjoy activities such as stargazing, bushwalking and visiting nearby attractions. Visit: starrynightsluxurycamping. com.au.
So, whether you prefer the beach, the river, or the hinterland, there is a glamping site to suit every taste and preference.
KELLIE FERGUSON
Your local Wills and Estates Lawyer
www.kateredman.com.au
HEALTH
What is ASMR?
ASMR stands for Autonomous, Sensory, Median, Response, and is a sensation experienced when presented with a visual and/or auditory stimulus, which manifests commonly as ‘tingling’ on the scalp, neck and upper spine. The body becomes relaxed, and the mind may experience euphoria.
ASMR leads to the release of dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins, which are associated with the release of stress, thereby aiding relaxation. Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression and insomnia are allieviated by ASMR, particularly in teenagers and young adults, who make up a significant portion of the ASMR viewing community.
Not everyone responds to ASMR. Some people never experience a single tingle in their whole lives. Sensations may occur in the natural world, especially during childhood, however the staggering fact is that there are now more than 25M ASMR videos available to view online.
Many ASMR creators showcase sounds and actions to create scenarios that encourage responses on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. The subject matter is expansive, but there are some popular themes such as
storytelling, role-play, tapping, whispering, selfcare (e.g. brushing hair) and massage. Eating videos – called Mukbang – featuring humans and animals can be witty and eccentric. Specialised equipment is often used, such as binaural microphones for 360-degree audio and sophisticated cameras to film visuals effectively. Advertising agencies are also utilising ASMR’s huge appeal, with the likes of the USA Superbowl, Dior, Google, Givenchy, The Victoria and Albert Museum, Bollinger Champagne and Harrods using ASMR techniques in self-promotion and advertising. Luxury ASMR massage spas are also spreading across the globe – in what started as an eyebrow raising ‘cult’ – to 10 years later becoming an entire industry, carving a niche in the world of health, fashion, beauty and marketing.
If you have never viewed ASMR I suggest viewing these suggestions on YouTube. MANYA – First immersive spa of 2025. Visit: t.ly/t2voZ. Or for animal ASMR view Mukbang eating like a button tortoise visit: t.ly/OZcn1. Kelly Parker
LITERATURE
Eumundi Writers Festival
The Eumundi Writers Festival is an event dedicated to writers, illustrators, and the power of ideas that inspire and enlighten. The festival
Sheridan Stewart
runs from 22-24 August with over 30 presenters and a variety of panels, workshops and free events. Tickets for the panel sessions are $20.
Aspiring writers looking to break into the literary world have a golden opportunity to hone their craft and make valuable connections. One of the standout features is the free mentoring sessions with acclaimed festival authors such as Nikki Gemmell, Simon Cleary, Kristina Olsson and Andrew Stafford. These sessions provide invaluable insights and guidance from seasoned writers.
Kerry Neill
Applicants for the mentoring sessions must submit a 150-word piece. While they cannot choose their mentors, the allocation will be based on the genre and the applications received, ensuring a tailored and relevant experience for each participant. In addition to the mentoring sessions, the festival also offers a unique opportunity to pitch manuscripts to a publisher.
Applications for these opportunities are open until 5pm on 2 August. For more information, visit: eumundiwritersfestival.com.au. Alternatively, contact: director@eumundiwritersfestival.com.au.
What’s in your water?
Would you wash veggies in pool water? Then why shower in it, cook with it, or give it to your kids? These are just some of the topics that author Sam Tornatore covers in his book – 10 Water Concerns Every Household Should Know to Safeguard Your Health.
Sam explains that according to the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, tap water can legally contain up to 5ppm of chlorine, and compares this to many pools with 3ppm. This may surprise you, he says, if you have made the conscious decision to avoid harmful chemicals in your food and personal care, and are someone who eats organic, avoids preservatives, and chooses lowtoxin living.
Chlorine is added to disinfect the water before it reaches your tap. However, Sam’s book warns of ongoing exposure which may have side effects including skin irritation, eczema, scalp issues, fatigue or respiratory irritation from inhaled chlorine vapour, damage to gut flora and immune resilience, faded clothing and shortened fabric life from chlorinated laundry water.
Visit: cleanmywater.com.au to order your free copy.
ON THIS DAY
Knocker-Uppers
In 19th century Britain and Ireland, as people moved from the countryside to mass-scale mills in towns, shipyards or mines, workers found they could not rely on natural cues like crowing roosters to wake each morning and get to work on time. Alarm clocks were expensive and late arrivals at factories meant docking of pay, fines or even dismissal. Therefore, factory workers paid a knocker-upper to wake them each morning.
A knocker-upper was someone who rapped on a client’s window at an agreed time as a wakeup call. Some used long wooden poles, rattles or even pea-shooters. In return, knocker-uppers received a few pence each week. Some would not leave a client’s window until they were certain the person had woken. Others knocked several times on windows and moved on.
Elderly men and pregnant women often took the job of being a knocker-upper. Policemen sometimes supplemented their pay by knocking on clients’ windows during early morning patrols. In County Durham, miners' houses had slate boards set into their outside walls onto which the miners would write their shift details in chalk so that the colliery-employed knocker-upper could wake them at the correct time. These boards were known as "knocky-up boards" or "wake-up slates".
The profession of knocker-upper continued into the 20th century but died out by the 1940s and 1950s with the advent of reliable and cheap alarm clocks.
JULY 2025
24-27 Mary Valley Arts Festival, Imbil, globe maryvalleyartslink.com.au
25 Sam Buckingham, Cooroy Memorial Hall, globe sambuckingham.com
25-27 Winter Scooter Rally, Boreen Point, globe t.ly/_W05h
25-3 The Curated Plate, Aug Various locations, globe thecuratedplate.com.au
27 Pomona Family Fun Day, Stan Topper Park, globe kingofthemountain.com.au
27 Noosa STARS Alive!, Riverstage, Noosaville, globe noosaalive.com.au
31 The Rubens, Eumundi, globe imperialhoteleumundi.com.au
AUGUST 2025
1 Asian Night Food Market, Matso's Eumundi, globe thecuratedplate.com.au
1 Karin Knowles’ Songs and Stories of Australia, Pomona, globe themajestictheatre.com.au
2 Top Dog Film Festival, The J, Noosa, globe thej.com.au
2 Acoustic Guitar Spectacular, Pomona, globe redchair.com.au
2&3 Off-Grid Expo, Gympie Showgrounds, globe offgridexpo.com.au
3 A Guided Walk, Noosa Botanic Gardens, globe noosabotanicgardensfriends.com
7 Eumundi Voice, Issue 123
7-9 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Noosa District SHS, globe t.ly/lQbDo
ISSUE 123 KEY DATES:
Copy & advert deadline: THURSDAY 31
JULY 2025
Available from: THURSDAY 7 AUGUST 2025
ISSUE 124 KEY DATES:
Copy & advert deadline: THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025
Available from: THURSDAY 21 AUGUST 2025
TRADES & SERVICES
Graders – Posi tracks – Rollers - Tip trucks - Excavators
Ranging from 1T to 14T office@pearceplant.com.au www.pearceplant.com.au
Doonan, Verrierdale, Belli Park, North Arm, Black Mountain, Cooroy, Pomona, Weyba Downs, Kenilworth and Noosa Information Centre. All advertisements and submissions will be published at the discretion of Eumundi Voice and may be subject to editorial changes. Eumundi Voice does not accept responsibility for claims published in Eumundi Voice. Factual errors in material submitted are the responsibility of the contributor. All submissions received, including photographs, are deemed to be authorised for publication by the contributor who has gained any required permissions to publish. All editorial and advertising in Eumundi Voice is published in good faith based on material provided by contributors and advertisers. All care is taken by the publisher Eumundi Voice however responsibility is not accepted for errors or omissions and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher of Eumundi Voice
CONTACT EUMUNDI VOICE: Mail: PO Box 161, Eumundi 4562 ✉ Hello@EumundiVoice.com.au | /EumundiVoice | INSTAGRAM @eumundivoice | globe EumundiVoice.com.au
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COLONIAL CHARMER OFFERS OVER $1.4M
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PEACEFUL FAMILY HOME + GLORIOUS VIEWS OF MT EERWAH
