Edition 16 December 2025

All clear for two-track line

By Sonia Isaacs

EXTENSIVE clearing now under way is revealing the full scale of the $1 billion Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication (B2N), well ahead of its 2027 completion.

More than 60 hectares will eventually be cleared for the project, which will duplicate the rail line between Beerburrum and Beerwah to increase passenger and

freight movements on the north coast line.

The project will see the Barrs Rd level crossing closed and replaced with an overpass for traffic and a new bridge entrance to Beerburrum will be built and new traffic lights on Steve Irwin Way will also be installed as part of the realigned

tracks. Member for Glass House, Andrew Powell, said he had advocated for

confronting pace of change. “I appreciate that, now the work is finally under way, the scale of the project is daunting,” he said. He added that duplication of the rail line was essential to support population growth and ensure the region was wellpositioned ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic

Games. “Locals can be reassured that the project has met strict environmental standards at both the state and federal levels,” he said.

However some locals are struggling with the changes.

Long-time Beerburrum resident, Jenny Donovan told GC&M News that “the whole feeling of village life is being erased”.

“It’s heartbreaking,” she added. Story p4-5

Local festive festive messages p14-18

Church messages Church messages p30-31

Two pages of Two pages of puzzles including puzzles mega Crossword mega Crossword p40-41

A SUNSHINE Coast mother is seeking more than $2.9 million in damages in Supreme Court proceedings against The Creche and Kindergarten Association Limited (C&K), alleging her then five-year-old daughter swallowed a button battery while attending C&K Maleny in 2021.

The woman has now filed a Supreme Court claim in relation to the incident. Story p3

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FROM THE EDITOR

FOUR years into my time with Glasshouse Country and Maleny News and I’m struck not just by how the hinterland keeps changing, but by the scale of what’s coming next.

This has been driven home more recently with the announcement of the Wave rail project and the impact on Beerwah, specifically the Co-Op and the prospect of a butt-ugly four storey car park towering over Simpson Street.

And then further by the amount of clearing that has occurred across Beerburrum and Glass House Mountains as part of the B2N rail project.

describing his spiral into bankruptcy: “gradually, then suddenly.”

Driving along Steve Irwin Way and into either Beerburrum or Glass House Mountains, especially along Barrs Rd, is a completely different landscape to a month ago.

The entrance to Beerburrum, once a wall of native trees is now a browned out wasteland.

While off Barrs Rd at Glass House they could be building an airstrip for an A380.

As we report this week some 64 hectares of trees are being cleared to realign and add a second track that will ultimately li capacity and services for the north coast.

The B2N project has been talked about for almost bang on 25 years.

That’s a lot of talk and in fact it was only just before I started here that real money was put on the table for the project.

Since then there’s been not much more to see, until now.

It’s a bit like Ernest Hemingway

For locals this is a confronting scene. We’re not talking about NIMBYs but people who love the area for its still village-like feel that remains so close to the coast and Brisbane.

But these projects - the B2N and Wave - are freight trains that aren’t stopping for anybody.

Anyone travelling by train knows the frustration of having to stop regularly at stations while another service passes by.

While anyone travelling by car on the Bruce knows the frustration of sitting in the middle lane of a car park in a 110km zone.

And in the midst of a booming population, something has to give.

Check out our story on p4-5 this week as well as our drone footage on Facebook to see the scale of change currently underway.

And while the shock of this sudden change is real, it also underlines the scale of investment finally coming into the hinterland.

These are long-promised projects that will reshape how we move for decades to come.

Christmas cheer

On a much breezier note this week’s edition is packed with Christmas festivities.

From all the best Christmas lights in the Hinterland and Aura (p18) to the season’s best socials (p14-17), Christmas messages from our local businesses and pollies (p14-18), two pages of puzzles (p40-41) and Christmas recipes (p28)... it’s never too much!

We’ve got one more edition a er which this freight train will be pulling in at the station for a couple of weeks.

Christmas road safety blitz

THE Crisafulli Government has joined the Queensland Police Service to launch Operation Mistletoe, a statewide road safety crackdown ahead of the busy Christmas and New Year period.

With 289 lives already lost on Queensland roads this year, authorities are urging motorists to make safer choices as high-visibility policing ramps up across the state.

Operation X-Ray Mistletoe, which began on Saturday, December 13, will run throughout the holiday period with targeted enforcement on the Fatal Five, including speeding and impaired driving on both roads and waterways. Thousands of roadside and on-water drug and alcohol tests will be carried out by specialist officers and mobile patrols across highrisk locations.

Police Minister Dan Purdie said motorists should expect a strong police presence. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg urged Queenslanders to stay alert, obey the rules and make decisions that save lives this festive season.

Mum seeks $2.9m after Maleny battery incident

By Mitch Gaynor

A SUNSHINE Coast mother is seeking more than $2.9 million in damages against The Creche and Kindergarten Association Limited (C&K), alleging her then five-year-old daughter swallowed a button battery while attending C&K Maleny in 2021.

The woman, who is proceeding under a courtapproved pseudonym, has filed a Statement of Claim in the Supreme Court of Queensland in relation to an incident at C&K Maleny.

According to the claim, the child came into possession of a button battery while under the supervision of the centre and ingested it without staff being aware.

It is alleged staff not witness the incident, were unaware of what the child had swallowed, and contacted the child’s parents, a er which her father transported her to hospital.

inpatient for several weeks.

Claim alleges the child sustained severe internal injuries and required a nasogastric feeding tube for approximately two months following her discharge.

The claim states the child required emergency medical treatment, including surgery and transfer to Queensland Children’s Hospital, where she was placed in an induced coma for several days and remained an

The mother alleges she was working in the emergency department of Sunshine Coast University Hospital at the time and unexpectedly received her own daughter as a patient in a critical condition. She claims the incident resulted in posttraumatic stress disorder, including nightmares,

consumer law obligations, including by failing to adequately inspect the premises, maintain systems to identify and remove hazards, supervise children appropriately, and ensure staff were sufficiently trained to identify highrisk items such as button batteries.

The plaintiff’s lawyer, Travis Schultz of Travis Schultz & Partners, said the proceedings raised serious questions about safety systems in early childhood

associated with them have been widely documented for years, particularly in relation to young children.”

Mr Schultz said his client was seeking accountability through the court process.

“She is seeking justice for what her daughter has endured, and for the profound impact the incident has had on her family,” he said.

In its Notice of Intention to Defend and Defence, filed on November 28, 2025, C&K disputes the allegations and

states that while the child swallowed a button battery, it does not know whether this occurred at or prior to her attendance at the centre.

The organisation contends the incident was not reasonably foreseeable and alleges the child’s ingestion of the battery was consistent with what it describes as “abnormal behaviour” known to the mother, including an alleged propensity to place foreign objects in her mouth.

The defence claims this behaviour was not disclosed to the centre prior to the incident.

C&K maintains it had extensive safety protocols in place, including inspections and policies addressing button battery risks, and argues it took reasonable precautions in the circumstances.

The defence further alleges the plaintiff either voluntarily assumed the risk or contributed to the injury by failing to manage or disclose the child’s alleged behavioural tendencies.

C&K also challenges the quantum of damages claimed, asserting they are excessive.

The proceedings are continuing.

C&K Maleny. Inset: Lawyer, Travis Shultz

Greenlight for developer donations

THE Crisafulli Government has moved to restore what it calls “fairness and balance” to Queensland’s electoral system, introducing a wideranging package of reforms to Parliament on Thursday, December 11.

The Bill delivers key election commitments, including tightening voting eligibility so that offenders serving prison or detention sentences of 12 months or more will be barred from voting in state and local government elections, as well as referendums.

In a major shi to political financing rules, the Government will also reinstate equal treatment for donations, allowing both trade unions and property developers to contribute to state election campaigns.

However, the ban on developer donations in local government elections will remain and be strengthened through a new offence targeting breaches.

Further reforms aim to boost transparency, with all political advertising in the 12 months leading up to polling day required to include clear authorisation.

Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said the changes would deliver a fairer, more accountable electoral framework for Queenslanders.

‘Daunting’ scale as

Clearing for major rail upgrade is a shock to

residents as Beerburrum and Glasshouse landscape undergoes rapid change

By Sonia Isaacs

EXTENSIVE clearing now under way is revealing the full scale of the $1 billion Beerburrum to Nambour rail duplication (B2N), well ahead of its 2027 completion.

More than 60 hectares will eventually be cleared for the project, which will duplicate the rail line between Beerburrum and Beerwah to increase passenger and freight movements on the north

coast line. The project will see the Barrs Rd level crossing closed and replaced with an overpass for traffic.

A new bridge entrance to Beerburrum will be built and new traffic lights on Steve Irwin Way will also be installed as part of the realigned tracks.

Member for Glass House, Andrew Powell, said he had been advocating for the rail upgrade for many years but acknowledged the confronting pace of change in recent weeks.

“I appreciate that, now the work is finally under way, the scale of the project is daunting,” he said.

He said duplication of the rail line was essential to support population growth and ensure the region was well-positioned ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Locals can be reassured that the project has met strict environmental standards at both the state and federal levels,” he said.

However some locals

are struggling with the changes.

Long-time Beerburrum resident, Jenny Donovan told GC&M News that “the whole feeling of village life is being erased”.

“It’s heartbreaking,” she added.

“Visitors come here because of the trees. We’re more than just a corridor between Brisbane and Maroochydore.

“We all moved here for the peace, the trees, the animals and the nature and it’s being destroyed.”

Other locals have taken a different perspective.

Tracey Heilig, owner of Café Phillies in Beerburrum, said the clearing did not concern her and that she believed it was ultimately beneficial.

She described the works as a “necessary evil” that would support the region’s long-term growth, adding that much of the vegetation removed at the Beerburrum entrance was regrowth rather than century-old trees.

“I’ve seen the landscaping and regeneration plans, and I know people will have

different opinions,” she said.

“But for me, I think it’s important for the future.

And honestly, it’s now easier and safer to see the entry to Beerburrum when driving at night - that corner has been a problem for years.”

A Transport and Main

Roads spokesperson said vegetation removal at the entrance to Beerburrum was necessary to construct “permanent infrastructure” and allow the project to progress.

“Vegetation clearing is necessary to allow construction of new rail and

An aerial view of works underway along Barrs Rd; Trees cleared parallel to Steve Irwin Way. Pictures: Andrew Collins, LAD Social.

rail project takes shape

road infrastructure,” the spokesperson said.

“The project will also construct a new road overpass connecting Steve Irwin Way and Beerburrum Road, including a new signalised intersection on Steve Irwin Way.”

Mr Powell said that strict environmental conditions governed the project, including requirements at both state and federal levels.

These conditions involve fauna passages beneath the rail corridor, comprehensive pre-clearing wildlife surveys, and licensed

B2N stages.

Under the approved Offset Area Management Plan, 198.97 hectares of Sunshine Coast Council land between Maleny National Park and Kondalilla National Park will be rehabilitated to improve habitat quality and connectivity for koalas and grey-headed flying foxes.

fauna spotters during all vegetation removal, particularly under koala conservation rules.

The most significant environmental measure is a large Habitat Offset designed to compensate for the removal of 64 hectares of nationally significant

Federal approval for the offset has been granted under the EPBC Act, and TMR will work with Council to deliver restoration outcomes at the site, located within 15 kilometres of the B2N project area (Nambour-Obi-Obi).

TMR maintains it has “worked to minimise and mitigate” environmental impacts and remains committed to “environmental stewardship” throughout

construction, including rehabilitation works at Kirbys Road

said they remain deeply concerned about the long-term visual and environmental impacts on the region’s identity.

Jenny Donovan is concerned about the works underway for B2N.

Hinterland break-ins are ‘random’

By Sonia Isaacs

BEERWAH Police Acting

Officer in Charge, Senior Sergeant Glenn Peatling is urging hinterland residents to stay alert but not alarmed following a series of linked break and enters across Beerwah, Maleny, Landsborough and Booroobin earlier this month.

Between 10.30am and 1pm on Tuesday, December 2, Police believe up to six homes were targeted, including at least five confirmed break-ins and one attempted break-in.

Offenders are believed to have travelled up from the south-east in a black Volkswagen Polo, before allegedly targeting multiple properties in Maleny and surrounding areas in what Snr Sgt. Peatling has described as a random one-off crime series.

In Maleny, a red Toyota Corolla was stolen from an address that morning and later seen travelling

in company with the black Polo.

Both vehicles were subsequently reported driving erratically through the hinterland, including around Beerwah and Landsborough, as the offenders allegedly broke into further homes before fleeing the area.

“All of the houses were properly locked up. These offenders have kicked in front door and moved very quickly between addresses,”

Snr. Sgt Peatling said.

“The best way to describe it is a very random, opportunistic, one-day series of offences by people from outside our community, who have come up, caused a lot of concern, then headed back south.”

Snr. Sergeant Peatling stressed there was no indication local offenders are responsible saying this was consistent with patterns he has seen over decades in policing, where offenders travel to other districts to “fly under the radar” before

returning home. “The only positive side is that alert neighbours have made a real difference. People noticed something wasn’t right, contacted police, and shared home CCTV footage that has helped us join the dots,” he said.

“It’s really just good oldfashioned neighbourhood watch, keeping an eye out, noting down suspicious car registrations and calling it in.”

Dog plan off the leash

Police have confirmed the stolen Toyota Corolla has not been located and no persons have been charged.

Sunshine Coast District Criminal Investigation Branch Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Lowry said anyone with information is urged to call CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000. “We’re asking for anyone who may have seen, or have CCTV or dashcam footage of, these two vehicles around the Sunshine Coast hinterland on Tuesday, December 2 to contact police,” Det Lowry said.

changes to off-leash areas and stronger protection of environmentally sensitive zones form the backbone of the newly adopted Sunshine Coast Dog Exercise Area Regional Plan formally endorsed at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on December 11.

Key adjustments include increased regulation at the Maleny Community Precinct to protect vulnerable platypus populations, and several updates to coastal dogaccess zones.

At Currimundi Beach,

mouth of Currimundi Lake between Beach Access 253 and 254. The existing offleash area north of the lake remains unchanged, while the southern off-leash stretch will continue for 1.25 kilometres with a new 50-metre buffer to better safeguard the Dicky Beach Bathing Reserve.

A series of restricted dog areas have also been established at Point Perry, Point Arkwright, Point Cartwright, Moffat Headland and Caloundra Headland locations recognised as important

Dogs will still be welcome on-leash in many environmental reserves; however, those with very high conservation values will become no-dog zones to prevent habitat loss and disease. On sports fields, dogs must stay off active playing surfaces but can use nearby common areas while on a leash, with permits continuing for organised dog events. Residents can check out detailed maps and learn more about the changes through Council’s website and Have Your Say page.

QCWA Maleny brings the goodies

QCWA Maleny Branch are using the monies raised from the September Cent Sale to support both local and State Communities.

The Members have channelled funds to the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre Christmas Hampers programme and the Community Christmas Breakfast by providing biscuits (hampers) and Christmas cakes (breakfast).

A donation to the Maleny Show Society

for infrastructure improvements was also agreed to by the Members.

With the knowledge of last summer’s extensive drain on the QCWA State Disaster Fund, the Members have also directed $1000 to this important account.

Further details of how QCWA may help in times of crisis can be found at www.qcwa.org.au or contact your local QCWA Branch: malenybranch@ qcwa.org.au

Long-awaited safety upgrade on busy walking trail welcomed by MDSRC and community

By Sonia Isaacs

A LONG-awaited safety upgrade on one of Maleny’s busiest walking routes has been completed a er repeated concerns about injuries on a damaged section of trail.

The walking network across the Maleny Community Precinct is widely used by locals and visitors, linking the Riverside Centre, Obi Creek, wetlands, open pasture areas and the golf course.

Key attractions include the platypus viewing

platforms, the southern wetland boardwalks and the Heritage Trail connecting The Bails to Pattemore House.

While some sections are in excellent condition, particularly the concrete path from the Riverside Centre to the Beersheba Museum and Contract Bridge Club, and the boardwalks near Reynolds Crossing – a stretch between these areas had long been problematic.

Exposed tree roots and uneven ground caused frequent falls, especially

during the weekly Parkrun, completed last month.

“I’m delighted this part of the trail has now been upgraded,” Cr Johnston said. “It’s a real step forward for everyone who enjoys

He added that further work is planned next year, subject to funding in what he described as a tight budget environment.

Mayor Rosanna Natoli and community members, including representatives from Maleny Golf and the Maleny District Sport and Recreation Club, to walk

the upgraded section at last week’s Parkrun (December 6). Mayor Natoli described the improvements as a significant boost for safety, accessibility and the overall experience across the precinct.

Maleny Parkrun convenor, Jo Turner said runners, including visitors from interstate and overseas, had already noticed the difference.

“The section that’s just been upgraded is the start of the forest trail on our course, about a kilometre and a half from where we

begin at the Maleny District Sport and Recreation Club at the Ziza Field,” she said.

“Previously, that stretch was very root-bound. Some runners loved it because it was a ‘technical trail’, but for many it had become too challenging. People worried about falling, and families with prams or older walkers o en avoided it.

“With the upgrades, the trail is now far more accessible to a wider range of abilities.” Maleny Parkrun will celebrate its 5th birthday on Saturday, December 20 from 7-9am.

Maleny Branch Members, Marlene, Janelle and Karen make a special delivery of biscuits for the

Christmas Hampers.

Mayor Natoli and SCC staff member Kate Hastings.

Time Out Community

Woodfordia bids farewell to legend

Woodford Folk Festival founder, Bill Hauritz AM, remembered as a true creative visionary

ONE of Australia’s most cherished festival visionaries, Bill Hauritz, has been remembered by close friend and Maleny artist, Linsey Pollak, as a man whose dreams reshaped the cultural life of a nation.

Woodfordia announced Bill’s passing last week, saying he le behind a legacy that reshaped the nation’s festival landscape and inspired generations of artists and audiences.

Linsey said the loss would be deeply felt across the arts community but that Bill’s vision would continue to shape Australian culture for generations.

“Thank you for your extraordinary vision and the ability to bring people together to collectively bring that vision to life,” Linsey said.

“You had the ability to

Australia. “Yes Bill, you are still with us, with your dreams becoming our dreams. You have not gone.

“That is the beauty of dreams that are for the common good, they have a habit of surviving. They can even outlive a 500-Year Plan by taking on the shape and flavour of the many people who dream those dreams individually and collectively. Thanks Bill.”

From the Maleny Folk Festival’s humble beginnings in 1987 to the creation of the 500-acre cultural parkland Woodfordia, Bill’s belief in the arts as a unifying, transformative force never wavered.

His work gave rise to one of Australia’s most beloved celebrations of music, ideas and community, the Woodford Folk Festival, drawing over 120,000 people

It was rooted in environmental stewardship, respect for Indigenous culture, intergenerational knowledge-sharing, and the protection and celebration of intangible cultural heritage, and a deep faith in humanity.

In 2023, this vision was formally recognised on the world stage, when UNESCO presented Woodfordia with the Intangible Cultural Heritage Award at the Jeonju International Awards for Promoting Intangible Cultural Heritage.

While others planned for seasons, Bill planned for generations, planting trees whose shade he would never sit under, building cultural systems designed to last.

It was both a poetic gesture and a practical blueprint, and it stands today as one of the most enduring expressions of his belief that the best way to shape the future is to start building it now.

Bill was also recognised as a Queensland Great, received the Order of Australia (AM), and was honoured as a Smithsonian Fellow, acknowledging his outstanding contribution to the cultural fabric of Australia and beyond.

Bill is deeply mourned by his wife Ingrid, sons Tom and Jack, daughter-in-law Mel, and grandchildren Elke and Stellan, alongside

festival dedicated to love and friendship.

“Bob Hawke once told me I would never meet a better Australian than Bill Hauritz,” he said. “That wasn’t just his conclusion. It was the conclusion of anyone who has spent a moment with Bill.

“He was enriched by music, passionate about the environment, and his instinct for kindness was matched by his humility.

“In the Woodford Folk Festival, he didn’t simply create a home for entertainment. He created an example of how people could live with less conflict and more care.”

Woodfordia Co-Founder and Managing Director, Amanda Jackes, said Bill created a world through the Folk Festival.

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“He taught us how to build something beautiful that lasts, not just in memory, but in the land and in each other.

“The greatest compliment Bill ever received, and the one he wore with a smile, was that he was a pathological optimist.

“He lived up to that each and every day.

His presence is woven into everything we do.”

Member for Glass House, Andrew Powell said Bill was leaving a “legacy that will continue to shape and upli our region for decades to come”.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. He was not only the founder of the Woodford Folk Festival - he was its heartbeat. From its inception he poured his soul into creating a place where people felt welcome,

many.

“He was a visionary who loved nothing more than to harness the power of music and nature to bring people together, from Moreton Bay and beyond,” he said.

“Council was proud to work hand in glove over many years in promoting the iconic Woodford Folk Festival, which draws more than 100,000 visitors to our City each year.

Founder of the Port Fairy Folk Festival and longtime friend, Jamie McKew OAM, called Bill “a rare kind of visionary”.

“Bill Hauritz has shown us that when community embraces culture then humanity may grow and flourish beyond our dreams, across the planet for 500 years and way beyond, to the Never-Never.”

Bill Hauritz AM.

New centre for Beerwah

Beerwah Neighbourhood Centre opening soon; community invited for sneak peak

Contributed By Jody Blackburn

HAVE you been wondering what’s happening at 17 Turner Street in Beerwah?

With support from Caloundra Community Centre who has a long history of commitment and connection to Glasshouse Country, a team of local passionate volunteers have been working together to fulfil a dream held over many decades by many people to establish a Neighbourhood Centre in Beerwah.

Beerwah Neighbourhood Centre will be a vital central hub for community. The Centre’s purpose is to create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive space where people can find a sense of belonging in a supportive environment.

The Centre will

bring together various community activities and groups under one roof, including providing a dedicated and aff space for groups to meet, and has three primary function,

Firstly, to provide a place for community connection where people can grow friendships, build social support, and feel valued as an active citizen.

Secondly, to provide a central location for

Mooloolah Lions fundraising campaign

Day Dawn Service, starting with a community sausage sizzle at Mitre 10 on Saturday December 6.

Despite the hot weather, locals turned out to support the effort, which

aims to raise the final $2,500 required to ensure the service can proceed next year and continue sustainably into the future.

The club says the funding gap relates to essential infrastructure costs needed to safely host the commemorative event, which attracts strong community

attendance each year.

“We’re delighted to see the community already getting behind our fundraising campaign,” the club said. Organisations willing to contribute are encouraged to get in touch.

To offer support, contact Jason Carroll, ANZAC Day Coordinator, on 0478 672 862.

Social group catch-up

Glasshouse Country Social Group members end of year celebration

THE Glasshouse Country Social Group gathered for its pre-Christmas celebration last Wednesday enjoying a relaxed lunch at IM-AM Thai Restaurant in Landsborough. Twenty-one members attended the festive get-together, sharing a beautifully prepared meal and warm conversation at the popular local venue.

Organisers thanked IM-AM Thai for their hospitality and the quality of the food, which helped make the final catch-up of

Animal rescue champions

ANIMAL rescue on the Sunshine Coast has never been more in demand, and SCARS (Sunshine Coast Animal Rescue Service) has risen to the challenge. Rising living costs have forced many families to make the heartbreaking choice to surrender their pets, adding to the steady stream of animals arriving from the local Council Pound. Despite these pressures, SCARS has had a remarkable year. More than 940 cats and dogs

have found loving homes, and the year isn’t over yet.

The 7th annual Paws for a Cause Long Lunch raised vital funds for enrichment areas at the shelter, while a long-awaited Open Day welcomed hundreds of community members to see SCARS in action. Supporting vulnerable pet owners remains a top priority. SCARS’ Pet Crisis Care Program, the Last Litter Program, and the Daisy Chain program which helps homeless people care for their pets have all been

busier than ever. Subsidised cat and dog desexing vouchers, delivered in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, SavourLife, Youi, and local vets, have also helped families keep their pets healthy and in their care.

the year a memorable one for everybody.

The group will resume activities in the new year, with members set to meet for morning tea at The Lookout Café on Glasshouse–Woodford Road at 10am on January 21.

The social group welcomes new members who enjoy friendly catch-ups, community connection and regular outings.

Anyone interested in joining can contact Janet on 0448 845 303.

SCARS’ success is built on the dedication of its staff and more than 250 volunteers, who care for nearly half of all animals rescued. From foster carers to events teams, their generosity is central to SCARS’ mission of Bringing

Forever. The organisation also thanks the Sunshine Coast community, including donors and sponsors and the families who adopt SCARS animals. Their ongoing support is critical to continuing the life-saving work of the shelter.

approaches, SCARS looks forward to continuing its vital work in 2026. SCARS wishes the community a very Merry Christmas and a safe holiday season and heartfelt thanks for helping make a difference for animals and people alike.

Lynda Flanigan (President) with Ann Watson.

THE Lions Club of Mooloolah has launched a fundraising campaign to cover the shortfall needed to deliver the 2026 Mooloolah ANZAC

New phone or tablet this Christmas? Read this

By Next Door Digital

THERE’S nothing quite like opening a shiny new phone or tablet on Christmas morning.

But for many people, that excitement lasts about five minutes, right up until the moment the screen asks “Do you want to transfer your data?”.

Suddenly the joy turns into worry. Will my photos come across properly?

What about my contacts? And what on earth is my Apple ID password?

The good news is that upgrading is much easier these days. Apple’s Quick Start and Samsung’s Smart Switch can wirelessly copy

your old device to your new one, photos, messages and all. To help everything go smoothly, there are a few simple tips worth knowing. First, make sure you know your Apple ID or Google account password before you begin.

This is the key that unlocks all your information on the new device. If you are unsure of it, reset it ahead of time rather than on Christmas morning. Next, keep both devices plugged into power during the transfer.

Moving large amounts of data uses a surprising amount of battery, and there is no need to rush the setup.

first

Take your time and read each screen so you understand what you are choosing.

Finally, do not erase or switch off your old phone until the new one is fully working.

Your old device is your safety net until every photo, contact and message has arrived safely.

If you’re unwrapping something special this Christmas and want a stress-free setup, call Next Door Digital on 0455 600 173.

Pre-Christmas bookings are available until December 22, so everything’s ready in time for a fun and festive Christmas Day.

New owners add colour to Mitre 10

MOOLOOLAH Mitre 10’s transformation is continuing at a rapid pace, with new owners Isaac and Nick unveiling a dedicated paint-mixing station that is already proving a drawcard

The paint station forms part of the store’s wider modernisation since the pair took over in November 2024. Over the past 12 months, the hardware store has expanded its overall

gi ware and everyday garden essentials.

Improvements outside the store are also noticeable, with angled parking and a new pedestrian crossing making access safer and

History group celebrates Merry Christmas

Contributed by Ron

Gillinder

THE Glasshouse History Group has completed another successful year of recalling and sharing their early memories of the district at their monthly meetings at the Glasshouse Neighbourhood Centre (behind the Post Office).

Did you know that a broom-throwing competition for the ladies was a feature of the Beerwah Charity Sports Day in 1971? Also, that William H Harvey won a prize medallion for his Fruit

Display at the 1909 National Agricultural & Industrial Association of Queensland’s annual show (now known as the Ekka).

The schedule of monthly meetings identifies a different theme for each occasion and a dedicated group of local history enthusiasts regularly rise to the challenge to share their memories, objects or photographs related to the theme. During 2025 the themes have included: ‘Old Sporting Equipment’, ‘Parlour Games’, ‘Old

Motoring Maps’, ‘Personal Collections & Curiosities’, ‘Childhood Fun & Games’ and ‘Old Timepieces & Wrist Watches’.

A Christmas lunch has been the Group’s traditional way of celebrating the close of another active year. Core members of the Group have been attending this Christmas event since 2008. The monthly community meetings are expected to recommence on Tuesday 17 February 2026, at 1.30pm.

To be confirmed early in the New Year.

Accounts Dept Ang & Cheree

Merry Christmas

From all the staff at Beerwah Small Engines we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your business over the past year.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We look forward to being of service to you in the New Year and wish to advise that we will be closed from 12noon on Wednesday 24th December 2025 & re-open at 8am on Monday 5th January 2026.

Jarred

Shaun

Back L to R: Janet Morgan, Neil Halpin, Bill Morgan, Bob Brown, Ken Fullerton, Ron Gillinder. Glenda Halpin, Jo Barrett, Elaine Reeves, Trudy Long, Helen Page, Sue Fullerton.

Probus Christmas fun

Maleny Probus Club wraps up 2025 with a festive celebration

THE Maleny Probus Club wrapped up the year with a joyful Christmas Party at The Barrel last week, delighting members with a menu that catered for all and plenty of festive cheer.

er retired and semi-retired seniors social activities, guest speakers, outings, travel opportunities, and above all, friendship and fun.

Maleny Probus usually meets on the fourth

Wednesday of each month at the Maleny Uniting Church on Maleny–Landsborough Road at 9.45am.

Non-members are welcome, with the first meeting free and subsequent meetings $10. The Probus New Year will start on February 4 with breakfast at the Mary Cairncross Park Cafe. Check the club’s Facebook page for upcoming speakers and excursions.

Festive spirit set to shine at Beerwah and Witta

BEERWAH and Witta are gearing up to celebrate the Christmas season with two muchloved community carols events that will bring families and neighbours together in the final days before Christmas.

The Beerwah Community Carols hosted by Glasshouse Country Baptist Church, will fill the Glasshouse Performing Arts Centre (GPAC) with Christmas cheer on Saturday, December 20 from 4pm. The event promises an a ernoon of joyful

singalongs, children’s favourites and classic carols in the comfort of the Roberts Road venue.

A er the music wraps up, families can stay on for a free community sausage sizzle, offering a relaxed chance to connect with friends, neighbours and church members.

Organisers say everyone is welcome and encourage locals to bring family and friends to share in the festive fun.

Two days later, candles will glow in Witta as the community gathers for

its Witta Community Carols by Candlelight on Monday, December 22, from 7pm–8pm at 295 Witta Road.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a candle or small light, along with a chair or picnic rug, to enjoy a peaceful hour of carols beneath the evening sky.

The event is open to all and continues a longstanding tradition of Christmas fellowship in the community. sonia@gcnews.com.au

Photo: Marsha Fotografie.

Witta community carols by candlelight.

Merry Christmas

Xmas party

Nev and Shirley Ann.Colin and Mary. Ivan, Prabin, Russell, BrianDeb and Brian.

Denise and Rex.

Glasshouse Country Care staff

Lauren and Jess.

Peter and Jenny.

A Judy, Richard, Leonie and Joan.

Vicky, Su, Glenda, John.Rose and Lynn.

Marva and Mo.

Clare and Jan.

LOCAL CHRISTMAS LIGHTS LOCATIONS

16 Pine Edge Drive, Landsborough.

62 Alfs Pnch Rd, Beerwah.

Bray rd, Mooloolah.

12 Malanda Crt Beerwah.

2025 Grads

By Landsborough State School

Year 6 students are leaving a lasting legacy

By Gyan Talbot

THE principal has commended this year’s Year 6 cohort for the strong legacy they leave behind as they prepare to graduate from Glass House Mountains State School.

Last year, the principal, Mr Persini, encouraged students to “make the most of every day” and to put their best foot forward, striving to be better than they were yesterday. This year, the challenge shi ed to a deeper question: What will your legacy be when you leave at the end of the year?

According to Mr Persini, the cohort consistently led by example and set a high standard for younger students. Their legacy, Mr Persini said, will be remembered for their courage, compassion, and ability to make others smile.

The student’s final week was an array of celebrations, including a swimming carnival, graduation ceremony, a clap-out in handmade tie-dye shirts,

and a celebration day at Aussie World.

The whole school community wishes the entire

Exciting year ahead at Out & About Care & Education!

2026 is shaping up to be a year full of fun, learning, and adventure at Out & About Care & Education! Our early learning service is buzzing with excitement as we prepare for a year packed with engaging learning opportunities, hands-on experiences, and special incursions — all at no extra cost to families.

At Out & About, we pride ourselves on creating a warm, supportive environment where every child feels valued, nurtured, and inspired to explore. Our amazing team of passionate and skilled educators is dedicated to building strong family connections and fostering meaningful relationships that help children thrive. Next year’s program will include incredible incursions and learning experiences from people

such as Recycle Man, Happy Feet Fitness with dance and movement, Kindness Co, Henny Penny Chicken Hatching experiences among many others to excite curiosity and wonder. We’ll also continue our much-loved yoga sessions with Erika, who guides our children through yoga and breathwork to promote calm, focus, and wellbeing. Adding to our holistic approach, we’re excited to continue our partnership with Mind Bubbles, who deliver a unique neuroscience-based regulation program. This initiative helps our little learners develop

As proud members of the Mooloolah Valley community, we love getting involved in local events and supporting important causes such as The Nappy Collective and many other much-loved charities to assist families and others in need of support. We’re also working closely with local schools through “bridging the gap” initiatives that help our

early learning experience, led by our two qualified and experienced Early Childhood Teachers and supported by the Free Kindy Program.

Out & About Care & Education caters for infants through to kindergartenaged children, with nappies and nutritious, chefprepared meals included in the daily fee. We are open from 630am to 6.30pm to

years journey. Out & About is where curiosity grows, connections flourish, and community matters. Come join the fun — enrolments for 2026 are now open, and spaces are filling fast! Call Brooke or Ash today to start your child’s learning journey with us.

Out & About Care & Education – where every day is an adventure!

Paradise lost?

AS a long-term resident of this piece of paradise, and an avid follower of GC&M News, I am seeking a “Please explain” from those involved in the decisionmaking behind three important plans for the future of our area.

1. As reported, the Co-op is to make way for a super rail hub made up of a 400-space, four-storey car park, an extra rail line and additional facilities.

2. The Comiskey Group’s grand festival site plan, attracting 35,000 patrons plus accommodation and more, resulting in traffic overload, major problems in times of fire and flood, and major impacts on flora and fauna, not to mention the Ramsar-listed Pumicestone Passage.

3. The Sunshine Coast Council’s refusal of the expansion of the Glasshouse/Hanson Quarry.

SCC’s reasons are as follows: a failure to meet rural zone code requirements that adverse environmental and amenity impacts are avoided or appropriately managed.

Council further states the expansion would create unacceptable noise and dust for land situated north, south and east of the project, and that it does not adequately demonstrate that the increase in heavy traffic would be acceptable for the local transport system and road network.

Common concern

SHANE Daly (GC&M News, 25 Nov) and I share a common concern: how can we determine what is really going on around us?

However we seem to have very different views on the risks of vaccination and the seriousness of climate change.

For the best chance of understanding the world I recommend a strategy of diversity and skepticism.

When at Auckland University geology department in 1961 I was required to write a long essay on the speed of fault movements in New Zealand.

I read a peer-reviewed paper by a highly respected NZ geologist and when I reworked his calculations I discovered he had messed up his mathematics. For the next 50 years I worked on a great variety of projects and found that I could add value if I kept my eyes open for what had been missed by previous workers.

stream religions which placed so much emphasis on unquestioning belief. It was so refreshing that I became a member and have applied the advice both to my spirituality and to my science.

Diversity of news sources is important. For example my internet browser has bookmarks for GC&M News, The Shovel, ABC, Crikey, Conversation, Guardian, CNN, Al Jazeera and Xinhua. Judging the reliability of a news report partly depends on judging the character and motives of the reporter. I find podcasts helpful because a bit of the character of the person comes across. Video is useful to check the body language of a person.

I find it helps to filter out some sources. There has not been a TV in our house for 30 years and I avoid the Murdoch press which seems devoted to making Australia safe for capitalists rather than citizens. So to

new type of puffer. Arriving at SCUH, I was quickly checked out and seen by several people. A er a while, I was transferred to a ward, where what seemed like a never-ending line of help came through my door. My blood was tested, as was my sputum. I had a chest X-ray, a scan and, I think, an MRI.

Someone pushed a stick into my nasal cavity and later announced that I was suffering from rhinovirus, which is an infection similar to the common cold that can be extremely dangerous for infants, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.

I received visits from two different doctors, a dietician and other specialists, and there was no doubt they were all determined to get me out of hospital and home.

I was asked if I would be interested in taking part in a follow-up for patients with breathing difficulties, the Respiratory Acute Discharge Service.

Would not the rural zone code be applicable to all proposed projects under SCC control?

The Honourable Mr Jarrod Bleijie, his Treasurer and members of his party have extolled the importance of all levels of government working together in a mature way, planning for the wellbeing of areas like ours, while at the same time riding roughshod over SCC’s refusal of the Comiskey Group’s proposal, along with at least 10 business groups and SOGHM. Could some responsible person amongst the decision-makers please explain?

Lee Paterson Address supplied

Please

to wait years to get confirmation or refutation of your ideas.

Around 1965 I felt that Australia joining the US invasion of Vietnam would be immoral and unwise, despite all the mainstream propaganda . These days, most Australians seem to agree with me.

While protesting Australia’s involvement, I fell in with the Quakers, a pacifist religious group. They rejected having a creed, but they did have their ‘Advices and Queries’. Included was the advice: “Think it possible that you may be mistaken.”

This startling advice was very different from main

the world, explore widely, critically and sceptically.

David Lowry Witta

Thanks to SCUH

ON Wednesday 3 December, feeling extremely unwell, I called an ambulance. Within a few minutes, a sparky young female paramedic was at my front door, and when she realised I might need to go to hospital, she contacted another ambulance, which arrived shortly therea er.

I was incredibly short of breath and, on the way down the hill to SCUH at Birtinya, the two wonderful paramedics tried to alleviate my symptoms with a (to me)

Staffed by senior nurses, RADS enabled me to have four home visits once I le hospital, so any questions could be raised and the nurse could explain anything I was unsure about.

This was all very comforting a er a pretty stressful couple of days. I was most impressed with the way my admission to SCUH was handled. People seemed to jump into action to find out what was wrong with me. Everyone was helpful, friendly and efficient. I cannot recall when I last felt so confident in a good result.

We all know that a day in hospital is extremely expensive and, of course, if a patient can be moved out and returned home, there is a big saving in costs, allowing more patients to be treated. So my sincere thanks to SCUH and all those involved in my treatment. You did a fabulous job and made a very big impression on me in just 36 hours.

Helen Evans Maleny

Reps

with Andrew Powell State Member for Glass House

And that’s a wrap on 2025 (almost!)

It’s been a busy month across the Glass House electorate: school award ceremonies, Maleny’s first-ever Farm Fest, Sculpture on the Edge, the combined Chamber of Commerce Christmas party, and my annual Volunteer Awards. Congratulations to all recipients - your hard work truly deserves the recognition.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a restful holiday season with loved ones! Drive safely, shop local, stay storm-aware - but most importantly, enjoy the season.My electorate office will be closed from Monday 22 December and reopens Monday 5 January 2026. Emails will be monitored, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.

B2N Rail Project

Moving North: Works are now shi ing north with vegetation clearing and temporary traffic

IT only ever bothers me every Christmas, but the lack of cab/rideshare services in the hinterland is a crying shame. The one time I want to let my scales down and not have to worry about a car, do you think I can find a cab to get me where I need to go AND get home? Maybe one way, but return seems to be a big ask. Bring on the Wave!

Speaking of, this whole Beerwah Co-Op upheaval got me thinking about the fueli-ish game we play trying to find the cheapest diesel. Long-time readers would know I drive a Larry David-style EV so it’s none of my concern, but still, I worry about others.

Perhaps if the Co-Op and servo gets the old heave-ho, they could take a look back

at the old Coles site. Just a thought because although council said no thanks to the grocery store, there was nothing wrong with the service station. Why not look there - a perfect site for the Co-Op and you’ll keep Bunnings at bay for a few more years... maybe, and there will also be a local servo for heavy vehicles. One thing is for

sure and that’s Shell is not going to be sitting on its hands.

WORLD CUP

Why would you go to the USA. First there’s the chance of being sent home if your social media account doesn’t stack up. But if you get in, you have to be able to afford to stay there. Everyone is rightly blowing up about World

management around the Glasshouse Mountains and Beerwah town centres. Burgess Street: Construction on permanent shared path on Coonowrin Road near Burgess St, and near the Glass House Mountains Information Centre. Vegetation clearing for the new Burgess St overpass (eastern side) and new rail track north of Glasshouse Mountains Station. Beerwah: Laydown areas off Beerwah Parade and Sportsground Drive. Vegetation clearing south of Beerwah station toward Pikes Road.

Traffic and Closures (from Jan 2026): Shared paths on both sides of Burgess St bridge will be closed for approx. 18 months. Permanent closure of the car park south of Bruce Parade. Changed conditions on the recreation trail between Pikes Rd and Sportsground Drive, also on Steve Irwin Way and nearby local roads.

with Winston Johnston Division 5 - Sunshine Coast Council

Shape a hinterland curated plate

The Curated Plate returns 24 July – 2 August 2026, and I hope many of our hinterland tourism operators, event organisers, venues, restaurants, and local producers will get involved. The food festival runs for 10-days across farms, beaches, mountains, new and award-winning venues. You design your event, keep 100% of your profits, and receive marketing support. Director, Peter Kuruvita, can help connect you with other hinterland producers for great collaborations. Think rainforest degustation’s, orchard long lunches and progressive dining adventures. Expressions of interest will close 31 January 2026, so apply now via thecuratedplate.com. au and help showcase our hinterland.

Summer holidays are here - so is storm season! As locals we’re used to summer storm season - it’s

part of life on the Sunshine Coast - but you still need to be prepared. Planning for wild weather can help keep people and properties safe. Council’s Disaster Hub provides you with up-todate information before, during and a er a storm. You’ll also find links to key emergency services in one location, including: weather warnings, road closures and flood mapping. Be disaster ready - even over the holidays! disasterhub. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au. Wishing you a joyful Christmas and New Year As we come to the close of another year, I want to take a moment to thank our wonderful community for your support, resilience, and spirit throughout 2025. Christmas is a time to reflect on what truly matters family, friends, and the connections that make our community strong. May this festive season bring you peace, joy, and plenty of time to celebrate with loved ones.

Cup pricing. That’s because the US, unlike Australia has ‘variable’ or surge pricing. The higher the demand the higher the ticket. It’s an appalling way to treat everyday fans of the game - or of any event - and has been banned in Australia. Not that this stops organisers here working around the matter.

at

Ashes where Cricket Australia just tripled the prices across the board from the previous year and hey presto - it was a sellout. Money talks.

Sharing beach days with your bestest buddies

By Dr Deb Thorne, Maleny Vet Services

There’s nothing quite like sitting on a beach as the sun dips low, sand between your toes, favourite drink in hand and watching your doggos living their very best lives. Whether they’re zooming through the shallows, digging a hole they believe could reach Japan, or proudly carrying a stick the

size of a small tree, beach days with our four-legged pals are pure joy. Here on the Sunshine Coast, we’re spoiled with gorgeous stretches of coastline that make the perfect backdrop for endof-year unwinding. Our dogs understand the vibe too… ears back, tails high, eyes sparkling as if to say, “This is the life, hooman.” And honestly… they’re right.

As with all good things, a little common sense along the way keeps the fun rolling. Try to discourage your dogs from drinking too much salt water during their aquatic acrobatics, and keep the human snacks out of reach (the onion that falls out of your burger is not going to do their tummies any good).

Remember hot sand can toast their paws, so check the ground before letting them sprint off, and keep an eye out for them overheating during big play sessions.

It’s also worth giving Council signs a quick glance - every beach has its own rules and some areas are off limits to dogs, especially spots where native wildlife (like our precious nesting turtles) need a bit of protection. National parks are a no-go for pets, even for the very goodest of good boys.

But with the right spot, the right weather and the right furry companions, a beach a ernoon can be the perfect way to close out the year. So pack the water bowl, grab a towel and let your doggos remind you of how to enjoy the simple stuff Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year, love from the team at Maleny Vets!

Holiday hazards

Christmas dangers for dogs and cats

By Glasshouse Country Vet

CHRISTMAS

and cats, so it’s important to stay alert during the holiday season. Christmas food is one of the biggest risks. Chocolate, raisins, sultanas, grapes, rum balls, Christmas

food well out of reach and remind guests not to share table scraps.

Christmas decorations can also cause harm. Tinsel, ribbon, string and fairy-light cords can lead to choking, intestinal blockage, or electric shock.

Broken ornaments— especially glass—can cut paws or be swallowed.

Consider placing fragile decorations higher on the tree and securing electrical cords.

failure even in tiny amounts. The holidays also bring increased noise and visitors, which may cause stress, anxiety, or escape attempts. Fireworks, loud parties, and changes in routine can make even well-behaved pets nervous. Provide a quiet room with their bed, water, and favourite toys to help them feel safe.

By taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure your pets enjoy a safe and happy Christmas

Christmas decorations can be dangerous for pets.

Chesta is WAY too cute for the naughty list.

Bronco loves beach and adventure days with his hoomans.

New drug may fast-track treatment of Parkinson’s

UNIVERSITY of Queensland researchers have developed a promising new antiinflammatory drug in a breakthrough they say could accelerate the path to new treatments for Parkinson’s disease.

Lead author Dr Eduardo Albornoz Balmaceda, from UQ’s School of Biomedical Sciences, said tests in mouse models showed the new-generation oral drug blocked inflammation in the brain and improved motor function.

“Inflammation acts like a slow-burning fire in the brain, progressively damaging the neurons that produce dopamine, the chemical which controls movement,” Dr Albornoz Balmaceda said.

“Our study showed this drug, which targets part of the immune system called ‘inflammasomes’, reduced brain inflammation and prevented the disease from killing more neurons, therefore stopping its progression.”

The team also used simultaneous positron

emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at UQ’s Centre for Advanced Imaging to track the drug’s impact in real time.

“What’s most exciting is we could actually see these changes happening in the living brain,” Dr Albornoz Balmaceda said.

“This imaging approach gives us a safe and powerful tool to track target engagement and disease progression, which is essential for designing future human clinical trials.”

Senior author Professor Trent Woodruff, group leader of UQ’s Neuroinflammation Lab, said the findings marked a significant step in the search for disease-modifying therapies.

“Parkinson’s is one of the fastest growing neurodegenerative diseases, and it is expected to impact more than 25 million people by 2050,” Professor Woodruff said.

“Current therapies can alleviate symptoms but do not significantly slow or stop progression of the

disease. This new class of drugs aims to do exactly that, and by combining it with cutting-edge PET/MRI biomarkers, we can measure whether it’s truly protecting the brain.”

Brain scans in the study showed the typical loss of dopamine-containing neurons associated with

treatment.

disease,

The drug was developed by Inflazome, a company spun out of UQ and Trinity College Dublin by Professor Luke O’Neill and co-corresponding author Professor Matt Cooper.

Inflazome was established

in 2016 through UQ commercialisation company UniQuest and was later acquired by Roche.

The research was supported by the NHMRC, Inflazome, The Michael J. Fox Foundation and Shake It Up Australia Foundation, and has been published in Brain.

Breast cancer stats revealed

AROUND 21,000 Australians were living with metastatic breast cancer in 2024, according to first-of-its-kind national estimates released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

The AIHW report, Metastatic breast cancer – first national estimates, puts the figure at about 20,800 women and 150 men. Metastatic breast cancer occurs when cancer spreads beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body and is considered stage four and incurable, requiring ongoing treatment and support.

AIHW spokesman Justin Harvey said the new estimates provide “increased visibility for a growing group of people who have specific health and community service needs”, a er years in which the national picture could not be measured clearly.

The condition can emerge months or years a er an initial diagnosis.

The AIHW expects numbers to rise over time and plans further work to examine growth rates, as part of efforts prioritised in the Australian Cancer Plan and the National Cancer Data Framework.

For over 40 years, Beerwah

patients.

So, what does this mean for Beerwah Surgery patients and the community…. billing health care to children <16 years, pensioners and health care card holders. Beerwah

Parkinson’s

with signals improving a er

Live brain imagery shows brain inflammation caused by Parkinson’s disease, and how the new drug reduced inflammation. Image: news.uq.edu.au

can help restore balance and keep wellness at the heart of the festivities.

Calming teas: When stress rises, chamomile tea offers gentle relaxation, while valerian tea supports deeper rest and eases tension. These soothing brews are perfect companions for quiet moments amidst the holiday rush.

Nourishing foods: Fresh fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and energy. Pair them with digestive herbs such as fennel, calendula

Adaptogen herbs like withania, rehmannia, and Siberian ginseng strengthen resilience, helping the body adapt to stress while supporting vitality for the year ahead.

As we celebrate, let’s remember that wellness is not just about what we do but how we care for ourselves. The Medicine Room will be closed from December 20th and will return to the Eumundi Markets on January 10th. We wish everyone a healthy, happy, and heart filled festive season.

Study prompts shoppers to buy healthier groceries

research partnership with Ritchies IGA supermarkets to buy more vegetables by serve pricing”, a new way of presenting cost that shows the price of a standard serve

which displays a per-serve price based on a 75-gram nutritional serve, consistent with the Australian Dietary Guidelines. The aim is to give shoppers a clearer, more intuitive sense of value at the point of purchase.

For example, carrots priced at $2.99 per kilogram are shown as costing about

out across more than 70 Ritchies IGA supermarkets in March 2024.

Researchers analysed 850 consecutive days of de-identified loyalty card data to compare fruit and vegetable purchases before and a er the launch, making it the largest realworld Australian assessment

such as openings and renovations.

Monash Business School consumer psychology expert and project lead Associate Professor Fiona Newton said the findings reflected purchasing patterns rather than confirmed consumption, but showed a clear behavioural shi a er per-serve pricing was introduced.

all loyalty card shoppers. At a store level, daily vegetable purchase volumes rose by 7.5 kilograms. The results come as most Australians fall well short of recommended vegetable intake. The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows only 6.5 per cent of adults meet the recommended daily intake.

To help address the gap, researchers introduced “nutritional serve pricing”,

22 cents per 75-gram serve, a framing designed to highlight affordability and simplify budgeting decisions.

The approach was rolled

of pricing communication for vegetables.

The main analyses focused on 56 stores that traded across the full period to control for disruptions

“Vegetable consumption in Australia remains far below recommended levels, and many families feel that healthier choices are less affordable,” she said.

Deakin University marketing professor Josh Newton said the partnership created a rare opportunity to study behaviour in a natural retail setting, with gains occurring without promotional activity.

Ritchies IGA chief executive Fred Harrison said supermarkets could play a direct role in making healthy choices simpler for families. The initiative has also been endorsed by AUSVEG, with chief executive Michael Coote calling it a practical, research-backed tool to li consumption as part of the Plus One Serve program.

Alex, Tamara and Dominique.

appear overnight. It builds quietly through subtle signs: mental fatigue, irritability, tension, disrupted sleep, and feeling overwhelmed by even simple decisions.

O en, our bodies signal burnout long before our minds acknowledge it.

Monica smith, founder of The station Pilates said “many of us fall into the same pattern: we push through and assume rest will come later. But there is power in

clarity.

Movement doesn’t need to be intense or complicated — sometimes the most effective reset is a yoga class, a stretch session, or simply moving your spine with breath.

Movement gives you back control. It changes your mental state and resets your emotional landscape.

Try Something Different

When you’ve been operating at a high pace all year, your body may need a

bending, rotating, balancing. Stronger, more functional movement equals a stronger, more capable you.

Your Invitation to Reset

You don’t need to wait for a holiday break to feel better. A 45-minute class can be the circuit-breaker your mind and body are craving. Try our 6 classes $60 intro offer and avoid burnout.

Pause. Breathe. Move. Reconnect — before burnout takes hold.

Big Tobacco takes out unwanted awards for ‘dirty’ smokeless study

BRITISH American Tobacco has claimed an unwanted first, taking out both categories of the 2025 Dirty Ashtray Awards.

It is the first time the annual gongs, presented by the Australian Council on Smoking and Health (ACOSH) and the Australian Medical Association, have been awarded to the same organisation.

ACOSH and the AMA said the honours were handed to BAT for its role in a “brazen resurgence” of tobacco industry interference in Australia’s public debate, with the company criticised for campaigning on cigarette tax policy while simultaneously promoting new nicotine products.

tobacco control as the cause of illicit trade while portraying tax cuts as a public good, claims at odds with independent evidence, but consistent with long-standing industry playbooks,” Dr McMullen said. BAT also won the Exploding Vape category, with the AMA and ACOSH pointing to what they described as aggressive promotion of a “smokeless” strategy, including vapes and

“a platform for a necessary societal conversation founded in evidence ... a manifesto for change and a mandate for action”.

But ACOSH chief executive Laura Hunter said the report did not withstand scrutiny.

“BAT sold Omni™ as a serious scientific review. Our analysis shows it’s anything but — it’s a curated sales document dressed up as evidence,” Ms Hunter said.

AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said BAT’s win in the Dirty Ashtray category reflected the scale of its high-profile push to pressure Australia into lowering tobacco excise.

“Through media appearances and commentary, BAT executives have reframed strong

marketed under the banner of “harm reduction”.

A key part of that strategy is BAT’s Omni™ report, released in 2025 and promoted by the company

Helping locals thrive through community connection

GREEN Umbrella

Supports is an NDIS provider for both planmanaged and self-managed participants. The wellknown support service is making a genuine difference in the lives of locals by offering tailored, personcentred support across the region. The team assists clients

with community access, shopping, daily living activities, meal preparation, and health and fitness routines. They also help participants connect with like-minded people through outings such as fishing trips, bush walks, coffee catch-ups, and visits to local community groups. For those needing extra help

at home, Green Umbrella Supports can arrange qualified cleaners to assist with domestic duties.

Founder Troy, who has lived in the community for 16 years, said the organisation’s focus is on meeting each person “where they are at on life’s journey.” He and his team work closely with

participants to identify their personal and NDIS goals, providing motivation, guidance, and practical support to help them achieve these milestones.

“Seeing people build confidence, independence and social connections is what it’s all about,” Troy said. “We’ve already seen many positive outcomes

She said the dual win showed the industry working “on multiple fronts”: undermining taxes, pushing new nicotine products and inserting itself into policy discussions “under the guise of credibility”.

Dr McMullen warned the media needed to do more to identify and disclose industry influence, arguing that industry-linked voices were too o en presented as neutral experts. Now in their 31st year, the Dirty Ashtray Awards were established to highlight

Image: ama.com.au

an exciting step forward with Maleny Doctors now joining the Maleny Health Hub, a collaborative centre bringing together a range of trusted health services under one roof.

With over 80 years of combined experience, Maleny Health Hub is a multidisciplinary grouping of health businesses committed to providing

offering the community a truly comprehensive approach to wellbeing.

4Cyte Pathology provides 100% Bulk Billing for all referrals, available Monday to Friday. Hearing Australia visits fortnightly, with appointments bookable online at www.hearing.com. au or by calling 134 432.

The General Practices at Maleny Doctors are now

a part

Meanwhile, Range Psychology continues to offer counselling services from Tuesday to Friday, supporting mental health across all ages. More information is available at www.malenyhealth.com.au.

Together, these services strengthen Maleny’s commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare for the whole community.

Most over 50s are struggling to keep up with the digital world

AUSTRALIANS over 50 are struggling to keep pace with an increasingly deceptive digital environment, with new research showing widespread exposure to scams and a steep erosion of trust in information. The Australian Seniors Scams Report 2025 found more than four in five people in this age group have encountered or fallen victim to a scam, while a similar proportion say it is now harder to trust news and information than it was one or two years ago.

Despite this growing uncertainty, most still take online content at face value. Seven in ten admit they sometimes assume material is real without checking, and only one in seven routinely verifies claims before believing or sharing them.

The confusion is straining relationships, with almost

two in five Generation X respondents reporting disagreements over misinformation.

Experts say advances in artificial intelligence are

Lennon Chang (pictured), from Deakin University, says cybercriminals now use AI to generate convincing fake voices, images and emails designed to pressure victims.

He says these tools have made traditional phishing and impersonation scams far more sophisticated.

In the past year, nearly two thirds of older

Australians believe they have been targeted.

Phone calls and email remain the most frequent points of contact, followed by text messages.

Parcel delivery scams, overdue payment hoaxes and impersonation attempts are the most common, and one in four have faced an AI-driven scam.

About one in five have lost money, including a small but significant group who reported losses above fi y thousand dollars.

The emotional impact is pronounced. Many say they feel less safe or more vulnerable as AI blurs the boundaries between real and fabricated content.

Professor Chang urges people to slow down, verify unexpected requests and report scams, arguing that stronger awareness is the most effective protection.

HinterHealth

Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

1 egg

¼ cup sugar

½ teaspoon bicarb soda

½ cup apple sauce (canned or from jar)

½ cup dried apricots, diced

½ cup dried dates, chopped ½ cup sultanas

½ cup currants

¾ cup apple, diced

½ teaspoon mixed spice

½ cup skim or low-fat milk

¾ wholemeal self-raising

flour

¾ cup self-raising flour

Method:

PREHEAT oven to 180°C.

Line a slice pan with baking paper.

BEAT egg and sugar in a medium sized bowl for one

apple sauce (it will froth), then add to the bowl.

ADD the dried fruits, diced apple, mixed spice and milk and mix well.

SIFT flours and gently fold into the fruit mixture.

SPREAD mixture into a slice pan and smooth the top with spatula.

BAKE for 25-30 minutes or until firm to the touch.

COOL then cut into squares. Refrigerate in hot weather.

What’s Great About It:

Fresh apple combined with dried fruits makes this slice the perfect sweet treat.

The apple sauce is a great alternative to more traditional saturated baking fats. Serve for morning tea or as a snack on the go!

Christmas recipes courtesy of ...

Christmas Tree Cheese Platter

Serves: 6

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 0 minutes

Ingredients:

1 capsicum, julienne

1 cucumber, julienne

90g wholegrain crackers

200g grapes

80g lightly salted popcorn

60g mixed nuts

200g strawberries

rows to form the shape of a Christmas tree as seen in the picture.

SERVE immediately. What’s Great About It: Cheese boards are great for sharing and make for a colourful display at your branch. Swap any of the ingredients out for alternatives. Learn how to build your own healthy

processor.

ADD enough water to form a stiff paste.

OPTIONAL: transfer mixture to bowl and stir through puffed grain.

ROLL mixture into 18 balls.

COAT with desiccated coconut and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. What’s Great About It: These bliss balls are a great source of energy on the go!

They are full of fibre from the different nuts and seeds and dried dates and make for a delicious snack.

Kite making

When: Wednesday December 17, 9.30am11am

Where: Beerwah Library, Peachester Road, Beerwah

Info: Create a cool kite using the materials supplied. Fun to fly when the weather is right! Ages 6 years+.

Toy Theatre Cra

When: Wednesday December 17, 10.30am11.30am

Where: Bankfoot House, Old Gympie Rd, Glass House Mountains

Info: Toy theatres were a popular form of entertainment in Victorian times. Once made you could buy plays to put onhundreds of popular West End plays were reproduced for toy theatres. Build your own Pollock’s Toy Theatre, a genuine Victorian theatre complete with stage, scenery and characters. Suitable for children aged 10 and up. Materials provided.

Montville Carols on the Green

When: Wednesday December 17, 6pm - 8pm Where: 141-143 Main St, Montville

Info: Gather your family, friends, and neighbours for a festive night under the stars filled with Christmas cheer and community spirit! Sing along to your favourite Christmas carols with; The Salvation Army Band, The Mapleton Choir, Kristy Turner + Garry Sando. FREE Sausage Sizzle from 6–7 PM, Face Painting + Bubbles 6-7 PM, GIANT Christmas Cracker Tug-o-War for the kids! Bring a picnic rug, settle in, and celebrate the joy of Christmas together.

Toy theatre cra

When: Wednesday

December 17 & Saturday

December 20, 10.30am11.30am

Where: Bankfoot House, 1998 Old Gympie Rd, Glass House Mountains

Info: Toy theatres were a popular form of entertainment in Victorian times. Once made you

could buy plays to put onhundreds of popular West End plays were reproduced for toy theatres. Build your own Pollock’s Toy Theatre, a genuine Victorian theatre complete with stage, scenery and characters.

Harriet Hound storytime & Superpup cra session

When: Thursday December 18, 10.30am -11.30am Where: Rosetta Books, 30 Maple Street, Maleny Info: Join bestselling children’s author Kate Foster at Rosetta Books in this fun and crafty school holiday workshop for all ages. Cost $5 redeemable against one of Kate’s books. Book at www.rosettabooks. com.au

Roll-The-Dice adventure writing

When: Thursday December 18, 12.30 -1.30pm Where: Rosetta Books, 30 Maple Street, Maleny Info: JJoin bestselling author Kate Foster at Rosetta Books in this super fun and interactive school holiday writing workshop for primary schoolaged children. Cost $5 redeemable against one of Kate’s books. Book at www. rosettabooks.com.au

Christmas star ornament cra

When: Thursday December 18, 10.30am - 11.30am Where: Landsborough Museum, Maleny Street, Landsborough Info: Join us for a joyful crafting session where creativity meets holiday spirit! Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just looking for a fun way to celebrate the season, this hands-on workshop invites you to design and decorate your own unique Christmas ornaments. Perfect for gifting, tree-trimming, or simply spreading cheer, this activity is suitable for all ages and skill levels. Materials provided. Come make memories—and a little holiday magic!

Create your own beeswax Christmas candle

When: Friday December 19, 10.30am - 11.30am Where: Landsborough Museum, Maleny Street, Landsborough Info: In this festive workshop, you’ll learn how to craft beautiful, handmade, rolled beeswax candles perfect for holiday décor or heartfelt gifts. Choose from a variety of colours, and embellishments to make your candle truly one-ofa-kind. Whether you’re crafting solo or with friends, this hands-on activity is sure to spark joy and light up your holidays.

‘Twas

When: Friday December 19Sunday December 21

Where: Maleny Playhouse, Maleny Showgrounds, Maleny

Info: ‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a Mouse! Mouse absolutely does not want anything to do with Christmas, but through a magical adventure she may just change her mind. Tickets: events.sunshinecoast.qld. gov.au/event/33290950-a/ twas

Beerburrum Country Market

When: Saturday December 20, 7am - 12.30pm

Where: 7 Anzac Ave, Beerburrum

Info: Visit our friendly community which hosts a multitude of crafts, arts, coffee, fresh fruit/vegies, eggs, card making, bacon/egg rolls, plants, honey and cottage industries before exploring the numerous Glass House Mountains trails from Beerburrum to Landsborough.

Kenilworth Christmas Show

When: Saturday December 20, 3pm - 8pm

Where: Kenilworth Showgrounds, 1652 Obi Obi

Rd, Kenilworth

Info: After a massive turnout of over 1,000 people last year, we’re bringing back the magic this December with everything your family loved! Here’s what’s in store for this year’s unforgettable community celebration: Free Kids Rides – All afternoon, all fun, all free! Food Trucks – Sweet treats, snacks, dinner for the whole family. Santa arrives at 6pm – Pop into a participating Kenilworth business to ensure your child doesn’t miss out on a gift. Fireworks & Laser Show Spectacular – Lighting up the sky to finish of the night! PLUS – The Return of Our Mega Christmas Raffle! BYO chairs, picnic rugs, drinks and food – or just turn up and enjoy the festive feast from one of the many delicious vendors. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, you won’t want to miss this magical night under the stars with the Kenilworth community.

Beerwah

Community Carols

When: Saturday December 20, 4pm

Where: GPAC (Glasshouse Performing Arts Centre) Roberts Road, Beerwah Info: Hosted by the Glasshouse Country Baptist church. Followed by a free community sausage sizzle! Come and join us for some festive fun and sing a long Carols. Everyone welcome. Bring your family and friends!

Caboolture Christmas Carnival

When: Saturday December 20, 4pm

Where: Caboolture Showgrounds, 140 Beerburrum Rd , Caboolture Info: Join us for a familyfriendly event celebrating the holiday season in style. Event Highlights: Market Stalls, Delicious Food & Drinks, Fireworks Show, Exciting Rides, Santa. Bring your loved ones, enjoy the festivities, and create lasting memories at our Christmas Carnival. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Christmas Lights Fundraiser at Pine Edge

When: Saturday December 20, Sunday December 21 & Wednesday December 24, 6pm - 9.30pm

Where: 7 Pine Edge Drive, Landsborough Info: Come and join in the Christmas festivities, create wonderful family memories all while raising money for Inclusive Kids. We will have a visit from Santa & the Grinch for Xmas photos as well as a snow machine, BBQ, fairy floss, popcorn, snow cones and a raffle. FYI we strongly suggest car pooling and parking streets away to avoid a very long commute down the street.

Peachester Community Christmas Party

When: Sunday December 21, 6pm

Where: Peachester Community Hall

Info: The Peachester Hall Committee invites residents to the annual Community Christmas Party at the hall. Entry is FREE, and there will be food and drinks to purchase. Come along and meet your neighbours.

Kids Christmas PartyBeerwah Hotel

When: Sunday December 21, 12pm - 3pm Where: Beerwah Hotel, Beerwah Parade, Beerwah Info: Bring the little ones along for a fun-filled festive afternoon! What’s On: Face Painting, Christmas Ornament Decorating, Cookie Decorating, A Special Visit from Santa! It’s the perfect family day out to get into the Christmas spirit! Bookings essential – call 5494 0555

anta! ly the ookings 4 0555

Woombye Pub

Blues Club

“Super Sunday Arvo Session

When: Sunday, December 21, 2.305.30pm

Where: Woombye

Blues, Soul, Folk and Roots to our special Christmas Sunday Arvo - guaranteed one fantastic afternoon of entertainment! Along with the Sunshine the show will include a set from the hosts - The Spirits Blues Band. https://www.facebook. com/groups/musosclub/

Witta Community

Carols by Candlelight

When: Monday December 22, 7pm - 8pm

Where: 295 Witta Road, Witta

Info: What to bring: A candle or light, chair or rug, All Welcome!

Glasshouse Musos, Christmas Party “Open Mic night”

When: Tuesday, December 23, 6 - 10pm

Where: Beerwah Hotel

Info: This will be a Musos with a difference. We’ll have some music trivia questions to create a bit of fun with all of it too.

The Hotel have kindly come to the party with 4 x $50 Bistro Vouchers so guests can return ‘for a meal on them”! If anyone would like to add to the gifts please contact us.

We’ll start a bit earlier and finish a bit later so a few more people can fit on the board! We had 100 people last year. Do join us this year! If you’d like to play, email us (whitickerm@ bigpond.com) to book yourself a spot. https://www.facebook. com/groups/musosclub/

Pub Info: Featuring the Carl Lynch Trio together with the Spirit Blues. Don’t miss the Carl Lynch Trio as they bring their eclectic mix of

Carl r with n’t miss as mixof

Christmas messages from our Merry Christmas

Welcomes you each Saturday at 27 Maleny Street

9.30am – All Age Small Group Meetings (Includes Children and Youth programs)

11:00am - Worship Service 1st Saturday each month 12.30pm Community Lunch

Contact p: 0431 541 219 f: @LandsboroughChurch w: landsborough.org

Glasshouse Country

Uniting Church

29 Twin Peaks Drive, Beerwah

Come and worship with us

Beerwah – Sunday 8.30am

Peachester Community Church –last Sunday of the month 5.30pm

Email: churchgcuc@gmail.com

GLASSHOUSE COUNTRY CALVARY CONGREGATION

You are most WELCOME to join us 9.00am each Sunday Reed Street, Glasshouse Mtns (next to RSL) Sunday School, Women’s Fellowship, Bible Study

Contact: 5439 9341 or 5496 9671 www.glasshousemountains.lutheran.org.au

White Eagle Lodge of Australia

Temple of Light and Retreat Centre and Accommodation

19 Tesch Road, Witta 4552 P: 5494 4397 | E: info@whiteeaglelodge.org.au W: www.whiteeaglelodge.org.au

Sunday Service - first Sunday of every month at 11am, shared vegetarian lunch after Healing Group - every Tuesday at 9.30am Meditation Group - every Tuesday at 10.30am

All are welcome to join us in bringing love and light to the world.

GLASSHOUSE COUNTRY

BEERWAH: Sunday 9.00am Mary MacKillop Centre, 160 Peachester Rd MOOLOOLAH: Wednesday 9am and 1st Sunday of month 4pm ST THOMAS, 31 Bray Rd

Local contact: Rev Tony Halstead 0455 554 930

us

malenypc.org.au info@malenypc.org.au facebook.com/malenypc

Calvary utheran Church Lutheran shouse Mountains Glasshouse

Pastor Neville Doecke

hat is the BEST Christmas gift?

Little ones nervously line up to tell Santa what they want for Christmas. School children openly tell parents what they want for Christmas after searching the internet. Adults of all ages dream of what would really make a wonderful Christmas for them. Yes, just check the internet, spend hours walking the shops and there is plenty of variety to help secure the “perfect gift” for the ones we love. There is plenty of advice about ageappropriateness, why this gift is so good, and at the right sale price now. But in twelve months’ time, does it still work, is it broken, has it lost its glamour? As the days before Christmas get less, getting the best gift to bring joy and happiness to someone creates a lot of stress.

But what is the reason for this season of “silliness”, mad rushing around to get everything organized for Christmas….for what? Is it ‘good family times’, a break from the daily grind of work routines, a holiday away from home?

Somewhere amongst the glitter and sales, the food and drink, the racing around, the real reason for the season of Christmas has faded away; that a very special baby arrived on earth in a little village called Bethlehem, the only son of God in heaven, placed in an animals’ feedbox of hay, his arrival announced to a group of tough shepherds looking after sheep. Why?

“God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son Jesus, so that whoever believed in him, would not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16. This was God’s gift of love to the world – the BEST Christmas gift that we all can receive, one that never fades, wears out or gets broken! God’s BEST gift of love is for you, and it lasts for all time.

Glasshous Glasshouse Country

Uniting Chu Church

Chaplain Helen Cifuentes

stmas ht before Christmas and all through the house – nothing was stirring except me on the couch, catching a moment of peace between the pre- and postChristmas mayhem!

In the dark of the lounge room, I can just make out the shape of the tree, decorated with such excitement and care on the first day of December in anticipation of all that Christmas Day might bring In the light of day, the tree is a bright, healthy plastic green, the baubles and tinsel every colour of the rainbow. But here and now, in the shadows of my lounge room, it has no colour apart from a faint glint of silver tinsel catching the glow of my screen. It stands there, monochrome and still, with no hint of its purpose or place in the scheme of things. This colourless tree leads me to reflect on how the human eye sees light. Science tells us that without light there is no colour. Not that we can’t see colour — it simply doesn’t exist until light touches it. Perhaps that’s true of life as well. When the light fades — when hope, love, or meaning grow dim — the world can seem drained of colour

At its heart, Christmas is the story of light entering the darkness. Emmanuel means God with us — not far away or only for the holy, but here, among us, in the mess and wonder of ordinary life. It’s the quiet assurance that we are not alone, that divine light still finds its way into human hearts and homes. Perhaps the invitation of Christmas is simple: to notice that light, to share it, and to let its warmth bring colour to the world once more.

Landsborough Seventh-day Adventist Community Church Church

Dr Percy Harrold

It will happen on Christmas day, or maybe on Boxing day. “Nurse, I have his discomfort in my chest and I can’t swallow. Can you give me something to fix it?” No, it is not a heart ” attack, but the product of too rapidly eating a well-prepared roast or turkey, now stuck in the oesophagus.

The festivities are suddenly brought to a halt. While most of us get to be with family and friends, there are heroes who are rostered on to care for us on Christmas Day. Police, paramedics, the hospital emergency staff, the ward nursing teams, all have their part to play on this special day.

The cut foot at the beach, the broken wrist trying the new skateboard, and other medical emergencies will be treated. The midwives and obstetricians on duty will ply their wonderful trade assisting with the arrival of new lives as on any other day. And the thought is not lost on the meaning of the day. That special birth of Jesus, the Son of God, was in an unlikely birthing suite. Yes, there would have been midwives available for this young mother home for the census in Bethlehem Midwives have always been inBethlehemMidwiveshavealwaysbeen especially tolerant, skilled yet empathetic individuals. My daughter is one! I have worked beside midwives in around 800 births, many in rural GP settings. For them it is not an onerous situation coaching the arrival of new lives. The excitement always surfaces at that first breath, and the first cry. So, this Christmas, while you and I are celebrating the reason for the Christmas Story, take time to remember those who keep an eye out for our health and safety And if for you the glove fits, accept our grateful thanks

Maleny resbyterian Presbyterian Church

The story of the Wise Men is a story of mystery. Where did they come from?

Somewhere in east of Judea. How many were there? Tradition says three, but we don’t really know. How did they know to follow the star? We’re not told, yet they must have been compelled by God.

There is a bit of mystery around the wise men, but we do know with certainty that they came to pay homage to the new-born King, & then just as mysteriously they are gone.

Matthew’s Gospel records that the wise men ended up in Jerusalem.

This was the most logical place - the centre of Judaism - the temple of God and of course, the palace of Herod the king. They went to King Herod & asked their questions.

“Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him”. Matthew 2:2

But king Herod knew nothing about it. Amazingly, when Herod found out about the Messiah to be born, his decision was to try to kill Him Unbelievable!

You cannot stop God! You cannot stop His Messiah! Yet, Herod tried to kill Jesus, to stop God’s plan.

That plan was that Jesus would grow to be a man who would live sinless life, then die in the place of the sinful people, and then rise victorious over death so that when we trust in Him we can have eternal life.

Herod was supposed to be a wise man, but he was foolish. The wise men came seeking the Messiah so that they could worship Him.

May we also be truly wise and come and worship our Lord and Saviour, Christ the King

Aaron Jackson

In a world that often feels uncertain and divided, Christmas gently reminds us of the greatest certainty we have — that God stepped into our world, not to judge it, but to save it

John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, full of grace and truth.” Grace that forgives, restores, and welcomes. Truth that anchors, guides, and never shifts

Here in the Glasshouse Country and Beerwah community, we know what it means to be surrounded by beauty — towering mountains, green fields, and the peaceful rhythm of small-town life. But even in the most beautiful places, hearts can feel heavy, lonely, or weary. That’s why Jesus came — not just to bring information, but transformation. Not just to enter the world, but to enter our world — our homes, our families, our stories

In a humble manger, grace and truth took on human form. Jesus didn’t come to make bad people good — He came to make broken people whole. He came for those who feel forgotten, for those struggling silently, for families needing hope, and for every heart longing for peace. This Christmas, whether you gather around a tree, a table, or simply stand in wonder at the hills around us, may you encounter the One who came to bring salvation, comfort, forgiveness, and hope — Jesus, the Saviour of the world

From our homes to yours, may His grace fill every heart, and may His truth light every path.

Merry Christmas — and may Jesus, full of grace and truth, be your greatest gift this season.

Change the Christmas tune

Whilst writing this, in an attempt to get in the Christmas spirit, I have a ‘Best ever Christmas tunes’ playlist playing in the background. You already know what’s on it. Christmas is immensely repetitive. Not just in terms of music - Every Christmas we spend time with the same people, dust off the same old decorations, consume the same foods and drinks and listen to the same Christmas songs regardless of whether they are really good or truly awful (Paul McCartney is playing right now.)

But church can help us break the repetitive cycles. At Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus, but we also think about the path he walked after leaving that stable, a path towards Jerusalem along which he taught about the way to live and, through dying, opened a new way for us to experience God

If we listen to the message of Christmas then we might just be inspired to follow that path, to stop going around in circles, doing the same things and not seeing the world and your life in its full glory

We don’t have to do everything differently though - If you like a repetitive Christmas then don’t ever change that, eat the same food, listen to the same songs (except for that tuneless McCartney one of course.)

Doing the same thing over and over gives Christmas some charm. But if, throughout the rest of the year, you’re doing the same old things that keep you from seeing how wonderful this life can be then maybe you need to be prepared to change. Rather than having the same old playlist going in your head, try to listen to the true message of Christmas this year and maybe hear a new tune over your life this new year.

Rev Wallace Brown

Wise Men

RTIE

The Anglican Parish The Parish of Caloundra and Glasshouse Country Glasshouse

Tom Hunton

Seasons Greetings

local Hinterland churches

2025 Christmas Service Times

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Caloundra

St Andrew’s – 46 Upper Gay Tce, Kings Beach

Christmas Eve – 5pm & 11:30pm

Christmas Day – 9am

Beerwah

Mary MacKillop Centre – 160 Peachester Rd, Beerwah

Christmas Day – 9am

Mooloolah

St Thomas’ – 31 Bray Rd, Mooloolah Valley

Christmas Eve – 7pm

CATHOLIC CHURCH

Christmas Eve

Our Lady of the Rosary, Caloundra (Carols at 3.50pm) Mass 4.00pm, (Carols at

6.50pm) Mass 7.00pm, (Carols at 9.50pm) Mass 10.00pm

Caloundra West, Unity College (Carols at 3.50pm) Mass 4.00pm

Christmas Day, December 25th

Our Lady of the Rosary, Caloundra 7.30am & 9.30am

Our Lady of the Way, Landsborough 7.00am

Sacred Heart Church, Maleny

Bl Frederic Ozanam, Currimundi 9.15am

Our Lady of the Southern Cross, Little Mountain 10.30am

CHURCH ON THE RISE

Beerwah

27 Beerwah Parade

Carols & Christmas Service Sunday Dec 21st

6pm

LUTHERAN CHURCH

Calvary

Christmas Eve at 6pm with Holy Communion

Reed Steet, Glass House Mountains (next to RSL)

Good Shepherd Witta 295 Witta Road

Christmas Day: 7:30am service

MALENY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

12 Cedar St, Maleny

Christmas service at 6pm on Christmas eve. SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

Landsborough A creative tellingof the Biblical Christmas

Story. 20th December at 10.30am - 12pm.

27 Maleny Steet, Landsborough THE RANGE CHURCH

Christmas Eve, 3 pm. 152 Main Street

Montville

UNITING CHURCH

Blackall Range Uniting Church

Christmas Eve Service

Maleny 7.00pm

Christmas Day Services

Maleny 8.00am

Montville 8 00am

Palmwoods 9 00am

Glasshouse Country Uniting Church

8.30am Christmas Day 25th December

worship

29 Twin Peaks Drive, Beerwah

To be Christian in Australia today especially in a semi-rural region like the Sunshine Coast Hinterland—is to recognise the presence of Christ arriving quietly into the ordinariness of our lives, just as He did that first Christmas night. In a culture that is often spiritually curious yet institutionally sceptical, Christmas reminds us that God chooses humble places and ordinary people to reveal extraordinary love. Here in the Hinterland, faith doesn’t shout; it shows itself in simple, human moments— the warmth of community gatherings, the generosity of neighbours, and the peace we glimpse in the beauty of creation. Christmas invites us to pause and rediscover Emmanuel God-with-us—in the midst of our everyday rhythms. The rolling hills, the still mornings, and the distances between some households invites a slower, perhaps gentler discipleship. For Christians, this season becomes a reminder to reach out across those distances, building connection and belonging in a world where many feel isolated or unseen. Like the shepherds who journeyed through the night, we are called to draw near to the vulnerable, the lonely, and the searching In a society where faith can seem outdated or optional, Christmas offers us a chance not to argue for Christianity but to embody its heart: joy, hospitality, gentleness, and hope. It is a time to welcome without agenda, to forgive generously, and to show a hope grounded not in wishful thinking but in the person of Jesus Christ—Light born into darkness. Ultimately, to be Christian in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland at Christmas is to believe that God is already at work in this place and in these people. Our task is simply to join Him: courageously and joyfully, becoming signs of His peace and bearers of His love in a world that still longs for both Merry Christmas from Fr Josh and Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Parish

CATHOLIC WEEKEND MASSES

1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays 9am: Caloundra St, Landsborough

2nd & 4th Sundays 9am: 45 Cedar Street, Maleny

www.caloundracatholicparish.net

Church On The Rise The Maleny

Ps Ivan Westbrook & Deb R

Christmas a good story or something more?

A certain old recluse lived deep in the mountains of Colorado. When he died, distant relatives came from the city to collect his valuables.

Upon arriving, all they saw was an old shack with an outhouse beside it. In side the shack, next to the rock fireplace, was an old cooking pot and his mining equipment. A cracked table with a threelegged chair stood guard by a tiny window, and a kerosene lamp served as the centrepiece for the table.

In the dark corner of the little room was a dilapidated cot with a threadbare bedroll on it.

The relatives picked up some of the old relics and started to leave. As they were driving away, an old friend of the recluse, on his mule, flagged them down. “Do you mind if I help myself to what’s left in my friend’s cabin?” he asked. “Go right ahead, “they replied. After all, they thought, what inside that shack would be worth anything?

The old friend entered the shack and walked directly over to the table. He reached under it and lifted one of the floorboards. He then proceeded to take out all the gold his friend had discovered over the past 53 years – enough to build a palace.

The recluse died with only his friend knowing his true worth. As the friend looked out of the little window and watched the cloud of dust behind the relatives’ car disappear, he said, “They should have got to know him better.”

We will never know the treasure of Baby Jesus in the manger unless we investigate it fully and get to know Jesus. Read the gospel of John. On behalf of Church on The Rise -Maleny, Debbie and I would like to wish you all a happy Christmas.

The Range The Range Church Montville

Peter

and

Michelle Maher

Hasn’t this year gone fast? It feels like we blinked and suddenly its Christmas again! In the rush of life, it’s easy to lose sight of how blessed we are. It’s easy to feel the pressure more than the wonder. But Christmas declares how blessed we are. God’s love is revealed in the Christmas message of John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Christ is the greatest gift ever given. God didn’t express His love by writing a cheque and He didn’t throw a gift card at our brokenness. Instead, He gave something that cost Him dearly: His one and only Son. The amazing truth of Christmas is this: the One who knows you the most, is the One who loves you the most. God knows every detail of your life; the thoughts you hide, the fears you battle, the pain you never speak of and the mistakes you regret. Yet, He loves you completely. Before the world was formed, He chose you. He has loved you from the very beginning with unconditional love.

Romans 5:8 says, “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” God didn’t wait for the world to “get its life together.” He loved first and gave Jesus freely as the perfect expression of His unconditional love.

This is what the angels announced on the night Jesus was born… Good news of great joy for all people! A Saviour has come to bring peace, forgiveness, and a brand-new beginning

But like any gift, God’s love must be received. Imagine a beautifully wrapped gift with your name on it… But if you never open it, it remains untouched

This Christmas, don’t leave God’s gift unopened. Receive Jesus, the greatest gift of all, and experience the unconditional love and everlasting life He freely offers today.

Whatever it takes

The question ‘how far would you go?’ is used often today

There are different lengths to how far people will go in life involvement. When I think of the Christmas story, the theme could be whatever it takes.

The heart of the Christmas story is found in the gospel of John, chapter one verse fourteen, which says, the Word is God, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us here on earth.

If we are going to experience a Great Christmas, there are truths to understand. Firstly, that God did something way beyond what man would do. He broke all the limits of communication

So, we could meet with Him. He took extreme action; God became flesh to live amongst us, seeing our needs, feeling our hurts and struggles. And then He implemented a rescue mission.

Ultimately, He dies on a cross to pay the penalty for our sins on our behalf, giving us a great escape. He took whatever it takes action to come to this earth, to be still God and yet be man.

Secondly, He communicated a whatever it takes message, a message full of grace and truth; don’t miss these extremes.

You have sinned, full of truth; and yet He showed to us, at the same time, God’s grace, his unmerited, undeserved favour. Being far from perfect and struggling with sin, having fallen short of God’s standards, yet God loves us, and offers His gift of absolute forgiveness of sin, enabling us to enter back into a right relationship with Him.

Within these extremes of absolute truth and grace, He reconciled the two and brought them together in His birth, death and His resurrection, so in that first Christmas the action He took was extreme and the message He brought, whatever it takes. Get ready for a whatever it takes Christmas.

Catholic Church Fr Joshua Whitehead

Maleny Baptist Maleny Baptist Church

Pastor Lester Kelly R

Rosetta’s Holiday Fun

Rainforest Readers Club

30 Maple St, Maleny

ROSETTA books is one of only four recipients in Queensland to receive a Penguin Children’s Bookseller Grant. The funding will help launch the Rainforest Readers Club in 2026 and transform the

Horoscopes

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21

When annual new moon in Sagittarius on 20 December turns a fresh page for your coming astrological year, maintain a wide-angle viewfinder and recommit to stepping out of your mental comfort zone and making each day an adventure from now on - which is, after all, your essential Sagittarian mission.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20

PISCES

WEEK BEGINNING DECEMBER 16

FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20

As Capricorn Annie Lennox sang: Everybody’s looking for something, and this week’s difficult people need space and patience, the easier ones want acknowledgement and appreciation. Activator Mars arriving in your sign, the energizer planet’s happy place, stimulates your natural desire to do, be, and offer your best.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18

During annual seasonal mayhem, Mars in traditional, structured Capricorn calls for a compromise between honouring old traditions and inventing new ones, blending the best of the past with present necessities. Realistic appraisal, strategic planning and relentless self-awareness are your best friends this week. Plus, that keen eye for the unusual buy.

Fun, trouble, love and money: this week juggles them all. Everyone’s talking, but who’s listening. Are you? With more spin than substance in the current communication mix your call’s discernment: as in choosing worthwhile over wasteful, establishing fact from fabrication and separating wishful thinking from what’s practically possible. Good luck.

ARIES

MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

Listening rather than talking will get this week’s best results. If you feel like you’re caving in under holiday responsibilities and obligations, don’t make them a chore. Take the weight off. Lighten up. Mars has you pumped for taking care of festive details but keep it fun - obsessing will only get others offside.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 – MAY 20

Now December’s in its major spin cycle, maintaining inner harmony is essential for dealing with this week’s seasonal rock ‘n rollercoaster. Mars moving from active to strategic recommends lessening pressure by choosing quality over quantity in everything, as in picking the best, forgetting the rest and saying no when necessary.

GEMINI

MAY 21 – JUNE 21

store’s children’s section into a magical rainforest-themed space. Local artist Kate Kazony will create an immersive mural, complete with portals, native animals, and a giant ‘Reading Tree’.

The club will celebrate every child’s reading journey with milestones, rewards, and an animal-themed rating system, inspiring young adventurers to explore stories in a natureinspired wonderland.

This week needs a concerted effort to direct thoughts, talk and action towards finding solutions rather than adding to the general pandemonium. Think twice (second nature for Geminis anyway) about buying sprees. Stick to a list. Keep receipts. Prioritize. Accept that some things just won’t get done.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 22

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22

From feisty new moon on 20 December onwards, Mars in your opposite cardinal sign on the astro-wheel is the red planet’s best energetic placement for last minute gift shopping. During which, refuse the frantic scramble, the mad rush and dash, by adopting your personal astrological speed: Cancerian cruise control.

LEO

JULY 23 – AUGUST 23

When this week’s summer solstice marks your planet ruler’s move into goalsetting mode, with an added stimulus package from activator Mars, it’s worth giving yourself the odd moment out of festive busyness to start thinking about what personal avenues of opportunity are exciting you most for the coming year.

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23

Another verbally vivacious week with high accident ratings, widespread impatience and temper flares, so best select four letter words that are helpful, like calm, cool and chill. With only a few more sleeps to the main event, this week Mars offers a more helpful, objective, less stressy perspective.

This week wants results and progress, has zero patience with being kept waiting, could feel like a minefield of push and pressure. It calls for your most fabulous juggling act to balance its contradictory mix of arguments, goodwill, financial restrictions and excessive expectations, best done by clear, concise communicating.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22

This week’s astral lineup suggests not pushing too hard, moving too fast or spreading yourself too thin. With over-committed, potentially under-funded holiday schedules approaching burnout, zigzagging plans and arrangement alterations make this week prime time for interpersonal turbulence. Your magic password if it all gets too much? Enough.

Kate Kazony and Lea Dodd.

with Lilith Rocha

Viva la Cello tickets on sale now

EARLY bird tickets are on sale now for Summer Concerts 2026 - Viva la Cello!, as Cello Dreaming announces its fourth Summer Concerts series at Eudlo Hall from January 16–18. The three-day program delivers intimate performances celebrating the cello’s expressive range, versatility and beauty, with guest artists from across Australia and overseas.

Curated by a cellist for cello lovers, the regional series pairs innovation with bold programming, spanning traditional folk and contemporary originals, Baroque favourites alongside fiery tango, and a grand classical finale featuring international master cellists. The weekend also champions emerging Australian talent through the retreat’s performance program.

Tickets range from $15–$45, with early bird pricing of $35 available until December

Evocative new exhibition

‘On the Heights’ opens

Step back in time and relive the glory of early Sunshine Coast climbers

THROUGH the evocative power of early photography, a new exhibition, *On the Heights*, invites visitors to explore the world of Australia’s pioneering mountaineers.

The free exhibition celebrates adventurers who transformed climbing into a cultural movement and takes viewers on a visual journey through an extraordinary period in Sunshine Coast history. Curated by climber and historian Michael Meadows, it draws on archival photographs, newspaper accounts, and personal collections from the early 1900s to 1930s.

Other accounts, including those of the Dimes Sisters, highlight how women sought adventure and freedom atop the region’s peaks.

Among the stories featured are the Clarke Sisters (c.1912), who cycled from New Farm to Bankfoot House for a weekend of climbing, and Bert Armitage Salmon, whose photographs document the rise of social climbing in Queensland.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Heritage Portfolio Councillor David Law said the exhibition is a meaningful tribute to the region’s history and landscape. “We acknowledge that past recreational climbing did not always respect the values of Jinibara and Kabi Kabi Peoples, for whom the Glass House Mountains hold deep spiritual and cultural meaning,” Cr Law said.

On the Heights combines well-known stories with new research and rare items that bring these historical moments vividly to life

Some peaks once climbed by early adventurers are now protected as culturally for recreational climbing, reflecting our shared responsibility to honour these sacred places.”

Visitors are reminded to respect First Nations Peoples’ wishes.

Official park signage and websites indicate mountains alternative routes should be considered. Climbing is inherently dangerous and should only be undertaken with proper preparation, equipment, and experience.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service guidelines and closures must be Bankfoot House:1998 Old Gympie Road, Glass House Mountains Landsborough Museum: 4 Maleny Street, Landsborough. Cost: Free. Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10am–3pm More info:www.heritage. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

Immerse yourself in the magic of Woodford Folk Festival

WOODFORD Folk Festival has unveiled the programme for its 38th edition, inviting festival-goers to immerse themselves in six days of participation, creativity, and connection.

With more than 1,500 opportunities to take part, this year’s event positions Woodford as a place that nurtures the creative spark in everyone.

From December 27 2025, Woodfordia’s festival village will burst to life across 500 acres of regenerated farmland. Once again the space is set to transform into a thriving, temporary arts community for six vibrant days and nights.

The 2025 music line-up promises unforgettable moments. Electric Fields lead the programme, the acclaimed duo who represented Australia at Eurovision 2024 with their blend of electronic soul and Anangu language. Country icon Troy Cassar-Daley brings his 45 Golden Guitars, while three-time ARIA winner Sarah Blasko offers her

renowned indie artistry.

Rising stars include ARIA-winning Budjerah, powerful Indigenous rapper BARKAA and beloved singer-songwriter Lior, with returning indie folk favourites Hollow Coves.

The bill also features KUČKA, Birdz and Fred Leone, San Cisco, Briggs, Mama Kin Spender, Gordi, Beddy Rays, and the incomparable C.W.

Kasiva Matua, and Scottish trio Talisk. Beyond music, the Festival offers bold and diverse experiences: daring triple-re trapeze from The Stunned Mullets, traditional performance

by Papua New Guinea’s Ambum Cultural Group, comedy punk duo Otto & Astrid, and comedians Oliver Clarke and Meg Jäger. Workshops, dance parties, circus skills, music camps, and a live-action teen game add to the immersive programme, while the Tinlids Children’s Festival features dirtgirlworld and a full schedule of creative activities.

Around 100,000 people are expected to attend, with 25,000 camping or glamping under the stars.

Options include Tent City and an upgraded bell-tent village from Pitch Luxury. The Festival culminates in traditional New Year’s Eve celebrations before continuing into January 1 for the Renewal Ceremony and the closing night.

Festival Director Amanda Jackes said Woodford is “a village of play, curiosity and renewal”. Programme Manager Courtney Wild said audiences will “discover new sounds and new perspectives”. Tickets and payment plans are available at woodfordfolkfestival. com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Free Exhibition: On The Heights Explore climbing in the Glass House Mountains. Curated by Michael Meadows.

School Holiday program Photography, Pioneer Play and free rock climbing wall. Various dates and times.

Free Heritage Talk: Climbing in the Glass House Mountains Presented by Neil Halpin.

Landsborough Museum

Climbers on one of the rocky ‘plinths’ on the eastern side of Mount Beerwah, GHM May 1932.

Photo: Sonia Isaacs

Civil Plant Hire Group – open over Christmas

FOR 13 years, Civil Plant Hire Group has been a trusted name in earthworks and civil support services across South East Queensland. Based in Landsborough and proudly family owned, the company has built its reputation on reliability, skill and a strong commitment to local projects and communities.

Specialising in civil construction plant hire, silt fencing and supply of quarry materials, Civil Plant Hire Group offers

a comprehensive range of services including earthworks, trenching, silt fence installation and skilled labour support. Their team of highly trained operators and labourers brings extensive on-ground experience to every job, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently and to the highest standard. The business also maintains a fleet of modern, well-maintained machinery suitable for projects of all sizes, from residential

developments to major civil infrastructure works.

Whether you’re preparing for a new shed, planning backyard renovations, tidying up your block or tackling drainage issues, Civil Plant Hire Group off the services and support to make the job easier. Their experienced operators and labourers specialise in earthworks, trenching, silt fencing, bringing skill and reliability to every project, big or small.

Importantly, Civil

E ELECTRICIANS

Glassy Bowls

Contributed by

A great way to finish bowls for the year with the most ever number of players on the green for social bowls with 50!. We had 4 games of Four’s and 3 games of triples.

Maleny Bowls Club

Contributed by Brett Gillis

TUESDAY Jackpot Pairs competition has become popular with members and visitors attracting a steady number of bowlers each week. The added attraction of our jackpot reaching $500 has increased excitement and this week was actually won by Basil Kapoulitsa and Jim King which was fabulous. The new jackpot for 16 December 2025 is $260. On Friday night we held our annual presentation of trophies combined Christmas party with over 40 members and partners

Winners of the day with 2 wins and a score of 46 were Trish Jackson, Noelene Annakin, Marg Gibson and John Annakin.

R/Up on a count back with a score of 24 were Bobette Cross, Keith Hopkins and Russ Turner. The lucky draw went to Seija Munster, Kerry Munster, Mac Townson and Rob Scullion.

enjoying an incredible smorgasbord of finger food generously supplied by those in attendance. Chairman Ian Porter welcomed everybody and reflected on an incredibly successful year that began with our inaugural entry into the Bowlers Paradise Hinterland Challenge followed by SCDBA Pennant where we were winners in Division 9. Club Championships winners were Ladies Singles Karen Leslie, Mens Singles Brett Gillis, Mens Pairs Basil Kapoulitsa and Ray Ellemor. Scroungers winner was Hardi Kurnadi. Saturday we sponsored and hosted a Barefoot Bowls celebration for 50 of the Maleny State Emergency

5 lucky members also won a ham each in a raffle. That brings our bowling year to a close for 2025.

Hope you all have a nice Christmas and we will see you back around Feb 2026 with Hinterland and the Mixed Pairs up first

Services members and partners in recognition their incredible efforts in Maleny and district during 2025. This happened on the week that Queensland SES celebrated 50 years of service. What an amazing and generous group of caring citizens who go above and beyond to assist others in their times of need.

This week is our final before closing for Christmas with visitors welcome to attend Jackpot Pairs

Tuesday 7:30am, Twilight Barbeque and Bowls Wednesday 6pm and Scroungers Singles Friday 2pm. So if you have family or friends visiting or are a traveller to the region why not come and give lawn bowls a go.

Range Croquet Club

Contributed by David Kerr

ROSS Meneely Builders recently enjoyed an end of year gathering at the Range Croquet Club.

A “builder’s dozen” of tradesmen, apprentices and staff, spent an hour or so being introduced to the noble game of croquet.

President Sarah Widin and “Jack-of-All” Wallace Roy (the 3rd) commenced the session by introducing the team to the mallets,

grips, stances, strokes, hoops and balls a er which, with fluids in-hand, play commenced.

As with any new players there were some who showed almost immediate appreciation and aptitude, and others who were more of the “square peg in a round hole” category.

While it was too early to identify future Pennant contenders it was an enjoyable session, with plenty of banter and laughs.

As a break from play and a further opportunity to rehydrate the group took part in a relay race where

three hand selected teams raced to belt large custommade headless spikes into the ends of a piece of hardwood.

This demonstrated to the Croquet Club members that the boys were better hitting with a claw hammer that swinging a croquet mallet between their legs! The Club says thanks to Ross and the team for attending, getting to know croquet and the generous lawn fee donation.

If you would like to know more about the game or our club, then please call Sarah on 0417640704.

Raffle winners were Barb Whitfield, Kerry Munster, Scott Bedwell, Mac Townson and Gavin Linnan.

CLASSIFIEDS

Cook/Chef

CASUAL SUPPORT WORKERS.

Would require: Blue/Yellow cards, Current first

WASTE MATTERS

A recent trip to Sunshine Plaza prompted this column, a er seeing shopping trolleys piled high with Christmas tinsel and other plastic decorations. While some of this will hopefully be reused in future Christmases, much of it is wasteful

and damaging to the environment, especially single-use plastic decorations and those with microplastic-shedding glitter. There are many waste-free Christmas decorations that are easy to make and don’t harm the environment (or our health). They can be a fun thing to do with children,

while providing an opportunity to talk about the need to reduce waste. A website with some of the simplest decorations to make is https://moralfibres. co.uk/zero-wastechristmas-decorationsto-diy/.

Here are some waste-free Christmas decorations ideas:

• Paper chains made

from

• Fabric bunting instead of tinsel

• Pine cones in a bowl of greenery

• Christmas stars made from toilet rolls

• Salt dough ornaments

• Wrapping paper made from brown paper shopping bags, tied with string & decorated with a flower or painted

• Hand-made Christmas cards (cut out & reuse old cards)

• LED string fairy lights in glass jars

• Christmas wreaths made from greenery & pine cones

OUR local native raspberries (and there are quite a few of them) can o en cop a bad rap, because they are o en mistakenly assumed to be weeds. Black berries are weeds and have black fruit, Yellow Berry is a weed you guessed it has a yellow fruit, but there are five native raspberries all of which have red fruit, all red fruiting raspberries growing in our area are native. They are fantastic

food and important habitat for a whole host of birds and ground dwelling fauna. What is o en confused for a weedy thicket between paddock and forest is in fact an incredibly important strip of habitat providing cover and resources that are not available within the forest. All of our native raspberries are prickly, all have tasty fruit and all are important plants in a variety of ecosystems. From the

delicate rambler Rubus parvifolius with its pretty purple or pink flowers that grows in open woodlands to the giant rainforest raspberry Rubus moorei that lives in the Rainforests with stems up to 15 metres long. My favourites are first the Rose-leaf Raspberry Rubus rosifolius. This is the short raspberry (rarely above 1.5metres) that we can commonly see in paddocks and forest edges

around the range. Fruit can be a bit dry but still good for jam, however if we get good spring rain, they can swell up and be juicy and delicious. Second is the Large-Fruited Raspberry –Rubus probus, which has the benefit of a much longer fruiting period, in fact they can produce juicy and very tasty fruit throughout the year. You can actually grow our native raspberries for fruit, like the many the

exotic raspberries if you manage them accordingly, pruning, fertilising and watering increase the quality and quantity of fruit. So, as the year draws to a close, we wish you all a Very Berry Christmas from the Forest Heart ecoNursery & Brush Turkey Enterprises Team. Now’s the time to plant a raspberry and give the gi of life to you, your garden and of course the wildlife, Berry Christmas!

Rose-leaf raspberry (Rubus rosifolius). Inset: Rubus_probus

Holiday puzzles

Put together (8)

Hiding place for gi s (6)

Playthings (4)

Sailing vessel (5)

Young cows (6)

Santa’s white Boomers (9)

(3)

(9)

(6,5)

December 31 (3,5,3)

Music menu (8)

Owing (3)

(4)

The bird in a gum

on the first day of

(mus) (3)

Amuse (9)

79 Salad fruit (6)

80 Thirsty (3)

82 Xmas train, the Polar ... (7)

85 Short snooze a er a big meal (6)

86 Santa’s elves (10)

87 Fitting (3)

DOWN

1 Sauce for salad (8)

2 Burning without flame (11)

3 Regions (5)

4 Festive evergreens (5)

5 Indigenous (6)

6 German automobile (inits) (2)

7 Opening (3)

8 Tantalise (5)

9 Christmas Eve visitor (5)

10 Farewell (coll) (3)

11 Self-serve refreshment table (6)

12 Santa wears a red one (3)

18 Large church (9)

19 December celebration (9)

22 Locals of shared interests (9)

24 Grandma (3)

25 Traditional pudding type (4)

26 Snoop for presents (3)

28 To be grateful (10)

30 Purchases (12)

33 An alternative (2)

34 Hawaiian garlands (4)

36 Ship of the desert (5)

37 Iridescent Christmas insect (6)

39 Sacred place (9)

41 Youths (9)

42 Realise beforehand (10)

43 The Three Kings came from this direction (4)

44 Ancient instrument (4)

49 Santa’s other name, Kris ... (7)

50 Vast sea (5)

51 Absence of sound (7)

53 Pursue for affection (3)

55 Timetabled (9)

57 Formal observance (8)

59 Christmas cake liqueur (6)

62 Food (coll) (4)

64 Circlet of flora (6)

65 Former flame (abb) (coll) (2)

66 Social gatherings (7)

69 Song’s words (6)

70 Bakes (6)

72 Snack food (4)

73 Pastimes (5)

74 Performed by all (Mus) (5)

76 Level (4)

78 At hand (4)

81 Tricky beach current (3)

83 Mode of contact (abb) (2)

84 Thank you (coll) (2)

87 The number of turtledoves my true love gave to me (3)

Sauce for salad (8)

Burning without flame (11)

Water pitchers (5)

Festive evergreens (5)

Gain by effort (6)

Greek letter (2)

Perception (3)

Likeness (5)

Eve visitor (5)

Mate or male sibling (coll) (3)

(6)

Insect (3)

church (9)

76 The bird up a gum tree on the first day of Christmas (mus) (3)

77 Amuse (9)

79 Salad fruit (6)

80 Thirsty (3)

82 Jumpers (7)

85 Short snooze after a big meal (6)

86 Santa’s elves (10)

ACROSS: 1 Dessert, 5 Apple pies, 10 Baby, 13 Air, 14 Hero, 15 Events, 16 Prawn, ce,17 Offi 20 Psalms, 21 In haste, 23 Ambient, 27 Angel, 29 Illuminate, 31 Jew, 32 Suppers, 33 Nil, 35 Prancer, 37 Drone, 38 Ornaments, 40 Gift, 42 Assemble, 45 Closet, 46 Cake, 47 Yacht, 48 Coldie, 49 Kangaroos, 52 Rye, 54 Functions, 56 Jingle Bells, 58 Cub, 60 Hue, 61 Inn, 63 New Year’s Eve, 66 Playlist, 67 Doe, 68 Jewellery, 71 Reds, 72 Night, 75 Also, 76 Emu, 77 Entertain, 79 Tomato, 80 Dry, 82 Leapers, 85 Catnap, 86 Assistants, 87 Two.  DOWN: 1 Dressing, 2 Smouldering, 3 Ewers, 4 Trees, 5 Attain, 6 Pi, 7 ESP, 8 Image, 9 Santa, 10 Bro, 11 Buffet, 12 Bee, 18 Cathedral, 19 Christmas, 22 Solemnity, 24 Moa, 25 Plum, 26 Fir, 28 Appreciate, 30 Transactions, 33 No, 34 Leis, 36 Camel, 37 Dancer, 39 Sanctuary, 41 Teenagers,

Christmas Crossword

Join the Dots

Travel the Maze Bottled Fruit

Melbourne’s property market continued to gain momentum in 2025,

JOHN MCGRATH - SOLID OUTLOOK FOR MELBOURNE AS GROWTH INCREASES

in an unusual capital city outcome, Melbourne’s broad a strong property supply, a year, Economist Intelligence named

of McGrath Estate Agents.

21 Features That Put Your Investment at the Top of a Tenant’s List in 2026

As we move into 2026, renters across South East Queensland are prioritising comfort, and secure stronger returns - all while supporting our community through one of the Our team has compiled the top 21 features premium tenants are actively seeking, from everyday essentials such as air-conditioning and dishwashers to high-value upgrades like

These features don’t just improve livability; they directly increase tenant appeal and can

demand-features-shaping-the-rental-market-in-2026/ If you’d like personalised recommendations based on your suburb or property type, our