Edition 17 January 2023

By Jennifer Kent

FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to our first edition of 2023.

We hope everyone had a great break and is feeling refreshed.

Jumping right in to the big news of last week: the bureaucratic mallet that forced the closure of One Tree Hill. Given it’s the height of summer, it prompted me to think of the cricketing maxim, ‘It’s not in the spirit of the game’.

As you may know the iconic location was forced to shut after two complaints, one in 2021 and the other in 2022.

The council, in its wisdom, wanted the property owner - who for 25 years had opened the location for a small donation that went directly to local community groups - to apply for a commercial zoning permit.

Seriously. Yes there are rules - so many of them - and authorities can enforce them on a whim.

But the question is, at what cost?

The answer is: $12,000 annually.

That is the amount not going to local organisations including Rangecare, the Maleny Show Society, the Men’s Shed and many more.

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It was funding that helped groups and volunteers to make ends meet and deliver services without going cap in hand for grants. Of course the cost goes beyond a monetary figure.

For the council that cost can likely be counted by increasing scepticism that they are working within the spirit of the community.

The heavy-handed, black-and-white approach on this and other matters that has a direct affect on not-for-profit and local groups as it erodes trust, exhausts current volunteers and deters potential newcomers wanting to give back to communities.

At a time when communities need volunteers more than ever, these and similar decisions work in direct opposition with those efforts.

Keeping with the cricketing theme, these bureaucrats should be given out: stumped.

Maleny Show Society’s newest Life Members: Ed Lawley, Ian Aldred, Matthew Howard, Norma McLeod, Kayrene Corkin, Bob Corkin, Ken McPhee and Laurelle Newton.

Mitch

Mitch Gaynor

Glasshouse Country & Maleny News @gcmnews

By Jennifer Kent

COMMUNITY groups will miss out on tens of thousands of dollars in donations after owners of the site of possibly Australia’s most photographed tree made the decision to close their gates permanently following complaints to council.

Over the past 25 years the Woods family has allowed access, along with a donation, to ‘One Tree Hill’ at their Mountain View Road property in Maleny.

One Tree Hill was hugely popular, especially with newlyweds, with the stunning location providing the perfect backdrop for their special days.

Proceeds were passed on to local community groups and charities throughout the Blackall Range, estimated to be between $10,000-$12,000 per year.

However, following a small number of complaints to council, the family announced that as of February 2023, they will no longer allow visitors to the private property.

Francis Woods, son of the property’s owner, Florence, said that it was not the decision the family wanted to make but pressure from council had forced their hand.

“It’s not what we wanted to do, but we felt we were forced to make this decision as the pressure has been a lot,” he said.

“There was pressure that they consider the space as commercial, which would come with a whole range of changes.

“We don’t have a commerical interest.”

A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson

confirmed Council has received complaints about the use of the property for wedding ceremonies.

“Council received a complaint in 2021 relating to the use of this property for wedding ceremonies and a further complaint in October 2022 in relation to the continuation of wedding ceremonies,” a Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said. “On both occasions Council officers have written to the owner of the property informing them that the use of this property for a Function facility is unlawful and a development permit must be sought before the use can lawfully operate on this property.”

Since the family’s announcement there has been an outpouring of support from community groups, businesses and members of the community and afar, taking to social media to thank the family.

A Maleny Historical Society

spokesperson, whom the Woods family have regularly donated proceeds to over the years, shared their gratitude to the Woods family for their ongoing support.

“We thank Mrs Woods for her generosity over the years,” they said.

Visit Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s, Kerry Brown, said the family had been incredibly generous in allowing people to enter their private property, and donating to the community. “It was their decision to close access and we understand there are reasons they had to make that decision,” Kerry said.

“But there are many, many beautiful places throughout Maleny and surrounds and we’re lucky the region is full beautiful spots.” Mr Woods, has offered an alternative destination at his Booroobin property, where he operates a working dairy farm. Access to the property will strictly be by booking.

Australia Zoo applies to host live music

AUSTRALIA Zoo hopes to hold evening events and live music under plans to expand the Crocoseum at the hinterland tourist attraction.

The zoo last month lodged an application with Sunshine Coast Council for a material change of use, seeking approval for a current structure – the Crocoseum Food Court Area - to be used additionally as a function facility at the Beerwah tourism attraction.

The development permit details a material change of use for the extension of outdoor entertainment, with the proposed changes including an addition to the previously approved extended hours of operation of the food court area, to allow for additional breakfast and evening events, an increase in guest numbers to 300 and amplified music for events.

The application details that the proposal will generate additional traffic, but states this will occur “outside the existing hours of operation for the Zoo”.

The application was lodged on December 23, 2022 by Project Urban on behalf of the applicant and landowner, Silverback Properties Pty Ltd.

It details the amount of traffic generated during additional events to be minimal stating “it is considered that the proposal will not have any significant impacts on traffic flow created by the site and on the local road network”.

The application is currently in progress.

‘Come and try’ mobile expo

By Jennifer Kent

COMMUNITY groups and organisations across Maleny are excitedly preparing for the Maleny District Sport and Recreation Club’s ‘Mobile Come and Try Day’ on Thursday, January 26.

The event, previously called the Maleny Aussie Expo held at the Showgrounds, will this year follow a roving ‘come and try’ style of events hosted by individual groups and clubs at their premises, the Maleny Community Precinct and the Maleny Showgrounds – where the Apex Club will be starting off the day for families with their traditional Big Aussie Day Breakfast at 7.00 am.

Rick Vickers, who is part of the volunteer organising committee behind the event, said that there’s been a great response from groups who have been busy organising their individual activities and display for the day.

Over 30 community groups have already registered with organisers saying this will allow groups to really showcase what they have to offer to members of the public.

The response to the new platform has been positive, with members eager to have their premises on display, sharing the nitty gritty of what they do.

The Maleny Historical Society’s Laurelle Newton said they’re looking forward to the event and feel the new roving style open day events is a better idea.

and experience what we do, explore our premises and even see how they may be able to contribute,” she said.

I’ve no doubt the new roving format will also be a huge success!

“We’re looking forward to opening up Pioneer Village to visitors, so they can see

“This is the real deal - maybe they have items at home to donate, or have knowledge about something they see. We’ll be putting on a morning tea and will have membership forms available for anyone that would like to join on the day.”

Member for Glass House Andrew Powell is backing the new roving format to be a huge success. “The Maleny community

has something for everyone. There’s every sport under the sun; recreation, art and craft groups; service clubs; and so, so much more,” he said.

“The Aussie Day Expo has always been a huge success but what better way to check out what Maleny has to offer than visiting these organisations in their “natural environment.

“I’ve no doubt the new roving format will also be a huge success!”

Mike Druett of the Blackall Range Horseless Carriage Club, who shares their premises with the Men’s Club and the Historical Society, said while they enjoyed the event at the Showgrounds, he feels the new layout should work well as visitors will be able to see multiple groups in action at their own premises.

“It’s really nice to be back and be able to host events such as this after a long delay with Covid,” Mike said.

“We’re lucky to share our venue with other groups so I think that will be beneficial to both the groups and those coming along to see what we’re all about.

“We’ll be holding a free sausage sizzle and there’ll be plenty of parking –everyone is welcome.”

Liftout with full program of events and map in next week’s GC&M News.

The Apex Club will be holding its Aussie Day breakfast at the Showgrounds at 7am.

Units starting to fill in Beerwah

By Jennifer Kent

TWO large house blocks on Peachester Road at Beerwah are set to be developed into multiple units as developers continue to take advantage of medium density rules in the hinterland town.

The two properties, at 61 and 63 Peachester Rd, totalling over 3400sqm of land, will be developed over two stages.

The second stage will see the development of six units, while keeping the original houses at the front of the block. The sites are within Beerwah’s medium density residential zone and priority infrastructure area.

The six new units will all be about 300sqm in total area size. Urban planner, Pace Planning states the development

“... integrates with existing community infrastructure and amenities that are connected to Peachester Road and broader Beerwah community.”

“All adjoining and surrounding sites are zoned medium density and Beerwah is planned to become a Major Centre.

“Infill development of the existing high and medium density zones is expected to intensify as the Beerwah locality area grows and demand for housing increases in the area.

“Beerwah is ‘missing’ the middle –being medium density outcomes.

“Council cannot hold medium density development back in Beerwah moving forward.”

Transport cases delayed again Grant for heritage safekeeping

IT HAS been revealed taxpayers are forking out over $21 million on the latest round of business cases for Sunshine Coast public transport with no State Government commitment.

“Heavy rail should be the priority over mass transit, but the heavy rail business case is shrouded in secret with no public terms of reference or any schedule for public consultation. Planning in the dark, isn’t progress it’s about propaganda. I think the State Government’s real motivation is to delay and deny rather than build and act” states State Member

for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson.

Sunshine Coast Mass Transit Action Group President, Tracey GoodwinMcDonald has requested numerous updates and more information from the Transport Minister about the status of the Sunshine Coast mass Transit and Maroochydore Rail projects with no responses to-date.

Given the speed of the Sunshine Coast’s growth and its projected population of 520,000 by 2041, proper infrastructure is imperative to supporting this growth, of which these cases were paramount.

A $500,000 HERITAGE Disaster Recovery Grant program has been launched by the Federal and State Government to assist heritage-listed property repairs following the 2022 flood season.

“Eligible owners and organisations can apply for grants of between $10,000 and $35,000 for projects that will restore cyclone, rain or flood-affected places that are listed on the Queensland Heritage Register,” he said.

In addition, projects that focus on improving the resilience of heritage-listed

buildings and their contents against future disasters will also be eligible for a grant.

Chair of the Queensland Heritage Council Leslie Shirreffs said these funds come at the perfect time as some heritage-listed properties need urgent attention.

The Sunshine Coast is one of the eligible locations for these new grants, with many of the Coast’s heritage properties located amongst the Glass House Mountains, Peachester and Landsborough.

Maleny Show Society

By Jennifer Kent

AS the Maleny Show Society prepares to celebrate 100 years of shows this year, it has welcomed seven new life members,

Peggy Burnett on a garden club trip and she convinced me to help her with the cut flowers display at the upcoming Maleny Show. I helped her until her retirement, then went on to assist Olga for a

Age: 86

First involved: I became involved with the show when I first arrived in Maleny in 1994. I met

Norma McLeod

Kayrene Corkin

Age: 75 years

First involved: As a child my parents were involved in the Maleny Show. I first became involved in the 1970s helping with catering, but my real love has been since the 1990s where I became Steward of the Main Ring.

Favourite Memory: As a child sitting in the classroom at Maleny State School when we saw the first Side Show Truck roll into town was exciting.

Also, there was always fun and laughter working alongside the Main Ring Announcer, the Late Alain Henderson, for almost 30 years.

What do you love about volunteering: The joy of seeing

Bob Corkin

Age: 78 years

First involved: Officially in the 1980’s but before that it was tagging along with Family. I’ve been on the Grounds Committee, tasked with setting up before the show, as well as helping erect the horse yard before the show. I also work in the Show jumping Ring throughout the show.

Favourite Memory: The Junior Six Bar on Friday Night, Show jumping.

What do you love about volunteering: I love the friendships and camaraderie over the years.

Laurelle Newton Age:

78

First involved: Over 45 years ago. I think it was Gerry Cole and Ros Sinclair who encouraged me to help out at the show. At the time my husband was in business and growing up my parents were always volunteering their time to help others – it was just the right thing to do… you do things for the good of the community.

Favourite memory: I don’t have just one memory that springs to mind, but I suppose it is just meeting up with people. I was incredibly humbled to be recognised by the society with this lifetime membership.

What do you love about volunteering: The camaraderie. Being with people and working alongside them to see the show come together. There wouldn’t be a show with the volunteers.

Ken McPhee

Age: 90

First involved: About 45 years ago. I joined the Pony Club and became involved through the club, helping with the kid’s show jumping.

Favourite memory: a lot of good friends over the years through the show. There’s a photo on myself and some other great blokes sitting on the back of a ute… I still have that photo. There was one year we all put our brands on the wall – I’m sure they are there somewhere. There’s been a lot of great memories over the years.

What do you love about volunteering: It’s good to do something for the district and you make a lot of friends along the way. There’s some that are missing now, but we’ve got great memories of times together.

The bails take shape

WOW! The Fairview cow bails milking shed and yards are visible again!

For the last 12 years there has been no weed management at the site from the Maleny Community Precinct, and the historic building and yards have been slowly disappearing from view and deteriorating in condition. They looked unloved and uncared for.

However last year some Maleny locals, who had not forgotten this historic building, built in the early 1900’s by the Pattemore family, got together to do something about it. They recognised that the bails depict a former way of life in and around Maleny and represent the early history of the dairy industry.

This group formed the Fairview Cow Bails Restoration Committee, as a subcommittee of the Friends of Pattemore House. Its Chair, John te Kloot, said “every journey begins with the first step”.

And thanks to a Discretionary Funding grant from Councillor Winston Johnston that first step has been taken. The invasive vegetation was removed from the yards and around the milking shed on January 4 and it is again possible to view the cattle yards and get a better appreciation of this historical dairy working area. The cattle yards will be repaired in the coming weeks, thanks also to Cr Johnston’s grant.

The next stage will be much needed attention to the building, especially the roof, to give the community another distinct historical site visible along the Precinct Walking Trail, which is popular

John, Penny, Gail and Mandy inspect work to clear weeds from the Fairview cow bails milking shed

with locals and visitors alike.

between the Maleny community and the bails owners, Sunshine Coast Council, we want to ensure that the preservation project does not stall again, ” said Mr te Kloot.

years of neglect. Its preservation needs to commence now.”

When being assessed for their cultural significance by Heritage Architect Ivan

meetups

Contributed by Jenny Broderick

SINCE Glasshouse Country Chamber of Commerce kicked off its local agribusiness initiative less than 12 months ago, they have already hosted five workshop events for both local chamber members as well as industry representatives from across the region.

The latest event was hosted by Jade King at Green Valley Fingerlimes at Beerwah and the special guest speaker on the day was Sunshine Coast Council CEO Emma Thomas.

Emma, along with Andy Eves-Brown council’s manager for economic development and local councillor Rick Baberowski, led a panel discussion on the future of Agritourism in Glasshouse

County, the Biosphere submission and considerations for the next Council planning scheme.

Glasshouse Country Chamber of Commerce president Jenny Broderick said it was great event, and that she has been really pleased with the outcomes from these regular Agribusiness meet-ups, the informal partnerships that have formed between members, and the shared vision that is being created in the group members.

If you would like to be involved in our Agribusiness meetups, please contact through the chamber’s website www.glasshousecountrychamber.com. au/community/glasshouse

MALENY FORUMS Monthly Update

Working group

The ‘Maleny Park for All’ working group, formed at the November forum on ‘A multigenerational park for Maleny’, is preparing a proposal to Sunshine Coast Council based on the extensive results from the forum and planning discussions since then. The co-convenors are Rossi Moore and Sarah Cornfoot. The group is keen to keep community members well informed; please email malenyparkforall@gmail. com if you would like to be on their mailing list.

Ideas for 2023 forums?

Maleny Forums Coordinating Team invites you to send us ideas about topics that reflect issues of strong community concern, and where a forum is a good fit for exploring that issue.

It is always hoped that a working group is formed.

Please email malenyforums@gmail.com with your suggestion(s) about a 2023 forum, and a Coordinating Team member will contact you for a discussion.

Maleny Forums collaborates with the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, Hinterland Business Centre, and Maleny Community Centre.

The ongoing support of local Councilor Winston Johnson is also valued.

Interested in any of the topics? Like to receive notices of upcoming forums and new working groups? Please email malenyforums@gmail.com or use the QR code.

Benita’s new path to caring for clients

three core values: Community, Sustainability and Quality.

Nurse, Benita decided to pursue her passion and serve her community in a new way; through the beauty and elegance of floristry and all things nice. Sourcing our flowers, gifts and homewares from local artisans and wholesalers is just one way Fleur Emporium aim to be a positive part of our community.

They are a doggy friendly space, so pooches are welcome. Treat your fur baby to our doggy treats and skin care.

Fleur Emporium is also a space for gathering and learning, with workshops held every month at our Simpson Street store. These are an opportunity for us to share knowledge and skills with our community. Refreshments and locally sourced snacks are provided. Exciting workshops to come in 2023 are Flower Therapy, Candle Making, Aromatherapy,

Clay Polymer and much more. Keep an eye on the community boards and social pages to find dates or pop by and ask Benita.

Corporate and commercial clients can inquire about Fleur Emporium’s high quality gift hampers and corporate floral art. These are professionally presented hampers and gift lines to promote your brand and boost your popularity.

Maleny Forums collaborates with the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, Hinterland Business Centre, and Maleny Community Centre.

The ongoing support of local Councilor Winston Johnson is also valued.

Interested in any of the topics? Like to receive notices of upcoming forums and new working groups? Please email malenyforums@gmail.com or use the QR code.

Located at 5/68 Simpson Street, Beerwah the store is open Monday to Friday: 9am to 4pm, and Saturdays 9am to 12pm.

Order now for Valentines Day!

Beerwah Masters Swim Team looks for new members in 2023 season

By Kirra Livingstone

THE Beerwah Masters Swim Team have dived into the new year, and members are keen to train, compete and stretch their limits again this year.

Swimmer Kylie Cornock said after the success their team had last year, particularly at the Pan Pacific Masters

members to the team, swimmer Angela Reedman-Polinski and the new Swim Fit Beerwah head coach, Courtney Anderson. Kylie said the whole team, including the new additions which she welcomes, are ready to get back into competitive swimming.

Bulldogs set for a big year of footy

By Kirra Livingstone

THE Beerwah Bulldogs are aiming to build on the strength of the club’s 2022 success with two sign-on days on January 21 and February 4.

The sign-ons come ahead of the club’s season launch on March 4, which will include live music, entertainment, and a special guest.

The club is working on securing a visit from Beerwah junior and NRL player, Reed Mahoney, for their launch.

Club Secretary, Nadia Rane, said the sign on days will be fun for new and returning players with a complimentary barbeque on offer.

Nadia said the club was enthusiastic about the 2023 season saying they had already received 104 registrations.

“That includes our volunteers but it’s a great start for this time of year given the season doesn’t commence until late March,” she said.

Ex NRL player, Mose Masoe, is the Beerwah Bulldogs new ambassador this

season, and the club has also received Lee Addison’s expertise.

The business owner and coaching adviser will help teams reach their full potential.

“Lee runs a very successful business and runs the Rugby League Coach Facebook page, in which he will run 10 sessions to coach the team coaches, give them activities to do with players and much more,” she said.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to have a retired NRL player (Mose) become our ambassador as well, he will just be a face that some of our older players will know and help out around the club.”

The Bulldogs are also eager to enter an under 19s team in the regular competition.

But the club is seeking to boost numbers for that squad.

The Doggies are also hoping to attract more players for its women and girls squads.

Powering our future with sunshine

Council is the first local government in Australia to build, own and operate its own solar farm. The award winning 15 megawatt solar farm, at Valdora, has offset Council’s electricity consumption across all of its facilities and operations since July 2017, including buildings, parks, libraries, aquatic centres, galleries and street lighting. Based on current electricity prices, the solar farm will save an estimated $22 million over 30 years. To see live generation data from the solar farm, visit Council’s website and search for ‘solar farm’.

Top tips for new garden bins

Did you know putting small branches into your bin before grass, prevents the grass sticking to the bottom? For more top tips on how to get the best from your Sunshine Coast household garden organics bins, check out Council’s new video in the recycle right series at sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/gardenbin.

24 artists over 12 months

Project 24 is an artist residency program in Nambour. Each month two creative residents develop, collaborate, experiment and showcase their work via a free public showing. The next is on Wednesday 25 January. For more, follow @ArtsCoast on Instagram or search 'project24' on Council’s website. This project is funded by the Sunshine Coast Council Arts and Heritage Levy.

CUSTOMER CONTACT

sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Council/Contact-Council

Time to explore some of the Coast's picture-perfect parks

The Sunshine Coast’s pristine natural environment and vibrant villages offer endless opportunities to get out and explore. Our region features 1293 parks, 356 playgrounds, 39 dedicated off-leash dog areas and 16 dog exercise parks with something for all ages and abilities to enjoy From the sparkling new Northern Parkland on Mooloolaba’s famed foreshore to hidden hinterland gems like Turner Park in Beerwah, grab your family, friends and fur-babies for a fun day out. Head to oursc.com.au and search 'picture-perfect parks' for nine beauties to check out that recieved an upgrade this year.

Land protected by your levy

Your Environment Levy supports a range of projects, programs and initiatives to protect and enhance our natural assets and helps Council to deliver a healthier environment and more liveable Sunshine Coast. Last financial year, the levy enabled Council to acquire four parcels of environmentally significant land, protecting a further 165ha across the region. Visit Council’s website to learn more about Council projects funded under the Environment Levy.

Linking the Sunshine Coast Welcome to the new provider for the Council Link service, Suncoast Cabs. They will be undertaking the same service as previously provided through ComLink. Council Link operates across the region and is an affordable transport service that is available for people aged 60 and over and people with a disability or mobility impairment. To book your service, please call Suncoast Cabs on 5441 8856. For more information, visit Council’s website.

Share your stories

Historians in Residence want to hear your local farming and community WWII stories to help fill gaps in our local history. Community days are on February 15 and 23 at Bankfoot House, Nambour Heritage Library and Landsborough Museum. Bookings are essential: visit heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au, email heritage@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or call 5420 8600.

Get the latest Council news delivered directly to your inbox each week. Sign up for the OurSC enewsletter here

‘Saint Peter’ saves the day for Twinnies with generous offer

By Jennifer Kent

BRIDGETTE and Paula Powers from The Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue, based in Landsborough are here to stay.

In a segment on A Current Affair, which aired on Tuesday, January 10 2023, it was revealed the property they lease, where they rehabilitate hundreds of injured and sick native birds had been purchased by one of their many supporters, Brisbanebased philanthropist Dr Peter Sherwood, essentially meaning they will be “here forever and a day”.

Bridgette and Paula, with the support of their mother Helen Powers, have been caring for injured and sick birds for over two decades.

Helen spoke with GC&M News sharing that the generosity of Peter - or ‘Saint Peter’ as they call him - was “better than winning the lotto”.

Helen shared Bridgette and Paula are very thankful to Saint Peter and are happy for the birds.

“We thank Saint Peter for his generosity and we really feel like we are one of the lucky ones to have his support,” Helen said.

“Out of a really awful experience [Paula’s stress-related hospitalisation after receiving an abusive phone call during an ACA segment last year] has come this, and the Twins now have a secure place here on the Sunshine Coast for as long as they like.

“There’s a lot of work ahead but there’s a big future for Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue.”

Recent years has seen the rescue face a number of challenges at their purposebuilt facility, including rising costs of operation, with the Twins able to continue thanks to the generosity and support of fundraising efforts and some community grants.

Helen said plans for the future of Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue include training others up to assist with the rescues and rehabilitation of birds, as well building more aviaries on site and extending wheelchair access throughout the premises for visitors, as well as additional wheelchair toilet access.

Donations of building materials and supplies are welcome and will go directly to additional onsite aviaries.

The Twinnies are located at 2147 Steve Irwin Way, Landsborough.

To find out more about what they do, visit www.thetwinnies.com.au or follow them on Facebook.

For those wishing to volunteer, contact 5439 9995.

One for the calendar Watch Council’s next Ordinary Meeting online –Wednesday 25 January at 9am.

WHAT'S ON

Witta Market

Time: 7am-12noon

Where: The Old Witta School, 316 Witta Road

Info: Witta Market

Jan 21

The Witta farmers market is back for 2023, showcasing some of the best in small growers and producers on the Blackall Range.

A Ceremony if Remembrance

Time: 10am

Where: Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, 17 Bicentenary Lane

Jan 26

Info: A Ceremony of Remembrance honouring the First Peoples of this land will be held on Thursday, 26 January, 2023. The Ceremony is open to the public and anyone who wishes to attend can do so.

The Ceremony comprises acknowledgment of country, symbolic rituals, quoted excerpts on Australian history from noted Australian historians, poetry, music, and a time for silent meditative remembrance.

Australia Day Mobile Expo

Rotary breakfast at 6.30am, various events held between 8-12noon

Maleny Tennis Club Come & Try Day

Time: 3-7pm

Where: Maleny Showground, Stanley River Road

Info: Maleny Tennis Club

Social tennis, BBQ, coaching and membership

Outspoken presents Chris Sarra

Time: Wednesday, February 1, 6 for 6:30pm

Where: Maleny Community Centre

Jan 26

Various locations across Maleny Clubs and organisations around the Hinterland are excitedly preparing for the Maleny ‘Mobile Come and Try Day’. The event will this year follow a roving ‘come and try’ style of events hosted by individual groups and clubs at their premises, or at the Showgrounds, with over 30 clubs and organisations welcoming vistors to find out more and get involved. Keep an eye out for the program in next week’s GC&M News.

Jan 29

Info: Dr Chris Sarra is a Gurang Gurang/ Taribelang man, a former Queenslander of the Year, and the author of Good Morning, Mr Sarra. Chris will talk about his memoir, but also, in this year when a referendum on a Voice to Parliament is to be held, to talk about what are often considered the three pillars of effective reconciliation.

Tickets $25, $18 for students. outspokenmaleny.com

Sconetime Beerwah

Time: 10-11.30am

Where: Beerwah Community Hall, 29 Peachester Road

Info: Join local seniors in the Beerwah Community Hall to enjoy a scrumptious morning tea of freshly baked scones with Cuppa tea or Montville Coffee. Open to all, Scone Time is designed to reignite life into the wonderful old halls of the Sunshine Coast. The event is a wonderful opportunity for seniors, along with their carers, companions and family to get together.

Road, Maleny

Info: The Dementia Network Sunshine Coast will be hosting a catch-up cuppa at The Orangery Maleny. The Dementia Network Sunshine Coast aim to support people with dementia, their family, carers and staff. The provide information, referrals, education and raise awarness. For more information contact Lorrae and Vince O’Rouke at carers@outlook@gmail.com, 0418 298 183 or visit scdementia.com.au

Stronger laws for community safety

The Queensland Government has announced new action and stronger laws to further protect community safety.

This tough new action includes:

1. Increasing the maximum penalty for stealing a car from 7 years to 10 years imprisonment 2. A more severe penalty of 14 years if the offence of stealing a car is committed at night, where the offender uses violence or threatens violence, is armed or pretends to be armed, is in company or damages or threatens to damage any property 3. Amend the Youth Justice Act requiring courts to take into account previous bail history, criminal activity and track record when sentencing 4. Increased penalties for criminals who share these crimes on social media 5. Extreme High Visibility Police Patrols 6. A $9.89 million fast-track sentencing program in Brisbane, Townsville, Southport and Cairns so children spend less time on remand and more time serving their sentences 7. The construction of two new youth detention centres 8. A trial of engine immobilisers in Mt Isa, Cairns and Townsville 9. The appointment within Queensland Police Service of an Assistant Commissioner to the position of Youth Crime Taskforce Commander 10. The increased penalties apply to adults as well as juvenile offenders.

The Government will introduce the required legislative changes into the Queensland Parliament in February 2023.

For more information and to have your say visit www.qld.gov.au/strongerlaws

Authorised by the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane.

Rosetta’s Great Reads

The Passenger and Stella Maris

Reviewed by Steven Lang

Do you like Cormac McCarthy? Many say he’s an acquired taste, but those who like him can be quite passionate about it. I happen to be one of them. At 89 he’s published two new novels, The Passenger and Stella Maris (which should be read together, as the latter acts as a kind of key to understand the former). The books are something of a departure for McCarthy. There is no, or very little, blood, just a wonderful plethora of ideas, a great efflorescence of thought wound around a looping twisting story, all delivered in that inimitable take-no-prisoners style. Very highly recommended.

Crescent City fantasy series

Reviewed by Ava Paltridge

I’m a die-hard Sarah J Maas fan, and I fell in love with her characters all over again on rereading of the first book in the series, House of Earth and Blood (2020). Half-human, half-fae Bryce is such a strong female lead and fallen Angel Hunt is written to perfection. While the pacing starts out slow, once it all comes together this is an awesome story. The second book in the series, House of Sky and Breath (2022), was even more incredible as Bryce and Hunt fight to navigate their relationship and save their world. I highly recommend this series, and the upcoming third book in 2023! RRP $20/$30

30 Maple St, Maleny 5435 2134 OPEN 7 DAYS

Local artists given scope to expand creative endeavours

By Jennifer Kent

AN IMPRESSIVE array of artists and creative industries, including Maleny’s Outspoken and Munnimbah-dja, have gained vital funding that will help them “be bold and deliver bigger programs’’.

Sunshine Coast Council has announced a $170,000 funding boost to artists and arts organisations through the Arts and Heritage Levy with the support of the Queensland Government.

It is aimed at increasing participation in creative arts, supporting First Nations endeavours and growing audiences.

A total of $130,000 has been dedicated to stage one of a new funding program that provides multi-year financial support.

The Creative Industries Investment Program, supports local artists to upscale existing programs, events and initiatives, ultimately providing quality creative arts experiences and cultural benefit to the region.

Eligible applicants can request between $5,000-$20,000 each year for projects that support the Sunshine Coast Arts Plan 2018 – 2038, with more significant funding available to projects that demonstrate existing and ongoing regional cultural benefit.

Sunshine Coast Council Arts Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski said the

program was jointly funded through The Sunshine Coast Arts and Heritage Levy and the Sunshine Coast Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF)

“RADF is a grant program partially funded through the Queensland government,” Cr Baberowski said.

“It is designed to provide financial support, twice per year, for emerging and established artists; creative practitioners and producers to kickstart an idea or further develop an initiative.

“These grants can provide pivotal creative support, more development pathways and key opportunities to try new techniques, test and further concepts to see if they are viable.

“Initiatives that are viable and will provide an ongoing contribution to our regional arts landscape can then move forward to the next level of program funding, which provides the financial certainty to take calculated risks, be bolder and deliver bigger and better outcomes.”

Sunshine Coast Council Creative Arts and Events Coordinator Janine Symons said council received 13 applications for the new annual program, requesting more than $260,000.

“Council has allocated $130,000, for the first of three years funding, to seven diverse local projects,” Ms Symons said.

Arts vision still alive

local arts co-ordinator Steve McLeish is as determined as ever to create a community arts precinct in the heart of Maleny. While understandably disappointed the venture which was part of a ‘Maleny arts hub’ vision was not proceeding despite months of negotiations and a committed collaboration with the owner of Grounded Café, Mr McLeish said the experience had ultimately reiterated how grateful he was for the existing Maleny Lane and FrontUp creative communities.

Plans to host a special ‘take down the wall’ event at the FrontUp Chalkboard in Maleny Lane on January 16 has now been reframed as a ‘grateful for what we have’ party instead.

He said it was to be a night of entertainment and shared joy that acknowledged all that had been built up and achieved at Maleny Lane over the last few years.

“After learning our deal would not eventuate earlier this month, I moved through the emotional depths and realised that what we have already with the FrontUp community and Maleny Lane was so special it was worth celebrating,” Mr McLeish said.

Regardless of the setback, Mr McLeish said the experience had strengthened his resolve to continue to seek a local opportunity to establish a dedicated arts incubator facility in the town.

“I would love to see an arts centre in a central position here in Maleny,” he said.

“Somewhere for youth and arts to be nurtured creatively, and for artists to upskill and gather.”

He said he had a long-held communityinvolved vision for the creation of a multi-purpose hub that supported a performance and training space with arts workshop facilities, studios and rehearsal spaces, a cafe/bar restaurant, arthouse cinema and arts market.

Moving forward, he was hopeful that the Maleny community could unite and seek opportunities.

He said this may be possible through the formation of a not-for-profit group to enable fundraising and the ability to obtain grant and philanthropic support while also navigating a design process.

“I would like Maleny to be known for the arts, and as an arts village. I hope as a community we can build a purposebuilt arts facility as an arts education, performance, and community hub,” Mr McLeish said.

Volunteering made easier with simple online support tool

LIFE is about to get a little easier for the local volunteers who keep our footy clubs, kindies and community organisations running, with Volunteering Queensland launching its new online tool: My Governance Journey.

The “Australia-first” online governance tool will officially launch in February, coinciding with the organisation’s 40th anniversary.

The tool will serve as a plain English guide to what you need to know when joining a Committee or Board and the tool points people to the best resources depending on their journey as a Governance member.

My Governance Journey is an easy-tounderstand guide to get started from the

view of the individual, rather than from the organisation, following a circular lifecycle diagram keeping you up to date.

Built together with local volunteers who serve on committees, it is designed specifically for the needs of local people who might not have much experience in such a role.

“One of the things people told us is that there is already a lot of information out there – too much in fact – so what they were looking for was one place to make sense of it all,” said Volunteering Queensland CEO Mara Basanovic.

The My Governance Journey tool can be found on Volunteering Queensland’s website from February 6, 2023.

GIFTS

BJ Murphy

By Ainslie Reid

MEMBERS from three generations of the Fullerton family gathered together on Saturday December 3, 2022 at “Dunnottar” on Fullerton’s Road Glasshouse Mountains, for the unveiling of a memorial plaque.

In 1914, Robert and Isabella Fullerton and family settled in the Glasshouse Mountains on their selection near the base of Mount Ngungun. The property was named ‘Dunnottar’ as the shape of the mountain reminded Isabella of the historical Castle at Dunnottar Rock in Scotland, which was near their home in Stonehaven.

In 2011, the descendants of Robert and Isabella Fullerton and their nine children celebrated the centenary of their arrival

in Queensland from Scotland. After this event it was decided to create a memorial to the Fullerton family to acknowledge the family’s settlement and contributions the Glasshouse Mountains district. The family was significantly involved with the Queensland pineapple industry, the cultural and the sporting facilities of the Glasshouse Mountains and district

communities. This involvement has continued through the generations.

The plaque was unveiled by Mrs Dell Stokes (nee Fullerton) who is the oldest of Robert and Isabella’s surviving grandchildren. The Australian and Scottish flags were raised by Zali and Jade Fullerton, great grandchildren of Robert

Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2023 from all of us at GC&M News.

Calling all community groups, clubs and associations.

Do you have any anniversaries, celebrations and events in 2023 we can help share?

We’d love to help tell your stories so please reach out to us either at editorial@gcnews.com.au or directly to Mitch and the team at our emails on page 2. Best wishes for the new year from GC&M News!

Fullerton Family Group

Robert and Isabella Fullerton

Dell with twins Zali and Jade

Response to Doomsday Past

Well said Shane Daly, GC&M News, 20 December, I couldn’t agree more, but we mustn’t forget to mention Tim Flannery’s miraculous prediction that our dams will never be full again, it will never rain again, and our dams would be bone dry within months, so we need to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on water desalination plants along our coastline so we will have drinking water, so the government of the day did just that, and started building a desalination plant off the Gold Coast; now this so called lifesaving water plant is nothing but a rusting hulk of steel polluting the ocean, furthermore, it was never commissioned let alone completed and the clincher was Brisbane was under water in a matter of months after Flannery predicted we would have no water by some imaginary date he plucked out of his delusional mind.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, we are dealing with Mother Nature, and nothing these global warming alarmists do or say will have any effect on what happens with our atmosphere.

I admit, I’m not a scientist, but I was always taught that our climate is governed by the sun and the planets within our Solar System, but it’s amazing how they go quiet when weather events like the big freeze that’s currently gripping the USA and parts of Europe occur, so they change the terminology from ‘Global Warming’ to ‘Climate Change’; sadly, you and I both know that governments will continue to pander to these global warming clowns because they will do and say anything if they think will give them more votes on election day.

Peter Bowles Glasshouse Mountains

Help, the sky is falling!

I read Shane Daly’s list of failed predictions with great interest.

I too have done my own research and come up with a few more failed predictions Shane may have missed. Humans really did land on the moon. The Earth is not flat. Covid-19 is not a form of population control. The Covid vaccine does not contain a 5G chip. Airplane exhausts do not contain poisoned chemicals. The government does not control the weather. King Charles is not a vampire. The world is not secretly ruled by lizard people. The list goes on.

The usual vested interests, grifters, conmen, and scammers prey on the gullible and would lead us to believe otherwise.

Unfortunately, the tiny but vocal conspiracy cultists will not be swayed in

their misguided beliefs.

Thank goodness we have enough free thinkers amongst us to reject such obvious lunacy.

Caloundra

Curmudgeon, Caloundra

Threat to local business

Re: your article on support for small business - December 20 edition.

Yes, small and family businesses nationwide have suffered financial stress in recent times, due to issues beyond their control.

However, locally the greatest threat to small businesses in Glasshouse Country is the Coles Development Appeal now before the court.

Should this appeal be successful, then a simple DA change could, without public consultation, enable the establishment of professional premises, retail and hospitality in direct competition with existing businesses in the town centre.

When a corporate entity establishes a shopping precinct outside a town centre, their focus is on gaining market share not on short term profit, therefore existing businesses could not compete with the incentives offered.

There is currently DA approval for a full line supermarket with extensive car parking in the retail precinct of the township. This site and empty shops in Beerwah should be where retail expansion occurs, with the industrial site on Roys Road remaining as such for future industrial development. The industrial development will provide employment for many trades people plus their supporting staff and the retail sector will remain where it should be.

Joan Tucker Glasshouse Mountains

Road deaths by falling tree Old Gympie Rd. 31-12-22

Old Gympie Road is a busy rural thoroughfare, with increasing traffic due to tourism, regional development and its use as an alternate for the busy Steve Irwin Way.

Maintenance of this section of Old Gympie Road is the responsibility of the Sunshine Coast Council. These questions should be asked at the Coroner’s inquest.

Does SCC have procedures for checking the potential dangers of roadside vegetation (for example, dead trees and large overhead branches) ?

Was SCC aware of the advanced state of decay of the tree? If so, why was the tree not removed by SCC as a potential road safety issue?

Is the tree on public or private property? Was the tree Heritage listed? (Not likely) Was the tree subject to a native species habitat protection order?

Whatever the case, road safety must be the priority.

This was a preventable tragedy and lessons must be learned.

G. Bradford Maleny

Things I love about Covid

It’s a practice of mine, to always focus on the positives, as a positive outlook keeps you healthy and fighting off those nasty bugs.

1. Soap in public toilets. I mean, it’s a no brainer. Before Covid we had empty soap dispensers.

2. Beliefs. We all have our own beliefstructures about ourselves. Covid challenged those beliefs. People who promoted holistic medicine abandoned their beliefs in favour of the jab.

Others turned away from the pharmacy altogether. What a gift Covid is for us to discover our true thoughts about ourselves and others.

3. Love of our fellow humans. I just love Australians. In times of stress, we band together and look out for each other. During Covid, everyone was polite and courteous. Never before have I felt so much love coming from you all. Thank you.

Mumma Gummy Bear

Ruffled Feathers?

Peter Bowles (GC&M News Dec 13) seems irritated by my pointing out that earlier he had quoted from a maliciouosly fabricated source. He lists three turbine manufacturers that made losses in the last year. Peter seems to think that this means we should abandon wind power, but to me it means we should buy turbines while the are being sold at below the cost of production.

He points out that the Chinese wind turbine industry is expanding and asks “what does this say about your eight month payback period Mr Lowry?”. The eight months was quoted from the Vestas website and refers to the energy pay back period—that is the time it takes for the energy generated to exceed the energy consumed in the turbine’s construction and installation. But in his latest letter Peter seems to be referring to the financial pay back period which is a very diffferent number. He has a very dim view of the quality of Chinese turbines and fears they will fail and “the cost of repairing or replacing them will cost billions”. This is baseless fearmongering. In engineering you get what you pay for, and I am sure any company in Australia buying turbines will do a careful examination of maintenance costs, warranties, engineering quality and so on. So in answer to Peter’s question about “what does it say about payback period”, the answer is—not much.

But it is a pity that Australia cannot build its own wind turbines. In years past we covered Australia with Southern Cross windmills to water stock. Like so many of our industries it appears now to be owned and controlled from the U.S.A. In my experience companies with a head office overseas rarely invest in R&D in Australia. It would be good if we had a government with the vision and courage to establish strategic industries. We have an economy based on barristers and baristas, but what we need need are engineers and others who design and build things.

David Lowry Witta

Disneyland - shudder - I’m finally ready to live my best years.

I’ve been keeping busy of course.

Freed from the shackles of performing to an adoring crowd with my magnificent, but monotonous reptillian circus act, I found a swamp, raised a family and have lived a fairly upstanding existence scavenging for livestock, terrorising humans and the like.

But as middle age started to weigh down on me I found myself become increasingly philosophical and prone to asking nobody in particular: “What is this all about?”.

Is it about reading a good book and being nice to others? Or is it about having a column and

right.

Everything I need to know about the community has always been within those pages. Who was alive and what they were doing, who was dead or nearly dead, whether the Irwins were on my tail. It was all there.

But there was always something missing. Something with a bit of meat.

Turns out what the paper was missing was me.

Watching the world spiral into its own proverbial swamp was giving me an increasingly violent and nervous twitch, but through various psychotherapy sessions I learned it was because I was pushing all my opinions down into my tail.

not taking it anymore (the therapist suggested more placid alternatives).

I contacted this esteemed paper to see if it would allow me to express myself in a reasoned and logical way via a weekly column and the editor, seemingly desperate for ‘content creators’, rolled over without a fight (ed’s note: no he didn’t!).

He did lay down a few ground rules including rights of reply, free speech and identity.

Apparently I have to allow any readers to engage with me, so I

created an email account that I’ll occasionally read. Contact me at snappychat@gcnews.com.au if you must.

You might also have a few questions, like ‘Why should I listen to him?’ and ‘Are you seriously publishing this rubbish?’ and ‘My column missed out to this fool?’

All valid points, and I don’t have any answers. That’s the beauty of your own column.

Now I’ve introduced myself, I’m sliding off to work on my first official column-proper next week. Until then...

Chicken Schnitty

Serves: 2

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10-12 minutes

Ingredients:

½ bunch flat leaf parsley, chopped Zest of one lemon

2 tablespoons parmesan, finely grated ½ cup breadcrumbs, multigrain or sourdough

1 egg, lightly beaten ½ cup wholemeal flour

Ground black pepper, to taste

1 chicken breast (approx. 300 grams)

1 teaspoon olive oil

Lemon to serve

2 cups of garden salad or 1 cup of steamed veggies

Method:

PREHEAT oven to 180°C and line a tray with baking paper.

CUT chicken breast in half and place between baking paper or glad wrap. Pound each piece flat (to about half a cm thick) with a rolling pin or meat tenderiser.

ADD parsley, lemon zest, parmesan and breadcrumbs to a bowl. Combine well.

ADD beaten egg to another bowl.

Chargrilled Vegetable Pies

Serves: 6

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 60 minutes

Ingredients:

pepper, to garnish

PLACE flour on a flat plate then grind pepper over and stir to combine.

ROLL each flattened chicken breast half in flour then dip in egg mixture. Allow chicken to drain slightly, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture. Place on prepared baking tray.

DRIZZLE the chicken lightly with olive oil.

BAKE in oven for 5-6 minutes then flip chicken and continue baking until cooked through (about 5-6 minutes more).

SERVE the chicken with a lemon wedge and a garden salad or steamed vegetables on the side.

Sesame seeds, to garnish Method:

PREHEAT oven and a flat baking tray to 230°C fan forced or PREHEAT BBQ grill or char-grill pan on high until hot.

SPRAY both sides of vegetables and haloumi with oil spray.

CHARGRILL pumpkin 3-4 minutes each side. Remove and cover with foil.

CHARGRILL the eggplant, capsicum and zucchini for 5 minutes on each side until tender.

PEEL any charcoaled skin from capsicum and cut capsicum into thick strips.

CHARGRILL haloumi for 2-3 minutes

each side until lightly golden.

PLACE vegetables, haloumi and pesto in a bowl and mix.

SPRAY 6 pie tins with olive oil spray and line with pastry. Fill the pastrylined pies with rice and blind bake for 10 minutes. Remove pastry cases from oven and discard rice.

FILL pies with vegetable mix and top with a piece of pastry.

BRUSH top of pies with milk, make small holes with a fork and sprinkle with cracked black pepper and sesame seeds.

BAKE for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is puffed and golden.

Empowering women through education and health is a priority for the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA). The QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to adopt healthier lifestyles. To find out more about the program visit https://qcwacountrykitchens.com.au/.

A walk in the park a day, keeps the doctor away

A NEW study from UNSW Sydney, published in Heart, Lung and Circulation, shows how different types of urban green space impact cardiovascular health.

Previous studies demonstrate that nearby green space reduces risk of cardiovascular disease by promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and mitigating excess heat and air pollution.

High quality green spaces can also reduce loneliness, which then also benefits heart health. However, there is little understanding of which types of green space are important.

This research was led by Professor Xiaoqi Feng from UNSW and Professor Thomas Astell-Burt from the University of Wollongong.

The study involved over 100,000 Australian adults living in apartments or houses, analysing the nearby green space as well as ten years of hospitalisation and death data.

“We were interested in where Australians are living… and what type and quantity of green space may have impact on people’s hearts,” said Prof. Feng.

The study found that for those living in houses, tree canopy-style green space was associated with a lower risk of heart disease mortality.

One theory for this is that trees provide shade and cooler temperatures, making streets and parks more inviting.

Interestingly, for those living in apartments better cardiovascular health was not associated with green spaces, though further reaserch is needed.

Awareness is growing worldwide about the health benefits of green space.

In the US and Canada, more healthcare professionals are encouraging their patients to spend time in nature, known as ‘park prescriptions’.

Green space is also more important than ever in urban planning, with the

major issues of climate change and city crowding.

In 2021, Prof. Feng’s research informed the City of Sydney’s $377 million strategy to plant 700 new trees annually for ten years and reach 40% green cover by 2050.

Research on green space and its benefits is becoming more important as

massive urbanisation occurs. Learning about what types of green space are useful in certain areas means equal opportunity for everyone to benefit from nature.

Additionally, future urban planning needs to compliment existing fauna and green spaces.

How to help your pets beat the summer heat this year

HEAT exhaustion and dehydration can be challenging through the Australian summer for our pets. This summer could potentially be one of the hottest on record for Australia and being hydration savvy is now more vital to the health and well-being of your pet than ever.

During summer it is important to keep an eye out for signs of your pets heating up. For example, cats regulate their body temperature by sweating through their

paws and dogs through panting.

If your pet is feeling the summer heat, here are five simple things you can do to help cool them down:

1. Lots of fresh water

Pets need more water than we do so be sure to provide lots of fresh water.

2. Provide Shade or Air-Conditioning

If you are away during the day ensure they have access to cooling shade all day.

3. Pool Playtime

Supervised time in a child splash pool or using a damp towel to wipe down your pets is a great way to quickly cool them.

4. Freeze Treats

Fill and freeze treat holders with water and dog-safe foods for an enriching summer treat.

5. No Daytime Walking

During the summertime change your routine to dawn or dusk walks to avoid the sun’s heat and burning bitumen.

Spike in STIs causes concern Covid cases drop over Xmas

CONCERNS over an annual spike in sexually transmissible infections (STIs) post-festive season has prompted calls for the state’s party-goers to test early in the new year.

Between 2001 and 2021, the rate of infectious syphilis notifications in Queensland increased from 3.1 to 20.2 cases per 100,000 people each year. Of particular concern was congenital

syphilis, which is passed onto an unborn baby during pregnancy.

Between 2001 and 2021, 41 cases of congenital syphilis were reported in Queensland, 13 of which were associated with stillbirth or death after birth.

The best way to prevent getting an STI is to practice safe sex, however it’s crucial to also inform sexual partners in order to stop transmission.

QUEENSLAND Health is encouraged by a fall in the state’s reported positive COVID-19 cases as the festive season comes to an end.

Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard said it was reassuring to see reported case numbers drop 30% between late December and early January.

On December 20, 2022 Queensland recorded over 15,325 active cases

compared to our post-Christmas of 10,696 on January 4, 2023.

Dr Gerrard said Queensland’s COVID-19 traffic light system would remain on amber as a result, and that Queensland Health would continue to monitor key COVID-19 metrics to inform its response to the illness. These metrics are critical to identifying at-risk groups and providing accurate advice.

Is God good? A special Remembrance Ceremony held annually in Maleny

THERE is a growing movement across Australia to acknowledge the realities of the ‘Homeland’ conflicts in our history.

For several years now in Maleny, and surrounding district, there has been an increasing number of people who have assembled on 26 January each year, who gather to acknowledge some of the human dimensions of those conflicts.

A Ceremony of Remembrance honouring the First Peoples of this land, who lost their lives and country through the dispossession that began on 26 January, 1788, will be held on Thursday, 26 January, 2023, commencing at 10am.

The Ceremony is open to the public. Anyone who wishes to attend can do so.

The Ceremony comprises acknowledgment of country, symbolic rituals, quoted excerpts on Australian history from noted Australian historians, poetry, music, and a time for silent meditative remembrance.

The event provides an opportunity for those in the Hinterland Region to remember and honour those who died seeking to defend, and to retain, their ancient homeland which is now called Australia.

IT’S a great question, and also an incredibly important one because existence certainly doesn’t equate to goodness. To love, serve and have a relationship with someone means we have to believe in them, and know that they are good and can be trusted.

The age old question is “If God is good, then why are these bad things happening to me?”

From the Beginning “All was Good!”

“God saw all that He had made, and it was very good” Genesis 1:31

The serpent in the garden questioned and lied to Eve about God’s goodness which resulted in Eve believing that God wasn’t fair or couldn’t be trusted.

The fall of mankind, changed the world, as it lost the fullness of God’s glory. As a result of living in a world that is broken by sin, there are negative consequences for

The fact that we live in a broken world, does not change the nature of God.

In the well-known 23rd Psalm, David lists 5 things about the Goodness of God.

1. He Satisfies – He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

2. He Restores - He Restores my Soul

3. He Guides - He leads me in the paths of righteousness, For His name’s sake.

4. He Protects - Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me;

5. He Blesses - Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; Jesus introduced himself as “The Good Shepherd”. He was declaring that the nature of God is Good, and backed it up by saying “and I lay down my life for the sheep”.

Life’s not fair.,. But God is good!

Community Association grant

Community Association Inc have been awarded a Sunshine Coast Council Minor Grant to fence in under the Community

Grants Officer said “The fencing underneath of the centre will make it more secure as we plan for the

to right are Kerry Hall (President) and Judi Olsen (Secretary)

McG RAth Su MMER cOLLE cti O n M AGA zin E

For

digital copy, please email

FOR LEASE

Sunshine Coast to manage properties in the past, experiences have varied from average to disgraceful. McGrath Beerwah frequently go above and beyond, providing management of my property in a seamless process and professional manner. It is a joy to discuss all matters regarding the property with staff. Any limitations have been rectified immediately in a way that increases trust. They are the first agency, that I believe, has had my interests as their own. I cannot speak more highly of the property management team and do not hesitate in recommending them.

Professional and helpful

Bianca and the team were so helpful in getting my lovely rental. She went above and beyond to me and was considerate and caring. Very professional and efficient. I am so impressed by the way I have been assisted throughout the whole process. Thank you again Bianca, Sharee and team.

Amazing experience!

Very impressed with the agents at McGrath Beerwah. Professional, efficient and also very friendly! Made us as tenants feel at ease and well looked after.

Professional, easy to deal with, good outcome and very knowledgeable.

McGrath has been great to deal with. They have been very knowledgeable about the rental rules and regulations. Finding a tenant has been quick and easy with their help.

Country homes across the East Coast

Hinterland property market resilient in the face of shifting market

Property sales in the Hinterland finished strongly for the last quarter of 2022 as motivated buyers sought to secure a home prior to the Christmas holiday shut-down. Cassi Nuske of McGrath Beerwah reported 27 properties going under contract from October through to December which was up on the previous three-month period. There were less properties listed for sale over the same period which has resulted in a shortage of supply as we begin 2023. Cassi says, “during the first two weeks of January, there’s been a noticeable increase in calls to our office from buyers unable to find a suitable property. The general feedback is they’re finding less

properties available on market now, than there were two months ago.”

With interest rate rises predicted to ease in 2023, the catalyst for property price corrections seen through the last quarter of 2022 is likely to be less influential. Historically speaking, interest rates are still very low, and buyers are adjusting their budgets to factor the new levels. Cassi predicts that the key influencer on the market heading into 2023 is more likely to be supply and demand than interest rates.

“At the moment, supply in the Hinterland is low, which will have the effect of helping maintain property values and keep them from declining further than that seen in September

and October 2022.” Cassi states that while national media reports regarding predictions of further property value decreases through 2023 may be true for some regions, buyer demand for the Sunshine Coast region is likely to see the local area buck the national trend, providing supply remains tight.

If you’re a homeowner considering selling, now is a very good time to be coming to market – we have buyers seeking homes!

For assistance with an up-to-date appraisal or help navigating the changing market, please contact Cassi at McGrath Beerwah for an obligationfree chat regarding your real estate needs on 0415 304 127.

Welcome back

HELLO everyone. Nice to be back for another year.

I hope your gardens have fared well over the holiday period.

I’ve had some losses – the large Grevillea ‘Sandra Gordon’ (a lovely native yellow flowering small tree) had to get the chop as it slumped down and was blocking an access way; and I’ve had some gains – the parrot’s beak heliconias are back and flowering like crazy.

Luckily the weeds have been kept at bay, except for Colombian

Waxweed (Cuphea carthagenensis). This is a relatively new arrival in Queensland and is spreading like wildfire… I’ll do a column on it in another edition so everyone knows what a blighter it is.

The warm and humid weather has meant that the lawn has been in over-drive. Combine this with the showery rains and it means that the supply of nutrients available to your grass may be getting a little low.

Now is a good time to feed your lawn with a light dressing of lawn

Not sure if it’s the regular rainfall (a polite way of saying lots!), but I’m certainly enjoying planting right now. At Forest Heart we’re often asked, “when is the best time to plant in this area?” to which I’d answer, “In SE QLD it’s always a good time to plant!” - but then again, we are selling you plants! But seriously, the trick to successful plant establishment is to avoid or at least plan for the extremes e.g., heat, flood, frost - these extremes are the main limiting factors to when you can plant successfully.

Which leads me back to the benefits of planting right now. The warmer temperatures and regular rainfall provide plenty of opportunities to be outdoors and enjoying the health and wellbeing benefits of gardening and working on the land. Planting now is gentler on the plants, with good moisture and less heat stress. Establish plants now with the good rainfall and so you can then enjoy their shade in just a few years. Plant today and reap the rewards in the months and years to come.

fertiliser. It’s best to wait until showers are predicted to help wash it into the soil.

While you’re at it, bananas and citrus could probably do with the same – using a good citrus and fruit tree fertiliser.

In November I had an invasion of cabbage white butterflies in the veggie garden –and I mean hundreds.

Within a fortnight their eggs had hatched and the thousands of little caterpillars had stripped all the leaves from the silverbeet, beetroot, long white radish, tatsoi and the last of my kale.

So out they came and into the bulk compost bins they went – and a covering

of horse manure to heat it all up and kill the caterpillars.

And then just as quickly, the white butterflies disappeared and I’ve barely seen one since.

But just in case I’ve constructed a butterfly-proof enclosure over one whole garden bed to grow the leafy greens and other caterpillar attracting herbs and vegetables. It seems to be working and even keeping the green grasshoppers at bay.

One of the big issues we may have to face in 2023 is the spiralling costs of living.

So, for the clever gardener this means that you are in the box seat as you can save money by growing your own fruit, vegetables and herbs.

Over the coming months I’ll share some of my tips and tricks for growing your own to help keep the household bills in check.

Another change we’ll have to deal with is the weakening La Nina weather pattern and the return to a drier and hotter El Nino cycle.

One positive is that we’re unlikely to have flooding rains as often. But on the downside it means higher likelihood of bushfires and dwindling tank water (if you’re not on town water like me).

Don’t forget, if you’ve got some gardening questions or problems – or just have something interesting you’d like to share, just send them it to me at GC&M News – either via post to PO Box 190, Beerwah, QLD, 4519; or email to reception@gcnews.com. au and I’ll see if I can help.

Colombian Waxweed

Cabbage White Butterfly

Parrots beak Heliconia

Talking Trades with H&H

H&H METAL recycling has been a family owned local business for over 20 years. What started as a backyard hobby, it has grown over the years through love and support by the community.

H&H services domestic and commercial customers across the Sunshine Coast and Queensland for all your scrap metal needs.

In 2003, Don Hall established H&H Metal Recycling as a one-truck operation. A Sunshine Coast local passionate about cleaning up the environment, Don began scrap metal removal for residential and commercial customers on the coast.

Over the next ten years, Don’s operation grew due to his dedication to customer service and efficient processes allowing him to pay a competitive price. The family operated business now has multiple trucks and a committed team undertaking scrap metal removal for large businesses

across the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland and beyond. In 2019, H&H Metal Recycling opened their scrapyard in Kunda Park to the public, welcoming the public and businesses to cash in their scrap.

Zac Hall is carrying on the legacy by taking over as general manager, overseeing a dedicated team of people who assist you in recycling scrap metal. The recycled materials are used by various industries and applications across the world. Reducing waste in a way that benefits all involved. Metal recycling is not only good for the public by allowing them to remove of unused goods but also the enviorment by reducing the amount going into landfill. All of this playing a part by leading Australian into a cleaner tomorrow.

H&H Metal Recycling believes in helping the community by providing a professional and trustworthy service.

Certain work defined as 'building work' in the QBCC legislation may only be undertaken by licensed contractors or, if undertaken by unlicensed contractors, only to the value of $3,300. However, work falling outside of that definition may be performed by unlicensed contractors and is not subject to any value limit.

To check whether a contractor holds a QBCC licence visit www.qbcc.qld.gov.au or call the QBCC on 1300 272 272.

Local golfer scores albatross to end year

By Richard Owen

MALENY golfer Garth Bailo scored a rare albatross in competition last November at Maleny Golf Club in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Hinterland and then aced the par 3, 17th a few weeks later to cap a memorable 2022 golfing year!

A scratch marker, Garth, 39, is a former club champion at both Maleny and nearby Beerwah golf clubs and once helped legendary Aussie larrikin test cricketer Doug Walters try to improve his golf drive off the front foot during a local visit in 2010.

After teeing off on Saturday November 12, from the Stone markers on the 456m dogleg left par 5 second, Garth’s prodigious 320m drive left him with just an 8 iron approach shot in from about 135m which hunted down the pin with laser-like precision to find the cup.

Then, during the last Monthly Medal competition round of the year on December 31, Garth jarred his tee shot with that same 8 iron from the back markers on the tricky 147m par 3, 17th.

The albatross was a first for Garth and while he had two previous Aces up his sleeve – the first at the age of 10 with his father Rob’s old cut down 4 wood - neither was during a competition.

The odds of scoring an albatross are estimated to be as great as 6 million to 1 so it’s a rare feat indeed – one achieved by just a few hundred golfers around the world each year, compared to 128,000odd aces.

According to former senior USGA director and Golf Digest contributing editor Dean Knuth, an albatross requires “two great shots’’ by a player with both “length and ability”, and Garth’s game ticks both boxes admirably.

“Only a small percentage of golfers, less than 10 percent, ever reach a par 5 in two,” Knuth notes in a reference post on the

PGA’s web site.

“That means 90 percent of golfers don’t have a chance of making one.”

In fact, most golfers have a better chance of being struck by lightning than making an albatross.

For more information about Maleny Golf Club visit the website www.golfmaleny.com

Playing for a good cause

THE

Hinterland

year.

Play

So far, they have raised $14,000 up from the $10,000 raised last year. Proceeds go towards funding cancer research and patients.

Association secretary, Karen Robe, said it was a great weekend of sportsmanship as 25 teams of women aged 35 and older played at the Mooloolah Valley Sports Ground.

“We all loved playing, so we decided we’ll raise money as well while we play for a good cause, and last year was a hit so we are going to be running it every year now,” she said.

“This year so far we have raised $14,000, but we won’t know the full amount of how much we raised until the end of the week.

“We have raised the money through registrations, also through merchandise and raffles.”

The club has an exciting calendar of events coming up including their grand finals on March 26, and are hosting the under 18’s men’s state championships in late October.

Their next season starts in October around the same time as the state championships.

Maleny Tennis Club serves up some aces for the new year

A NEW junior hinterland competition, club championships, free public court use, improved member registrations and even Pickleball are some of the new initiatives the Maleny Tennis Club aims to introduce to rejuvenate the game across the hinterland.

Committee member Neil Doherty said a new coach and a new energy in the club is helping focus the committee on getting proactive with the MTC’s development following two years of Covid disruptions and encouraging more people to play tennis.

“We’ve created a schedule of events for 2023 starting with our open day on January 29 which is a Queensland wide initiative coinciding with the Australian Open Final … to get more people to come and play tennis.

“Moving forward we are going to do some things we haven’t done

in a while, partly due to Covid… having “The clubs we are planning on speaking with are Montville, Witta, Landsborough

isolation to create something,” he said. The MTC is also planning to overhaul registrations and encourage more people, particularly those aged 20-50 years old, to play tennis.

“We are doing a new member people can have a full membership and not have to pay for court hire,”

charge, though members will still have sole access to half of the courts.

A Sunshine Coast Council grant has recently allowed the club to refurbish their show courts and improve other facilities.

While pickleball is taking the United States and the world by storm, the MTC have been considering how to introduce the sport to locals.

“The other thing we are going to look at potentially introduce down here is pickleball, which is taking the world by storm,” Doherty said.

“I think right now its got the highest increase of participation than any sport in the world, which is insane... we are in the process of looking if we can transform one of the tennis courts to a pickleball court.

opened to the general public

“It’s a shorter version of tennis, it’s quicker to play for time poor people, a bit easier and less tiring on the body to play and is a very social game.”

Suncoast

Softball Association hosted its second annual

for a Cure Suncoast Master’s tournament on January 14-15, breaking their fund raising record from last

Doug Walters and Garth Bailo

Garth Bailo

Range croquet club

Contributed by Ken Barker

The year is getting well underway, with plans afoot for club activities and with Saturday morning coaching well attended as our players are looking to further their skills in 2023. On Saturday 14th, we had seven come along to learn from our experienced coaches Vince Carbery and Sarah Widin. All are hoping that the helpful advice brings an improvement in our games; on this occasion practicing clever use of the stop shot to place the croqueted ball ahead when playing a forward game as well as practicing use of the rush to move the roqueted ball to a better position for taking the subsequent croquet shot. We have enjoyed the company of Carole Atkinson from the Caloundra club who has joined us to take advantage of Vince and Sarah’s expertise. In the attached photo, Carole prepares to practice rushing the blue ball forward with the red strikers ball in while attempting a roquet, watched on by coach Sarah.

Thursday afternoon 12th January saw several games on the lawns with many of our players turning up to enjoy

some great competition. In a singles match, Dianne Horsman continued her excellent form to beat Donna Manning 14:8. Meanwhile in an exciting and high scoring doubles match, Lynette Evans and Wallace Roy scored a whopping 26 hoops to Vince Carbery and Sally Adams’ 19 hoops. Well played everyone. In another singles match, Nick Cram took on Ken Barker, with Ken coming up with the win with 19 hoops to Nick’s 10.

Sunday 15th, although overcast, brought very pleasant conditions with seven players fronting up keen to play. Sarah Widin teamed up with Dianne Horsman to defeat Donna Manning and Lynette Evans 11:6. Meanwhile Wallace Roy single handedly conquered Stuart Craig and Vince Carbery with a score of 9 hoops to 6. It must be the new mallet Wallace got for Christmas fuelling his great success this past week!

We are looking forward to Australia Day when anyone interested will be able to visit us in the morning on our lawns at the showgrounds and learn something of the great game of croquet. We hope to see you there!

Play days: Thursday and Sunday 2.00 pm for 2.30.

Contact Sarah Widin for other days. Please arrive at 2 pm for games to be arranged by 2.30. Coaching is available on Saturday mornings at 8 am

Our web address is: https://rangecroquetatmaleny.org.au

For details contact Sarah Widin 0417 640 704 (President )

AqUARiUs

January 21 – February 18

Early this week, you should live your life hand in hand with your inner guidance. Choose to listen to those soft, and sometimes, barely audible whispers. Slow down, and truly embrace these special messages. Often, it’s not so much the words but the hum of the vibration that heals mind, body and soul.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

You need closure which, under normal circumstances, may cause some stress - but now feels welcoming. Maybe it’s because you’re more forgiving. Maybe it’s because others are forgiving you, or are sincerely sorry. Whatever the case, happiness is on the increase which, in turn, can’t help but spill over into love and friendship.

ARies

March 21 – april 20

Periods of high stress can make us feel like we’re losing it, as can being surrounded by people whose values are very different from our own. For most Arians, the key to survival in a week like this would be to step back, take a deep breath and regain your composure. Only then should you decide what course of action to take.

TAURUs

april 21 – May 20

This week, Taurean lives are up for a restructure - happily, in your favour. You should approach negotiations forcefully and with purpose. And now that you’ve finally decided to embark on that special journey or project - there’s no turning back. Someone in authority may also offer a helping hand. For many, it’s also a week of surprises.

gemini

May 21 – June 21

Never doubt your own worth, Gemini. Always know that confidence is a state of mind. If you can appear positive, then others will think the same way about you. Try to think outside of your insecurities and ignore those voices that want to put you down. If all else fails, fake it until you make it - you’ll be amazed at the outcome.

cAnceR

June 22 - July 22

Problems hint at bigger issues that no one wants to discuss. While you’d rather not become involved, you may have no choicemostly because others’ worries are not as trivial as you thought. They’ve been downplaying it, so as not to worry you. Be helpful, but skip the martyrdom. The best lesson you can teach others right now is independence.

Leo July 23 – august 23

When on the attack, most Leos fire first and ask questions later. Sometimes, however, you can be too quick off the mark. This week check all facts before marching into battle - as someone could be planning an ambush. Unstable relationships may fall; but new romance looks set to flourish - great news if you’re back on the singles’ scene.

ViRgo

august 24 – septeMber 22

If tensions or delays are getting you down, distancing yourself won’t make things any better - even if it is the easy option. If nothing seems to be going right, ask yourself whether you’ve become too inflexible. Admit it, Virgo - you can be stubborn. All that’s needed to get your life back on track is a little cooperation and mutual understanding.

LibRA

septeMber 23 – OctOber 23

Success could be yours for the taking, Libra, if you could only get over this debilitating fear of abandoning others. Shake off that old guilt trip and put your own needs first. In romance, too, you should throw off inhibitions and release repressed desires. Take control of your sexuality and rediscover “the sweetest taboo”.

scoRPio

OctOber 24 – nOveMber 22

You’ve been patient long enough, Scorpio. Others have had all the time in the world to resolve their issues. Problem is, they continue to rely on your help - whether you like it or not. If possible, break away for a while and get on with your own affairs. At work, your intuition should save you from difficult circumstances.

sAgiTTARiUs

nOveMber 23 – DeceMber 21

Previously closed doors may now be thrown open, encouraging you to experiment. But don’t rush into action. Devote more time and energy to long-term possibilities as well as thinking about the immediate implications. Some Sagittarians will meet new people or have more contact with family. An impulsive love affair could also reawaken passions.

cAPRicoRn

DeceMber 22 – January 20

Capricorns focus on finances this week, giving you an opportunity to increase income. Start saving now and you’ll soon have plenty to spare for that proverbial rainy day. Jobs connected with finances or the media do particularly well. Ditto for those linked with health care. Romantically, many discover a hot new stamping ground.

JUST FOR LAUGHS

A MAN owned a small farm in Australia. The tax office claimed he was not paying proper wages to his staff and sent a representative out to interview him.

“Well,” replied the farmer, “there’s my farm hand who’s be with me for three years. I pay him $500 a week plus free room and board. He also gets triple time for working on a Sunday and slab of beer for a Happy Hour every Friday.

“The cook has been here for 18 months, and I pay her $400 per week plus free room and board. She

A MAN went to the doctor complaining.

“Doc, I can’t stop singing ‘The green, green grass of home’.”

“That sounds like Tom

doesn’t work on Sundays and I provide paid satellite television for free in her room.

“Then here’s the half-wit. He works about 18 hours every day and does about 90% of all the work around here. He makes about $20 a week, pays his own room and board, and I buy him a bottle of whiskey every Saturday night. He also sleeps with my wife occasionally.”

“That’s the guy I want to talk to... the half-wit,” says the agent.

“That would be me,” replied the farmer

Jones Syndrome,” the doctor replied.

“Is it common?” asked the man.

“It’s not unusual.” said the doctor.

SUDOKU

SOLUTIONS