Edition 18 February 2025

Page 1


rubbish gone; land protected

A PARCEL of land that had became an illegal dumping ground has now been purchased by the Sunshine Coast Council, with councillors saying the buyback will ensure the safety of endangered species while keeping the land cleared of trash.

The $860,000 purchase of 10.9 hectares at Rupari

Hill on Tower Lane, aims to bring to an end ongoing frustration from local residents at what had become an unofficial dump of household items. Ownership of the land was transferred over to council weeks after GC&M News enquired about illegally dumped rubbish which hadn’t been cleaned up in two years.

When GC&M News asked council why it had been there for so long, a spokesperson said the rubbish was located on private property and was therefore the land owner’s responsibility to clean it up. Full story p4

Moby Vics upgrade

CONSTRUCTION has begun on a multi milliondollar upgrade of the Moby Vics service station off the Bruce Highway at Coochin Creek. In early February, the existing shops at the service station had been stripped, and brand signs had been removed. Last week, digging machinery and multiple construction trucks were seen at the location. The development will have three buildings demolished, there will be four food and drink services, and a new service station added. Full story p6

Cross with lack of crossings

SUNSHINE Coast Council has responded to community concerns over pedestrian safety in Beerwah’s town centre, with an investigation underway into new

crossings on Turner St and Peachester Rd to improve access to Beerwah Marketplace.

Local residents have voiced frustration over the lack of adequate pedestrian infrastructure, particularly in high-traffic areas near shopping precincts, public amenities, and health services.

Beerwah senior Wilma Morrison described crossing busy Peachester Road as “running the gauntlet.” Full story p3

WEDNESDAY, 12 NOON

NEWS TEAM

MITCH GAYNOR Managing Editor mitch@gcnews.com.au

SONIA ISAACS Deputy Editor sonia@gcnews.com.au

KIRRA LIVINGSTONE kirra@gcnews.com.au

TINA GRIEVE tina@gcnews.com.au

LEWIS KWARCIANYI lewis@gcnews.com.au ADVERTISING

DESIGN AND LAYOUT

SHARON KING & KATIE BUCKLEY design@gcnews.com.au

ADMIN & ACCOUNTS

ANGELA USHER angela@gcnews.com.au

THE COVER

FROM THE EDITOR

FOR anyone without a 12-yearold in their circle, the hottest ticket, in fact the only thing that matters this week, is that Billie Eilish is in town.

The 23-year-old American is playing four sold out shows at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre and my youngest has been counting down the days since about July last year.

Back then it all seemed pretty straightforward with a plan to go with her best friend and a parent as chaperone. No dramas.

Except when you’re a 12 or 13-year-old girl everything is a drama and wouldn’t you know it but the two had an almost instant falling out just a few weeks later and hadn’t been on speaking terms literally for months.

I couldn’t even get to the bottom of what the problem was, but it was REAL.

I felt like the whole thing was turning into something quite awkward. Do we try and reimburse the other parents and find a new friend? Do we sell our ticket? Should I care? I made the occasional enquiry

about how she thought this might all roll out, but all I could get was a shrug of the shoulders. Neither were contemplating giving up their seat and the rift seemed insurmountable up until, miraculously, last weekend. Without even a hint of irony the two were suddenly joined back at the hip, spending the weekend together, buying matching jorts and playing Billie on unacceptably high rotation. The question I suppose is whether the concert will galvanise this friendship forever or it’s doomed to tomorrow’s elevator music of life.

Bus-ted

Life is a mix of the trivial and the important and on matters with long-term consequences I was interested to read the Sunshine Coast Business Council’s take on the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line debacle.

Chair Sandy Zubrinich entered into the fray last week taking aim at Olympics advocacy Group Sunshine Coast 2032, which got way too much airplay for their submission claiming that the line would cost $20bn and should

be replaced with a bus system. Sounded problematic then and still does now, although that didn’t stop the Deputy Premier giving it some credibility. The SCBC, which counts members including Stockland, University of the Sunshine Coast and the Airport, called it out for what it was, but more importantly, made the point that now is not the best time to be going back to the drawing board. Everyone has their own interests at heart and the rail line will undoubtedly benefit those members, but it seems like it will benefit south east residents even more. “The Sunshine Coast needs a state-of-the-art, integrated urban transport system,” Ms Zubrinich says (p5). “We have significant master-planned communities, such as Aura, and Australia’s largest greenfield CBD in the Maroochydore City Centre, that have been designed with the long-promised rail link in mind.” It seems simple: Go back to the drawing board and risk everything, or stay on track for something long overdue.

Lottie and John Nisbett are hopeful of new crossings in Beerwah’s town centre (p3). Picture: Sonia Isaacs

Australian spring hottest on record

AUSTRALIA recorded its second-warmest and eighth-wettest year in 2024, according to the Bureau of Meteorology’s Annual Climate Statement.

Climatology Specialist

Nadine D’Argent said temperatures were above average nationwide, with spring the warmest on record, winter the second warmest, and summer 2023–24 the third warmest.

“It was the wettest year since 2011, with overall rainfall 28% above average,” Ms D’Argent said.

Tropical cyclones caused major flooding in northern Australia early in the year, while Victoria, South Australia, and parts of the west had drier-than-usual conditions.

Ms D’Argent said Australia’s climate is influenced by global ocean and atmospheric patterns.

“Sea surface temperatures in the Australian region, as well as globally, were the warmest on record in 2024,” she said.

Globally, 2024 was the warmest year on record, with Australia’s climate trends aligning with global warming.

More insights are available in the State of the Climate 2024 report. www.bom.gov.au/stateof-the-climate/2024/

Community calls for crossings

Council says it’s listening to concerns

SUNSHINE Coast Council has responded to mounting community concerns over pedestrian safety in Beerwah’s town centre, with an investigation into new crossings on Turner Street and Peachester Road to improve access to Beerwah Village Shopping Centre.

Local residents have voiced frustration over the lack of adequate pedestrian infrastructure, particularly in high-traffic areas near shopping precincts, public amenities, and health services.

Beerwah resident Lottie Nisbett said the absence of a designated pedestrian crossing directly outside Aldi was a significant issue.

“We’ve seen so many people struggling— especially older people— who have to cross Simpson Street to either get to the carpark or access the public amenities,” she said.

“Often they just have to

wait for a break in traffic or for a car to stop.”

It’s quite dangerous because they can’t move fast and often have difficulty crossing safely – and it’s the same at Turner Street.”

Sue Johnstone, another local resident, echoed these concerns, highlighting the challenges elderly pedestrians face near medical facilities. She also raised the issue of heat stress for people having to walk additional distances to access pedestrian crossings during warmer weather.

“I personally haven’t had an incident, but I’ve watched elderly residents struggling to cross Simpson Street near the doctors and hearing clinic,” she told GC&M News.

“On Turner Street, it’s difficult to see cars coming off Peachester Road due to angle parking, so a crossing would certainly improve safety. As for Peachester Road, there’s an island outside the Coffee Club,

but no zebra crossing. We used to have a pedestrian crossing there.”

Beerwah senior Wilma Morrison described crossing busy Peachester Road as “running the gauntlet” and agreed that it was currently “quite difficult” to access key community facilities safely.

“You feel like you have to take your life in your hands,” she said. “With all the traffic, it’s a constant challenge. I don’t understand why we don’t have more safe crossings.”

A Council spokesperson confirmed ongoing efforts to address pedestrian safety and said Council continued to advocate for walking and cycling improvements in the area.

“Council acknowledges the community’s concerns

and is currently working with DTMR to explore opportunities to improve safety around the Beerwah Train Station and town centre,” the spokesperson said.

“We have proposed crossings for Turner Street and Peachester Road, which would improve pedestrian access to the Beerwah Village Shopping Centre.” Division 1 Councillor Jenny Broderick thanked residents for raising the issue and reaffirmed Council’s commitment to addressing pedestrian

safety. “Safety is absolutely our priority,” she said.

“I have been working closely with Council officers since being elected to ensure we get the priorities and locations correct.

“As some of the crossings being investigated include state roads, I have been speaking with our state members to ensure we prioritise these locations together; including potential crossing solutions from Roberts Road and Peachester Road, Beerwah, and Maleny Street, Landsborough.”

Lottie and John Nisbett. Insets: Peachester Road and Turner Street.

Council cleans up act Tower

A PARCEL of land that had became an illegal dumping ground has now been purchased by the Sunshine Coast Council, which says the buyback will ensure the safety of endangered species in the region.

The $860,000 purchase of 10.9 hectares at Rupari Hill on Tower Lane, aims to bring to an end ongoing frustration from local residents at what had become an unofficial dump of household items.

Council had claimed it was difficult to enforce any action because the rubbish was on private property.

Ownership of the land was transferred to council just two weeks after GC&M News enquired about illegally dumped rubbish, including a lounge chair and clothing, which had been collecting for two years.

When GC&M News previously asked council why it had been there for so long, a spokesperson said the rubbish was located on private property and was therefore the land owner’s responsibility to clean it up.

While most of the rubbish has now been removed, the lounge and smaller items still remain.

Division 1 Councillor, Jenny Broderick, said

goods, batteries, cardboard, furniture that can be sold, scrap metal, electrical, etc.,

Councillor, Tim Burns, said council’s ownership of the land will ensure the safety and longevity of endangered and threatened plants and

Rupari Hill with a unique assemblage of native species, including several plants only known to occur in the Glasshouse

“The volcanic rock and soil here creates conditions that these plants rely on, so it was a high priority site for Council to purchase and

“It really is a showcase ora our Sunshine Coast Biosphere

endangered plants include woolly bush, Mt Beerwah she-oak, and plunkett

Similar at risk species include koalas, the tusked frog, and the powerful owl.

The land purchase links environment reserves on either side of the site, and sections of the Glass House Mountains National Park. kirra@gcnews.com.au

New lease of life for land parcel

A FORMER timber harvesting site south of Maleny will now be protected under a new conservation acquisition by the Sunshine Coast Council. The council purchased 108 hectares on McCarthy Shute Road, Wootha, using $2 million from the Environment Levy.

The land expands the Annie Hehir Environment Reserve and links with Glasshouse Mountains National Park, creating a 537-hectare biodiversity corridor.

It provides habitat for at least eight threatened plant species and seven threatened animal species, including koalas and the critically endangered Maleny spiny crayfish.

Councillor Winston Johnston called it a “oncein-a-lifetime opportunity” to protect vital habitat. The levy has helped conserve over 4,200 hectares since the 1990s, with recent acquisitions in Mount Mellum and Ilkley.

The entire College cohort gathered to mark the 25th anniversary.

Caboolture Police are looking for two people in relation to assault

CABOOLTURE Police are appealing for public assistance to identify two people who may be able to assist them with their investigations into the serious assault of a 70-yearold male in Elimbah, Friday, January 24.

Police investigating the assault say that at approximately 6pm, two men travelling north along Beerburrum Road in a lightcoloured dual cab Toyota Hilux Ute pulled over onto the side of the road.

The pair have exited the vehicle and approached the 70-year-old man who was sitting next to a roadside stall, before assaulting him

and leaving the scene in their vehicle.

The man was transported to hospital with serious injuries.

Police said they were appealing to anyone who may have been in the area at the time, including

vehicles driving in the area who may have dashcam footage, to come forward.

The people shown in the footage, or anyone who recognises them, were being urged to contact police. Investigations remain ongoing.

Glasshouse Christian College marks 25 year milestone

letters, staff in the outer ring seized the moment to start a spontaneous Mexican wave, adding a touch of fun and energy to the celebration.

journey that began with just

entire college - students and , gathered on the oval after the college dedication

Principal Mike Curtis said, “From humble beginnings in 2000, the College has flourished into a thriving educational community.”

“To see the entire college come together in such a meaningful way was a

foundation that has been laid for the future.”

The 25th-anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the year, with the college’s annual open day on Saturday, May 17 transformed into a big birthday bash.

On the same day, the college history book will be launched. Additional events are also being planned to ,

Graffi ti vandalism ruins freshly painted walls at sports clubhouse

TEENAGERS have mindlessly vandalised the Beerwah Bulldogs Clubhouse just days before their season launch (Saturday, February 15), spray painting graffiti tags and phallic shapes.

Club volunteers had only just repainted the walls of the clubhouse ahead of the launch, before it was then vandalised.

A Queensland Police spokesperson said investigations into the incident are ongoing.

“Initial investigations indicate at an unknown time, around four offenders

of work to do to remove the graffiti.

“The Beerwah Bulldogs RLFC are a Not For Profit,

ernoons and weekends to try and make the clubhouse nice for our launch night this February 15.”

kirra@gcnews.com.au

CCTV footage from incident.
Vandalism at Beerwah Bulldogs Clubhouse.

Moby Vics servo renos have begun

CONSTRUCTION has begun on a huge upgrade of the iconic Moby Vics service station off the Bruce Highway in Coochin Creek.

In early February, the existing shops at the service station had been stripped, and brand signs had been removed.

Last week, digging machinery and multiple construction trucks were seen at the location.

The development will have three buildings demolished, there will be four food and drink services, and a new service station added to the location.

Businesses taking over these new tenancies will

Jacks, Red Rooster and Starbucks.

The service station will also have 306 car, 15 motorcycle, six caravan and 12 truck/coach parking spaces for patrons.

It will also have six EV charging stations, and 20 car and 4 truck refuelling positions at the service station.

De Luca Corporation is behind the development, which was approved by council in January 2024.

Project Urban submitted the material change of use development application, on behalf of the De Luca Corporation, in December 2022.

The construction of the project will be delivered in

SCBC is calling for heavy rail action now

Sunshine Coast Business Council calls for less debate; more action

THE head of the Sunshine Coast Business Council (SCBC) has called for immediate action on the delivery of heavy rail to the region, urging policy makers to move beyond political debate and commit to construction ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

SCBC Chair Sandy Zubrinich has criticised the ongoing delays and political manoeuvring surrounding the project, stating that with just seven years until the Games, “there is no more room for delays, debates, or half-measures.”

She also questioned the timing of an alternative Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) proposal recently referenced by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, put forward by a relatively unknown community advocacy group.

“Both sides of politics have used heavy rail as a bargaining chip with a range of empty election promises. It is now time to deliver and get the shovels in the ground,” Ms Zubrinich said.

The SCBC represents key business stakeholders,

including Sunshine Coast Airport, the University of the Sunshine Coast, Walker Corporation, Stockland, and the Scanlon Group. The organisation has long advocated for heavy rail as a critical piece of infrastructure to support regional economic growth and connectivity.

Concerns have been raised following a Sunshine Coast community advocacy group’s (SC2032) suggestion that the cost of the rail project could nearly double to more than $20 billion. Their alternative proposal recommends a combination of heavy rail between Brisbane and Beerwah and a BRT system between Beerwah and the Maroochydore City Centre as a more cost-effective solution.

Ms Zubrinich questioned this proposal, noting that BRT had not been previously recommended by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR). She also said she understood that the $2.75 billion in federal funding allocated to the project was specifically for rail, not rapid bus transport.“We

were truly the best solution, why has this not been raised by TMR over the past decade? With the Games fast approaching, it seems late in the process to be introducing new unproven alternatives that could further delay much-needed rail infrastructure,” she said.

“While BRT may be more cost-effective, relying solely on buses for the crucial 35-kilometre connection between Beerwah and the Maroochydore City Centre, even with a dedicated lane, is far from a world-class transit solution.”

Ms Zubrinich reiterated the need for an integrated transport system for the Sunshine Coast “Our answer is clear; the Sunshine Coast needs heavy rail. By 2032,

Local professional photographer reaches a 50-year milestone

RENOWNED Sunshine Coast Hinterland photographer Clive Waring is looking for the next generation to carry on his legacy.

With over 70,000 photo sessions to his name, the veteran photographer has built a thriving business in wedding and portrait photography, capturing moments across Sydney, London, Hamburg, Brisbane, and Maleny. His journey began in

1974 with a brief course at a small college in Salisbury, England acquiring the darkroom skills for B&W film processing and printing, before an apprenticeship with John Hearder Studios in Sydney.

Since then, his talent and passion have cemented his reputation, particularly in Maleny—Queensland’s wedding capital—where he established his studio in 2015.

“The technical side is easy

to learn,” Mr Waring says.

“The real skill is making people feel comfortable, capturing natural moments when they least expect it.”

Now 70, Mr Waring hopes to mentor a passionate individual or couple, passing on not just his photography expertise but the business acumen that has sustained his success.

“Buying a camera and doing a course is easy.

The challenging part is running a business,” he

says.

“I would love to find a younger person/couple to buy the brands and enjoy the benefits of being mentored by myself.”

For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be guided by a photography master, Mr Waring invites expressions of interest at clive@malenywedding photography.com.au

we must have Stage 1 and 2 completed to deliver a rail connection between Brisbane and Birtinya, with Stage 3 into the Maroochydore City Centre to follow by the mid-2030s.”

In response to Ms Zubrinich’s comments, Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Jarrod Bleijie reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project.

“The delivery options will be guided by the experts,” Minister Bleijie said. “Our election commitment for Sunshine Coast direct rail was clear and stands as strong today as it ever has.”

For the SCBC’s commentary on the Walker Corporation’s bold Olympic vision for Maroochydore, see the story on p26.

Married in Maleny

THE Maleny Show Society has announced couple Meg and Matt as the lucky winners of a free wedding at this year’s Maleny Show. The couple will make history as the first to ever tie the knot at the event. Their special day promises to be

Photographer Clive Waring.
Construction on the Moby Vics upgrade have begun.
SCBC Chair, Sandy Zubrinich.
Winners Meg and Matt.

New pharmacy coming to town

The business is expected to open in March

MORE than a year following the closure of Montville’s only pharmacy, a new chemist is set to open its doors in the hinterland tourist town.

The pharmacy will open its doors in early March this year, which Montville Chamber of Commerce president, Shiralee Cooper, said she is looking forward to seeing this service come back to town.

“Locals will soon be able to visit their GP and take the script to the local pharmacy

without leaving Montville,” she said.

“With free parking available behind the IGA, this will enable convenient access to the pharmacy.

“It is important to be able to cater for our local communities health needs within the village.”

The previous pharmacy on Main Street officially shut its doors on July 29, 2023, after the GP had been closed since February that same year.

Montville local, Dr Peter Herbert, then took over the reigns, reopening a medical centre in late November, 2023.

While the new pharmacy and established medical centre will rejuvenate health services in Montville, GC&M News discovered there is at least six shop spaces for lease on Main Street.

Shiralee said while some businesses in Montville are thriving, others are struggling.

“The actual tourism businesses have this good dynamic energy around

there, but the more concerning area is the village square,” she said.

“After we lost our medical centre, the pharmacy was no longer financially viable, it just wasn’t sustainable.

“We had a couple of other allied health businesses nearby too and fell down, followed by the newsagency.”

Shiralee said despite having a small residential population in Montville and Mapleton, she urged locals to support the town’s businesses.

“There has been a fair bit of positive development but the Village Square is where we really need some new tenants, to get that area back to life” she said.

“The IGA is still going on pretty strongly there which is such a relief, and they’ve taken on some of the newsagency’s lines.

“With interest in other nearby shops in the Village Square, we look forward to the revitalisation of the local shopping precinct this year.”

kirra@gcnews.com.au

Update

The Glasshouse Country Chamber of Commerce continues to work proactively for the benefit of our local businesses and community. We are making significant progress in our discussions and investigations regarding the installation of CCTV in key areas, with the invaluable assistance of a local security firm. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing safety and security in our township.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the upcoming Glasshouse Country Township Walk with Cr Jenny Broderick later this month focusing on the Youngs Road development.

This is a great opportunity to engage with local leaders, discuss future plans, and ensure our community’s needs are being met as we grow Additionally, we are pleased to announce that we will soon take delivery of Celebrate Glasshouse Country banners for businesses and community groups to display for free upon application. These will add a vibrant touch to local events and celebrations, reinforcing our strong sense of identity and pride in the region. As we continue to build a stronger business network, we encourage local businesses and community members to join the Glasshouse Country Chamber of Commerce.

We are actively working towards promoting businesses in our region and collaborating with other regional chambers to create new opportunities and pave the way for a thriving local economy. Keep a look out for our upcoming 2025 sponsorship packages. Our sincere thanks go to our 2024 sponsors.

Together, we are shaping the future of Glasshouse Country—a place where businesses and community spirit grow side by side.

Eco threat from invasive plants

Help safeguard the region’s biodiversity

RESIDENTS are being called upon to be vigilant in the management of invasive plants on their propertywhich could threaten local ecosystems.

Sunshine Coast Environment and Liveability portfolio councillor Maria Suarez said many invasive plants were initially sold as garden plants and could be hidden on private properties.

“Others spread by birds or the wind, finding their way into gardens,” Cr Suarez said. “Many can smother native vegetation, others are costly to farmers, while some, like annual ragweed, pose health risks.”

Fellow councillor Tim Burns urged residents to act. “In our Sunshine Coast Biosphere, we all have the power to protect our native species,” Cr Burns said. “Managing invasive plants at home helps safeguard biodiversity.”

Invasive species include Cat’s Claw Creeper - an aggressive climber with yellow flowers and clawlike tendrils now a ‘Weed of National Significance’, capable of covering whole trees and smothering large areas of native vegetation.

Madeira Vine - a prolific vine that can grow up to one metre per week, smothering native groundcovers, shrubs and trees. Climbing Asparagus Fern - a feathery spiky climber with stems growing up to 12m long up into the canopy of trees.

Coastal Morning Glory (Ipomoea cairica) and Blue

Morning Glory (Ipomoea indica - these two species are now a common weed throughout South East Queensland and can climb over and smother native vegetation. They are easily identified through their funnel-shaped flowers: pink lavender for coastal morning glory and deep blue-mauve for blue morning glory. Other priority invasive shrubs and trees and ground cover include: Chinese Celtis, Camphor Laurel, Broad Leaved Pepper Tree, Singapore Daisy and Annual Ragweed. Residents are urged to wear gloves when removing invasive plants and dispose of them in the general waste bin. Report sightings to the Council to aid eradication efforts. More details www. sunshinecoast.qld.gov. au/council/planning-andprojects/council-plans/ sunshine-coast-councillocal-government-areabiosecurity-plan

Maleny short term accommodation application

A MATERIAL change of use development to establish eight one bedroom cabins on 65 McCarthy Shute Road, Maleny, was submitted on Monday, February 3.

Town Planning Alliance submitted the application on behalf of Delias Pty Ltd.

The size of the proposed

development’s land is 209,222m2, and was sold for $3.8 million in 2023.

This application submission follows the rejection of a significant million dollar short term accommodation application in Maleny.

The application comes after a $24m luxury accommodation project

was recently rejected by council, with local councillor Winston Johnston, who voted for it, saying it was a

Madeira Vine.

committee and featured the launch of the revitalised Maleny Commerce website and discussions around strategy for the year ahead.

Year of the Snake celebrations

AUSSIE World

celebrated Lunar New Year on Saturday 8

February with colourful lanterns lighting up the theme park as part of the Sunshine Coast Chinese Association’s Lantern Festival.

Visitors were treated to a colourful sea of lanterns,

traditional performances and costumes as well as authentic Chinese dishes throughout the evening.

The celebration bought the community together and gave everyone a chance to immerse themselves in ancient and traditional Chinese customs.

Spencer Shaw and Robert Dodd.
Lea Dodd with Ryan Dillon.Norman Scott and Peter Pamment.
Sandra and Jim Goulton with Melissa Chaddock (middle).
Fi Emberton and Adrian Anderson.
Members of the SC Chinese Association welcomed in Year of the Snake.

Clean up Australia

RESIDENTS across

the Sunshine Coast are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and take part in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, March 2, to help preserve the region’s natural beauty.

From beaches to parks and urban areas, locals can join an existing clean-up event or organise their own. The annual initiative offers a chance to connect with the community, learn about local environmental issues, and make a tangible impact.

Several community groups are leading efforts this year, and there are a

number of public clean-ups available to get involved in - including Matthew Flinders Park Rest Area

Clean Up, 407 Steve Irwin Way, Beerburrum and The Great Obi Clean Up, 5 Coral St, Maleny

Participants must register online before attending and will be provided with gloves and bags for litter collection. Volunteers are encouraged to bring a hat, water bottle, and closed-in shoes.

Registration is free and ensures participants are covered under Clean Up Australia Day’s public

liability insurance.

To sign up, visit register

cleanup.org.au, select ‘Clean up events,’ and search for a local event using a postcode or suburb.

Sunshine Coast Council Environment and Liveability

Portfolio holder

Cr Maria Suarez said last year’s event saw 8,166 volunteers remove four tonnes of waste from 100 sites.

“Each year, we see incredible dedication from schools, businesses, and community groups,” Cr Suarez said.

“Council proudly supports the event through our Waste 2 Resource Education Program and ensures collected litter is properly managed.”

For more information on Clean Up Australia Day, visit cleanup.org.au/community.

Showground bike swap

ON March 15, the Sunshine Coast branch of the Historical Motorcycle Club will host its 31st annual Swap Meet at the Maleny Showgrounds. Since its inception in 1994, this event has become a staple for motorcycle enthusiasts, drawing visitors from across Queensland and beyond.

The Maleny Swap is the club’s major fundraising event, with proceeds supporting both club activities and charitable organizations, including the Queensland Cancer Council, Prostate Cancer Foundation, and Cittamani Cancer Care.

The club takes great pride in seeing their fundraising efforts make a meaningful impact in the community.

providing delicious food for attendees.

A coffee van will also be on-site, ensuring visitors get their caffeine fix while browsing for bargains.

One of the highlights of the event is the annual Bike Show, held in memory of a late member of the club.

The show features motorcycles owned by Sunshine Coast group members, and attendees have the opportunity to vote for their favourite bike in a “People’s Choice” format.

A Swap Meet is a gathering where likeminded individuals set up stalls to buy, sell, and trade items related to their shared interests.

At the Maleny Swap, all goods must be motorcyclerelated, ranging from parts and complete bikes to riding gear, tools, and accessories.

Gates open at 6 am, with the Maleny Rotary Club

Beyond the event itself, the Swap Meet benefits local businesses, as visitors stay in the area, supporting accommodation, dining, and retail outlets.

Entry to the Swap Meet is $10 per person, with stallholders also paying $10.

Those wishing to set up the night before are welcome to camp at the showgrounds at no extra charge. For more information, contact Keith at 0429 000 178.

QLD awards celebrating diversity

NOMINATIONS are now open for the 2025 Queensland Reconciliation Awards, which celebrate initiatives that strengthen relationships, enhance health outcomes, and support employment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Businesses, schools, councils, and other organisations are encouraged to apply.

Since 2003, over 100 initiatives have been recognised for their contributions to a more inclusive Queensland.

The prestigious Premier’s Reconciliation Award will also be presented to an initiative demonstrating exceptional innovation and impact. Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson highlighted the importance of celebrating inclusion across the state.

“We have the longest running continuous culture in the world and that is something we should continue to celebrate and be proud of,” she said.

Nominations close on Monday, 10 March 2025. For more information visit the Queensland Government website.

Maleny Lions supports Diabetes Australia with ‘Foot Bus’ initiative

THE Maleny Blackall Range Lions Club is continuing its annual support for Diabetes Australia by bringing essential diabetes care directly to the local

At NCC, we offer students an enriching and nurturing learning environment that focuses on cultivating character and fostering a sense of community in each student. Our extensive programs and opportunities empower your children to develop into confident, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals, equipped to make a positive impact on the world. With an education at NCC, your child will be prepared to embrace their future with purpose and excellence.

community.

Lions has always supported Diabetes Australia and each year has been involved in raising money for the service.

As part of the Sunshine Coast Hospital Health Service, the Footprints – Walking on Country

Diabetic Foot Bus will visit Maleny Showgrounds on Tuesday, March 4, from 9am-1pm.

This free program offers foot screenings conducted by nurses who will also provide expert advice on foot care, diabetes education, and ongoing support.

Diabetes remains a major health concern in Australia, but early detection and treatment can prevent complications.

Locals experiencing footrelated concerns linked to diabetes are encouraged to attend.

Maleny Blackall Range Lions Club members fundraising for a great cause.
Bikes available at the swap meet.
Residents are encouraged to get involved on Clean Up Australia day!

Rotary supports aid in Ukraine

Contributed by Maleny Rotary

THE Maleny Rotary Club drew its ‘Maleny Australia Day Raffle’ at the Maleny Showgrounds on January 26th. The Raffle was to support Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine.

The winner of the Raffle was Diane Jensen, a resident of Maleny. Diane was delighted to win and to support the cause.

Maleny Rotary has announced that the Aid provided to the citizens of Ukraine were 11 electrical generators which were delivered to Cherkasy Rotary Club during the week of the Raffle. The generators were paid for by The Maleny Rotary Club, supported by Krakow (Poland) Rotary Club, and supplied, as requested by Cherkasy Rotary, directly to Cherkasy Ukraine where they have been distributed into the community, Clinics, Schools and other support facilities in Cherkasy.

Contributed by Lisa Iggo

OVER the last few months the Clever Crafters have been sewing bags for hospitals both here and in other parts of Australia. We have made over 100 telemetry bags for use in the cardiac wards and 150 drainage bags for breast cancer patients.

Some very clever crafters GHC Seniors catch-up

Contributed by Shirley Sagar ON Tuesday (February 11) we welcomed our members back for the first meeting of 2025.

We were entertained by our member Robert who plays the saxophone. A most enjoyable rendition of some

Picnic lunch at Turner Park.

The group meets every Friday at the Glass House Mountains Community Hall from 9-12. We work on a mixture of group projects, individual work and items given to charity. New members are always welcome to come and see what we are doing, have a cuppa and share morning tea.

‘Safe and savvy seniors’ forum

well known movie themes. Following the meeting we all gathered in Turner Park for a picnic lunch. A reminder to all our members our train trip to Southbank and River Cat is on February 25 later this month. Anybody wanting meet up times please contact 0476 793 134 for particulars. On March 25 we will be holding our annual seniors community morning tea. A reminder to save this date on your calendars. More information next month!

WE hear a lot about domestic and family violence these days, but many are unaware of how deeply it affects the elderly.

Shockingly, one in six elderly Australians report experiencing abuse, often at the hands of family members or carers.

Reported cases of elder abuse have surged by 24% over the past year, and with an ageing population, experts warn the problem will only intensify.

Val France, spokesperson for the Speak Up Now – Stop Domestic Family Violence group, highlights the various forms abuse can take. “The abuse may be physical, but it can also be emotional,

Let's get it sorted

Keep your recycling loose when it goes in the yellow-lid bin, so more of it can be turned into new things.

Recycling in plastic bags cannot be sorted because the bags can damage equipment at sorting facilities and present a safety risk to staff.

such as restricting social activities or financial exploitation through power of attorney misuse,” Ms France said.

“Many elderly victims are reluctant to seek help due to frailty or the fear of implicating a loved one.

“Many people feel shame that a son or daughter or a carer could behave this way, but do not want them to get into trouble, so they suffer in silence,” she said.

The Speak Up Now group, in collaboration with Zonta Blackall Range, Rotary Club of Maleny, and the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, is actively working to combat elder abuse. Their upcoming ‘Safe and Savvy Seniors’

forum aims to educate and empower seniors about their rights and available protections

The forum will feature representatives from the Suncoast Community Legal Service, Relationships Australia, Centacare, and the Queensland Police Service’s Vulnerable Persons Unit. A video-drama depicting common issues will be followed by a Q&A session and a free morning tea. The event will take place at the Maleny Uniting Church Hall on Tuesday, March 11 from 9am-12pm. Please RSVP by March 7 for catering purposes and for more information text Val France 0419 599 042.

Previous Safe and Savvy Seniors events

Weather Prophet helps

SUNSHINE Coast resident

David Burton has dedicated over four decades to the study of astronomy cycles and commodities, using his expertise in astrometeorology to predict weather conditions.

Drawing inspiration from Australia’s renowned longterm weather forecaster, Inigo Jones, and financial astronomer W.D. Gann, Mr Burton has refined a forecasting system that combines planetary cycles, sunspot activity, and ancient geometry to provide risk management solutions for farmers and business owners.

Mr Burton explained that celebrated meteorologist Inigo Owen Jones (1872-1954) migrated to Queensland in 1874 and settled in Peachester with his family in 1892.

On their property, named Crohamhurst, Jones later established an observatory, laying the foundation for his pioneering work in longterm weather forecasting.

for accurate predictions of floods and droughts,” Mr Burton said.

“His system is based on the planetary cycles of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto.

“When these planets are positioned in front of the Sun, drought conditions are likely, whereas when they are behind the Sun, floods become more probable.”

Mr Burton spoke highly of Inigo Jones’ accurate predictions, including the 1974 floods, made two decades after his passing, and the great drought spanning from 1983 to 1993.

He also credited Inigo Jones’ forecasting methods with predicting the devastating 2011 floods.

“Inigo’s methods are rooted in astronomy and sunspot cycles, allowing

Building on this foundation, Mr Burton has developed his own modelling techniques, incorporating Jones’ methodology along with W.D. Gann’s financial astronomy principles. His research provides vital insights for farmers and businesses looking to safeguard their livelihoods against extreme weather events.

To share his knowledge, Mr Burton conducts up to nine workshops annually at his Caloundra conference rooms. These workshops cover various aspects of weather forecasting, including a home study

workshops can gain valuable skills that can help them make informed decisions based on planetary movements and weather cycles.

Mr Burton said by being able to better understand

farmers, investors, and professionals from diverse backgrounds seeking practical ways to mitigate nancial losses caused by climate unpredictability.

In addition to workshops, Mr Burton also provides personalised consulting services, helping clients tailor strategies based on historical weather cycles nancial astronomy.

By merging ancient techniques with modern analytical tools, he delivers customised solutions that cater to both smallscale farmers and large agricultural enterprises.

“Our aim is to equip people with the tools to prepare their farms, properties, and businesses for adverse weather conditions,” Mr Burton said.

“Understanding these cycles allows for better decisionmaking and financial security in unpredictable

climates.”

For those interested in delving deeper into astrometeorology, Mr Burton has also published various research papers and online resources detailing his findings.

He continues to advocate for greater awareness of planetary cycles in weather forecasting, hoping to bridge the gap between traditional meteorology and astronomical insights. For more information on upcoming workshops, visit www.facebook.com/ inigo360 or Telegram www.t.me/inigo432/.

Weather

Inigo Jones (1872-1954) was Australia’s best long-term weather forecaster.

His system is based on the larger planets of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune being in front of the Sun for droughts and behind the Sun for floods.

Inigo used these cycles and the Bruckner cycle of 35-36 years to predict the 1974 floods, which was 20 years after his death and the great drought of 1983 to 1993 which was 30 years after his death. He also predicted the 2011 floods.

Inigo Jones.
WD Gann.

Protection from shingles

THE fourth annual Shingles

Week is from February 24-March 2, 2025. Shingles Awareness Week was established to raise awareness around misconceptions about the risks of developing shingles.

Over 90 per cent of adults over the age of 50 already carry the virus that causes shingles and over 30 per cent of adults will develop shingles in their lifetime.

However, a global survey of adults aged 50 and above showed that only ~7 per cent believe they are at high risk of developing shingles.

Shingles is a viral

infection causing a painful, blistering rash from the reactivation of the varicella

zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. Shingles can lead to

serious complication, particularly in older adults, with risk increasing with age.

With the right vaccination, you can take control of your health and reduce your risk of developing shingles.

The shingles vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) is available for people most at risk of complications. Speak to Ruth (pictured) and the team at Amcal Pharmacy, Mooloolah Valley about shielding yourself against shingles.

Community profile

How long have you lived in Mooloolah for?

I’ve lived in Mooloolah for 18 months now. How did you come to live in Mooloolah?

My daughter lives here and my grandson and I came to join them. His dad isn’t home and he needs a father about the house so I came here to join him.

What do you love about living in Mooloolah?

Mooloolah community BBQ

THE Mooloolah Valley Community Association held their regular community BBQ on Friday, January 31 to bring locals in the community together.

There was a positive turnout with great company on a perfect evening.

“Huge thanks to our amazing BBQ coordinator Donna,” the association said online.

“And massive thanks to all volunteers that helped during the week and on the day.” For details on the next event www.facebook.com/ MooloolahCommunity

Quite frankly I loved living in this area, I go to the cafe next to the newsagency, and the people I meet in there, the old blokes and the old sheilas, they’re all very friendly. But when you look at the parks and gardens, they are so well maintained and there’s a certain pride about keeping the front yards and gardens it’s just wonderful to see that pride in your abode. What’s your favourite spot or hidden gem in Mooloolah?

I don’t think I have any favourites above any others, I enjoy going to the skatepark with my

grandson because he goes up and down those concrete caves and things, and he loves it. My favourite spot is this cafe, because I come up every day without fail and people greet me and I greet them and we sit and tell stories to each other.

Is there anything that you’d change about Mooloolah?

I’d put up more trees for the parking, because the cars are just so hot when you go to get into them.

I miss the fact that there’s not a pub, but it’s not a big deal, life’s pretty good. I just love the area.

Elected Reps

with Andrew Powell State Member for Glass House

Real-time Health Data –Now Live!

We made a promise, and we’ve delivered! I am so pleased to share that the Open Hospitals website is now live, providing transparency into what is happening in the state’s health system.

The Queensland Health Open Hospitals website provides accurate and up to date data including median wait times, number of patients triaged and number of patients waiting for treatment. The data will be refreshed every 15 – 30 minutes, enabling Queenslanders to make informed decisions about their healthcare options and where to go. Selecting the right option for healthcare will ensure you receive the correct treatment, without unnecessary delays.

Anyone who needs emergency attention should still go to their nearest emergency department or call an ambulance by

with

dialling Triple-0 (000).

We’re aware the healthcare system has multiple challenges, but delivering transparency is the first step to healing our state’s Health Crisis.

Visit the site here: openhospitals.health.qld. gov.au.

A Fantastic Day at Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology

I had the pleasure of joining Ariana Doolan MP and the beautiful people at the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology to officially open their new art gallery and café on Sunday 2nd February.

Now open to the public, you too can enjoy my three favourite things all in one location – art, coffee and culture! The quality of the artworks and the stories they tell is extraordinary – the envy of many a European city. Do yourself a favour and plan a visit! Online bookings are recommended.

Winston Johnston

Division 5 - Sunshine Coast Council

Wootha Forest link secured

I’m excited to announce that Council has secured two parcels of land on McCarthy Shute Rd, Wootha, about 5km south of Maleny. The 108 hectares was purchased for $2 million with funds from the Environment Levy.

This once-in-a-lifetime acquisition will significantly add to the neighbouring Annie Heir Environment Reserve and create a wildlife corridor connecting to Glasshouse Mountains National Park.

The site, which was formerly owned by a local mill and used for native timber harvesting, will establish a total protected habitat of more than 537 hectares for a multitude of threatened species. Dust buster

Great to see the roadworks to upgrade sections of Eudlo’s Logwoods Road and Perrins Road, is now underway. These gravel road, sealing

projects have been brought forward by two years, so at long last, dust complaints will be over for residents.

Works will include sealing and culvert upgrades to improve dust suppression and safety.

Koala Conservation If you want to help protect the hinterland’s Koala population, come along to a free workshop on Sunday February 23, 9 to 11.30am, at the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny. Council’s conservation officers, along with researchers from UniSC, will share findings from recent conservation efforts.

Gain a deeper understanding of the current state of our koalas and learn how to contribute to their conservation. To register, head to Eventbrite and search “Saving Sunshine Coast Koalas”. Keeping connected For the latest Division 5 news please visit facebook. com/winstonjohnston division5scc.

You Said It ...

A massive build

The federal election looms and Nuclear power is the LNP issue. It could take until 2035 to get one plant up and running - and a new government department to first plan, then build and regulate and finally run these power plants. Then there’s seven plants by 2050’s.

In the UK an estimated cost in 2015/16 for their planned new nuclear plant was UK 12 Billion, about $24 Billion (AU) at current rates. By the time the plant was started up its estimated finished cost was at about UK 45 Billion pounds (90 Bln AU), double the original cost. We also know from Canadian overseas experience that a cost blowout will apply here. What’s not being considered however is the massive bureaucracy costs needed to plan, then build and finally run these systems. The estimates coming out now show government will need to build a new department to plan and run it all. Today we have ARPANSA, the Aust. Radiation Protection & Nuclear Safety Agency. It’s not set up to build a new industry, all it does is regulate general radiation safety standards and a small medical nuclear plant in Sydney. This is a new ball-game. So Peter Dutton, if elected, will have set up a new department to plan, build and run these plants. Building nuclear plants experience is not in Australia, so they’ll have to import experienced planners, staff and consultants. They will have to set up a new department. The Nuclear Energy Coordinating Authority will select experienced companies to aid the Australian government. And the new Affordable Energy Australia body will do the management. All of this will involve millions of dollars and new staff to start the process, let alone build one plant by mid 2030’s. Since they plan seven locations we are looking at massive budgets. Who

pays - we do. Note what the UK just paid to get one plant finished, $45 Bln - $90 Bln Aussie dollars. And looking over the next 5/10 years for one plant - how much will costs rise? This seems an expensive LNP pipedream. There are materials, transport, labour, advanced safe technology and the metals to build - Dutton when quoted said “zero emissions”. Its clear that’s absurd, with a 5/10 years construction period.

Richard Giles Conondale Van driver

There’s a guy getting around Maleny in a van with a sign in the back window that says There is No Climate Emergency. I saw him in the street the other day and suggested he drive his van though the suburb of Moorooka in Brisbane and see what the many Sudanese refugees who live there might have

some point, us Sunshine Coasters, like the people in Ingham, might need to fill our bathtubs and other containers of whatever fresh water we can if there are floods bad enough to cut power for more than a day or two.

Let’s hope the remaining climate denying politicians who represent us (and that fellow driving that van) can pull their heads out of the sand quick smart, or just step aside so that more representative candidates can take their place, and more bravely face what’s really going on with our weather.

Brilliant letters

Letterwriters Jacinta Foale and Peter Slade deserve Congratulations on their recent brilliant letters(4th Feb). Renewables are definitely the better & more affordable way to go

OF THAT NORTHERN RAIL LINE??? As I understand the funding for that part of it all is already secured & all approvals are in place, so why have works not commenced-yet??? Instead of MP Wallace waffling on about that coastal link & how everything ‘going wrong is always the ALP’s fault’, why can’t this new LNP govt get cracking on that Duplication at least?? Without it there can be NO rail link to the Sunny Coast anyway, so you might as well get started on that crucial duplication all the way to Nambour to improve existing services for 1000s of commuters & others. The LNP would gain far more credibility in this debate if it stopped hesitating & shifting ‘the blame around’ & get started on that part of important infrastructure that is ready to go.

to say about his sign. These are refugees fortunate enough to not have died from hunger already because crops have failed for at least a decade now in that country as a result of drought. And perhaps he’d like to drive his van around Ingham in North Qld, where locals there who’ve survived two cyclones, category 4 and 5, say the flooding happening now in February 2025 is the most damaging and scariest they’ve ever experienced. Of the many difficult things going on there for people, the power to the water treatment plant in town is still cut as I write this letter (7/2/25), so they have only a few days of clean water left. At

CONDITIONS Please keep your letters under 300 words, your name, address and daytime phone

than this nuclear Fantasy where the costings on the actual disposal & storage of its waste have still not even been revealed by neither MP Hungerford nor the LNP. How dodgy is that?? Not worth voting for, that’s for sure.

Meanwhile Mr Slade raises some important points about the proposed Rail link to the Sunny Coast. Then the next page over we got the entire page full with more of MP Wallace’s endless drivel about the same topic. What Mp Wallace forgot to mention however is WHY have the State LNP govt of QLD not even started on the actual construction yet of that long overdue DUPLICATION

The real story?

The debate and division over the conflict in the middle east has caused a lot of different opinion in our society, as well as around the globe. But I have not heard anyone say a word about the real story behind the situation that exists between Israel and the Arab nations of the middle east region. No one has more right to the Holy Land than Israel does. They lived in that land that was given to Abraham and his descendants by God, for a thousand years or more, until the Romans sacked Jerusalem and the Jews were dispossessed of their land in 70 ad. It was then that the Arabs moved in and took over the land and became the Palestinian people we know today. When Israel became a nation again in 1948, they did not drive the Palestinian people out of their land, but gave them a portion where they could live, and Israel has had to put up with hostile behaviour for decades, with rockets fired into their land almost on a daily basis.

and not be personal attacks on individuals. Letters may be edited. SEND

IT has been a staple diet of the hinterland for a few years now, but the quarterly Sconetime events are no longer.

So sad. I used to slide into the kitchen at Bankfoot House (the original venue) and later the Beerwah Heart community hall and chomp on the leftover scones, if there were any.

Now the morning teas are all going to be held on the coast. Boo to them. They were a great little get together and an even better way to stuff your mouth full of jam, cream and scone to help get you through to lunch time.

BEDS ARE YEARNING

What’s with young-ish people getting these

newfangled beds that lift your body into a sitting position. I thought they were exclusively for Tricare facilities until someone I know, who is not even quite yet 50, said her and her hubby had bought one on the weekend. I asked if it came with a home care package, funeral insurance or even meals on

wheels.

None of that. Apparently it’s just supercomfortable. Talk about planning ahead. Or maybe estate planning ahead.

AT LEASE HAVE A LOOK

Good to see the demand for commercial property is through the roof.

The old Vianta cafe at

Beerwah is just sitting there gathering dust. Somehow it’s better to double the rent and lose a paying leasee than it is to leave a place lying vacant for months on end.

The for lease signs sure makes Simpson Street a bit of a drag, and not in a good way.

GOOD NEWS, EVERYBODY

Israel has every right to the land that historically belongs to them.

And I agree with Ron Batty that Hamas is responsible for all the loss and death and destruction we have witnessed over there, not Israel.

Name and address supplied Rail position

While Andrew Wallace could explain the Federal LNPs position on local rail funding (Jeff Taylor News 11/2/25) it’s a safe bet he won’t.

If he did, he’d explain he’s been working hard since 2016 on it and there still isn’t one. But he’s got a mate who reckons if you throw enough money at it, it could be done.

And if pressed further he’d probably agree with MP Kendall Morton’s view that the coast has been waiting 30 years for rail. And remember that for most of that time Federal and State LNP MPs represented local voters (wall to wall). But it wasn’t their fault they couldn’t imagine how, if they worked together, it could be done. So it wasn’t.

And nothing happened until Caloundra elected a Labor MP.

Andrew Moran Battery Hill

Be pragmatic

My YouTube algorithm has been showing me videos about Saudi Arabia recently. It’s fascinating the scale of mega engineering

projects they are building. Check it out for yourself. But it got me thinking about “climate action”, which a lot of developed Western/firstworld countries are banging on about lately, especially the greens and teal/ progressive independents backed by funding from Climate200. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for doing my part to reduce waste and be more conscious about my consumerism, but we’re kidding ourselves if we think Australia, with our tiny population, can make any significant dent in global emissions when you have massive countries like China, India, Brazil, Dubai and Saudi Arabia, pushing full steam ahead with mega projects fuelled by coal, oil, and gas.

It’s economic suicide to commit ourselves to a net-zero policy when other countries are continuing to burn these cheap sources of reliable energy to power their manufacturing, engineering, and construction ambitions.

Any effort we make to reduce our emissions is completely negated by the bulldozers, trucks and machines in Saudi Arabia building their high-tech modern cities. If we close our coal mines, China, India, and Brazil will build more. If we don’t export our iron ore to make steel, they’ll find it somewhere else We’re just the losers

in that scenario by not capitalising on our natural resources and valuable commodities. I’m not saying we should do nothing, but let’s be sensible and pragmatic about our position in the world and not have fanciful ideals that driving our EV is going to save the planet.

Jackson Marshall Glasshouse Mountains Sewerage woes

I have lived at Beerburrum for nearly 15 years and love the landscape and lifestyle.

In this time, our government representatives have been members of the LNP party - Mr Andrew Wallace and Mr Andrew Powell.

In the year 2025, our community STILL has to put up with septic systems! No moving forward for 15 years is beyond belief.

Community Grants using legislated gambling funds is a lazy way of showing interest in local issues.

Please consider when voting if you have got good value from our representatives because they have had plenty of time to pressure change.

We live one hour from our state capital, thousands have moved into our region but not a single word on living in the 21st century when it comes to sewerage...still caught in the 1800’s!!

Jenny Donovan Beerburrum

META’s moves to abandon the facts

Meta’s plans for the removal of fact-checking services on content posted to its platforms and the government’s decision to introduce age limits for access to social media has brought a renewed focus on the importance of regional, rural and local news publishers.

Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer said publishers have never been tasked with so many layers of responsibility, and it’s never been more vital for the work they do to be appropriately recognised and valued by government and the broader community.

“The decisions local newsrooms make about content, photo selection, accuracy, fairness, balance and integrity go to the heart of the craft of journalism.

“Our papers don’t engage in clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not

allowed to fester in the communities we serve.”

Mr Schreyer said the vast majority of Country Press Australia publishers are the only local media outlet with boots on the ground in these communities, producing public interest place-based journalism that fulfills a vital role in our democracy.

“Country Press Australia is disappointed at Meta’s decision to abandon thirdparty fact checking on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in the US. Thirdparty fact checking has not yet been abandoned on Meta platforms in Australia, however the move in the US may be an indication of Meta’s intentions worldwide and is a worrying development regardless.”

Equally, Country Press Australia has welcomed Communications Minister Michelle Rowland’s strong comments that came in the wake of Meta’s announcement and her support for high quality fact checked information for the public, such as the place-based public interest journalism produced by Country Press Australia’s 240 member mastheads.

“We are also heartened by comments from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman

Grant on the harms of social media and the responsibility to comply with Australian law.

“The mis and disinformation that spreads on Meta’s platforms are harmful to people’s health, wellbeing and to social cohesion. This information can be hard for consumers to recognise. The removal of third-party fact checking will see the levels of mis and disinformation on social media increase exponentially. Without any fact checking mechanism the rates of mental health issues caused by social media will no doubt rise”, Mr Schreyer said. He commended the government for its recently announced News Bargaining Incentive and News Media Assistance Program funding which will help Country Press Australia member publishers continue to produce the quality local public interest journalism that is so well trusted by its audiences.

“Professionally produced local public interest journalism, such as that produced by Country Press Australia mastheads, is the antidote to mis and disinformation and this has been well recognised by the government.”

Health & Wellbeing

Time to veggie out

AUSTRALIANS are being encouraged to boost their vegetable intake as new research reveals that eating just one extra serve daily could ease cost-ofliving pressures, improve national health, and support struggling farmers.

The Fresh Veg, Deliciously Affordable campaign, launched by the Outdoor Media Association (OMA) in partnership with Health and Wellbeing Queensland and AUSVEG, highlights that vegetables are both nutritious and cost-effective, averaging just 65 cents per 75g serve—cheaper than many snack foods.

Despite this, Australians consume only 1.8 serves of vegetables per day— just 36 per cent of the recommended five serves.

New AUSVEG research, funded by Hort Innovation, shows that affordability concerns are limiting consumption, with 72 per cent of consumers citing

Avocado Salsa and Pita Chips

Ingredients:

8 pita breads

3 avocadoes, destoned and roughly chopped

2 long red chilli, deseeded and finely diced

1 bunch coriander, chopped

½ red onion, finely diced

½ cup corn kernels

2 limes, juiced Pepper

Method:

PREHEAT oven to 180°C.

cost as a barrier. Shockingly, 93 per cent of Australians do not eat enough vegetables, and less than one in 15 adults meet the daily recommended intake.

“We know Australian households and vegetable growers are struggling. In-season vegetables are among the most affordable ways for families to eat well.

demand.

February, aims to change perceptions and boost consumption.

or until golden and crispy.

COMBINE remaining ingredients in a bowl, mix well and season with pepper.

GARNISH with extra coriander and chilli and serve.

Recipes courtesy of:

CUT pita bread into triangles, place on a tray and bake for 10-15 minutes

health, reduce grocery costs,

growers consider leaving the industry within a year due to rising costs and falling

Chicken & Vegetable Skewers

Ingredients:

400g lean chicken thigh, cut in 2cm cubes

½ bunch coriander, roughly chopped

½ red chilli, finely sliced

1 clove garlic, crushed

½ lime, juiced

1 tablespoon soy sauce, salt-reduced

2 tablespoons olive oil

AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote warned of the consequences: “Fewer growers mean fewer fresh vegetables for Australians. One extra serve per person per day could add $4.68 billion to the economy by 2030, create nearly 13,000 jobs, and reduce healthcare costs by $1.36 billion.”

Health experts say the benefits are undeniable.

Dr Robyn Littlewood, CEO of Health and Wellbeing Queensland, highlighted the national obesity crisis, while dietitian Jemma O’Hanlon pointed to the $24 billion spent annually on preventable diseases.

Victorian vegetable grower Catherine Velisha urged Australians to act: “If everyone added just one more serve of veggies, it would change everything— for their health, their wallets, and for farmers keeping food on their plates.”

MARINATE chicken in a large bowl with coriander, chilli, garlic, lime, soy sauce and olive oil for 30mins to 2 hours.

8 bamboo skewers, soaked in water

1 red capsicum, cut in 1-inch cubes

in quarters

THREAD chicken, capsicum, onion and mushrooms alternately onto skewers and brush with olive oil.

PREHEAT BBQ and cook skewers on med-high heat for approximately 7-8 minutes each side until golden and cooked through.

PHYSIOHELP reopened on January 13 with a fresh new clinic in Elimbah.

Owner Lulu Harmse shared that this is a temporary setup, with plans to return to Beerwah by the end of the year.

Clients can expect high-quality care for all physiotherapy needs.

Concession card holders will be bulk billed with no out-of-pocket costs. Home visits are also available for those without transport or

recovering from surgery. The clinic is located at Shop 1, 866-870 Beerburrum Road, Elimbah. Lulu specializes in geriatrics, Lymphoedema, and Vertigo (BPPV). Referrals can be made directly or through a GP, with PhysioHelp accepting NDIS, DVA, Medicare, Private Health, and third-party insurance claims. To book, call 0402 522 518

FROM 1 March, Australian women experiencing menopause symptoms will have access to subsidised hormone therapies through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the first time in over 20 years.

Three treatments— Estrogel Pro, Estrogel, and Prometrium—will now cost eligible patients as little as $7.70 per month, significantly reducing costs from the estimated $650 per year many currently pay.

The move follows a 2024 Parliamentary Inquiry recommendation to improve affordability and supply, as well as

Therapeutic Goods Administration advice warning of ongoing shortages for existing PBSlisted treatments.

Dr Sonia Davison, endocrinology lead at the Jean Hailes Clinic, welcomed the decision: “This acknowledges the significant impact of menopause and ensures women can access modern treatments without financial strain.”

Menopause, typically occurring around age 51, can cause severe symptoms, including hot flushes, mood changes and sleep disturbances.

Pets & Animals

Adopt a dog this February

SPECIAL dogs looking for special people to help break them out of the shelter and into loving, patient homes where they can be the good dogs we know they are

This February, SCARS has partnered with Azura Building Group and SavourLife to try to find some of our long term resident dogs, their forever homes.

They are our Forgotten Friends, dogs who have collectively spent more than 2000 days in our care.

So we are throwing everything at trying to get them into homes.

Our six ‘forgotten friends’ are:

Hopper is a 5 year old Staffy who has sadly been with us for 2 years!

He was found roaming the streets, picked up by

the council and rescued by SCARS. He was heart worm positive and underwent treatment for 12 months but is now all clear.

Bundy is a 2.5 year old Staffy left unclaimed at the council pound. He has been in our care for 6 months

Red is a 4 year old Bull Arab x Pointer, he is heartworm positive and has been in our care for over 1 year.

Spartan is a 3 year old Shepherd x Koolie. He has been in our care for 6

Now is the time to consider adding a rescue dog in need to your home and heart. We are hoping to place these dogs in ‘foster to adopt’ homes, whilst we continue to support new owners with ongoing training packages, food and vet treatments.

If you someone you know is interested in knowing more about these Forgotten Friends, please

Why desexing your pet is a smart choice

See your local pet expert at Maleny Vet

AT Maleny Veterinary Services, we see the positive impact desexing has on both your pet’s health and the wider community every day.

Desexing is not just about preventing unwanted puppies or kittens; it’s a step toward ensuring your pet lives a long, healthy life. It can even save you money in the long run by reducing the risk of costly health problems in the future.

Females left intact are at risk of reproductive infections and cancers of the uterus, ovaries, and mammary glands.

Males left intact are at risk of serious testicular and prostate issues as they age. The best time to desex your pet will depend on their species, breed, sex and

size.

For cats, desexing after 4-6 months, or when they are around 2kg, suits most.

As a general rule, desexing small dogs after 6 months is ideal.

However, it’s recommended some small breeds should be desexed after 12 months to ensure proper spinal development.

For large dog breeds, desexing after 12 months is ideal however some in cases it is recommended to wait up to 24 months.

This delay ensures proper skeletal development, to reduce the risk of hips and knee issues, and reduces the risk of certain cancers that are common in some large breeds.

Booking your pet’s desexing is easy! Call us on 5494 3622 to chat with one of our friendly receptionists and we will email or post you an obligation-free estimate of the costs and a summary of

Dr Lauren and Nurse Erin getting to know Maple.
Five-year-old staffy, Hopper.
Bundy. Narla. Dixie. Spartan.Red.

Entries open for Sunshine Coast Art Prize

Artists invited to enter 2025 competition

ARTISTS across Australia are invited to compete for the prestigious Sunshine Coast National Art Prize 2025, with entries now open for the $25,000 acquisitive award.

Last year’s winner, contemporary artist Todd Fuller, made history with his motion animation work, ‘No use crying over ripped lace’, the first digital piece to claim the prize. He was selected from 40 exceptional fi securing the top award in the region’s flagship art competition.

Australia’s most outstanding contemporary artists, with entries closing on May 11, 2025.

Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community

said.

“It is more than just an award—it positions the region as a hub for contemporary art and strengthens our commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community.”

Sunshine Coast Council’s Caloundra Regional Gallery is once again seeking

Law reiterated the prize’s significance. “This award celebrates outstanding contemporary 2D and new media arts practice from across the nation,” Cr Law

Horoscopes

PISCES

FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20

Mercury and the Sun, joining Saturn and Neptune in your lyrical sign, see February’s communications segue from intellectual to intuitive, and the life of Pisces slide into an increasingly upbeat rhythm. So that special dream you wise and watery ones have, isn’t it time to believe you can achieve it?

ARIES

MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

Mars retrograde offers the opportunity to reassess, see what works, what doesn’t, and make the requisite changes. When the red planet of confrontation is retrograde, we’re invited to look at the ways we express anger, irritation or annoyance and find more user-friendly ways of releasing our heat.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 – MAY 20

Your boss planet Venus, firetwirling into her hottest zodiac zone, is racy and impatient for change. And waving a flame-coloured flag. So avoid wasting time and energy by all means. But rather than barrelling forward full pelt, ease off the accelerator and give projects a thorough evaluation.

GEMINI

Artists working in various 2D mediums—including traditional oils, drawings, prints, photographs, assemblages, digital compositions, and new media—are encouraged to apply.

Finalists will be announced on June 6, with the exhibition running from August 15 to October 12. Winners will be revealed on September 25.

For entry details, visit the Caloundra Regional Gallery website: gallery. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

Maleny Film Society

THE Maleny Film Society continues to bring the best of world cinema right here to the Hinterland.

The 2025 program offers a packed line-up of diverse and fascinating films on offer over

WEEK BEGINNING FEBRUARY 18

MAY 21 – JUNE 21

With Jupiter headed direct in Gemini, and your planet ruler Mercury in its most psychic sign, current advice is don’t waste time arguing ideologies. Treat this week’s inconveniences as alternative routes to better outcomes. Juicy opportunities and entertaining revelations abound, even if your mind tries to tell you otherwise.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 22

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22

Why not spend the last week of Mars retrograde in your sign dispelling any lingering tension at home by decluttering, redecorating and ensuring everyone has enough space to do their thing. And for icing on the domestic cake, how about some of that Cancerian brand of pampering nobody does better?

LEO

JULY 23 – AUGUST 23

If the recent full moon in Leo brought a crossroads moment of wondering whether to stick with the tried and true or try something new, whatever you choose, know that it’s high time for a body, mind, heart and spirit reset. Let your intuition tell you who, what, where and how much.

the coming months. Ticket prices start at just $8 for members and a licensed bar is also available at all screenings.

Make sure to mark your calendar now for the Maleny Film Festival March 21-23! Coming

up February 22, ‘Lee’ starring Kate Winslet will be shown at 3pm and 7pm sessions. This acclaimed biodrama follows the life of former model turned WWII photojournalist, Lee Miller. www. malenyfilmsociety.au/

This week’s astral energetics support letting go of old war stories and giving the past a decent burial. Awarding yourself an extra helping of divine self-kindness. Diving into the emotional nourishment and intellectual stimulation of discussing ideas with like-minded others. Taking time out to dream...

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23

This week’s astral activity moving from Libra’s zodiac zone of self-expression and entertainment into your knuckle-downand-work sector doesn’t automatically mean less fun. Because vivacious Venus full of charming get-up-and-go is reigniting whatever might have got a little dull and ho-hum.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22

Some things may get more intense before they get better as uncomfortable energies surface to be addressed so they can progress. Nothing wrong or to be avoided here, it’s simply a step in the process. That said, this week makes tangible advances, even springs a delightful surprise.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21

After months of introspective rewiring since last October, Jupiter powers forward in the sign of articulate communication to bless team efforts, writing and recording. Sagittarians aren’t usually shy about striking up conversations, and plugging into group chats this week could amplify your voice to reach a global audience.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20

Surfing waves of change remains number one on this week’s agenda, with lightning strikes of realization as old roles disintegrate. Challenging yes, but just continue as the responsible, reasonable Capricorn you are without settling for the familiar and comfortable, or stubbornly resisting the emerging unknown.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18

This year’s undeniably exciting new Aquarian life cycle kicked off in vivid style at a cracking pace. This week requires discernment, tact and diplomacy. So whether you’re writing, speaking face to face, communicating to small groups or larger organizations, share the inspirational downloads you’re likely to receive wisely.

Kate Winslet stars in the MFS showing of Lee at Maleny Community Centre.
with Lilith Rocha
2024 Major Prize winner Todd Fuller with CRG Stu Peace. Photo: Sonia Isaacs.

Lake Gkula camping

now open

LAKE Gkula Camping will return from April 4–22, offering a nature-filled escape with a vibrant program of concerts and workshops. The newly released schedule features daily sunset performances at the Lake House, showcasing a mix of returning festival favorites and fresh musical talent.

Campers can enjoy a range of activities, including yoga sessions, creative workshops, and familyfriendly entertainment.

On-site amenities such as a café, tea house, bar, and general store will be open throughout the season.

Visitors can explore the full program and book workshops online. For those seeking a luxury experience, Woodfordia’s glamping tents and furnished cabins provide a comfortable Easter getaway. More details and booking links are available on the official website.

Share the local library love in

QUEENSLANDERS are being encouraged to rediscover their local libraries as part of a new statewide initiative, ‘How do you Library?’ which launched last Friday (February 14)

The campaign aims to showcase the diverse benefits of libraries and inspire more residents to take advantage of the free resources and activities available.

The initiative highlights the surprising ways libraries support creativity, community engagement, and lifelong learning.

From LEGO-building sessions for children and family history research to First 5 Forever storytime events and technology workshops, Queensland’s 325 public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) offer something for everyone.

Minister for Education and the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek, said the campaign is designed to raise awareness of the

vital role libraries play in communities across the state.

“Local libraries provide enormous value to our communities, with the ‘How do you Library?’ campaign encouraging us all to engage with the impressive range of programs and services on offer,” he said.

“Libraries are vibrant hubs which support lifelong learning and provide essential services for Queenslanders—no matter where they live.”

Queenslanders have shown a strong connection with their local libraries, making 17 million visits in 2023–24 and borrowing or accessing 42 million items.

On the Sunshine Coast, libraries in Maleny, Beerwah, and Kenilworth offer unique services, including Seed Libraries and Future Engineers clubs for children, alongside technology support sessions.

In addition, Sunshine Coast Libraries are hosting workshops throughout

Mobile Library Service ensures residents in remote and regional areas have access to library services, with 20 scheduled stops, including Conondale, Eudlo, Eumundi, Montville, Mooloolah and Palmwoods.

offers insights into the Sunshine Coast’s past.

Specialist research assistance is also available for historical inquiries. Beerwah and Kenilworth libraries further enhance their offerings with

the How do you Library? campaign is inviting all Queenslanders to discover— or rediscover—their local library and take advantage of the many ways these community spaces enrich lives.

On

Angus Chugg - Portraits of the Hinterland

When: Thursday February 20, 10am - 11.30am

Where: Maroochydore Library Artspace

Maroochydore

Info: Caloundra Regional Gallery in collaboration with Sunshine Coast Libraries proudly presents the next exhibition for the Maroochydore Library Artspace. Over the last two years Angus Chugg has been painting landscapes of Maleny and the Blackall Range. Chugg grew up in Maleny and currently works in bush regeneration. Chugg’s art practice has become a way to share some of the beauty observed from having spent a lot of time out in paddocks or in forests. Chugg’s work has been awarded first prizes in the Kenilworth ArtsFest 2024 Gourmet Food Fest and Mary Valley Art Festival 2024 Landscape Award. The opening event will be held on Thursday 20 February at 10am. Entry is free and all are welcome. Registration is essential. https://events. humanitix.com/

Genealogy Sunshine Coast Workshop

When: Saturday February 22, 9.30am - 12pm

Where: Petrie Park Rd, Nambour

Info: We will be holding a workshop on using the Roots Magic Program, covering the basics and how to set up your family history files. Some topics include settings, naming files and folders, where to store them, adding information including sources and media, using different screen views, writing reports, etc. Cost is $8 for members and $15 for nonmembers. Morning tea is provided and you may bring your own lunch or there are options to purchase sandwiches or pies. You may also bring your own laptop and/or a USB stick although laptops will be available for use. If you are interested, register by email to genealogysc@gmail.com or phone 07-5329 2315.

Morayfield Skate Park:

Official Opening

When: Saturday February 22, 10am - 12pm

Where: Sheepstation Creek Skate Park, Cnr Morayfield and Station Roads, Morayfield

Info: Come celebrate the exciting upgrade of Morayfield’s Skate Park! Get ready for a FREE actionpacked day featuring epic BMX and skating demos, live music to set the vibe, and the chance to learn some fresh tricks. Bring the whole crew along - there’s even a free sausage sizzle to keep you fuelled! Designed with input from our incredible local skating community, this revamped space is modern, safe, and ready to roll!

Saving Sunshine Coast Koalas

When: Sunday February 23, 9am - 11.30am Where: 148 Mountain View Rd, Maleny

Info: What is the current state of koalas on the Sunshine Coast? Come and found out with UniSC Detection Dogs for Conservation. Join us for an inspiring community workshop where we will share important findings from recent koala conservation efforts on the Sunshine Coast. Register now for this FREE event at www.events.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au

Glasshouse Hinterland Lions Sign On Day and Car Boot Sale

When: Sunday February 23rd, 8am - 11am

Where: Landsborough Sports Complex, 15 Tunnel Ridge Rd Landsborough Info: Fun for all the family with Face Painter Balloon Modelling, BBQ, Devonshire Tea and Bake Stall for booking a space. Cars $15 Utes/Vans $20 inside hall table $20 contact Fran on 0416013987.

Maleny Cancer Support Group

When: Sunday February 23, 2pm - 4pm Where: 926 Maleny-

Montville Road, Balmoral Ridge

Info: The group will run the last Sunday of each month. There is a $5 fee for basic costs. The session will comprise of an informative lecture, question time, an activity, discussion time and a lucky draw prize. The lectures will cover topics ranging from cancer, its causes, managing side effects of treatment, lifestyle management, survivorship coaching and much more. Do not miss this opportunity to be inspired with hope and learn practical methods of dealing with common problems related to cancer, its treatment, adverse effects and survivorship.

Caloundra Twilight Market

When: Friday February 28, 4pm - 8pm

Where: Cnr of Otranto Ave & The Esplanade, Caloundra Info: Join us for everyone’s favourite Twilight Market overlooking the stunning Pumicestone Passage. With delicious food vendors, market stalls, live music and a front row seat for sunset your plans for the last Friday of the month are made!

Ceramics Classes

When: Saturday March 1

Where: Beerwah CWA, Simpson Street, Beerwah Info: “PINCH POTS, COILS AND MORE”: This is a foundation unit essential for participating in both the MAKING MANDALAS & the BEAUTIFUL BELLS workshops. Again –decorative, fun and built by your hands. Introduction to simple Pinch and Coil Techniques. Complete a trio of mini bowls and one larger Coil Bowl. Cost $45. $5 per extra piece (Duration – 2hrs). Spaces limitedbookings essential For questions & registration contact Julia Email: juliafbell@ozemail. com.au, Ph: 0418 727 659

Sunshine Coast Emergency Services and Disaster

Prepardness Expo

When: Sunday March 2, 10am - 2pm

Where: Sunshine Coast Stadium, Lake Kawana Foreshore.

Info: You might also want to see how the police dive squad retrieve evidence, how firefighters respond to an emergency blaze or a crash or hear dramatic tales of ocean ordeals from a Coastguard veteran. Along with thrilling demonstrations, there’ll be stalls hosted by the emergency services and Sunshine Coast Council. There are plenty of things to do for the whole family, which also includes plenty of food and drink options.

Footprints

- Walking On Country Diabetic Foot Bus Coming To Maleny

When: Tuesday March 4, 9am - 1pm

Where: Maleny SHowgrounds

Info: This is a FREE diabetes program which is part of the Sunshine Coast Hospital Health Service. This is a Free program where anyone can come along and have a diabetic foot screening in the bus. The 2 nurses, will also give advice regarding foot care, diabetes education and support. Diabetes has become one of the most concerning, but eminently treatable diseases in Australia. Early detection and early preventative treatment is essential.

International Women’s Day 2025

When: Friday March 7, 7.30am

Where: Secrets on the Lake 207 Narrows Road, Montville

Info: Join us in 2025 for our International Women’s Day event at Secrets on the Lake. A wonderful morning shared with other local women enjoying a delicious breakfast, Guest Speaker Dr Sophia O’Brien, Lucky Door, Raffles and an Auction raising funds for 2

local charities that support women and children. Topped off with a fashion parade. What a wonderful way to start the day! We are very excited in the year of “Marching Forward” to have Dr Sophia O’Brien as our guest speaker who’s doctorial thesis examined one of the most significant contemporary policy challenges of our times; namely, when grave crimes and rights violations are committed with impunity, what is to be done? And more specifically, what does accountability, responsibility, judgment and justice look like? https://www. trybooking.com/events/ landing/1348250

Botanical Drawing

When: Friday March 14, 10am - 11.30am

Where: Beerwah Library 25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Join Botanical Artist, Nita Clare Lester for this fun hands-on workshop identifying local weed species through drawing. See pressed samples of plants like ginger and passionfruit while flowering and fruiting. Enjoy creating botanical drawings to help understand what to look for in a specimen and in your garden. Take home tips (and art!) to help you on your garden journey. $5 per person.

Trivia for SCARS

your smarts and compete for awesome prizes while supporting a great cause. Don’t miss out on this chance to have a great time while making a difference. See you there!

Book your table through Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/ scarstrivia

Historical Motorcycle Club QLD 2025 Maleny Motorcycle Swap

When: Saturday March 15, gates open 6am

Where: Maleny Showgrounds

Info: Entry $10 per speron, massive varity of new and used parts and bikes.

Energy Bill Hacks

When: Saturday March 22, 10am - 11.30am

When: Friday March, 14, 6pm - 10pm Where: Sunshine Coast Function Centre 97 Olm St, Caloundra Info: Get ready to test your knowledge and have a blast at our Trivia for SCARS event - come show off your smarts and support a great cause! Present By Youi, proudly supporting the animals at the Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge. Book your table of 8 now to test your knowledge and have a blast at this exciting event held at the Sunshine Coast Function Centre (at Caloundra RSL). Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled evening of trivia questions covering a wide range of topics. Show off

Where: Beerwah Library 25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: With the cost of living, high power prices can really put a strain on the family finances. The good news is, you could make savings and reduce emissions through no-cost electricity usage behaviour changes. Find out to keep the lights on AND save coin with Cleantech Network member Garry Harding. Discover how and when to use energy. Get hands-on with the EnergyFlex App using smart meter data. Take home strategies to get more bang for your energy buck. Session details: BYO fully charged device. Free. Registration essential. Ages 16 and over.

Invasive Plants and Animals Workshop

When: Saturday March 29, 9am - 12pm

Where: Glass House

Mountain Community Hall, 8 Coonowrin Rd, Glass House Mountains Info: Come along and learn about Invasive Plants and Animals. Come along and learn about: Weed management, feral animal control, wildlife of your area Registration is essential for this event. Free morning tea and native plant with every registration.

Church & Community

A letter from Aaron Bring a friend week and join a choir!

I was recently thinking if I wrote you a letter what could I tell you. Well here it is … Jesus loves you. This is the greatest truth we could ever know. His love is not distant or conditional—it is real, personal, and lifechanging. No matter who you are or where you’ve been, His love reaches out to you today.

Jesus came to give us a future and a hope. In a world filled with uncertainty, He offers peace. In times of darkness, He is the light. When we feel lost, He shows us the way. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us of God’s promise: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”

Jesus Himself said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the

Father except through me.” (John 14:6). He is not just a good teacher or a historical figure—He is the Saviour of the world. Through His death and resurrection, He made a way for us to be forgiven and have eternal life. He took our burdens, our sins, and our pain upon Himself so that we could live in freedom. And we are not left to walk this journey alone. When we believe in Jesus, we are filled with the Holy Spirit, who gives us strength, guidance, and the power to live a life of love and faith.

The Spirit is our comforter in trials and our source of joy in every season.

If you are weary, come to Him. If you are searching for meaning, He is the answer. If you feel broken, He is the healer. His love is greater than any mistake, deeper than any hurt, and stronger than any fear. As a town, we face

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

4pm

152 Main St, Montville (in the Uniting Church building) Peter & Michelle Maher – Senior Pastors P: 0419 119 275 W: therangechurch.com.au

challenges. But Jesus is calling us to something greater—to love one another, to care for our neighbours, to walk in faith and hope. Imagine what our community could look like if we embraced His love and followed His ways!

Today, you are invited to know Jesus personally. He is knocking at the door of your heart, ready to bring you peace, joy, and eternal hope. Will you open the door?

Sincerely yours

FROM 17–21 February, 25

With One Voice choirs across Australia will welcome newcomers for ‘Bring a Friend’ week, inviting all to experience the joy of singing in a supportive community.

Open to all ages and abilities, the choirs meet weekly under professional conductors, with no auditions required.

With One Voice Sunshine Coast, meeting Thursdays at Palmview Secondary College, is among the choirs offering this opportunity. Rehearsals are in the

and social benefits of group singing.

First visits are free, with ongoing participation by donation.

WASTE MATTERS

The Problem with Balloons

by birds, turtles, dolphins and other marine animals.

Ingesting balloons (and the clips and strings attached) can cause intestinal blockages resulting in a slow painful death through starvation (almost one in five seabirds die this way).

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 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

Minister: Rev Dr Elizabeth Nolan Ph. 0448 358 774 Email: churchgcuc@gmail.com

1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays 9am: Caloundra St, Landsborough 2nd & 4th Sundays 9am: 45 Cedar Street, Maleny www.caloundracatholicparish.net GLASSHOUSE COUNTRY

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

9.30am & Kids Church

WE all love balloons at birthday parties and festive occasions, but where do they all go when the party’s over? Popped balloons end up in landfill where they can take years to decompose, breaking down into microplastics and contributing to plastic pollution in the environment.

Released balloons can end up in the ocean, where they are mistaken for food

Birds and other wildlife can also get tangled in balloon strings, causing injuries or restricting their movement. Today, releasing balloons is considered littering and is banned in Queensland.

• fresh flowers

• paper chains or streamers • bubbles (make your own: 2 tbsp sugar, 4 tbsp water, 1 tbsp biodegradable detergent).

Under Australia’s National Waste Policy Action Plan, many single-use plastics including balloons are set to be phased out this year. Here are some alternatives to balloons that don’t harm the environment or wildlife: • reusable fabric bunting or flags

WAM’s aims are to educate and empower people to take action on waste and related issues, at a personal and community level. To find out more, visit our website www.wasteactionmaleny.org , Facebook group WAM Waste Action Maleny or email us at wasteactionmaleny@gmail.com.

“From Evolutionist to Creationist”

is a thought-provoking presentation about the scientific evidence that powerfully supports the biblical account of creation. This is a must-attend event for anyone curious about the origins debate, the intersection of faith and science, or simply looking to deepen their understanding of creation.

All are welcome! Invite your friends and family, and prepare to be inspired, challenged, and encouraged.

With Waste Action Maleny
Choir conductor Ellie Ferguson.

C CARAVAN REPAIRS

P PEST CONTROL

S SOLAR INSTALLATION

Maleny Bowls Club

Contributed by Brett Gillis

On Thursday we welcomed representatives from Maleny Visitor Information Centre for a familiarisation tour that included a presentation of club history, current events, community activity and facilities on offer. They were so impressed that they have organised a group booking for Barefoot Bowls for all members of MVIC on a Friday night in April.

Our Men’s teams playing in the Bowlers Paradise

Range Croquet Club

Contributed by David Kerr OVER the weekend the Range Club competed in the 2025 Darling Downs Croquet Tournament that was held at the Laurel Bank Croquet Club in Toowoomba. Our four competing members added significantly to the competition and showed their experience and skills in the results, with Sarah Widin taking out the Joy Gardner Trophy (Div 2),

Hinterland Local League had a round win against Pomona Bowls Club 3 game wins to 1.

After 3 rounds of competition Maleny is top of the table with our next fixture against Yandina Bowls Club at Maleny on Saturday 22nd February from 1pm. Supporters welcome with bar operating.

Our Annual General Meeting is being held in our club house at 9am on Saturday 22nd February 2025. This is the opportunity for club members to acknowledge the achievements of the 2024 committee and welcome in the 2025 committee.

with Ken Barker close behind. In Division 3 (June Brady Trophy) an old foe, Al Keetman (Bribie Island) took the win, with Maleny’s Lynette Evans coming in second and third to club mate Dianne Horsman. Maleny residents should stay tuned for “Hoops and High Tea” to be held on 8th March, celebrating International Women’s Day and the sport of Croquet in Queensland. More info next time!

Range Club Play days: Association: Thursday and Sunday. Please arrive at 2.00 pm for games to be

Golf: Contact Sarah Widin for play days.

Coaching: is available on Saturday mornings or by arrangement. We are encouraging people of all abilities to come and try the game and offer free introductory lessons for you and your friends. For further information please go to https:// rangecroquetatmaleny.org. au or contact Sarah Widin 0417640704.

Contributed by David Hayes

WEDNESDAY 12.02.25

9.00am Social Bowls

Carol Lewis, Mark Whittam and Brian Squires def Margaret Smith, Seija Munster and Rob Scullion 25 - 21.

Trish Jackson, Viv James and Margaret Gibson def Shane Kirktonfeldt, Joy Reason and Marilyn Podmore 24 - 18.

Allan Pashby, Scott Bedwell and Chris Freshwater def Jonathon Orr, Annette Capern and

Witta Tennis

Whitfield and Di Hume 25 - 15.

Jenny Hobson, Jill Kirchheiner and Sylvia Chamberlain def Gary Renshaw, <ark Whittam and John Annakin 23 - 16.

Winners of the day with the highest winning margin were Noelene Annakin’s team.

R/Up with the lowest winning margin of + 2 were Chris Freshwater’s team.

Lucky draw went to Marilyn Podmore’s team.

Thursday 13.02.25 12.30pm Social

match. Weather was good, but maybe a bit too warm for our first match. But we played and ran as much as we could. And we managed to win more games which was good, but we were exhausted at

Team

Aki Lepper, Brenda

but we managed to get the whole afternoon in.

Winners of the day with 2 wins and a margin of 16 were Rob Coffey (Maleny), Peter Bousen and Brian Squires.

R/Up with the highest winning margin in either game were Bobette Cross, Nathan Frizzo and Russ Turner.

Lucky draw was won by Gary Renshaw, Graham Nicholson and Sally Squires.

Our raffle winners were Scott Bedwell, Sally Squires, Dave Walters, Troy German and Barb Whitfield.

and Maree Hooley. Katya’s Tennis Drills Thrills and Fitness is on Friday Nights at 5:45pm. Cost is $20. Come along and join in the fun. All levels are welcome.

Socials - All Tennis Players Welcome: Saturday 1pm till 5pm - (mixed tennis); Monday 8am till 11am - (Ladies tennis)

Our 3rd week in a row with
Sarah with the Joy Gardner trophy Lynette receiving 2nd prize

Beerwah’s best bandits play at Oztag State Cup

Local Oztag venue brought nine teams to representative competition

NINE Beerwah Bandit

Oztag teams recently competed at the Queensland Oztag Junior Cup, with around 20 players being selected for the state Tri Series competition. It was held at the Sunshine Coast Stadium from January 31 to February 3, with teams playing from all over the state across 16 divisions.

The Beerwah Oztag venue started in September 2023, and in their first state cup appearance they only had three teams compete.

From early 2024 to now, the venue’s numbers have risen from 250 to 400 players.

Venue manager, Steve Barons, said he was extremely happy with the teams’ efforts this year.

“All our teams did amazing, they competed really well and we are really proud of them,” he said.

From the state cup, the best junior Oztag players are selected for one of three Queensland teams to play in the Tri Series, which include the Jesters, Rebels or Fury.

Steve said 20 oztaggers were selected from the Beerwah Oztag venue, with players competing for a

chance to be selected into the Queensland side for Nationals.

“We as a new club have done extremely well, in most divisions we averaged three wins and three losses,” he said.

“The competition was very competitive... you had to win more than half of your games just to make it through to quarter finals.

“We had one team, the U17s girls, make it through to quarter finals.”

He added many Oztag players were new to playing at a representative level, and are now eager to compete at that level again.

“The kids loved it, I’ve had a lot of feedback saying they can’t wait to see how they go next year because they’ll be better for the experience,” Steve said.

“It was an eye opener for those who haven’t been before, it was much bigger than what they envisaged.”

Steve is now preparing himself for the Queensland Oztag Senior Cup, taking place on March 7-9.

He has been playing Oztag since 2016, and has played for Australia a number of times.

kirra@gcnews.com.au

Emerging Maroons selection

FORMER Beerwah Bulldogs and Stanley River Wolves player, Reegan Hicks, has been selected for the U19 Emerging Maroons squad for a second consecutive year.

Reegan (pictured) was selected into last year’s emerging squad, which then saw her get picked for the 2024 U19 Women Maroons side, marking her State of Origin debut.

This year, Reegan will train alongside NRLW teammates Shalom Sauaso and Amanii Misa in the emerging program.

The program focuses on ensuring the best young female athletes are ready to excel their professional rugby league careers. Reegan was also upgraded late last year from the NRLW Brisbane Broncos development squad, to the Top 24 until 2026.

The 2025 NRLW season kicks off on July 3, with the addition of the Canterbury Bulldogs and the New Zealand Warriors.

Little A’s bring big resultsAmbitious Olympic venue

Contributed by Glasshouse District Little Athletics

49 athletes from Glasshouse District Little Athletics competed at the Regional carnival on February 8 and 9.

The two-day event was held at the University of the Sunshine Coast and attracted clubs from across the whole region.

Hundreds of young people competed in various track and field events vying for a place in the State championships in March.

28 athletes from the Glasshouse District club qualified for States and the club brought home 58 medals, including 19 Gold, 24 Silver, and 15 Bronze.

Sophie Doyle broke the regional record for U13s girls in the 800m with a time of 2:26:39 and the 1500m with 4:57:73.

Erika Walters broke the regional record for U11s girls 80m hurdles with a time of 15:08.

Izaac Kwarcianyi placed in all 5 of his events, including U14s high jump with a huge PB of 1.72m, while Paige Abrahams got 5 gold medals in her multiclass events.

Estah Muller came first in U14s discus and javelin while Harvey Graham in U9s was a standout qualifying for all 5 events in his first year eligible for States.

He came first in 800m, 400m and 60m hurdles as well as third in long jump and fourth in high jump.

Congratulations to all the athletes and good luck at the three-day State championships held in Brisbane on March 21-23.

THE Sunshine Coast Business Council (SCBC) strongly supports the Walker Corporation’s ambitious vision to bring a state of the art facility to the Maroochydore CBD.

SCBC Chair, Sandy Zubrinich, commended the idea for a 7000 seat arena, athlete village and 5 star hotel, to cater for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“We have long been advocating for the delivery of a major hub for entertainment and economic activity to firmly position the Maroochydore City Centre, and the Sunshine Coast region more broadly, on the international map as a premier destination for arts, music, conventions, exhibitions and major

events,” she said.

“With the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games just seven years away, we need to leverage private sector investment and expertise exemplified by this Walker proposal, to accelerate the delivery of essential infrastructure needed to create a powerful Brisbane 2032 legacy.

“Investing in the Sunshine Coast through this proposal will create a lasting legacy, not just for this generation,

but for many to come.

“This project will be the catalyst to further activate the Maroochydore City Centre — attracting both locals and tourists and making it a vibrant destination year-round.”

Ms Zubrinich said this project would not be viable, unless the Queensland Government supports heavy rail from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast in their 100 day review, with findings to be released next month.

Render of the Walker Corporation’s plans.
Glasshouse Little A’s athlete, Harvey Graham.
Beerwah Bandits U10 boys.
Beerwah Bandits U13 boys.
Beerwah Bandits U15 girls.

CLASSIFIEDS

DAIRY/LIVESTOCK/FARM

At Beerwah CWA First Saturday every month Next classSaturday March 1

Pinch Pots, Coils & More Contact Julia juliafbell@ozemail.com.au

Ph: 0418 727 659

Position exists for a healthy/fit person to work at our busy camel dairy. 5 days per week, including some weekend work. Must have a passion for working with animals, someone with a gentle and kind nature preferred. No experience necessary, full training given. Please send your resume including referees to info@qcamel.com.au

MULTI-DROP DELIVERY DRIVER

A part-time position with a local LPG business, KLM GAS, delivering 45kg gas cylinders. Must have a LR/MR licence, have good customer skills and a good driving history. Please email resume to manager@klmgas.com.au 5493 0493

Daily happenings

A little boy in my infant class came into school and told me he could spell his mum’s name.

“M-U-M,” he said proudly. Before I could congratulate him, another little boy said excitedly, “That’s how you spell my mum’s name too!”

When I returned a recipe book to my local library, the librarian noticed there was water damage to the book and asked me to pay for it. I agreed, but as I wasn’t carrying any money, I said I would pay next time I was in.

There was a different librarian on duty the next day when I dropped by with the money. She swiped my library card and my account came up on the computer screen.

In the “notes” section, it read: “Customer says he’ll hand in the $20 next time, but I don’t think he will.”

My uncle was a tour guide for a 16th-century castle just near Leuchars airfield in Fife, Scotland.

One day, while speaking to a group of American tourists, a jet plane flew overhead.

The noise was very loud and prompted one of the party to comment that he couldn’t understand why the castle had been built so near an airfield!

My husband recently answered his work phone and heard someone start a familiar pitch about upgrading his computer software.

A few seconds later the other office line rang and it was another cold caller, this one trying to sell life insurance.

“Just a moment,” my husband said, and pushed the conference-call button connecting the two lines together.

Driving Me Wild Driving Me

marketing needs.

Contact Tina or Lewis on 5438 7445 or email advertising@gcnews.com.au GC&M News ... for all

advertising plans advertising@g g

A SLIGHT detour out of the garden this month, but still with a wildlife theme. We all love Koala’s, but would you be willing to slow down a bit on rural roads to keep them alive? Is the speed with which you complete your journey worth the fauna carnage we see on roads in bushland areas? A rather sensible rule of thumb is do not drive faster than your reactions and brakes

will stop you, if something was to appear on the road ahead of you, whether it be a koala, echidna, wallaby, livestock, cyclist or kids! You could argue that it’s hard to avoid a wallaby leaping in front of your car and that excuse, perhaps could have some merit (not much really), but Koala’s are not known for their speed and if you hit one, you are undoubtedly driving too

fast for conditions. Perhaps not surprisingly even after road trauma, Koalas are not known for their fast get away’s, so there’s not much of an excuse for driving off and leaving an injured Koala to suffer on the road.... Being extra careful dawn and dusk can also help keep wildlife from under your tyres as that’s the time many of them are extra active.

Koalas are surviving in remnant bushland areas on the hinterland in ok (I’d hesitate to say good) numbers while their population has generally crashed throughout SE QLD. As hinterlanders we can take pride in this survival and the wild areas that we live adjacent to. We can also ensure the survival of Koalas by driving safely on bushland roads in areas

such as Reesville, Witta, Montville, Flaxton and Mapleton. You can do this by slowing down and driving to suit conditions and keeping your eyes out for wildlife on the road - it’s their home too. Time to get down of my high horse (I suffer from terrible vertigo) and end with a joke. “Why did the Koala cross the road?”. “To get to the other side”. It really is that simple.

These large, ready-to-build homesites range from 716m² to 1,719m², offering the perfect space to create your dream home with plenty of room to design a space that suits your lifestyle. Nestled in the heart of the Mooloolah Valley hinterland, you are effortlessly connected to everything you need:

• Close to shops, cafes, and schools.

• Scenic nature views from spacious elevated lots, ready for you to build on.

• Just a 25-minute drive to Sunshine Coast beaches.

• Hiking and bushwalking trails right at your doorstep.

• Only 5 minutes from Mooloolah train station.

• Brisbane is a convenient 80km away via the M1 or accessible from Mooloolah train station.

*

535 Macdonalds

535 Macdonalds Road, Peachester

• Main residence: Master 4 extra modern kitchen, multiple areas, ducted aircon, outdoor saltwater and house, water tanks, garage and double carport

• Main residence: Master bedroom, 4 extra bedrooms, modern kitchen, dining, multiple living areas, ducted aircon, outdoor entertaining, saltwater pool and pool house, water tanks, garage and double carport

• A: 3 open and with outdoor water carport

• Cottage A: 3 bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, open plan living and dining with fireplace, air-conditioning, outdoor entertaining, water tank, carport

• Cottage B: Open bedroom, outdoor water tank, shed,

• Cottage B: Open plan living/9th bedroom, kitchenette, bathroom, outdoor entertaining, water tank, garden shed, carport www.raywhitebeerwah.com.au

3 Crescent,

3 Jolly Crescent, Beerwah

• master bedroom with robe

• King-sized master bedroom with large robe

• Main bathroom with shower and

• Main bathroom with bath, shower and vanity

• Kitchen with electric

• Kitchen with electric cooking

• room

• Open plan dining room

• area with wood heater

• Spacious living area with wood heater fireplace

• Air-conditioning throughout

• Internal with outdoor access

• Internal laundry with outdoor access

• Carport with roller door

• with roller door

• 806m2 of land with side access for caravans, boats etc

• 806m2 of land with side access for caravans, boats etc

www raywhitebeerwah com au

O/O $2,399,000 Donnie Plant 0435 825 942 donnie.plant@raywhite.com

donnie plant@raywhite com

www.raywhitebeerwah.com.au Price O/O $799,000

Alex Garden 0407 245 287

alex garden@raywhite com

alex.garden@raywhite.com

26 Gympie Street South, Landsborough

26 Street

• Renovated bathroom with both shower and bath

• Modern kitchen with electric

• Modern kitchen with electric cooking

• Open plan living & dining

• plan &

• Ducted air-conditioning and ceiling fans throughout

• Ducted and fans

• 6m x 3m shed and 6m x 3m carport

• 6m x 3m shed and 6m x 3m carport

• Large outdoor entertaining area

• outdoor area

• 4,000m² of land with side access

• of land with side access

• Fully fenced horse paddock with stable

• fenced horse with stable

• Additional carport for horse float/trailer/caravan

• Additional carport for horse float/trailer/caravan

www.raywhitelandsborough.com.au

Price Submit Offers

Donnie Plant 0435 825 942

www raywhitelandsborough com au donnie plant@raywhite com

donnie.plant@raywhite.com

88 Allan Avenue, Glass House Mountains

88 Allan

• Master bedroom with walk-in robe and en-suite

• Kitchen with electric and stone bench tops

• Kitchen with electric cooking and stone bench tops

• plan 4 spaces,

• Open plan dining, 4 living spaces, plus office/study

• Ducted and fans

• Ducted air-conditioning and ceiling fans throughout

• Outdoor entertaining areas

• Outdoor areas

• Sparkling in-ground pool

• 3-bay shed x 10m approx ) plus double carport

• 3-bay shed (8m x 10m approx.) plus double carport

• of land

• 2,048m2 of land

• Fire pit, mountain views, rainwater tank, and solar

www.raywhitebeerwah.com.au

• Fire mountain rainwater and solar alex garden@raywhite com O/O

Alex Garden 0407 245 287

A Masterclass in Design and Luxury

SET on a sprawling 3706swm of land in Palmview Forest Estate, this true masterpiece of design blends timeless elegance with impeccable craftsmanship.

Built by award-winning Quail Constructions, the home showcases striking spotted gum timber flooring throughout,

exuding warmth and sophistication at every turn Designed to elevate your lifestyle, this premium home seamlessly combines indulgence with functionality. Boasting 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 4 car spaces, pool and shed. Contact Danielle Young on 0407 123 495 for details.

Immaculate 2022-Built ‘Bold Living’ Home

SURROUNDED by

spectacular views of the Glass House Mountains, this four-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is a showpiece of modern design, high-end finishes, and thoughtful

additions. It’s a true gem that’s ready to move into and enjoy!

6 Cooee Avenue boasts its spacious open-plan

kitchen featuring sleek stone benchtops, 900mm oven, induction cooktop, dishwasher and a large walk-in butler’s pantry. Luxury touches throughout include bathrooms with floor-to-ceiling tiles, ducted air conditioning, 6.8kW solar system plus wood plank hybrid flooring in living areas, plush carpet in the bedrooms and plantation shutters for a modern aesthetic.

Extra features include study nook, separate media room, built-in robes in all bedrooms, epoxy-coated double garage floor and crime-safe screens on

external doors.

Step outside to beautifully maintained garden with stone retaining wall for added charm and with a winding path leading to a pergola for outdoor entertaining.

Positioned in one of the newest upmarket estates, this home offers convenience and lifestyle. You’re just minutes from Glass House township, schools, train stations, and shopping precincts. Plus, it’s a short drive to Sunshine Coast beaches or Brisbane Airport.

This home feels brand new yet comes with the

added benefit of being fully completed and move-in ready. It’s perfect for families, professionals, or anyone seeking a stylish, low-maintenance property in a premium location.

Don’t miss out, this property won’t stay on the market for long. Contact Lisa Krausz 0492 871 176 from Glasshouse Property Sales today to arrange your private viewing.

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