Edition 20 December 2022

FROM THE EDITOR

THE news last week that the state government had backflipped over its decision to log half of Ferny Forest is a nice way to bookend my first year at GC&M News.

It was the first big issue I covered in detail and showed me how genuine and passionate Hinterland locals were when it came to protecting their patch.

Shame the Government won’t properly answer some pretty basic questions (p8-9) though.

However, the Ferny Forest campaign also highlighted the importance of community newspapers.

With no mainstream daily and others covering a wide patch, this publication is vital in covering issues in a way that reflects and amplifies the voices of the community.

Thankfully we are brilliantly supported by our readers and advertisers, which in turn allowed us to cover these issues throughout 2022.

We have undergone some big changes this year - including publishing weeklyand the support we’ve had to do this and

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to keep growing has been amazing. I also want to acknowledge the hard work of my team - Sharon, Tina, Jen, Kirra, Lewis, Sonia, Beth, Judy and Katie.

They are a superb bunch who have worked through many changes at the newspaper this year and always with a positive outlook.

They’ve kept me on track, offered regular gentle reminders about so many things and generally made my life infinitely easier. Thank you all!

While we’re looking forward to 2023, we are also looking forward to a short break and this is our last edition for 2022. We will be back in print on January 17.

Stories will continue to be published online though, so if you have anything you think we should cover, drop us an email at editorial@gcnews.com.au.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See you in 2023!

Christmas has taken over the Hinterland! Check our all the lights, parties and church messages inside.

Mitch

Mitch Gaynor

Glasshouse Country & Maleny News @gcmnews

Speed is up at Xmas

By Jennifer Kent

CONSTRUCTION works along Steve Irwin Way between Beerwah and Landsborough are set to be completed, with speed limits returned to 80 before Christmas.

It comes as welcome relief to frequent motorists who have experienced reduce speed limits, diversions and delays since late last year.

Early works on the $24 million Steve Irwin Way (Beerwah to Landsborough) Safety Improvement Project began in November 2021 and despite significant weather events delaying some aspects of construction, construction is set to wind up in the coming weeks.

“Despite significant flooding earlier this year in February and ongoing unseasonable wet weather conditions, the works are due to be completed in the coming weeks”, a Transport and Main Roads spokesperson said, thanking road users for their patience throughout construction period.

“The speed limit through the work area will return to 80km/h before Christmas, unless otherwise signed.”

The works included excavation and removal of existing roadway, vegetation clearing, widening of the road to accommodate two-metre-wide shoulders, installation of new traffic signals at Australia Zoo, dedicated right-turn lanes at Isambert Road, Graham Drive and entrance to the zoo’s maintenance $4.8 million toward the project.

The speed limit through the work area will return to 80km/h before Christmas, unless otherwise signed.

Acreage homes are being hit by criminals

ACREAGE properties throughout the Hinterland have been targeted in a series of break and enter occurrences since the beginning of the summer school holidays.

Areas targeted include Bald Knob, Mooloolah Valley, Witta and Eudlo, as well as properties in Bli Bli.

It is understood offenders have targeted smaller items, such as jewellery, passports, cash and wallets.

As homeowners may be heading away on holidays this time of year, it is important to consider the security of the property left behind.

As Beerwah Police Station’s Senior Constable Susan Lowndes shares in her column this week (see page 14), it’s important to be security conscious this time of year and take steps to protect your property from criminals.

Residents are encouraged to be aware

priority.

By Jennifer Kent

‘Nothing succeeds like success’ and the enthusiastic volunteers at the Maleny District Sport and Recreation Club are excitedly working behind the scenes to bring back the Maleny Aussie Day Expo, now called ‘Mobile Come and Try Day Maleny’.

Last held in 2020, right before the onset of Covid hit Australia’s borders and events like these were halted, the 2023 return will look a little different to previous years.

Returning to a concept likened to the community event in its early years, the event will follow roving events hosted by individual groups and clubs across the Range, where people can visit a variety of local community and sporting groups either at their premises, or in various locations.

Chairman of the Australia Day Expo Committee, Rick Vickers, who is a staunch supporter and volunteer of the event, shared that while it will be going ahead in a different capacity to previous years, it is a great opportunity for people to jump in the car or on their bike and come talk to local groups and experience what the community has to offer.

“There is so much variety here [in Maleny] and some of the community and sporting groups can’t wait to get involved and do something,” said Rick.

“Groups are really looking forward to this and are excited to have the event return. You can’t extinguish that community feel.”

There will be a number of regular events happening including a flag-raising and citizenship ceremony, along with a

performance by the Maleny Singers, and APEX Club of Maleny will be putting on their community big breakfast.

The mobile Aussie day celebration will continue throughout the day at a number of club venues, with full list to be shared in early January.

Rick explained that Maleny TS Centaur Navy Cadets SBLT Eddie Vann came up with the original idea, which came about as an extension of the RSL’s citizenship ceremony as a way to introduce all that

the community has to offer. The first event was held in 2014 and has received a great amount of support from the community and council each year.

“Our intent is to return to something like we had previously and we look forward to new members coming on board and bringing new ideas to the table,” said Rick.

“We plan on building on next year’s event and, in increments, get back to where we were.”

Come and Try Day Maleny will be held on Thursday, January 26 with a number of eager groups already busy making plans for the event. Any groups keen to get involved should email malenysportspark@gmail.com.

Celebrating Australia Day at the 2019 Expo.

Groups are really looking forward to this and are excited to have the event return.

Glut heaps pain on farmers

By Mitch Gaynor

QUEENSLAND’S pineapple industry is urging Australians to share the love and ‘Take Two’ pineapples home in shopping bags this summer to prevent an unprecedented surplus of our most iconic fruit rotting on the scrap heap.

While Christmas/New Year celebrations have come early for consumers – blessed with a copious supply of fresh, juicy pineapples – the outlook is not so bright for farmers and suppliers across southeast Queensland.

According to Tropical Pines general manager, Anthony Dobson, the region (responsible for producing around 40% of Australia’s pineapples) has been left reeling by ‘one-in-50-years’ weather events.

As he explains, extreme rainfall –starting in February 2022 and continuing throughout the year – triggered a rush of premature plants, also known as ‘mass natural flowering’.

“Mother Nature has thrown a curve ball that could push some Queensland pineapple farmers out of business for good,” says Anthony, adding that under normal conditions ‘natural flowering’ accounts for roughly 10% of annual pineapple crops.

“Instead, up to 70% of this year’s crops [financial year 2022-23], which should be harvested at staggered intervals to ensure continuity of supply 365 days a year, have flowered early…. and all at once.

“Premature flowering also means

harvested between April and December.

“That’s why we’re calling on consumers to share the love and buy two pineapples – or more – on every grocery shop to help us move surplus stock and prepare for leaner times ahead.”

Even factoring in a 50% loss of undersized crops, Anthony estimates a record supply of 2.4 million highgrade pineapples in January-February

surplus that adds up to around 150 elephants, approximately seven blue whales or close to 15,000 full beer kegs.

“That’s a whole lot of waste – and heartbreak for farmers – if Aussies don’t get behind our call to bag a bounty of fresh, juicy pineapples like never before.”

In a double whammy for the industry, Anthony said unprecedented pineapple surplus in the New Year will be followed

by a supply slump, with only 1.1 million pineapples available from April to July 2023 (down from 3 million the same period in 2022).

As a result, he said farmers faced financial hardship for the next 12 to 18 months, with many predicting a 60-90% loss of crops this summer if consumers don’t rally behind the industry’s ‘Take Two’ appeal.

Nothing short of a labour of love, Anthony stressed successful pineapple farming takes at least five years of planning and coordination for each crop, with plants taking up to two years to reach maturity. Read more about hard work involved in growing pineapples here.

Based on the Sunshine Coast, second generation pineapple farmer, Ian Fullerton, is one of 20 growers for Tropical Pines’ ‘Pure Gold Pineapples’ label.

For Ian, 67, growing Australia’s most iconic – and delicious – fruit is ‘a calling’ that started 50 years ago. In that time, he’s never experienced a more challenging situation than the current boom-and-bust crisis.

“This year’s extreme weather pattern is unheard of and with all the plants flowering early, we can’t possibly pick the full volume of fruit,” Ian said. “It will also be a challenge for customers to consume all the pineapples we can harvest in such a short period of time.

“But I reckon Aussies will give it a good crack – after all, when you taste a perfectly ripe and refreshing pineapple, you’ll always come back for more.”

That’s a whole lot of waste – and heartbreak for farmers – if Aussies don’t get behind our call...

A drive to give this season

By Sonia Isaacs

CHRISTMAS is the time for giving and Mooloolah man, Sam Tucker, certainly embodies that sentiment all the way. Sam’s social enterprise, Cans for Cars, gives away refurbished cars to local community members in need. With eight cars already restored and donated to date, Sam said he is working around the clock to ensure another two cars are ready for donation before Christmas.

As news of Sam’s project spreads further, people are reaching out to support his vision in making a positive difference to the lives of others by giving. Currently, seven additional cars are in the pipeline and Sam has been

contacting local businesses for recipient recommendations.

Sam hopes to surprise his next recipient, who is a Mooloolah Valley Community Association member, with an automatic car. He said they had no expectations of anything in return when they donated their manual car to the project, which they could no longer drive due to health reasons.

“They did such a wonderful thing for me, I’d like to do a nice thing for them in return and donate back a car their family can drive,” said Sam.

To find out more, follow Sam’s generous adventures at www.facebook. com/Cans-For-Cars-106151185057371

Demand for

By Sonia Isaacs

WHILE Christmas and the holiday season can be time of great joy, for some it can also be a tough time of increased stress, loneliness and hardship. With ever growing concerns around the rising costs of living, housing stress and ongoing tensions around Covid in the community, many of our local welfare providers and neighbourhood centres are acknowledging that this year financial pressures are becoming more prevalent, and they are assisting wherever they can to lighten to the load.

Charles Russell from the Glasshouse Country Welfare Network said he had noticed that many people were still cautious about venturing out following the third wave of COVID-19 which could be contributing to an ongoing sense of social isolation.

“Our network members have also seen an uptake in Emergency Relief requests over the last few months, and we are doing what we can to support our community through food and voucher donations for those in need,” said Mr Russell.

Ken Husband from Morris House said in the lead up to Christmas, the Landsborough Neighbourhood Centre had been putting together numerous Christmas packs and hampers for distribution. He said that local businesses and churches had been extremely generous, and centre volunteers were working hard to get as many hampers out

to clients as possible before closing for the Christmas break.

Rick Paget from the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre said for some individuals and families the pressure was always there– it just varied over time. He said along with other challenges experienced by families and individuals, in recent years Covid had amplified tension within the community around health, connection and general uneasiness.

“This year financial pressures are becoming more prevalent. Increases in fuel, housing, grocery and general expenses chip away at already ‘skinny’ budgets,” explained Mr Paget.

Like most of our local volunteer run community and neighbourhood centres,

Hampers ready to go at Morris House

help grows

Connection and companionship at Maleny Neighbourhood Centre

however it will be open on Christmas Day for a community breakfast and the free pantry stocked with non-perishable items and food will be available 24/7 throughout the centre closure period. Landsborough Free Pantry located at 21a Toorbul Street, Landsborough will also be open 24/7.

Geoffrey Norman, Statewide Manager (QLD) Lifeline Queensland acknowledged that the holiday season could be a stressful and overwhelming time of year for many reasons, as often everyday stress and other difficulties people face over the year were amplified throughout Christmas.

“For people that are already isolated and feeling lonely for example, the social

MNC community breakfast

By Sonia Isaacs

alone this Christmas, want to gather with others or try a unique way of sharing and celebrating community spirit? Then head along on Christmas Day to the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre for their free Christmas Day Breakfast from 8am

First held in 2001, this annual community celebration has become a signature event for the Maleny Community Centre and is now a firm fixture on the Maleny town calendar.

Past years have seen crowds of up to six hundred people catered for, and while organisers are not expecting numbers that big, they are still planning for hundreds of people to attend the event that is equally popular with those wishing to attend as well as volunteer in support

Centre co-ordinator Rick Paget said the annual event was an opportunity for people to gather with other members of the community in a fun, safe and supportive space that encouraged connection and companionship at Christmas.

“To all those who donate and volunteer, we are greatly appreciative. The success of this event is largely due to this amazing level of support. It doesn’t matter if you don’t know anyone, everyone is invited to attend for fun, connection, and social activity, and to enjoy free food, music and gifts from Santa for the kids,” said Mr Paget.

The Christmas Day Breakfast is on Sunday December 25 from 8-10am at 17 Bicentenary Lane, Maleny. Bring a rug or chair, meet others, and bring your family and friends – all welcome!

www.malenync.org.au

Win for Ferny Forest

By Mitch Gaynor

THE STATE Government has refused to reveal why it reversed a decision to log Ferny Forest or why it took 12 months to make that decision.

Last week the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries announced it would not proceed with a decision to log about 50 per cent of high value hardwood trees at the 129-hectare site, also known as Beerwah State Forest. The decision came 12 months after it announced it would be logging the site ahead of the forest’s transfer to national park status in 2024.

Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said it was “great news” after a year of grassroots campaigning by groups

concerned about the loss of the forest, which was a natural koala habitat.

The area is a significant cultural site for the Kabi Kabi people and an important link from Ewen Maddock Dam to Mooloolah River National Park with vegetation that prevents soil erosion and therefore improves the water quality of the dam and surrounding waterways and rivers, the petition states.

Advocates for the forest said logging of any scale would have had a devastating impact on the site with fungi, invasive weeds and climate change adversely affecting native forests. “This is a fantastic outcome that is a great win for our community,” Mr Hunt said.

liaison and advocacy officer Narelle McCarthy said the decision was “a fantastic first step toward the protection that our Sunshine Coast native forests and wildlife need”.

“This win is testament to what can be achieved with people power. The community rose up to fight the planned logging, and fight for local people and visitors to enjoy this amazing forest into the future.

Asked by GC&M News for the specific reasons that logging was now deemed inappropriate and why it took 12 months to reach that decision, a DAF spokesperson said: “The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has decided not to proceed with selective timber harvesting in Beerwah State Forest.”

Sunshine Coast Environment Council

How GC&M News covered the issue.

“The area has been identified for inclusion in the Queensland Government’s commitment to transfer up to 20,000 ha of State Forest in the South East Queensland Regional Plan Area to the conservation estate by the end of 2024.”

The Government had been under constant pressure to reverse its decision with regular protests, a state parliamentary petition signed by 2800 and a change.org petition signed by over 20,000.

Save Ferny Forest spokesman David

Wiggins said: This campaign win shows that if ordinary people join forces and do what they are good at, what brings them joy and what needs doing, huge successes can be achieved.”

“We are delighted that our grassroots movement, working with existing environmental organisations at local, regional, state and national levels, all adding their voices to this campaign, has contributed to saving this forest from being logged.”

People power stands tall after year long battle to save forest

By Narelle McCarthy Sunshine Coast Environment Council

IT WAS Margaret Mead who said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

And, indeed we have seen this in the fight and wonderful win to protect Ferny Forest, a 130ha section of the Beerwah State Forest slated for logging.

All too often, despite being distressed and angry, often to the point of utter disbelief as some new assault on the environment unfolds, people may feel powerless or unsure of what they can do in the face of events and activities they feel are beyond their control.

Being an environmental advocate isn’t always easy but every once and a while there is a day when your impact is undeniable.

The efforts of individuals aren’t always noticeable, immediate or duly recognised but these contributions count and really do make a difference.

It’s this collective effort where people become connected to accomplish a shared objective while supporting and learning from each other along the way.

The many celebrated and iconic natural assets which characterise the region are testament to people from all walks of life standing up and caring for nature over decades.

From the Conondale, Mount Coolum and Noosa National Parks (and more!) to the bushland reserves and coastal environments so integral for biodiversity,

wildlife, our well-being and lifestyles, these places haven’t been protected by sheer luck or left to chance.

Conservation wins come with vigilance. Stewardship of our local and regional ‘patches’ comes back to shared values and experiences and a willingness to be involved in whatever way we can.

Whether it’s to maintain, expand and restore biodiversity and wildlife habitats or to strengthen environmental provisions in our planning instruments which directly affect and impact our environment and amenity, any positive action matters.

When people are motivated to conserve the natural environment, protect our wildlife, a special place under threat or to

Celebrating the news that Ferny Forest would not be logged

Lighting up for BeeGees

By Kirra Livingstone

THE state government has granted $390,996 to the Beerwah Glasshouse United Football Club to upgrade their field lighting, following conversations with the Minister for Sport, Stirling Hinchliffe, in June this year.

BeeGees president Shaun De Courcy said the lights are around 50 years old and is extremely grateful the club finally have the funds to improve the already great

Glasshouse) Andrew Powell enough for getting this across the line for us.” Not only will it benefit the BeeGees, Shaun said it will benefit affiliate clubs too including the touch association, the Glasshouse Cricket Club, and the Tibros Netball Club.

“It means not just for the football club, the cricket, the touch, everyone will benefit and that’s what it’s all about,

Glasshouse initiative aims to deliver pathway for girls in cricket

GLASSHOUSE Cricket Club has launched a new program ensuring that girls are offered a strong pathway in the sport.

The program involved pairing Junior Blasters girls’ players with Master Blasters women players.

“Our aim is to equip young girls with the skills they need to succeed in both in-game and as part of a team… which will deliver personal and professional benefits to both the mentor and mentee,” Club president, Jeremy Schultz, said.

The program focuses on learning basic

skills in a fun and positive environment.

Jeremy said it was a pleasure to see how quickly the girls were picking up the skills.

“There’s a young girl who just started in the women’s program in the last couple of weeks and I saw her playing on Sunday,” he said.

“… she’s just so happy to be involved in the program and it’s so nice to watch that progression after only a few weeks.”

“Having programs like this really does break that ice and gets girls playing cricket instead of playing traditional girl sports.”

Local BMX rider qualifies to race in world championships

Business support to suceed

SMALL businesses should have better access to ‘debt hibernation’ instead of being made insolvent when they face a crisis beyond their control, so they are better able to pursue a credible restructure, save jobs and rebuild, according to the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson.

It is one of several recommendations made by the Ombudsman to improve Australia’s insolvency laws which are being reviewed for the first time in more than three decades. Mr Billson called for an emphasis on optimising and preserving value in a business instead of asset fire-sales, noting liquidators get paid three times as much to shut down a business as they do to save it. He said it was vital small businesses received more timely advice, written in plain English, and that their trusted advisers were upskilled to better manage business viability and highlight early concerns regarding the solvent nature of a business.

By Kirra Livingstone

KAMELI Jones competed in the Tasmania BMX National Championships on November 21-27, came second in both races, and has qualified to compete internationally next year.

The 16-year-old racer, who came second in both the 16s girls race and in the junior superclass women’s race, said it isn’t the first time she’s excelled in the national BMX scene.

“When I was seven years old, my first time at the track after doing gymnastics for about 18 months, I realised I just wanted to do BMX… I’ve done a couple national championships too,” she said.

“I raced in the 2015 nationals, and I didn’t make the final or anything in that, I raced in the 2017 nationals and got tenth, and then I raced last year in nationals, and I got second in that as well.”

Kameli trains out of the Caboolture BMX Club and although she isn’t too sure what events she will compete in next year as she finishes year 12, she is sure on her future in the sport.

“I love everything about BMX, I definitely want to ride BMX professionally once I graduate from high school,” she said.

“I love the adrenaline, going fast, jumping, learning new skills all the time, and not many people know about the sport so it’s different

when people ask me about what I do.”

She also revealed to GC&M News that she has received a special opportunity which points her in the right direction to make BMX riding a career after graduating high school.

“I’ve been on a development squad for 12 months, and yesterday I was offered a position on their factory team which is a full sponsorship deal,” Kameli said.

“So, they will cover the costs for things like my bikes, clothes and championships entry fees.”

Kameli also hopes to compete in the 2026 commonwealth games, which is her main long-term goal right now.

“Small and family businesses have suffered a series of rolling disasters beyond their control such as floods and bushfires and the COVID-19 shutdowns and while governments may offer support, the assistance is not guaranteed, is inconsistent across jurisdictions, varies with each shock and often delays, rather than mitigates, the impacts.”

Mr Billson said establishing a business viability program would make it easier for small business owners to access personto-person expert business advice and support.

“This would be a viability service to improve businesses’ financial acumen, forward planning skills, and understanding of insolvency processes. It would also provide an opportunity to identify cash flow or other problems early and provide tools to remedy them, such as through restructuring, which may avoid an insolvency,” he said.

SUNSHINE Coast MP Andrew Wallace has slammed the Federal Government’s decision to cut psychologist visits as a kick in the guts for Australians seeking mental health treatment.

Suicide Prevention Australia also called on the Albanese Government for urgent support.

Health Minister Mark Butler announced Medicare users would only be able to claim 10 visits to a psychologist instead of the 20 visits introduced in 2020 through the Coalition’s Better Access Scheme.

The report found the service was being used by higher income households, but Mr Wallace said it would impact vulnerable communities.

“Labor is completely out of touch with the needs of the Australian people,” he said.

According to data released by Suicide Prevention Australia, more than one in three (38%) Australians know someone in their personal life or networks, who has died by or attempted suicide in the past 12 months.

“I am deeply disturbed by Labor’s latest betrayal to the most vulnerable people who need our help,” Mr Wallace said.

“Labor turned their backs on our first responders, cutting funding for their mental health care before the Coalition pressured the Albanese Government to backflip last month.”

For help 24/7, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

Lime of the times

By Jennifer Kent

PEACHESTER farmer and Head of Agriculture at Glasshouse Christian College and owner of Green Valley Fingerlimes, Jade King, has made great strides in recent years. A staunch advocate of agriculture both locally and internationally, the successful finger lime producer and passionate teacher was

recently awarded the prestigious Peter Kenny medal at the annual Queensland Agriculture Awards.

Humbled by the recognition, Jade said the recognition very much came as a surprise as she wasn’t expecting to win.

“Initially I wasn’t aware I was nominated, so that came as a surprise and I just thought how lovely someone thought of me. Then I received an email saying I was one of four finalists,” Jade said. “I was already going to Trop Ag so it was great to be able to attend what was a really lovely event.”

Taking home the award was the cherry –or in Jade’s case, finger lime garnish – on top.

Recognising the immense impact Peter Kenny made within the industry, Jade shared she hopes she can do justice to the award and put the bursary to good use. Peter’s sister, Hillary, explained that when it came time to sit together to work out who would be awarded the medal, the family were united in selecting Jade.

“That was just incredible to hear and I hope I can do justice to Peter Kenny and everything he stood for.”

In terms of where the bursary money will be directed, Jade said she has some ideas but would love the input from the Kenny family.

“When you get to meet the family of a man you admire and which the award honours, it’s very special.”

In her acceptance speech, Jade thanked the Queensland Government for the support, sharing she hoped the government is proud of every person in the room, and everyone in the agricultural industry throughout the state.

Jade is the owner of Peachester farm Green Valley Fingerlimes and is passionate about representing and creating awareness for the native Australian fruit.

She has travelled all over the world, with upcoming plans to travel to the USA, where she plans to share a range of Australian research into the fruit.

“It’s already gone overseas [farming of finger limes] – we can’t get it back, but we can showcase that it’s Australian,” Jade said. “I’m pretty amazed with awareness for the fruit, but it’s just about getting it out there and known. To the rest of the world, our region is astounding and that’s fantastic to hear.”

“I’m privileged to be a part of agriculture – in education, growing… I love it all.”

Brought to

ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES

POLICE BEAT

Holiday home safety What to do about noisy parties

I’m sure many people are looking forward to getting away over the school holidays. While break-ins into homes are not a regular occurrence in the Beerwah Division it’s always best to be security conscious and especially so if you are going away for an extended period.

Neighbours can be one of the best resources. Ask a neighbour if they can put your bins out and take them in, maybe clear the junk mail from your letterbox.

This gives the impression that someone is at least keeping an eye on things even if no one is home.

If you are leaving vehicles at the house, please make sure they are locked and that the keys are not left in the vicinity of the vehicle or in an obvious and accessible place. Criminals love easy targets, locking your house and car is one of the simplest ways to reduce your chance of being a victim of crime.

If you are interested in crime statistics for Beerwah or Queensland in general head to https://www.police.qld.gov.au/ maps-and-statistics

School property

A quick reminder that schools are not public land. While some groups have permission to use school grounds for various activities during the holidays, they are not open to the general public.

Hopefully you can simply have a conversation with your neighbour about excessive noise, but we know that sometimes that isn’t possible.

If you have a noise complaint in relation to amplified noise, you can lodge it online on the Policelink reporting complaints page.

While we appreciate that you may not want your neighbours to know who has made the complaint (and we would not share that information), it is helpful for us to know where the noise can be heard from.

If you lodge a noise complaint either online or via phone (131 444) please consider giving your address and a contact phone number to assist us in doing our job.

Last of all...

Merry Christmas and happy New Year. Thanks to the all the communities in Beerwah Division from Beerburrum to Palmview, Peachester to Coochin Creek for making it such a wonderful place to work.

We are very fortunate to have the opportunity to look after such a great area. Please drive carefully and stay safe over the holiday period.

Maleny-Kenilworth Road Slope Stabilisation Works

THE Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will be undertaking slope stabilisation works on a 60m section of the rock-fill embankment on the eastbound side of Maleny-Kenilworth Road near Bakers Road, Elaman Creek…finally.

The project will stabilise the embankment that runs parallel to Maleny-Kenilworth Road, improving the stability of the roadside and reducing the likelihood of future land slips at this location.

Key works being undertaken will include excavation of the pavement and rock-filled embankment, installation of 38 concrete piles at the base of the embankment, reinstating the rock fill embankment and excavated pavement, and linemarking.

with Rick Baberowski Division 1Sunshine Coast Council

The year in reflection

I’M sure each of us see the past year through a different lens. Whether that be through the challenges we have experienced or just how busy we all are, I hope it’s comforting to share with you that we are well placed as a region and that your council is in a good position to continue delivering our services, programs and major region making projects. The inspiring list includes our recognition as a UNESCO international site of excellence (known as a biosphere), our rapidly emerging new regional city at Maroochydore, the commercialisation of our regions remarkable international submarine data cable, the announcement of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and further airport developments in addition to the placemaking of Landsborough, Caloundra, and Glass House, to name a few. For more information check out the State of the Region Report on the council’s website.

LIBRARY NEWS

Find your next great read

At the end of the year down time is a highly sought-after commodity, and the libraries are here to support you with some exciting summer holiday reading.

Patrons can simply fill in the online form and personalised selection of reads are created just for you. Library members choose to Click and Collect from your local library or receive a personalized list or recommendations direct to your email.

Lily, a regular user of the Your Next Great Read online service, loves how inspiring the staff recommendations and selections are.

“I love this service. I just fill out a form and the library staff prepare titles ready to pick up or I can have a list emailed to me to select from. I was introduced to Madeline Millers’ Song of Achilles and Delia Owens’ Where the Crawdads Sing through this service,” Lily said.

“Before I found this service, I really had no idea what I wanted to read so I kept going to the same old faithfuls. But,

Works are expected to take approximately six months to complete. I appreciate your patience while the roadworks are underway.

Congratulations Graduates of 2022!

In the last few weeks, I’ve attended Year Six graduations at Mount Mee, Mooloolah, Elimbah, Beerburrum, Maleny and Peachester State Schools.

It has been a privilege to attend each of these local graduations and acknowledge the students’ achievements.

Wishing all 2022 Primary School graduates the best for starting High School next year!

Get Your Glamp on at Woodfordia

Down the road from Glasshouse Country, Woodfordia have opened their incredible new ‘glamping’ sites…just in time for the Woodford Folk Festival.

These glamping sites will be available to book all year round along and are conveniently located near their gorgeous freshwater lake, Lake Gkula. Together these recent additions will assist in generating revenue outside of the Folk Festival.

Free School Holiday Fun

From festive gardens to pioneer play, interactive art exhibitions and outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to explore without breaking the bank these school holidays. Visit my Facebook page for a list of free activities and events happening over December and January.

Wheely good start to the new year

Do you have a waste bin that’s got a broken lid, wheel falling off, or cracked sides? The next time you’re taking the bin out, give it a once over to see if you need a replacement bin. If you do, simply search ‘General Waste Bin Collection’ on council’s website and complete the online form or call customer contact centre.

Replacement bins are free, so if needed, council will organise the removal of the old bin and the delivery of a new one.

Season’s Greetings

On a solid foundation of genuine optimism, may I sincerely offer my best wishes to you and your families and hope you have a terrific Christmas/New Year. I also hope that you are all able to take a step back, celebrate all the good bits and grab some personal time to re-charge ready for a brighter, very exciting 2023.

with Your Next Great Read, I am reading new interesting books, for free. The Librarians really know their stuff.

“I’ve moved on to eAudiobooks since I started asking for recommendations as I mentioned how time poor I am. I can now read and drive at the same time!”

The Your Next Great Read service has been created for readers young and old in any form from fiction or non-fiction, digital or hard copy. Discover your next great read this summer!

To find out how to make your reading life easier head to https://library. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Read/YourNext-Great-Read

with Senior Constable Susan Lowndes Beerwah Police Station

with Andrew Powell State Member for Glass House

Strategic Policy

In response to You Said It contribution 6 December edition ‘Strategic Policy on DA matters considered’ Council’s Development Services Manager has assisted with the following summary, which may be helpful for everyone to better understand the role and constraints around development applications:

The community continue to have the ability to approach Councillors and Council employees anytime throughout the development assessment process to obtain information and provide feedback on a development proposal.

This updated Strategic Policy primarily focusses on the specific proponents and participants involved in the development assessment process, such as applicants, consultants and submitters. While there is no express statutory prohibition on Councillors or Council employees engaging with proponents and participants in the development assessment process, these interactions must always be carried out ethically, lawfully, transparently and in the public interest. Noting the policy and guidelines heavily caution about councillors predetermining an assessment outcome.

The aim of this updated Strategic Policy is to clarify and reinforce Council’s commitment to open, transparent, efficient, effective and objective decisionmaking in accordance with statutory requirements while also providing for appropriate involvement by all relevant stakeholders in the decision making process.

Any application, whether code or impact assessable, can be presented to a Council Meeting for a Council decision. However, Councillors and the community need to be fully aware of the very restrictive legislative timeframes in relation to a code assessable application.

Finally, we have an excellent information service called Development.i to effectively keep everyone equally informed in practical real time and please remember no matter how strongly an individual feels about a development, the primary duty of a Councillor is to represent the current and future interests of the residents of the whole local government area.

Rick Baberowski Deputy Mayor | Division 1 Councillor Sunshine Coast Council

Thank you Lisa

I’d like to say how much I’ve enjoyed reading Lisa Plucknett’s poetry in GC&M News.

Last week’s was especially funny and moving in equal measure. The way Lisa embraces life and reflects this through her poetry is a fine guide for how we might all approach the trials and tribulations of our brief time on earth.

I find the telling of her clearly personal stories as honest, bold, often hilarious, but ultimately glowing in humanity as she considers her own mortality in rhyme. The picture accompanying last week’s poem - Lisa stark naked with her son ahead of a skinny dip - was just delightful... and artistic.

Thank you Lisa, you are an inspiration. I look forward to reading more of your poems in 2023.

Thank you for support

YOU SAID IT

Chemists Glasshouse Mts, Matilda’s Fruit Barn and Vida Candles who donate on a regular basis; our talented ladies who donate their arts works; KLM Gas for our weekly Lucky Meal Voucher; Glasshouse Country Meats who always look after us; our anonymous donator; Andrew Powell, Andrew Wallace and Rick Baberowski for their support; and IGA for providing us with a location to sell.

A big thank you all our ticket sellers and businesses who sell on our behalf.

To everyone who has bought a raffle ticket outside of IGA, at the RSL on a Wednesday night enjoying drinks and nibbles, and Friday nights fantastic meals. On Anzac Day, Vietnam Veterans Day, Remembrance Day and the Serviceman’s BBQ’s. Without you, our raffles would not succeed – Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

To ALL our volunteers, thank you for everything you do, you are what makes our RSL so special.

Linda Fraser Raffle Co-ordinator Okayed by Brian Machin President. Glasshouse Country RSL Sub-branch

Questions on Ferny Forest

It is with great relief that we hear the news from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries that Ferny Forest will not be logged.

This is an important piece of remnant forest - a site of cultural significance to the Kabi Kabi and long recognised as core koala habitat, amongst other critical values - and we must be grateful that the State Government has at last seen sense.

The question must, however, be asked: why did it take so long? And: whose idea was it to log it in the first place? These questions are not moot; this section of forest was to be declared a National Park in July 2024. Why would you log a piece of land you had already decided was worthy of being protected? And why, when the community outrage was so enormous, would you persist for a year, doing your best to alienate as many people as possible by replying to all attempts at communication with management speak of the worst kind; declaring, time and again, ‘a decision had not yet been made’?

Why, when the region is suffering a catastrophic loss of species, mainly through destruction of habitat, do we have to fight to protect every square metre of existing natural landscape? We have, in this state, a supposedly progressive government, one which many hundreds of locals have consistently campaigned for. Why are Labor leaders so unwilling to listen to their own supporters on these issues? It is time for government to get out ahead on this and lead, practically and powerfully, to communicate what needs to happen

and why, and not be dragged kicking and screaming to every good decision.

Steven Lang Maleny

Where’s the fire?

I think contributor GM may have slightly misunderstood why I’m suggesting changing the rules regarding backyard burn-offs.

No, I don’t subscribe to any toxic cancel culture brigade, but I do want people to be more considerate of neighbours in their community.

I don’t think that’s unreasonable, do you? Yes, we do need to improve our air quality, as you so rightly say, which is why I’m asking people to just think about it, do the right thing and stop burning your garden waste.

But the reality is this doesn’t happen. Fires are often lit with no thought given to the smoke nuisance it causes, and I’m sorry to say it’s not by “inexperienced” people, frankly it’s laziness. After all, it’s easier to burn it, hey?!

The council spokesperson contacted by this newspaper for clarity on this issue has stated (and I quote) “green waste may NOT be burnt”. Oh really? Well try telling the residents that!

All green waste should go to the tip, as it’s recycled and made available as free mulch to all residents. A good eco-friendly solution, and our local tip fees are very affordable.

Fill up your ute or trailer with the big stuff. Use your green bin for the small stuff. Easy peasy.

Council has permitted many new housing developments locally, and more gardens means more green waste, and potentially more random backyard burnoffs causing pollution.

No GM, I disagree, we don’t need to “educate on how to correctly burn”, we need to educate on protecting the air quality in our environment, and we need to do a lot better on the disposal of green waste.

More importantly, we need residents to be socially responsible in their actions and how they impact on neighbours.

If the best way to achieve this is by reviewing and changing the rules on backyard burning (not a “blanket ban”) then so be it. With a rapidly increasing population, a timely review will potentially help manage and reduce the frequency of nuisance smoke.

We deserve our home environment to be as free of pollution as possible, and the health and well-being of our community should be a high priority on council’s list of responsibilities.

J.W. Glass House Mtns

Heed the message

I wholeheartedly agree with GM’s letter of 13/12 22 (Burning needs Education) and Jennifer Kent’s excellent article “Clean Air a Burning Issue”.

The Albanese Labor Government has now changed the law that burning wood from native forests will now no longer be classified as renewable energy, as well as the fact that burning wood from native forests is a disaster for the environment. This decision was made after more than 2900 submissions were received.

The Palaszczuk Labor Government has recognised this issue and have now stopped planned logging in Ferny Forest, part of Beerwah State Forest. They have instead designated the area as conservation, a win for the Sunshine Coast.

Every day on the Sunshine Coast, now designated as a Unesco Biosphere area, with the explicit approval of the Sunshine Coast Council, in rural and rural residential areas, burning of green waste continues unabated. In effect, the Council is implicitly supporting the deforestation of Eastern Australia, recently identified as a significant hotspot for deforestation by the WWF.

Apart from rural and rural residential areas, burning is explicitly banned across the Council area, to preserve, in the words of the Council’s own by-laws, “to protect the health, safety and amenity of the community”. Clearly, the community does not appear to include those unfortunate enough to live in a rural and residential area where environment polluting smoke wafts across otherwise pristine properties every day. Yes, GM, education is needed, but it has to start at the top with the Mayor and Councillors of the Sunshine Coast Council. If the message about burning and pollution is not heard, then the ratepayers have the solution. Vote for a Council that recognises, as both Federal and State governments have, that climate change is real and that local government needs to get on board and quickly.

Ken Dyer Landsborough

Doomsdays past

I’ve taken the time to identify 50 failed doomsday, eco-pocalyptic predictions that have failed to materialize. The alarmists from the ‘global warming cult’ though, will still justify their beliefs because they have built a whole belief system around these claims and just like all cultists they will die on their belief battlefield.

So let’s look at some of these: In 1967 a dire famine was forecast by 1975; In 1969 everyone will disappear In a cloud of blue steam by 1989; in 1970: Ice Age By 2000; Also in 1970: America Subject to Water Rationing By 1974 and Food Rationing By 1980; in 2004: Britain will Be Siberia by 2024; in 2008: Arctic will Be Ice Free by 2018; in 2008: Climate Genius Al Gore Predicts IceFree Arctic by 2013; in 1972: Oil Depleted in 20 Years. in 1989: UN Warns That Entire Nations Wiped Off the Face of the Earth by 2000 From Global Warming; and in 2011: Washington Post Predicted Cherry Blossoms Blooming in Winter. The list goes on.

S.K.

Elimbah

The generosity and support Glass House Country RSL Sub-branch has received from our community during 2022 just blows me away. A huge thank you to all who have donated items to make our Christmas Raffle successful.

Special mentions to Terry White

Somehow this time it will be different, and the ‘experts’ and 16-year olds of today will suddenly be correct in their new predictions of eco-doom and eco-disaster? Not likely.

But of course politicians, lobby groups and the media who are all driven by money, greed and lies will continue this scam until someone in power stands up and says “STOP THIS NOW”. We are sick of your lies.

Anyway its not hard to find these dire predictions look up “Global doom claims 1970s onwards” and see for yourself.

Shane Daly Peachester

Hinterland Foliage

Hinterland Foliage is a new family-owned nursery in the heart of Landsborough offering friendly service and great advice. Troy is passionate about providing a wide variety of indoor and outdoor plants and pots, including an amazing range of local artisan pottery.

The shop is packed with fabulous gift ideas and there are gift vouchers available. Take a stroll through this lovely Hinterland gem, conveniently located at 36 Cribb Street, Landsborough, opposite the train station.

Open 7 days, 9am-4pm.

CHRISTMAS can be a stressful time; whether it be ‘eustress’ a positive form of stress having beneficial effect on health, motivation and well-being, or ‘distress’ which negatively impacts and may be experienced as overwhelm, anxiety or depression. Learning techniques to work with our Nervous System is a powerful management strategy. It supports our physical and mental health, not just at Christmas but throughout our lives. Tracy offers experienced, neurodivergent affirming, evidence based support. Private Health Fund and NDIS registered offering support to all abilities, as well as ACA registered providing professional supervision for counsellors.

Dreaming of an African holiday? Experience the magic of a safari crafted to reflect your style of travel and sense of adventure, whether it’s the ultimate wildlife encounter, a cultural journey or climbing Mt Kilimanjaro. The Infinite Horizon, owned by locals Teena and Steve Chumbley, specialises in privately guided, tailor-made safaris to iconic destinations in Africa including Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zambia, Ethiopia and Madagascar. If you want to turn your dream of travelling to Africa into a reality then call now on 0457 249 998 or email safari@theinfinitehorizon.net

men, women and children of all ages since 2014. A qualified barber and hairdresser with over 30 years of industry experience, Jules specialises in old fashioned barbering with a modern style, ladies and children’s hairstyling and cuts as well as the traditional short back and sides/tapering and cut throat razor shaves. Make sure to drop in today and freshen up your look before Christmas. She is open right up to Christmas Eveno bookings necessary.

Cuddle Tours are

Tracy Mellors

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

Dragon Fruit Summer Pudding

Serves: 12

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes + overnight chill time

Ingredients:

1 loaf sliced wholemeal bread 2 cups frozen pink dragon fruit chunks 1 cup strawberries 1 cup blueberries 1 can white dragon fruit chunks in syrup

Reduced fat yoghurt, to serve

Method:

LINE a bowl or pudding tin with plastic wrap.

REMOVE crusts from bread and cut into

Festive Spritz

triangles.

ADD fruit to saucepan, gently simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

DIP bread triangles in fruit mixture until lightly coated.

LINE the inside of the bowl with bread. FILL with fruit mixture and top with remaining bread triangles.

PLACE saucer on top of the bowl and weigh down with a tin or can.

REFRIGERATE overnight. TIP the pudding out of the bowl when set. Serve with low fat vanilla or Greek yogurt.

White Dream Christmas Treats

Serves: 10

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 60 minutes

Ingredients:

1 cup rice bubbles

1 cup rolled oats

¾ cup muesli

½ cup desiccated coconut ¾ cup skim milk powder

90g dried cranberries

90g dried apricots, chopped ⅓ cup pistachios, roughly chopped 200g Greek yoghurt, reduced fat ½ teaspoon vanilla

Serves: 8

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 0 minutes

Ingredients: 1 granny smith apple, chopped 1 cup fresh cherries, halved OR 1 cup bottled cherries, drained 3 sprigs of rosemary 1L apple juice, no added sugar 1L sparkling water Ice

Method:

COMBINE the apple, cherries, rosemary and apple juice in a 3 litre jug and stand for 10 minutes.

STIR in the sparkling water and ice then pour into serving glasses.

Method:

LINE a baking tray with baking paper.

COMBINE all ingredients together in a bowl, stirring until well mixed.

PLACE mixture onto prepared tray.

PLACE in freezer for 1 hour then slice into squares.

Jo Zampieri’s Christmas Cake

1 cup wholemeal self-raising flour

1 cup self-raising flour

1 teaspoon all spice

Method:

SOAK fruit overnight in 500ml of orange juice in the fridge.

PREHEAT oven to 160°C conventional/140°C fan-forced.

ADD flours to the fruit and juice mixture and stir until combined.

POUR in more orange juice if the mixture is too dry.

SPRINKLE in all spice and place mixture into a lined 20cm baking tin.

BAKE in oven for 1-1½ hours or until a skewer comes out clean.

OPEN - Café & Shop open Wed-Sun 10am to 3pm. CLOSED - 25th & 26th December 1st & 2nd January

from the QCWA Country Kitchens

Glasshouse History Group

Uke beauty at Garden Club

BEERWAH Garden Club gives a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year as they finish off their final meeting of 2022.

The club enjoyed a couple of games and competitions, with a spread of delicious Christmas snacks supplied by their members.

Some well-known Christmas carols were sung, all with Australian versions, with accompaniment by John and Suella Lanceley on their ukuleles. Fitting with their club’s theme, potted plants were

gifted among the members.

Their first meeting of 2023 will be held on Thursday, the 19th of January at 9.30am, in the Lanceley’s garden –weather permitting.

Attendees, please bring a chair, mug and plate to share for morning tea, as well as entries for the competition bench and upcoming raffle.

New members are encouraged and always welcome. For more info phone 5496 9169.

QCWA Beerwah

View Club’s lovely lunch

GLASSHOUSE Country View Club held their Christmas party at the Glasshouse Country RSL and enjoyed a day of fun and laughter, filled with games, secret Santa and amazing raffles. New member Brenda received her membership badge and a couple of their ladies celebrated big birthdays, along with an amazing lunch

The next lunch meeting is on the 18th

of January and will also be their AGM, commencing at 11am at the Glasshouse Country RSL, 1 Reed Street Glasshouse Mountains.

The View Club raises funds for the Smith Family and the Learning for Life Program in all their activities, and now supports five Learning for Life students.

Any ladies who are interested in coming along to one of their events or would like to join should contact either Joy on 0457413651 or Janet on 0448 845 303.

You can also visit their website on www.view.org.au or Facebook.

A festive show time

By Mitch Gaynor

THE Maleny Show Society capped off one of its biggest years with Christmas drinks at the main pavillion on Saturday December 8.

In a year marred by Covid and torrential rain, the Society overcame the odds to celebrate its 100th year anniversary in style. Volunteers were thanked for all their

All of us at

and Mechanical would like to wish a Very Happy and Safe Christmas to our

A very big welcome to all of our new customers and thanks to all for your continued patronage. We wish everyone a MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY, SAFE and PROSPEROUS New Year! We look forward to servicing you in 2023.

Ben, Michelle and staff at B & A Tyre and Mechanical.

The team at Beerwah Small Engines would like to wish you all a Merry and safe Christmas –New Year break. We thank you for your business, and your patience with the delays which we have all endured this year. We look forward to being of service to you in the New Year and wish to advise that we will be closed from midday Friday 23rd December 2022 and reopening 8am Tuesday 3rd January 2023.

Jarred

Steve

Betty and George Diefenbach.

Helen Gilmour Walsh and Denise Howard.

Norma McLeod, Keith McLeod and Alan Ormes.

Bob and Daph Hawkins.

Sharon Fitzgibbon, Diedrie Arnold, Dawn Middlecoat Russ Middlecoat.

Ray Hegarty, Marie Hegarty and Margaret Cross.

Bev Heading and Henry Harbett.

Andrew Powell amd Paul Gilmour Walsh.

Marlene Hankinson and Bob Corkin.

Narelle Barry, Kayrene Corkin and Trinity.

Tanya Pratten and Jan Westin. Jill Murtagh, Elaine Tincknell, Sharon Schofield and Kelly Schofield.

Christmas PARTIES

GH Country Network Gathering Christmas Party

Christmas

Clout

By Angus Richard

It’s Christmas time - oops! I’m sorry Flick the name but keep the holly In this virtue signalled world Use the name, abuse be hurled.

Call it “Christmas” That’s the reason Now cancelled/banned - hail “Festive Season”

Beerwah Ladies Golf Christmas Party

So Angel Gabriel prove them wrong That Christ still lives, is tough and strong And Gabriel if you’ve still got clout You’ll take that bastard Putin out! Make your power to all quite clear Waste that twit from North Korea. Just take the time, I know you can, To help those girls in bleak Iran By stomping on Ayatollah’s bleating And medieval barren teachings.

Then Gabriel, one more, while you’re at it Ensure those Afghan rulers snatch it So girls can work and go to school As equals to those bearded fools

Who crush, suppress, with darkest noise While playing with their dancing boys. Yes, Gabriel with a bit of biff You’d toss those losers of a cliff

And through this action and your grace You’d make this earth a better place And prove to all who might still doubt That Christ still has a bit of clout.

P.S. Gabriel for you to really sparkle A quiet word with Jinping and Markle!

entertained with their unique music style.

The luncheon was table service, and were two delicious traditional Christmas courses. Then the traditional pulling of Christmas crackers.

There were Lucky Door prizes plus lots of raffle prizes eagerly won by recipients. A very merry time was had by all.

A shout out to our donors, who willingly gave generous raffle gifts to our club:-

Jason Hunt - champagne, Sandie Johnston of Environcom Aust. a recycle/ composter, Fresh & Save Beerwah fruit & veg hamper, Steve of Coochin Creek Coop vouchers.

Other multiple prizes were provided by the ever resourceful Judy, thank you Judy!

We invite all 50+ seniors to come to our meetings, the second Tuesday of each month, commencing February 2023 at the Beerwah Community Hall - 9:30am.

For further details, please contact 0448 762 637

Christmas warmth for Ethel

LOCAL non-profit organisation, Caboolture Community Action reached out to Ethel Burgess to gift her a special Christmas hand-made present.

Ethel was delighted to receive a crocheted blanket, mittens, beanie, soap holder and activity mat and said she would make good use of them in the colder months.

Caboolture Community Action is a wholly volunteer organisation that came together to respond to the growing number of homeless people appearing around the local area of Caboolture.

For more information go to: www.caboolturecommunityaction.com

Peachester Xmas Party

SEASON’S

Merry Christmas

New Year

Kelvin & the team at Glasshouse Property Sales would like to thank the local community for their ongoing support

We wish you a very

and a safe & happy

Greetings from Peachester Heritage Centre. The centre will be closed during the Christmas period, and we look forward to seeing you in 2023 - next Open Day on Sunday 22 January.

Mooloolah Lights Switch On Food Hampers for Christmas

Morris House Neighbourhood Centre, St Vinnies at Landsborough and the Landsborough School Chaplain. The church recognises that some people need to be reminded that they are special and loved regardless of their circumstances.

MOOLOOLAH held its first ever

Jason Carroll, MVCA’s Events Officer entertainment, we also awarded the shops

A Traditional Family Christmas

By Len Newey

You would always get a laugh... As you tried your very best... To make you’re little present... Stand out from all the rest...

Some were wrapped in newspaper, Then put into a bag... With another layer of paper, And a fancy Christmas tag...

Uniting Church community day

That really isn’t hard...

I remember sampling home brew, From the father in law on Christmas day... That was quite a drop We were jingling all the way...

So spread that Christmas cheer, Add your special little touch... It will mean the world to someone else It really isn’t much...

Merry Christmas

Our opening hours for Christmas Week: CHRISTMAS EVE 24TH 6am - 2pm CHRISTMAS DAY 25th CLOSED BOXING DAY 26th 7am – 10am TUES DECEMBER 27th 7am – 10am NEW YEARS DAY 1st 7am – 10am

Landsborough Seventh-day Adventist Church has donated over 50 food hampers for distribution to families and individuals in the community doing it tough over the Christmas period. The hampers are being distributed through

Just a little bit of thought, Imagination was the key... That’s what we all used, For those presents beneath the tree...

Christmas PUZZLES

ACROSS: 1 Dessert, 5 Apple pies, 10 Baby, 13 Air, 14 Hero, 15 Events, 16 Prawn, ce,17 Offi 20 Psalms, 21 In haste, 23 Ambient, 27 Angel, 29 Illuminate, 31 Jew, 32 Suppers, 33 Nil, 35 Prancer, 37 Drone, 38 Ornaments, 40 Gift, 42 Assemble, 45 Closet, 46 Cake, 47 Yacht, 48 Coldie, 49 Kangaroos, 52 Rye, 54 Functions, 56 Jingle Bells, 58 Cub, 60 Hue, 61 Inn, 63 New Year’s Eve, 66 Playlist, 67 Doe, 68 Jewellery, 71 Reds, 72 Night, 75 Also, 76 Emu, 77 Entertain, 79 Tomato, 80 Dry, 82 Leapers, 85 Catnap, 86 Assistants, 87 Two.  DOWN: 1 Dressing, 2 Smouldering, 3 Ewers, 4 Trees, 5 Attain, 6 Pi, 7 ESP, 8 Image, 9 Santa, 10 Bro, 11 Buffet, 12 Bee, 18 Cathedral, 19 Christmas, 22 Solemnity, 24 Moa, 25 Plum, 26 Fir, 28 Appreciate, 30 Transactions, 33 No, 34 Leis, 36 Camel, 37 Dancer, 39 Sanctuary, 41 Teenagers, 42 Anticipate, 43 Eden, 44 Skye, 49 Kringle, 50 Ocean, 51 Silence, 53 You, 55 Scheduled, 57 Ceremony, 59 Brandy, 62 Nosh, 64 Wreath, 65 Ex, 66 Parcels, 69 Lyrics, 70 Roasts, 72 Nuts, 73 Games, 74 Tutti, 76 Even, 78 Near, 81 Raw, 83 Au, 84 Ta.

Christmas Crossword

Church MESSAGES

Glasshouse Country Uniting Church

Christmas

People look forward to the arrival of a new baby and there is excitement and anticipation as the preparations take place. Some years ago, when I was a minister in Outback Queensland, a one-week-old baby girl took centre stage at the annual community Carols by Candlelight. As I cradled her in my arms, I spoke to those who had come to sing carols, and told them of the great changes that had happened with her arrival. Her parents had spent many months planning her arrival – a bed to sleep in, clothes to wear, toys to play with. Christmas is the story of the coming of a baby, God Himself coming to earth in Bethlehem. There was only a stable for shelter and a manger for

PARTIES

Glasshouse Country Uniting Church

Christmas PARTIES

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

PARTIES

a bed and the donkey his mother had ridden. But this baby was destined to show God’s love to the world, to teach forgiveness and hope. This baby would grow up a leader, teacher, healer and face death on a cross. Australians are very good at celebrating holidays – or are we? The Christmas tree is in place, food planning is underway, gifts have been bought, friends and family will gather. What about the reason for the season? May your Christmas be filled with happiness and hope, and take time to remember the baby whose birthday we are celebrating.

Aaron Jackson

Church On The Rise Beerwah

Christmas is FOR-GIVING. Christmas is just around the corner and the obvious heightened excitement is in the air. As are the increased stress levels that come with preparing for this yearly event. There are the clear cut decisions that hinge around “who is coming?” and “where are we going?”

Christmas

Calvary Lutheran Church

Christmas PARTIES

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

Christmas

Christmas is coming – it has been coming for weeks as the stores replace the ordinary merchandise for glitzy mesmerising stuff, Netflix movies and a Santa who draws the crowds; enticing shoppers to spend up big! A party is going to happen and a birthday celebration for an unknown guest. How strange celebrating for someone, society may not know or recognise, Jesus. CHRIST-MAS = Jesus’ birthday. Calvary Lutheran congregation, GHM introduce Jesus to you, by using the symbolism of the familiar candy cone, often an add on, in our Christmas giving. It originated in Europe when public displays of Christianity were banned, as a novel gift to children explaining the true meaning of Christmas.

The Shepherd’s Staff: Jesus is a shepherd to his followers, and the Bible says that the “sheep” would hear His voice and follow Him. Jesus our Rock: dependable and strong – the candy is hard. By His Stripes: Representative

Christmas we are told, is for giving. And we spend a lot of time and effort to give our best. Much thought has gone into purchasing the perfect gift and making sure no one is left out. But in the rush to tick everything off the list and to maintain the sanity, remember the greatest gift you will receive this Christmas is the one you give. The Bible says its more blessed to give, than to receive. One of the reasons for this is whenever we prepare a gift, our thoughts are fixed on the person we are going all out for. This Christmas find ways, in fact I encourage you to create ways to be generous in your approach to others. As you give of yourself others will be blessed and you will be blessed also. The gift that gives twice isn’t the

Christmas PARTIES

PARTIES

E: info@cotrmaleny.org W: cotrmaleny.org

one that has been re-gifted and passed on. But it’s the gift that has been given and received with joy.

God himself gave the very best gift to all humanity and it was the gift of His Son. Jesus Christ came to earth in a miraculous way to show us in an incredible way, the way to life and wholeness. Jesus coming to earth was significant, because through Christ we find forgiveness.

Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Christ came to show us a better way to do life and to discover the freedom that comes through forgiveness. God rich in mercy sent Christ to stand in the gap for us so that we can come to God and submit our lives to His care. You and I matter to God. This Christmas consider Christ and remember Christmas is forgiving.

PARTIES

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

of the crucifixion, and the blood Jesus shed for our sins. Red-His shed blood: Through His blood we are given salvation and life. White-Purification from sin: White stripes represents the holiness and purity of Jesus who was sinless. Sweet fragrance of Christ: Peppermint (like hyssop) – used for sacrifice and purification, reminding us of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. Broken for us: A broken cane reminds us of Jesus’ crucifixion = Jesus’ body broken for us. A gift- Made to be a gift, as God gave us His only Son Jesus as a gift to us.

For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16). Highlighted letters spell G-o-s-p-e l = GOOD NEWS. This is what Calvary Lutheran congregation, GHM wishes for you. Celebrate Jesus’ birthday!! (and His death and resurrection FOR US!)

Rev’d Deb Bird

Anglican Parish of Maleny

Christmas Message: Why Have You Come?

“If you came to this place expecting a tame story, you came to the wrong place.

Parish of Maleny Montville Kenilworth Holy Communion

St Luke’s 17 Anne St Kenilworth Sat 4.30pm

St Mary’s 1 Memorial Cl Montville Sun 8am

St George’s 2 Walkers Dr Maleny Sun 9.30am

Contemplative Services St George’s Maleny 1st & 3rd Sun 5pm Feb – Nov

A Christ-centred and community-loving church where everyone belongs!

Christmas PARTIES

If you came for a story that does not threaten you, you came for a different story than the one we tell.

For even a regular baby is not a tame thing.

And goodness that cannot threaten complacency and evil is not much good at all,

And a God who would choose to give up power to become an infant, certainly didn’t do it just so you could have dinner. But...

If you came because you think unwed teenage mothers are some of the strongest people in the world.

If you came because you think that the kind of people who work a third shift might attract an angel’s attention before you.

If you came because you think there are wise men and women to be found among undocumented travellers

Rev’d Deb Bird Ph 07 5499 9130

MalenyAnglican.com.au

from far lands and they might be able to show you God.

If you came for a story of tyrants trembling while heaven comes to peasants.

If you came for a story of reversals that might end up reversing you, then, ah, my friends, you are precisely in the right place.”

(Source: Quinn Caldwell)

The Christmas story is a glimpse of the world as God sees it: a world made more gentle for the devotion of a parent, a world made more hopeful for the persistence of faithful advocates, and a world made a little humbler for the wisdom of our spiritual, science and indigenous traditions.

This is why I return to the nativity - to recognise our gifts with gratitude, to cherish what is sacred among us, and to remember the birth of a child who so loved this world that he served it with the wholeness of his life. Why have you come?

churchontherise.org.au

MALENY CHURCH Maleny Sports Park, Parklands Dr Sundays 9.30am & Kids Church

Christmas PARTIES

Clarrie Schefe

GLASSHOUSE COUNTRY CALVARY CONGREGATION

“All is Calm”?

Despite, its placid tone, the midnight gospel This Christmas is full of disruptions. First, “the world” is disrupted by Caesar’s census and everyone journeys to their respective towns.

CATHOLIC

WEEKEND MASSES

Catholic Church

Christmas

Then an obscure couple on the journey is disrupted, as the pregnant mother goes into labour. It is her first: did it bring with it the anxieties of a first pregnancy? They are further disrupted by being far from home, neighbours, hometown… and it happens at night, with people indoors or barely discernible against the darkness.

The shepherds on an otherwise “silent night” are disrupted by angels. Biblical angels are terrifying; a far cry from the cute people, winged and dressed in white, featuring in colouring books and Christmas cards. “The angel says: Fear not! Listen! I bring news of great joy!”. Thus the disruption of witnessing terrifying angels appearing, speaking and later singing, leads to the commotion of running through dark

2022 Christmas Service Times

Jesus – One with Us

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem He faced incredible odds. His country was occupied by Imperial Rome. Political, social and religious corruption was widespread. He came as the son of a virgin whose reputation had been damaged by the

Christmas

PARTIES

Saturday 5pm: Peachester Rd, Beerwah Sunday 7am: Caloundra St, Landsborough Sunday 9am: 45 Cedar Street, Maleny Ph: 5430 9390 9am to 1pm Mon-Fri www.caloundracatholicparish.net

Christmas PARTIES Christmas

fields. Was the moon there to help? Despite all this, Jesus Christ is born and peace follows.

What are we to make of all this disruption and commotion? There is no “silent night” to be found; no “all is calm; all is bright”. The appearing of God’s Son among us amidst disruption says that God doesn’t stop at taking on flesh and bone for us encounter God. Rather from day one, God is “swaddled” in our mess; our stories; our experiences.

2022 has been a year of disruptions: Riots in America, protests in China, unrests in Iran, invasions in Ukraine, precautions with COVID-19. Christmas is not an escape from these things, but a celebration of God who appeared to us, showing compassion despite disruption and death.

As we return to our “own towns” and families, this Christmas, may God bless our relationships and our world. Merry Christmas.

Welcomes you each Saturday at 27 Maleny Street

9:30am - All Age Bible Study Hour (Includes Children and Youth programs)

11:00am - Worship Service

Beerwah High & Primary School Chaplain

I love the way Australians do Christmas with such variety… some people make the most of the heat and bask in the sunny days around the pool, at the beach, camping, or chilling on the patio. Others shoot for a more Northern Hemisphere approach with more of an indoor “snow” covered trees, mistletoe, reindeer, and bells vibe. Some people go for the shock-and-awe approach, others are much more conservative. However you tackle this special season, the one thing we have in common when it comes to Christmas is most people acknowledge that it is special… things always get a bit more fancy this time of year, mum brings out the good plates for lunch, and the budget gets stretched for gifts, extra beverages, and food. I think this is a good thing and I believe that God wants us to celebrate.

Human beings are designed to want to celebrate milestones and important times of year, that’s why we have birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and weekends. We also have days dedicated to certain things such as ANZAC Day.

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Maleny

Christmas Eve

5pm Family Service St George’s Maleny

9pm Candlelight Mass St George’s Maleny

Christmas Day Carols and Communion

8am St Luke’s Kenilworth

8am St Mary’s Montville

9.30am St George’s Maleny

CATHOLIC CHURCH

24th Dec:

4:00pm - Our Lady of the Rosary School, undercover area (Alfred St, Caloundra) - Carols at 3:50pm. Please bring a camping chair

4:00pm - Unity College - Carols at 3:50pm.

5:00pm - Mary McKillop (Beerwah)

7:00pm - Sacred Heart (Maleny) - Carols at 6:30pm

7:00pm - Our Lady of the Rosary (Caloundra) - Carols at 6:50pm

10:00pm - Our Lady of the Rosary (Caloundra) - Carols at 9:50pm

25th Dec:

6:30am - Our Lady of the Rosary (Caloundra)

7:00am - Our Lady of the Way (Landsborough)

8:00am - Good Shepherd (Kawana)

9:15am - Blessed Frederic Ozanam Chapel (Ozcare - Currimundi)

9:30am - Our Lady of the Rosary (Caloundra)

10:30am - Our Lady of the Southern Cross (Little Mountain)

CHURCH ON THE RISE

Beerwah

27 Beerwah Parade

PARTIES

First Saturday of the monthCommunity Lunch Contact p: 0424 901 301 f: @LandsboroughChurch w: landsborough.org

showing that God is a God of grace, a God who wants to reach out to all regardless of their family or social backgound.

If you are born into poverty, so was

Christmas, from a Biblical perspective, is about remembering that God sent his son Jesus to show us what he is like. God in human form. Jesus was all about demonstrating to humankind how much God loves us, and how he wants a relationship with all of us.

So, amidst the holidaying, the parties, the presents, music and Christmas lights, it is a great opportunity for us to stop and reflect on our lives, it’s meaning, the blessings we have, and the gift that it is, despite all the challenges. It can also be an opportunity to explore

Dec 24th: Christmas Eve Service 5pm (1hr service) 27 Beerwah Parade

Dec 25th: Christmas Day no Service.

Jan 1st: New Years ONLINE only service (anytime from 9am)

Maleny

18 Coral Street

Dec 24: Christmas Eve Service 7pm Dec 25: No Christmas Day service

on the Hinterland

Reed Street Glasshouse Mountains

Christmas PARTIES

Seventh-day Adventist Church Landsborough

Charles Russell

Coffee to read about

ESPRESSO on Maple has officially opened inside Rosetta Books, thanks to local entrepreneurs Tim Coulson and local author Sarah Williams.

Occupying the same space as the previous coffee shop did pre-Covid, the new espresso bar offers all sorts of hot and cold drinks including iced tea, iced latte and frappes to cool you down on these hot summer days.

“We jumped at the chance to combine our love of coffee and books,” said Sarah, who is the bestselling author of the Heart of the Hinterland series - romance novels set right here in Maleny.

Lea and Rob, the new owners of Rosetta Books are thrilled to have Espresso on Maple in their shop. “Everyday people would ask if coffee was going to be served again and having Tim and Sarah run it is a real win-win situation,” Lea said. “And our customers are loving being able to shop while they sip their drinks.”

The coffee is a speciality blend designed specifically for the shop using organic, fairtrade beans which are freshly roasted on the Sunshine Coast.

Espresso on Maple also plan to serve snacks and sweet treats prepared by local bakers, making it a fantastic place for morning or afternoon tea.

With indoor and outdoor seating for book lovers to enjoy a drink while reading their new purchase or catching up with friends, this is a great addition to the Maleny community.

Horoscopes

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20

Faced with the choice of work or play - this week, the pursuit of pleasure wins hands down. You look ready to cut loose, and in the best of ways. You can also expect a small shower of gifts or material gain. There’s also more enjoyment at home, and happier times with friends and family. A fabulous way to end what was a difficult year.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18

Work goes for a bit of a wander right now. Hardly surprising. It is the Christmas season, after all. With the emphasis on family concerns, a happy home life takes priority over most issues. In matters of the heart, this week could also introduce someone of a similar persuasion. Togetherness is the main theme right now.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20

Tidy your affairs early in the week and you can look forward to a stress-free Christmas. It’s been a tough year, so allow a few extra days for rest. Life feels happier, and don’t worry too much about money. The planets stop siphoning Piscean wallets and do their pilfering elsewhere. So relax, and simply enjoy the festivities on offer.

ARIES

Rosetta’s Great Reads

Nothing Bad Ever Happens Here

Heather Rose is both a beautiful stylist, writing in delightful lucent prose, and someone who has lived an extraordinary life. Her memoir’s title stems from something bad that happened when she was twelve years old, which became the stimulus for a lifetime’s search for meaning.

The book traces her journey, dropping in and out of some of its more remarkable aspects. There is a marvellous matter-of-factness to the descriptions, as well as an inherent humility. Amongst other things she learns how it is possible, if not to come to understanding, then at least acceptance through her process. Throughout all this Heather managed to run a successful business, be a committed environmentalist, and be diagnosed with an incurable illness. As I said, Heather Rose has lived an extraordinary life. RRP $32.99

“Ove is fifty-nine. He drives a Saab. He’s the kind of man that points at people he doesn’t like the look of, as if they were burglars and his forefinger a policeman’s torch.”

Although Ove, rightly so, comes across as a grumpy old man we soon discover that there’s more to Ove than that. There’s so much to love about Frederik Backman’s heartwarming book. In fact, after reading this book I wish there was an Ove in every neighbourhood! This book has been re-issued from the original (A Man Called Ove) to co-incide with the film adaptation starring Tom Hanks due out on 1 January. I can’t wait to see Tom Hanks bring Ove to life, but I do recommend you read this book before you see the film. RRP $22.99

WEEK BEGINNING DECEMBER 20

CANCER

LIBRA

MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

Surrender the sterner stuff to the past year and indulge in the seasonal festivities. If love has been under lock and key, Jupiter declares an amnesty. The planets also encourage a style spruce-up. New clothes, hair and makeup - discover a fabulous “new” you! Free up and unwind, Aries. Others will be drawn to your new look and magnetic charms.

TAURUS

APRIL 21 – MAY 20

It’s an ideal week for sprucing up the home for family reunions - perfect timing for the festive season. Friends and family could also plan a surprise for you. Whatever the case, the planets put you in the mood for play. It’s also a heart-to-heart time. Talk problems through, and you’ll no longer be held captive by hidden feelings, or hostile finances.

GEMINI

MAY 21 – JUNE 21

No-one can accuse you of not pulling your weight. You’ve been working long and hard, so stay primed for a special surprise. Perhaps a pay increase, or a small cash bonus? Many Geminis also seem to be back in touch with every friend on the planet. Singles could score romance through family connections. End-of-year fun follows.

JUNE 22 - JULY 22

Here’s a week for pleasure, Cancer. Extravagance, too. One warning: respect your physical and financial limits or you could overindulge. Ditto for your bank balance. The best use of this time is to find delight in romance rather than in worldly goods. Sure, you can spend up in the new year sales - just not too much.

LEO

JULY 23 – AUGUST 23

Look after your health, Leo. Sure, you can have some festive fun - but moderation is the key. Thankfully, the cosmos doesn’t apply the same rules to romance. Here, you can be as playful as you wish. Just don’t place your all Cupids in the same basket. Recognise that some affairs don’t stand a chance - especially the illicit kind.

VIRGO

AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22

Use this festive season to schedule time out for doing the things you love. This isn’t the week to plan major moves or take on extra responsibilities. Instead, lighten your load and postpone difficult decisions. Catch up with all your reading, relax in nature…or simply binge on love and friendships.

SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23

At last, there’s an honest breath of fresh air in your relationships, allowing you to comfortably be yourself. This festive week offers an easier run, though there are no promises regarding how long this will last. If new love makes an entrance, it’s most likely through an unusual connection, someone from overseas or with a vastly different lifestyle.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22

Many Scorpios have recently found a new kind of success and attention - but now that all the hard work is done, you should also take some time for play. And you may as well surrender what’s left of your dwindling finances to the festive celebrations. Just aim for a better financial game plan in January.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21

Everything needs a great finale, including a year like 2022. For many, it’s been a troubling time, but you’re now intent on a happier future. This determination sets off a chain reaction that can’t help but lead to eventual success. Meanwhile, celebrate the season. This is your reward time, so enjoy a little financial flamboyance.

with Tanya Obreza www.tanyaobreza.com

Tackling screentime

HOW to manage kids’ screen time is front-of-mind for many families across the country these school holidays.

Understanding the challenges, experts from the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program have a few simple strategies to create a healthy balance.

Heightened screen time is becoming the new norm, with a new research review showing a 52% spike in children’s screen time between 2020 and 2022. Kids pay attention to what their guardians say and do, so modelling positive behaviours will help to reduce conflict and resistance.

Set a screen time schedule. Research suggests that children under 5 should have a maximum of 1 hour, and 5-17-yearolds should have a maximum of 2 hours of recreational screen time daily. Try scheduling screen time so the expectations are clear.

Swap screen time for other activities. The easiest way to reduce screen time is

by replacing the time normally spent on a device with something else like physical activity or time outside, so your child can engage their brain in different and new ways whilst also spending quality family time.

Keep the conversation open. Screens are a common form of socialisation. Cutting screens as a form of communication without constructive conversations as to ‘why’ can lead to conflict – especially when kids might not be able to see their friends.

There’s no quick fix! The holidays bring many challenges and tackling heightened screen time is just one more to the list. It’s OK to not get it perfect from the start, so looking at it as an ongoing learning opportunity rather than a quick fix will reduce the stress associated with these changes. Focus on praising what your child has achieved. Change takes trial, error, and time.

The worries of young Australia

AFTER a comprehensive survey of 505 young people throughout the nation and a series of in-depth interviews, Monash University’s ‘Understanding Young People in Australia Today’ report echoes the voices of Australia’s 18–24-year-olds.

Among the report’s key findings: Education

• A sense of belonging matters to young Australians but less than half of respondents felt like they belonged when they were at their educational institution.

• Only one in five are studying exclusively face-to-face.

• Only 53% of young Australians agree that their education prepared them for the future.

Financial insecurity

• 90% of young Australians experienced financial difficulties at some point during the last 12 months.

• With rising costs of living, some are concerned about their access to fresh fruits and vegetables now and in the future.

OPTOMETRY

• Half went without eating for a whole day because of lack of money at some point during the same period.

• Over half (53%) think they will be financially worse off than their parents.

Gender equality

• Young Australians perceive a movement towards more equal gender relationships at home, with over half (56%) believing that unpaid domestic work is not determined by gender. However, a large proportion (59%) think that the type of career pathway young people choose and the amount of money young people get paid in the workforce (58%) are determined by one’s gender.

Housing

• Young people living in metropolitan areas (25%) are more likely to think it is unlikely or extremely unlikely that they will be able to purchase a property than those living in rural (20%) or regional (11%) areas.

Health and well-being

• Almost one-quarter rate their mental health as poor or very poor.

• Most (85%) report feelings of worry, anxiety or pessimism. Almost one-half (45%) often felt as though they were missing out on being young.

Civic participation and social media

• Young Australians are engaged in their communities. Almost three-quarters of participants volunteered, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people more likely to have volunteered during the last year compared with other young Australians.

• Most (87%) respondents see barriers to being involved in organised activities on issues important to them.

a certified Sound Healing Practitioner with over 25 years of experience. Being an Associate Teacher for The Sound Healing Academy (international), Anita is passionate about helping you learn about the healing power of sound and music, using gongs, Tibetan singing bowls, crystal singing bowls, drums, tuning forks, and your healing voice. Anita offers sound vibration intensives to enrich your soul, calm your mind, and revitalise your body.

what’s happening in the market

RECENT SALES

John McGrath – a Year of IMMense chanGe

I look back on 2022 and think it’s got to be one for the record books.

Firstly, with the final 0.25% rate rise for 2022, interest rates have gone up by a total of 3% in a year. We haven’t seen that sort of spike since 1994 when they went up by 2.75%.

Inflation went to its highest point in 30 years this year, and supply chain and labour issues have caused home building costs to rise at their fastest pace since the introduction of the GST. We’ve had historically significant population changes, with greater growth in the regions than our capital cities for the first time in four decades, according to the Bureau of Statistics. And it’s been one of the fastest property market corrections I’ve witnessed, with the silver lining being that many buyers have purchased with a good 5% to 10% discount on last year’s prices.

Financially, rapidly rising mortgage rates have been a challenge for owners who didn’t acknowledge and prepare for the inevitable turn in the interest

rate cycle after we hit bottom.

Rates couldn’t stay that low forever. Many Australians used surplus stimulus and extra disposable income while rates were historically low to pay down mortgage debt or boost savings in their offset accounts. That’s helping them now.

We’re still well off the historical average of about 7% for home loan rates, and all indications are the Reserve Bank may not increase them much more.

We saw an unexpected fall in inflation in October and the RBA Governor has said smaller rate rise increments are appropriate from here. It looks like we’re through the worst of this raterising cycle.

I’m still backing South-East Queensland for the most upside potential over the medium term.

It’s very popular with capital city seachangers relocating because they can now work from home.

Many are upgrading their lifestyles while downgrading their home loans

in areas like the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Brisbane. Some Sydney and Melbourne buyers are purchasing both a home and an investment because they’re bringing big city money to a much more affordable market. Plus future growth drivers are strong, such as 10 years of pre-Olympics infrastructure projects, as well as increasing interest from overseas investors.

A few national trends this year included increased interest in renovated properties because building became too hard. A few developers went bust partly because increased costs eroded profits down to almost nothing on fixed-price projects, plus they couldn’t find labourers to get the jobs done.

The regional relocation continues, and many beachside markets have become too pricey for millennial families. As a result, we’ve seen a beach-to-bush swap. Coastal hinterlands, rural areas and wine regions are the beneficiaries. We’ve also seen a significant increase in rents – about 10% nationwide, according to CoreLogic. This has been brought about by an undersupply coinciding with rising costs due to inflation for landlords.

We’ve also got migrants returning to Australia – who generally always rent first - and Airbnb properties that became long-term rentals during COVID-19 going back to holiday leasing. Tenants can always try negotiating for a lesser increase when landlords raise the rent. If you look after the property and pay rent on time, remind your landlord of that. If you can’t afford the increase, explain why and see if they’ll

be empathetic and reduce it to keep you in place.

The first week in December was the busiest week for auctions since midJune. Clearance rates are hovering in the early 60%-range in Sydney and Melbourne, representing normal market conditions.

If your property isn’t selling, there are only three potential reasons -- price, presentation and marketing. This is true in any type of market conditions. Re-evaluate now if you want a sale over the coming weeks.

If you’re thinking of buying, don’t bother trying to time the market. No one can pick the top or bottom – even the professionals.

The only factors that should be driving you are personal needs and affordability. Just remember whatever you pay today is going to be cheap in 10 years’ time. Just get the location right, only buy quality, and keep within your budget.

I wish everyone a great Christmas and holiday season. I’ll be back with more market insights in 2023. See you then.

As 2022 draws to a close, we as an office like to reflect on all the ways in which we have been lucky enough to make an impactful difference to the people we come into contact with. At McGrath Coast & Hinterland, we recognise our community and the various charities and not-for-profit organisations that are working hard to reach the people that need support in various ways.

Over the past 6 years, we have donated more than $250,000 to over 175 organisations, this is something that is near and dear to our hearts and certainly one of our greatest achievements. This year, we’d like to share with you some of the fantastic charities that we have supported this Christmas. For more information and to follow along at home and learn about some truly wonderful organisations doing great things within our community, please follow us on Facebook – McGrath Coast and Hinterland.

McGrath CEO & Founder - John McGrath

Cassi Nuske’s Christmas Party

Cassi Nuske and her sales team at McGrath Coast and Hinterland’s Beerwah office celebrated a year of success with their annual client Christmas event last week at The Local Cafe and Bar. Together with her colleagues, friends, community contacts and clients, Cassi provided an evening of entertainment with live music, lucky door prizes, tipples and fine fare to thank them for their ongoing support and wrap up another year in this beautiful region. As always, if you are thinking of selling or need assistance navigating the current property market, please contact Cassi Nuske for an obligation free chat regarding your real estate needs – 0415 304 127.

Jobs for the yard in January

IT’S been a pleasure bringing you gardening tips and information for another year, and I look forward to an exciting 2023.

I wish all a very merry Christmas and a safe and happy new year.

Make sure you get out and enjoy your garden over the holiday period… maybe even start a new project.

Don’t forget that you can send me any gardening queries, problems or questions – or just something interesting from your garden – to reception@gcnews.com.au All the best from Brownie.

• Prune your flowering shrubs such as azalea, gardenia, camellia, ixora, bottlebrush, tibouchina, brunfelsia and grevillea.

• Tip prune poinsettia to make them bush out and produce more flowers this winter.

• Make a note of frangipani plants with flower colours you like so that you can take cuttings in winter.

• Protect developing soft fruit from fruit fly by maintaining fruit fly traps, destroying spoiled fruit and treating plants with Eco-naturalure.

• Cover fruiting trees with a bird net to prevent developing fruit being attacked by parrots.

• Do not feed your garden in very hot weather as it will place too much stress on the root systems.

• Do not use chemical sprays once the temperature reaches 28 degrees as you will burn your plants. Best time is early evening.

• Water your plants and not your garden.

Give your prized plants a watering can full of diluted seaweed solution once a week in very hot weather.

• Azaleas will be making quite significant growth and need fertilising now. Stop

Vegetables

Plant capsicum, celery, choko, climbing bean, cucumber, eggplant, kale, leek, lettuce, mustard, radish, rhubarb, rockmelon, silverbeet, snake bean, spring onion, sweet corn, sweet potato tomato, watermelon and zucchini.

fertilising when they form flower buds.

• Trim runaway shoots on wisteria only up until late February / early March, otherwise you’ll prune off flower budwood.

• Water roses during dry weather in the morning, giving a good soak and avoid wetting the leaves.

• Roses will be looking for nutrients so apply an organically based fertiliser every 6-8 weeks from August right through to March. Give them some extra sulphate of potash at the rate of about 150g per bush, four times a year.

• In subtropical areas, prune roses in January and February. This gives an autumn flush of flowers, which will hold on the bushes better.

• Citrus trees need to be fed this month with a citrus and fruit tree fertiliser at the rate of 125g per year of the tree’s age (up to 1.25kg). Always sprinkle the fertiliser evenly around the area covered by the leaf canopy. Citrus has shallow roots so never dig the fertiliser in.

• Now is the time when lawns will respond to aeration and for those gardeners who wish to work off some of the excesses of Christmas, going over

it with a fork will do the trick.

• Watch out for signs or lawn grubs. If present, spray may be required to keep them in-check.

• Help lavender survive the wet season by sprinkling a little lime or dolomite directly over the foliage and around the roots.

• Sweet corn is one vegetable that can be planted right through until the end of February. Adequate ground preparation is the first step and this should involve digging in animal manures and dolomite four weeks before planting. Remember to always plant sweet corn in a block rather than rows for better pollination. Plant seedlings deeply to encourage stronger roots to grow.

• Parsley plants may just suddenly die. This is normal as they do fall victim to summer heat and humidity. Replant with fresh seedlings.

• Red-shouldered leaf beetles are on the increase. The mustard yellow beetles have a red band on the shoulders and a spot on each wing. They can damage the leaves of a lot of garden plants and can be treated using a pyrethrum spray.

Flowers

Plant alyssum, ageratum, aster, begonia, celosia, coleus, cosmos, cyclamen, gomphrena, heliconia, impatiens, marigold, petunia, portulaca, salvia, sunflower and torenia.

Red shouldered Leaf beetle on hibiscus

Urban Outdoor Power

LANDSBOROUGH locals Hayden and Alyssa Campbell are the proud owners of Urban Outdoor Power Equipment, a new outdoor power shop that offer service, sales and repairs of all things lawns and gardens. They carry some of the major brands like Stihl, Toro, Walker, Bushranger and Scag just to name a few but can service and repair almost any brand.

They are well stocked with a large range of ride on mowers both battery and petrol, as well as battery and petrol hand held equipment like chainsaws, whipper snippers, blowers etc.

Hayden started his trade in the industry when he was just 14 years old, so it is safe to say you will get educated and honest advice when speaking to him. He loves teaching people about the new products, sharing his knowledge in mechanics to whoever wants to listen and looking after his customers best interest when

purchasing new equipment.

Urban Outdoor has a team of 5 including Hayden and Alyssa. Bob Maxwell who’s background is in vehicle mechanics and dealership service management is the welcoming customer service advisor, Wayne Morris is the head technician who has been in the small engine mechanic trade for 30+ years and a keen first year apprentice.

Hayden and Alyssa have 4 kids and are very family orientated. With more and more big companies opening they really emphasise the small family-owned business tradition. Both customers and staff are treated with respect and they are always grateful for anyone who walks into their shop.

Being a new store, their repair and service wait times are smaller than a lot of other stores, and parts and stock are readily available which is convenient

during Summer when the grass doesn’t seem to stop growing.

They do a pick up and delivery service, so if you are in the Landsborough to North Lakes areas get in touch to arrange a pick up and delivery now.

You can call the store on 3519 4500, visit www.urbanope.com.au to shop online or visit them instore at 4/30 Torres Crescent North Lakes. You can also follow their Facebook page for the latest sales and lawn advice.

will be taken in the preparation and placement of advertising but the publisher, staff or agents shall not be liable for errors or omissions or subsequent effects due to same. Any adjustments by way of remuneration or replacement advertising is at the discretion of the editor. Customers who place display advertisements before the deadline of midday Friday will receive a proof of their prepared advertisement. No responsibility will be accepted for the inclusions of or errors in submissions received after our advertised deadline.

destroyed the club’s scoreboard and equipment.

“We will be using the funds for an electric scoreboard that both we and the Landsborough Cricket Club can use, and even other people who use the facility… as well as getting some new signage,” he said.

“We are getting new equipment due to some water damage from the storms this year but also because we just brought back our senior men’s team and trying to start a senior women’s team.”

Craig said the upgrades and improvements had a wider benefit for the community and youth.

“It’s a good thing for the club and for the grounds, it brings local kids to their local

grounds rather than travelling to use other Sunshine Coast club fields instead,” he said.

“In your area you are going to have this great facility with an electric scoreboard which will make kids want to play there, so we are hoping it’ll attract more kids to the game and to the club.

“We are looking forward to an exciting 2023, we’ve got great ideas in the plans… we hope to keep growing our numbers and growing the club.”

The local AFL club was also recently one of ten community AFL clubs from across Australia to win $20,000 from Bunnings’ 2022 Helping Hands competition.

These cash prizes went to clubs wanting to improve their facilities for their AFLW teams, which the Glasshouse Hinterland club are using to make their change rooms more family and women friendly.

SPORT RESULTS

Beerwah Ladies Golf

Contributed by Brenda Briese

Thursday 1st December was once again washed out. We’ve been really unlucky on Thursdays this year with so many rained out. Even the club Pro-Am lost the Thursday round due to rain!

Saturday 3rd December was a Stroke round with 19 ladies. Winner was Pauline Lawrie on 72 nett from Brenda Briese also 72 nett. NTPs 2. Cathy Stone. 5. Marilyn Walsh. 2nd shot 18 Natasha Larard. BRD went to 76 nett.

Thursday 8th December was our Break-up day for 2022. We played a 9 hole Irish 4 Ball with 80 players. It’s always very much a fun day & we certainly have fun.

Winners Sonia Kenway, Judy Elks, Carol McLeod, Val Turner. R/Up Sue Hoyle, Dot Smith, Moe Irwin, Maria Schlotterbach. 3rd place Bridget John, Glenis Parry, Cheryl Jepson, Shirley Cooper. Pin shots. 2. Val Turner team. 5. Dot Smith team.

Saturday 10th December we had the annual Christmas Mixed Stableford with a great field of 37 pairs. A big thank you to the Elks Family for your generous sponsorship. Winners were Col Penney & Nicola Hodgett 53 pts. followed by Ian Mahoney & Ellen Crook 46 pts.NTPs 2 Ian Mahoney, 5. Audrey Girard, 16. Jo Malone, 18. Sonia Kenway.

That’s it for 2022 and we look forward to doing it all again next year. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all.

Glasshouse Hinterland AFL President Craig Bales said it was a much-needed boost to the club.

A fair deal

A 16-year-old boy came home with a brand-new Ford F150.

His parents look at the truck and ask, “Where did you get that truck?”

“I bought it today,” he says.

“With what money?” asks his mother. They knew what a new F150 cost.

“Well,” he says, “this one cost me just

So, the boy’s father walks up the street to the house where the lady lives and finds her out in the yard calmly planting flowers. He introduces himself as the father of the boy to whom she had sold a new Ford F150 truck for fifteen dollars and asks to know why she did it.

“Well,” she says, “two days ago my