WEDNESDAY, 12 NOON
NEWS TEAM
MITCH GAYNOR Managing Editor mitch@gcnews.com.au
SONIA ISAACS Deputy Editor sonia@gcnews.com.au
KIRRA LIVINGSTONE kirra@gcnews.com.au
TINA GRIEVE tina@gcnews.com.au
LEWIS KWARCIANYI lewis@gcnews.com.au ADVERTISING
SHARON KING & KATIE BUCKLEY design@gcnews.com.au
ANGELA USHER angela@gcnews.com.au
Sunshine Coast Council chief executive John Baker’s first official appearance in the hinterland sets the scene for intriguing times ahead.
The former KPMG executive and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council CEO was candid about the challenges facing both the council and its communities.
First, finances are stretched.
‘We haven’t got very much money at the moment,’ Mr Baker told the Maleny District Sport and Recreation Club’s (MDSRC) AGM on 10 April, perhaps softening expectations ahead of the June budget.
That admission may surprise Sunshine Coast property owners –one developer we have spoken to was taken aback – especially after paying higher minimum rates than any other local government area in south-east Queensland, including Brisbane and the Gold Coast last year.
The council manages a budget of more than $1 billion, but apparently it’s not enough.
To address this, Mr Baker said he was undertaking a
root-and-branch overhaul of local government spending.
His ‘zero-based budgeting’ requires each department to start with a blank sheet and justify every dollar spent, with the aim of channelling resources to where they are most needed.
Mr Baker’s honesty is welcome, but the hinterland community will be watching closely to see whether this approach delivers more than mere rhetoric that simply justifies more spending east of the Bruce Highway.
Hopefully his other commitment – for council to work better with community groups –sees more funding go towards local projects that have been ignored, set aside or otherwise left to gather dust.
His message here was positive and he seemed acutely aware of the growing frustration of communities.
He likened the council–community relationship to a parent–child dynamic – funding is dispensed arbitrarily like lollies, or withheld when groups step out of line – and pledged a reset.
‘We are equals,’ he said.
He vowed to establish regular liaison meetings with community groups and publish timelines for project delivery.
As it stands, there is a ground to make up.
How else do you explain a three-year delay for the $2 million Maleny streetscaping scheme (which will remove critical car parking spaces) that is still in planning?
As one developer said to me, why do applications for small housing developments take more than two-and-a-half years for approval without explanation, at a time of acute housing shortage?
Expectations are rightly high that the council should perform significantly better. Mr Baker highlighted that nearly 300,000 additional residents are expected on the coast in coming years, making difficult conversations with established towns inevitable. There might be some difficult conversations happening and ahead, but of greater note will be the actions that come of them.
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The State Government National Parks have been fully restored following heavy rains and wild weather from Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Environment and Tourism
Minister, Andrew Powell, said: “Our rangers have worked around the clock to repair trails and facilities, ensuring our world-class parks are visitor-ready.”
Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton added businesses are open and eager to welcome tourists.
Visitors are reminded to follow safety guidelines, stay on marked trails and take rubbish with them.
A KEY industry group has warned that home building has bottomed out and the sector risks losing skilled workers, impeding future capacity.
New ABS data for the December quarter 2024 showed value of building work and number of dwellings commenced had reached a cyclical low, HIA economist Tim Reardon said. Low unemployment was drawing trades to other sectors and driving up labour costs. He argues offsetting taxes and charges on new builds was vital in the short term.
Housing stress p7
By Sonia Isaacs
FOUR of Fisher’s declared candidates went headto-head last Wednesday night, April 16, at a multichamber of commerce
‘Meet the Candidates’ forum at Parklands Tavern, with infrastructure, small business support, energy policy, and the possibility of a minority government emerging as key discussion points.
Independent Keryn Jones, Greens candidate Renay Wells, Labor’s Morrison Lakey and incumbent LNP
MP Andrew Wallace laid out contrasting visions for the electorate, speaking before a crowd of about 60 locals and party supporters.
Mr Wallace, who has represented Fisher since 2016, said his track record included securing $7.2 billion in infrastructure investment during three terms.
“I want the Sunshine Coast to be a place where our kids can grow up, learn, earn, and retire,” he said.
He acknowledged pressure on the region’s growth corridors, saying “infrastructure and
transport are the number one issue I hear across the electorate”.
Greens candidate Renay
federal-state infrastructure funding split.
Independent Keryn Jones, said residents were fatigued
echoed calls for better planning and transparency, proposing the creation of local advisory forums to
federal investment into clean, integrated transport,” including support for a Bus Rapid Transit system.
She said delays caused by state-level planning hurdles could be resolved by reinstating the former 80/20
government, pledging to work with whoever is in government to cut red tape and deliver projects.
“I’ll work with whoever is in power to get things done,” she said.
Labor’s Morrison Lakey
“You can’t run a full-time economy on a part-time energy grid,” Mr Wallace warned. He said he backed an “agnostic approach” to energy that would keep renewables in the mix, along with more gas investment and nuclear power.
Mr Lakey defended Labor’s strategy, citing Australia’s global advantage in solar and wind. “We have the greatest renewable resources on the planet,” he said. Ms Wells dismissed nuclear as a non-starter. “It will take 30 years to build,” she said, advocating for solar thermal and battery storage as cost-effective alternatives.
Ms Jones agreed: “The cheapest, most reliable energy—including storage— is renewables. Australia could be a global leader.”
to finance. “The best way to meet regional needs is to listen to locals,” he said. Energy policy sparked some of the night’s most pointed exchanges both from candidates and audience members.
As the May 3 election approaches, each candidate sought to stake their claim: Mr Wallace leaned on experience and delivery, Ms Wells pushed climateconscious reform, Ms Jones appealed to disillusioned voters, while Mr Lakey tied regional aspirations to national support.
Candidates Q&A p9
Items are available
7 am–3.30pm, Monday to Saturday, outside Beerwah Woolworths and at Beerwah Aldi.
“Every purchase makes a difference to local veterans,” John said.
Drop by this week to show your support and take home a meaningful memento ahead of ANZAC Day. Local dawn services and marches + our 104-year-old veteran p9
By Sonia Isaacs
A HIGH-level infrastructure round table hosted by Sunshine Coast Council on April 11 has been hailed as a key step in advancing the region’s major public transport project, ‘The Wave’, ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Convened by Mayor Rosanna Natoli and Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, the forum brought together all levels of government to discuss delivery
strategies and strengthen collaboration.
Attendees included Caloundra MP Kendall Morton, Glass House MP Andrew Powell and Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace.
“This round table was the first, and we’ve already committed to continue this process of working together and to having more round tables in the future,” Mayor Natoli said. “All parties came to the table with a singular focus — ensuring our region is prepared for
the opportunities ahead.”
The forum focused on sharing critical information, forging cooperative relationships and maximising the legacy potential of the 2032 Games. It comes as ‘The Wave’—a proposed integrated transport network of rail and metro bus services—moves into its delivery phase.
Funding for Stage 1 of the project, spanning Beerwah to Caloundra is secured, however funding for the remaining stages
— including rail extensions to Birtinya and a metro link to the Sunshine Coast Airport — is yet to be publicly confirmed.
Last month Queensland Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg suggested the state would be “open to working with the private sector”
“We will consider any measure to deliver this in a fiscally responsible way that supports Sunshine Coast
A spokesperson for Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King confirmed $2.75 billion for Stage 1 of the rail and
will consider future transport priorities in line with the usual Budget processes.” Minister King’s spokesperson said.
THE Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has extended the public consultation period for Stage 4 of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative (BHWA), giving the community more time to have their say on the proposed alignment between Beerburrum and Moodlu.
Originally set to close at the end of April, the consultation deadline has now been pushed out two weeks to 5pm on 14 May 2025.
This stretch forms part of the future Moreton Motorway.
The extension follows calls from residents and advocacy groups for more time to respond.
Community opposition working group member Kim Litchfield welcomed the announcement, thanking
Glass House MP Andrew Powell for his support in securing the extension.
“I am feeling very relieved for the community,” Ms Litchfield said.
“It is so important that we have adequate time to provide effective feedback on the proposed route. We are the ones with local knowledge who can identify issues that might not appear in desktop assessments.”
“This is only an early planning process, so community insight is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome for everyone involved.”
TMR has acknowledged the sensitivities involved and says it is prioritising engagement with landowners directly affected by the proposal. Details and submission options are available on TMR’s Have Your Say webpage.
By Mitch Gaynor
Sunshine Coast Council’s new CEO, John Baker, is set to significantly overhaul council spending while also resetting the relationship between local government and community groups in the face of signifi financial constraints.
The budgetary upheaval was revealed in Mr Baker’s first official engagement in the hinterland at the Maleny District Sports and Recreation Club AGM on 10 April.
Mr Baker, a former KPMG executive and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council boss, said he recognised that the council needed to be more “innovative” and “courageous”, as part of its spending program – fi by forcing departments to start with a blank sheet of paper as part of a zero-based budgeting strategy next fi
“We haven’t got very much money at the moment,” Mr Baker (pictured) said.
“It is blindingly obvious that we’ve over-loved certain areas and under-loved others … so I
need to recast the capital to be respectful equals.” would particularly focus on supporting volunteer-driven
“If clubs can build and maintain infrastructure, that’s incredibly attractive to us,” Mr Baker noted.
“Our biggest cost isn’t
Mr Baker said he also planned to address the challenges of managing growth, with the Sunshine Coast expecting 500,000
“We’ll need to have icult conversations about where and how we accommodate growth,” Mr
climate-change risks, about where we can and cannot build, about how we accommodate growth while preserving what makes this
He said there were also looming challenges in the face of climate change, particularly in coastal areas where future environmental risks could compromise existing development plans. Council is expected to hand down its 2025/26
mitch@gcnews.com.au
By Sonia Isaacs
THE development of Beerwah East has long been flagged as a key part of the state’s strategy to unlock greenfield land in the Northern subregion of the SEQ Regional Plan.
However, finalising its planning status remains complex as state and local governments navigate environmental, infrastructure, and cultural heritage considerations.
A spokesperson for the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning confirmed that Beerwah East remains
a strategic long-term option, but other development areas are also under consideration.
“The Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Council are continuing investigations to determine how to unlock Beerwah East to increase land supply,” the spokesperson said. “Development areas such as Halls Creek and Aura South remain potential options to accommodate future population growth while sustainably enhancing communities.”
Council has not confirmed the expected area for the first release
of Beerwah East or when it will formally respond to the state’s planning recommendations.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli said Council is still reviewing the state’s conditions and that public consultation will not proceed until all required amendments are finalised. “While we are eager to move forward to public consultation, and understand our community is also keen to review the document, it is essential for Council to ensure that the conditions are fully complied with before we proceed to community consultation,” she said.
A $428 million over-50s community is set to launch in a leafy pocket of Moreton Bay’s Elimbah mid-year (2025) to meet high demand from Queensland downsizers, after receiving development approval this week.
The 404-home gated community by prominent land lease developer, GemLife, is earmarked for a 26-hectare site at 38 Atherton Road, with 8.2 hectares to be dedicated to green space, including a conservation area
bordering an established nature and recreation reserve.
It will feature $20 million of luxury resident facilities, including an expansive two-level Country Club with a suite of inclusions such as a ballroom, virtual golf, and wellness room, along with a Summer House, offering a resortstyle pool.
Moreton Bay Regional Council approved the development, with GemLife planning to release the first stage of homes and
begin construction midyear (2025). Work will be completed over seven stages.
GemLife Elimbah will be the developer’s third over-50s community in Moreton Bay, bringing the total number of homes it’s developing in the region to more than 1,350.
It follows the success of the $349 million GemLife Bribie Island and $340 million GemLife Moreton Bay.
For more information visit gemlife.com.au/gel
Fight for Fisher The for Fisher Federal Election - Saturday, May 3, 2025
Beerwah Community Hall
25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah QLD 4519
Opening hours
Tue 22 Apr – Thu 24 Apr
8:30 am–5:30 pm Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May
Maleny Community Centre
23 Maple St, Maleny QLD 4552
Opening hours
Tue 22 Apr – Thu 24 Apr
8:30 am–5:30 pm Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May
Baringa Community Centre
20 Edwards Tce, Baringa QLD 4551
Opening hours Tue 22 Apr – Thu 24 Apr
8:30 am–5:30 pm Sat 26 Apr 9 am–4 pm Mon 28 Apr – Thu 1 May
“We can do the almost impossible photo restorations”
By Kirra Livingstone
DEVELOPERS of a controversial tourist park application at 29 Roberts Street have successfully requested to extend the information response period by 60 days.
The application, which was heavily opposed by the community, was scheduled to appear on the Sunshine Coast Council’s April 24 ordinary meeting agenda. The current period will now be pushed out to October 8 this year, with the option to extend the period by a further 30 days.
A Northern Inter Urban Break Integrity Association spokesperson, who have been advocating to ensure the project is not approved, said they will “continue to monitor the progress of this development application and respond accordingly.”
The group also tabled a petition against the project at the March 27 ordinary meeting, collecting more than 500 in person signatures.
By Sonia Isaacs
SOCIAL and affordable housing advocates are sounding the alarm over a worsening housing crisis on the Sunshine Coast, with community leaders condemning a major shortfall in planned housing delivery.
Despite promises of nearly 5,000 social and affordable homes across Queensland, only 273 are slated for the Sunshine Coast — and none in Maleny or Blackall Range. Maleny Neighbourhood Centre Coordinator Madonna Hampson described the figures as “extremely disappointing”.
“These numbers are just not good enough,” Ms Hampson said.
“My understanding is that the latest government announcement includes projects already underway — such as the 70 unit community housing BlueCHP complex and Kabi Kabi Aboriginal
Corporation 24 unit development in Beerwah — with no provision made for additional social housing in Maleny or along the range.”
lack of new developments in the hinterland ignored a growing number of people experiencing homelessness or at risk.
conversations about homelessness and hardship,” she said.
people than ever are struggling to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table.
people’ — they are our neighbours, our friends, and even our family members.”
to a rapidly rising demographic: women over 55, now the fastest-growing cohort of homeless people in Australia. “Many of these women have raised families, worked hard, and contributed to their
If you can’t vote on Saturday 3 May, you may be eligible to vote early.
All Australian citizens aged 18 years and over are required by law to vote.
So, if you can’t make it to a polling place on election day, you may be eligible to: · vote early at an early voting centre, or · apply for a postal vote.
If you’re travelling, working or will be outside the electorate where you’re enrolled on election day, you can vote early.
To check early voting options and eligibility, visit aec.gov.au/early
Your vote will help shape Australia. To learn more aec.gov.au/early 13 23 26
Contributed By Les Scott
WORLD War II veteran
Richard “Mick” Scott, 104, will attend this year’s ANZAC Day March and Service at Glass House Mountains, continuing a lifelong tradition of honouring his fellow servicemen and women.
Mr Scott, who will turn 105 in August, has attended an ANZAC Day service every year since returning from the war. This year, he will again be joined by his family and friends as he participates in the commemorations.
Born in Muttaburra, western Queensland, on 3 August 1920, Mr Scott was working as a stockman when World War II broke out in 1939. He left his job and travelled to Brisbane, where his parents had recently purchased a store in Morningside, and applied to join the Royal Australian Air Force.
After spending Christmas with his family, he travelled to Laverton, Victoria, and formally enlisted on 5 February 1940. He was assigned to No. 10 Squadron and deployed to Great
Britain later that year. He served in the Royal Air Force Coastal Command as a tail gunner on Sunderland Flying Boats, operating from the UK and flying missions across the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean and North Africa. While stationed in Wales, Mr Scott married Muriel Trott in Cardiff in 1942.
In Eudlo, he began farming pineapples and bananas. Two more children, Les and Lorraine, were born after the war.
Mr Scott also became involved in the local
his wife continued their community involvement and joined the newly reformed Landsborough RSL Sub-Branch in 1953.
Two children were born during the war—son Rick in 1943 and daughter Janet in 1945. Mr Scott returned to Australia in January 1946 and was discharged from the RAAF the following month. He purchased a farm at Eudlo on Queensland’s North Coast (now the Sunshine Coast) and sent for his family, who arrived from Wales in July 1946.
community, helping to establish an RSL Sub-Branch at Eudlo and serving as its treasurer. Though that sub-branch later closed, its charter remains on display at the Palmwoods Memorial Hall. In 1951, the family sold the farm and moved to Landsborough, where Mick Scott worked as a truck driver for the Landsborough Shire Council. He and
Mr Scott then served in various roles including treasurer and president. In 1991, the Landsborough and Glass House Mountains sub-branches merged to form the Glasshouse Country RSL SubBranch, which continues to run local ANZAC Day events. His former presidency is still recognised today by his inclusion on a honour board at the Glasshouse Country RSL sub branch building.
After more than two decades in Landsborough, Mr Scott and his wife retired to Caloundra in 1987 and settled at Golden Beach, where he still lives today. Muriel Scott passed away in 2013 after more than 70 years of marriage.
Beerwah Beerwah Golf Club
Dawn Service
4.00am, Dawn Service, Cenotaph, Turner St, Beerwah
March
8:30am, Assemble at Coochin Creek Co-Op (Shell Servo) Simpson Street, Beerwah at 8:30am. Step off at 9:30am down Peachester Road, left turn into Turner Street to Turner Park Cenotaph.
Main Service
10.00am, Main Service, Cenotaph, Turner St, Beerwah Service & Brunch –Beerwah Golf Club – 9am service followed by brunch from 10am - $15.50 per person. Bookings essential ph - 5494 0630
Glasshouse Mountains Dawn Service
6.00am – 6:45am, Dawn Service, Cenotaph, Reed Street, Glass House Mountains
Gunfire Breakfast
6.45am-8.00am, Gunfire Breakfast, Glasshouse Country RSL Sub Branch, Gold coin donation March
10:00am – 10:30am, Pitt Street Car Park to Glasshouse Community Hall Main Service
10.45am – 11:30am, Main Service, Glasshouse Community Hall, followed by a light lunch and two-up
Landsborough
March
8:45am – 9:30am, Landsborough State School, Gympie Street North to RSL Park, Cribb Street Main Service
9:45am – 10:30am, RSL Park, Cribb Street, Landsborough
Maleny
Dawn Service
4.28am, Dawn Service, RSL Maleny Sub Branch
Mick Scott transferred his RSL membership to the Caloundra Sub-Branch, where he is now a life member.
He continued to attend the Caloundra ANZAC Day March and Service until 2015, when a change in scheduling prompted him to return to the Landsborough 9am service. That event was paused in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, so he attended the Glass House Mountains mid-morning service instead.
In 2023 and 2024, the Landsborough event resumed, and Mr Scott and his family returned to attend.
This year, he will once again attend the Glass House Mountains service at 10am
Now approaching 105, Mick Scott proudly continues to make his presence felt at ANZAC Day events across the region. His consistent attendance is a visible reminder of the service and sacrifice made by Australia’s veterans. His long-standing commitment to the RSL and ANZAC Day reflects a life of service—during wartime, in community life, and in remembrance of those who did not return.
Memorial Cenotaph
Special Service
9.40am, Maleny Soldier’s Memorial Hospital, 17 Bean Street, Maleny Parade & Main Service
Parade 10:30am Form up at top of Maple Street, Maleny
Main Service, RSL Maleny Sub Branch Hall and Centotaph, 1 Bunya Street, Maleny
Montville/Mapleton
Dawn Service
5:20am, Dawn service, Montville Memorial Gates adjacent Montville Hall
March & Main Service
9:30am, March and main service, Cnr Wilga Court and Flaxton Drive to Mapleton RSL Memorial Park
Witta
Special Service
8:45am, Witta Cemetery, Witta Road
IN the two weeks leading up to each Federal Election, we allow each candidate the opportunity to answer key questions important to voters. Next week will be their ‘final pitch’. All eight declared candidates were approached.
Q1: Censorship - it’s a corner stone to all our major problems today, from absurd immigration levels, censored, they call the flu “COVID” with a fear smear campaign making hundreds of billions, censored, tax evasion from corporate elite & overly lazy health system, all censored, doctors these days will book themselves out for months with easiest surgeries, leaving the critical stuff that needs to be done sooner, too emergency.
It’s all censored, they’re all saying “what they don’t know can’t hurt them”, That’s what I’m here to change by informing the public and rallying the people.
Q1: The cost of living is the number one issue I hear about across the Hinterland—whether it’s at the checkout, in rent increases, or power bills. Families and small businesses are under real pressure.
Having run a solar business for 26 years, I know the practical steps that can reduce costs—like helping people cut their energy bills and backing stronger oversight of unfair grocery price hikes. I’ll push to ensure the recommendations from the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct review are made mandatory, and that the recommendations of the recent ACCC review are supported not just in principle, but in practice — so we see fairer prices and real competition, not just another talkfest.
I will also be advocating for permanent cost of living relief on energy bills through the establishment of interest free loans for solar and battery storage so people can literally take power into their own hands and reduce their energy bills.
Cost of living is also tied to housing, workforce gaps, insurance and access to services. I’ll fight for smart, local investment where it counts—and as your Independent MP, I won’t need party permission to act Q2: For too long,
Q1: What is the most pressing challenge facing the hinterland and how will you address it if elected?
Q2: How will you advocate for the needs of Hinterland communities to ensure they aren’t overlooked in federal decision-making?
And there is more you’re not hearing...
Q2: Unfortunately, politicians don’t run government the bureaucrats do, the only way I can advocate for the needs of the Hinterland, is to from groups - rally them, I plan to get real hands on with the people of Sunshine Coast, It’s why I joined People First with a good highly educated leader Gerard Rennick, who stood up for your rights and got sacked. If we try and stand up for your needs, the machine outs you. Remember politicians don’t run government the bureaucrats do. We need change.
Benjamin Kelly Pauline Hanson’s One Nation
Q1: The most pressing challenge facing the hinterland is the cost-ofliving crisis, which hits families, small businesses, and farmers hard. Rising energy prices, housing shortages, and grocery costs are squeezing locals, while government overreach stifles economic growth.
If elected, I’ll fight for affordable energy by pushing for investment in reliable, local energy sources, reducing reliance on costly imports. I’ll advocate for policies that cut red tape for small businesses, enabling them to thrive and create jobs. Housing affordability will be tackled by prioritising infrastructure investment and limiting speculative foreign ownership.
I’ll also work to protect farmers from unfair regulations, ensuring food security and local supply chains. Drawing on One Nation’s commitment to everyday Australians, I’ll demand Canberra puts the hinterland first, not corporate or globalist interests.
Hinterland communities have missed out—not because the need isn’t real, but because Fisher is seen as a “safe seat.” Major parties often direct funding to marginal electorates where they’re chasing votes, while communities like ours are overlooked.
As an Independent, I’ll work directly with Ministers from any party and advocate for what matters to our community—without needing approval from a party room. And despite what some major parties claim (including on recent flyers in your letterboxes), independents have delivered extraordinary outcomes securing hundreds of millions in federal investment for local infrastructure, securing integrity reforms, and delivering tangible support to local businesses and services.
After electing an Independent, one community saw a 320% increase in federal grants coming into their community. That’s the power of genuine, community-first representation.That’s why they keep getting re-elected. If elected, I’ll bring that same commitment to the Hinterland—working alongside locals, backed by evidence, and free to fight for the funding and services our region deserves.
Q1: The most urgent challenges facing our hinterland communities are the cost of living, housing, and climate crisis. People are struggling to afford rent, mortgages, groceries, and power bills — and decades of underinvestment have left our region behind. We lack sustainable infrastructure and essential services. Public transport is virtually non-existent, healthcare is limited, and worsening climate impacts are putting pressure on housing, roads, and ecosystems.
As your Greens candidate, I’m campaigning to make billionaires and big corporations pay their fair share so we can cap rent increases, deliver cheaper mortgages, and fund dental and mental health care through Medicare. We’ll also crack down on supermarket price gouging and boost income support.
I’m fighting for urgent federal investment in climate-resilient infrastructure — including better transport options, mobile health services, and disaster preparedness. By investing in clean energy, regenerative agriculture, and naturebased tourism, we can create meaningful local jobs while protecting what makes our region special.
We can build a thriving local economy without sacrificing our environment or our future. It’s time to
Q2:
Hinterland communities deserve a voice that’s heard, not ignored, in Canberra. As Fisher’s representative, I’ll advocate fiercely for our needs by engaging directly with locals—through town halls, community forums, and on-the-ground visits—to understand their priorities. I’ll bring these concerns to parliament, challenging policies that sideline rural areas for urban or corporate gain. With One Nation’s backing, I’ll push for fair funding for infrastructure, healthcare, and education, ensuring the hinterland isn’t shortchanged.
Q1: The most pressing challenge facing the hinterland is access—access to health care, to affordable housing, and to secure, local jobs. As more people are drawn to the lifestyle and community spirit of the hinterland, our essential services and infrastructure must keep pace. Too many locals are forced to travel long distances just to see a GP, get to work, or find a rental they can afford.
our voice is heard. As your representative, I’ll be based in the community, not just flying in for photo ops. I’ll listen to locals, small businesses, and community groups, and take their ideas straight to Parliament.
I’ll fight to protect our agricultural sector from overregulation and foreign competition, securing jobs and food supply. My commitment is to transparency and accountability. I won’t bow to globalist agendas or party politics; my loyalty is to the hinterland’s hardworking families and businesses, ensuring their voices shape a stronger, self-reliant Australia.
put people and planet first — not fossil fuel giants or private developers.
Q2: As a business consultant and sustainability professional, I have firsthand experience in bringing practical, future-focused leadership and real-world solutions to problems. As a local representative, I will be committed to advocating on behalf of our local community and making sure our region gets its fair share in federal funding.
If elected, I’ll fight for more investment in regional health services, including the delivery of a new Urgent Care Clinic at Caloundra, improved transport links, and federal programs that deliver affordable housing options in the places people already call home. I’ll work closely with all levels of government to ensure the hinterland gets its fair share of funding and attention—not just empty promises. The people of the hinterland deserve the same opportunities and services as those in our cities. The hinterland en overlooked in Canberra, but I’ll make sure
Locals continue to highlight the state of local transport and community infrastructure, and the cost of living as the biggest issues facing Fisher.
I’ve spent nine years fighting for better roads and rail, and for the services and opportunities we deserve.
I’ve secured nearly $7.2 billion in Federal funding for road, rail, and community infrastructure to that end.
Unlike the major parties, the Greens don’t take corporate donations, which means we will always put the interests of the community ahead of big corporations and billionaires. We think it’s wrong that one in three big corporations pay no tax while everyday people are struggling to get ahead.
If elected, we make the big corporations pay their fair share so we can fund dental and mental health into Medicare, cap rents, deliver cheaper mortgages, and invest in renewables to create new jobs in clean energy and bring down our power bills.
We will make sure public money goes where it’s needed – including building more affordable housing, cheaper and more reliable public transport, fully funding our public schools, and investing more in our hospitals and workers.
Labor have taken an axe to crucial projects and community programs, leaving the Sunshine Coast Hinterland high and dry.
In the face of Labor’s cost of living crisis, I’ve been fighting for immediate relief and long-term solutions for families and their businesses.
I’m proud that an LNP Government will invest $10 million to upgrade local community facilities, while establishing a $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund to guarantee childcare, healthcare, telco and infrastructure investment for future generations.
We’ll halve the fuel excise, axe Labor’s family car and ute tax, deliver a tax offset to nearly 76,000 locals, and we’ll invest $50 million into relief charities. We’ll unlock the dream of home ownership for a new generation of Australians with a bold housing plan. And we’ll do all of this while driving down costs, taming inflation, and lifting living
Advocacy means more than words—it means action. I’ll push for targeted investment in regional health care, education, transport, and infrastructure, and I’ll work to deliver practical outcomes that matter to our community. Whether it’s better internet and phone coverage, support for farmers and small businesses, or action on housing and cost-of-living pressures, I’ll ensure the unique needs of the hinterland are part of every national conversation.
Labor has a proud record of backing regional Australia, and I’ll be a strong, present, and persistent voice to keep the focus on our communities— not just the big cities.
emulate everyday in this role.
For nine years, I’ve worked with all levels of government and every area of our community to fight for, and deliver for, the Sunshine Coast community. I’ve fought for a change in conditions for regional pharmacies and doctors in communities like Montville.
I’ve worked with colleagues from across the political aisle to fight for mental healthcare, eating disorder awareness, to combat antisemitism, and for active transport funding. And I’ve delivered road and rail funding to upgrade the Steve Irwin Way, duplicate North Coast Rail, build Sunshine Coast Rail, and upgrade the Bruce Highway. Most recently, I’m proud to have worked alongside community groups in Maleny, Palmwoods, West Woombye, and Beerwah to secure funding commitments from an elected Coalition Government after three years of skyrocketing costs and cruel cuts. This is only possible as part of a party of Government – and the party of government for regional Australians.
RESIDENTS of Mapleton and surrounding areas will have the opportunity to hear directly from candidates contesting the federal seat of Fairfax at a community forum hosted by the Mapleton and District Community Association (MADCA) this Tuesday evening.
The “Meet the Candidates” event will take place on Tuesday, April 22, at the Mapleton Bowls Club, with doors opening at 6:30pm for a 7:00pm start.
Open to MADCA members and local residents, the forum aims to give voters a chance to engage face-to-face with the people seeking to
represent them in Canberra. Each candidate will outline their platform and respond to audience questions, providing attendees with valuable insights ahead of the May 3 federal election.
A MADCA representative said the event was an important opportunity for the local community to participate in democracy.
“This is your chance to
hear from the candidates, ask questions, and make a more informed decision at the ballot box,” they said.
Residents can also submit questions in advance by emailing madca.inc@ gmail.com, with selected questions to be asked during the forum.
With infrastructure, housing, and cost-of-living pressures dominating the national conversation, organisers are expecting a strong turnout.
“This is about giving our community a voice — and making sure it’s heard,” MADCA said.
For more information, follow MADCA on Facebook or email the team directly.
By Kirra Livingstone
MONTVILLE will soon be home to a Balinese and Malaysian breakfast and brunch restaurant, unlike anything on the Sunshine Coast.
The restaurant, Bali Vibes, is slated to open in May, with the owners saying they are ready to show potential customers what they can expect.
“From themed Balinese feast nights to special wine launches and unique “Rise in Bali” breakfast sessions, there are so many beautiful ideas currently brewing behind the scenes,” the owners said.
“And above all, we’re planning a locals’ tasting night and welcome day to connect with the community and introduce everyone to the Bali Vibes
experience.” The Bali Vibes owners added why people should stop in on their opening day.
“Inspired by the rich flavors, vibrant culture, and soul-soothing spirit of Bali, we bring you tropical plates, laid-back luxury, and warm hospitality—no passport needed,” they said.
“Whether you’re chasing sunset cocktails, craveworthy curries, or just a little slice of bliss, you’ll find it here… where the island soul meets Montville’s heart.”
Montville Chamber of Commerce president, Shiralee Cooper said even she was unsure of what to expect from this exciting new business venture.
“We are also anticipating the opening of a new venue, Bali Vibes!,” she said.
“There’s always something new to discover in Montville!”
kirra@gcnews.com.au
innovating property.
FOR those dreaming of homeownership, a holiday getaway, or simply looking to improve their financial future, the team of brokers Teresa Harrison and Deborah Packard, along with loan admin Kate, from Mortgage Choice Woodford have an exciting $25,000 giveaway until May 23!
If you meet with Teresa and Deb by May 23, you could be in with a chance to win a $25,000 Luxury Escapes voucher, plus one of five $5,000 vouchers!
As locals with over 70 years of combined lending experience, Teresa and Deb have a deep understanding of the local market in Woodford, Beerwah, Kilcoy, Wamuran, Delaneys Creek, Glasshouse Mountains, Landsborough, Mooloolah and surrounding areas.
tailored solutions that best suit your needs.
Their passion for helping clients is matched only by their commitment to delivering outstanding customer service, ensuring that your journey to homeownership or investment success is smooth and informed.
With diverse backgrounds in banking and finance,
Whether you’re a first time homebuyer, investor, or looking to refinance using the equity in your current property for home improvements, the team is dedicated to helping you navigate the lending process. With access to over 35 lenders, they can provide
MALENY Jewellers have taken out top honours in the 2025 Wedding Industry Awards, winning first place in the Jeweller category for the Sunshine Coast and hinterland region.
Owners Sandra and Jim Goulton, though unable to attend the awards ceremony due to prior commitments, said they were “honoured and stoked” to receive the news of their win.
The Wedding Industry Awards shine a spotlight on regional wedding businesses across Australia, celebrating excellence and dedication in the industry.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our clients and the local community for their ongoing support,” the Goultons said.
The Wedding Industry Awards are a national platform committed to recognising and supporting the efforts of regional wedding suppliers.
Whether you are purchasing your first home, refinancing, or looking for guidance on how to use the equity in your property, their extensive network of lenders gives you more options to choose from, ensuring you receive the best possible solutions.
Teresa and Deb are uniquely equipped to provide sound advice and guidance to help you make informed decisions that will shape your financial future.
What sets Teresa and Deb apart is their deep knowledge of the local community and market, built over years of experience working with residents of the region.
This allows them to understand the unique challenges and opportunities that local buyers and investors face.
Teresa and Deb are committed to helping you build a better financial future. Their dedication to delivering personalised, customer-focused service ensures you receive advice that’s right for you, every step of the way. With over 7 decades of combined experience in banking and finance, they have helped countless clients achieve their dreams of homeownership and investment success.
For more information and to get in touch call 07 5422 9458 or visit www. mortgagechoice.com.au/ tharrison/ Office hours are Monday - Friday: 9:00am5:00pm, with after hours by appointment, at 89 Archer Street, Woodford.
MORAYFIELD Shopping Centre is demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity by working with retailers to introduce Quiet Hours— dedicated times designed to support shoppers with sensory sensitivities.
Quiet Hours are specific periods when stores reduce environmental stimuli such as lighting, music, and public announcements.
These changes aim to create a calm and comfortable atmosphere for individuals who may find standard shopping environments overwhelming, including those with autism spectrum disorders or sensory processing challenges.
Retailers across the centre have embraced this initiative. Kmart and Target both host Quiet Hours every Wednesday from 3:30pm to 5:30pm. Woolworths
participates from Monday to Friday, between 10:30am and 11:30am. Coles offers two sessions—every Tuesday from 10:30am to 11:30am and Monday to Friday from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. CeX contributes by providing a quieter shopping experience every Tuesday from 9:30am to 10:30am.
“These initiatives reflect the Centre’s dedication to inclusivity, ensuring that all shoppers have access to a comfortable and accommodating retail environment,” a spokesperson said. By fostering a more supportive and understanding community through Quiet Hours, Morayfield Shopping Centre is helping make everyday experiences more accessible to everyone, regardless of their sensory needs.
Contributed by Carole Lewis
ON Friday April 11 2025, the Maleny community gathered to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Walk of Remembrance at Maleny Soldiers Memorial Hospital.
First opened on a sunny Saturday afternoon in April 2015 by then Honourable Mal Brough MP, the Walk honours local World War I servicemen and stands as a peaceful space for reflection.
Originally spearheaded by Margaret Moss and a dedicated team of hardworking Auxiliary volunteers including Norma
McLeod, Glennis Manning, Eonne Ranson, Glenys Hiley, Paula Richardson and Errol Richardson.
The project brought together local talent including stonemason Wayne Markwort and landscaper John Hajncl.
Their efforts created a moving tribute featuring memorials, sculptures, and an honour plaque honouring the service men who enlisted from the district.
There are also individual plaques engraved with the names of those killed in action, gardens, pathways, a timber arbour with a reflective garden, and an entrance to the Walk. The
THE Maleny Arts and Crafts Group (MACG) will host its popular annual Autumn Fair at the Maleny Community Centre on Maple
Friday through Sunday, and 9am to 2pm on Monday, the fair showcases an impressive array of handmade items created by local artisans.
toilets on-site and Maleny’s charming cafés and boutique shops just a short stroll away.
Walk of Remembrance is a testament to the depth of interest in the Anzac legend, as well as the high regard in which the Hospital is held by the community.
Ten years on, the Walk remains lovingly maintained by the Hospital Auxiliary, administration, and community groups including the Men’s Shed, Rotary, and the Woodies.
An inscription at its entrance reads: “May all who pass this way find peace and tranquillity.”
The Walk of Remembrance stands as a lasting legacy of community spirit, remembrance, and gratitude for those who served in World War 1.
Visitors can browse a wide selection of pottery, textiles, woodwork, glass and fine art—each piece crafted by MACG members, many of whom have honed their skills since the group’s formation in the 1970s
Free parking is available behind the venue, with
A vibrant, handcrafted quilt is also up for grabs in the fair’s annual raffle, with the lucky winner to be drawn shortly before closing on Monday.
Timed perfectly for Mother’s Day gift shopping—or a personal treat—the fair promises quality, creativity and community spirit.
Locals interested in developing their artistic skills are encouraged to enquire about joining MACG, a welcoming hub for creativity and connection in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
Contributed by Jan England
GENEALOGY Sunshine Coast will hold a Military Workshop on Saturday April 26 from 9.30am to 3pm in Nambour.
Participants will learn how to research military records and use key
websites, with hands-on help in the afternoon. Cost is $15 for members, $25 for non-members.
Book via their website or email genealogysc@gmail. com. Also save the date: a beginners’ family tree day will be held on Saturday May 24, 2025.
THE Combined Probus Club of the Glass House Mountains Inc. held its April General Meeting on Wednesday 9 April, with 23 members and four visitors in attendance.
The meeting featured a lively and engaging presentation by guest speaker Dr Christopher Reynolds, author of Leaders and Larrikins – Great Australian Stories, who shared more tales from his well-known collection.
Two visitors, Sue and Les, chose to join the club on the day and were warmly welcomed as new members. Helga was the lucky winner of the fresh fruit box Lucky Door Prize.
Interested in Probus? We meet at 10am on the second Wednesday of each month at Glasshouse RSL Rooms, 1 Reed St. Contact Norma on
YOUNG adults are becoming less active, with fewer meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA) per week, according to a QUT study. This activity level is essential for maintaining health, improving wellbeing, and reducing the risk of chronic disease and premature death. Moderate-intensity PA allows for conversation, while vigorous activity makes talking difficult due to heavy breathing.
The study, led by David Abernethy and Associate Professor Toby Pavey from QUT, along with Dr Jason Bennie, analysed data from over 2 million US adults between 2011 and 2019. It found a steady decline
in PA among young adults, an unexpected trend since aging is typically
Approximately half of U.S. adults met PA guidelines. Men were more likely to
reasons for the gap. The study highlighted key groups needing targeted intervention:
activity. Researchers suggest increased reliance on digital media and sedentary behaviours may be contributing factors.
Ingredients:
1 cup plain flour
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup desiccated coconut
1 cup brown sugar
125g butter
1 tbsp golden syrup
1 tbsp hot water
1 tsp bicarb soda
Method: Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius*.
A NEW Australian technology is set to transform gastrointestinal cancer detection and treatment through precise, minimally invasive surgery.
Backed by a $405,050 Federal Government
AEA Ignite Grant, UniSA researchers, led by Dr Nicole Dmochowska, are developing a quantumbased laparoscopic probe. In partnership with Ferronova, the probe works with iron-oxide nanoparticles (FerroTrace) to improve detection of cancerous lymph nodes, reducing the need for extensive surgery that can cause serious complications and long-term side effects.
Gastrointestinal cancers often spread via the lymphatic system before diagnosis, and traditional surgery involves removing large tissue sections, increasing infection and digestive risks.
The UniSA team has successfully demonstrated this technology in a phase-1 oral cancer trial.
The magnetometerbased probe has been in development for over eight years, and preclinical trials for gastrointestinal cancers are expected to begin within the next year.
Combine the flour, oats, coconut and sugar in a large bowl. In a saucepan, melt the butter and then add the golden syrup. Bring it to the boil before removing it from the stove. Mix the hot water and bicarb soda and add it to the butter and syrup – it should froth up. Pour this into the
be physically active than women. Professor Pavey noted gender norms, lack of a female-focused PA culture, and societal beauty standards as possible
dry ingredients and stir together. If the mixture is a little dry, add some water. Take spoonfuls of the mixture, roll them into balls and place them on a greased baking tray, about 5cm apart. Use a fork to flatten them and then put them in the oven for 15 minutes* or until they’re golden
• Young adults: countering the post-school PA drop
• Women: reducing the gender disparity
• Lower-educated populations: ensuring access to inclusive PA options
• People with obesity: providing barrier-free, lowimpact PA choices
• Individuals with chronic or mental health conditions: integrating PA through GP referrals and community programs Published in PLOS One, the research underscores the importance of understanding PA trends to inform public health campaigns and drive lifestyle change.
FAMILIES are urged to stay vigilant about the dangers of button batteries, especially during and after the Easter holidays.
These coin-sized batteries, common in toys and household items, can cause serious harm if swallowed by young children. Parents are advised to avoid such products or ensure battery
compartments are childresistant. Attorney-General Deb Frecklington warns that 20 children are hospitalized weekly in Australia due to suspected ingestion. The Office of Fair Trading conducts inspections, but awareness at home is vital to prevent potential tragedies. Safety must remain a priority.
Streetscape no good
From my experience formerly as having responsibility for the Queensland government’s Main Street rejuvenation program, the proposal for Maleny’s Maple Street is highly unsatisfactory.
It may be pretty on paper, but will have a poor result commercially, for locals and visitors and for through traffic.
Transport and Main Roads will, quite properly, have concerns with raised pedestrian crossings, given this is a state freight route, which will become busier, particularly for sand and gravel trucks servicing coastal housing and Olympics developments.
They will also lead to more traffic noise. The current situation is polite interaction between motorists and pedestrians.
The design to have bushy trees and shrubs out to the road edge of crossings is dangerous for pedestrians having to be on the road to properly see traffic.
The reduction in easily accessible parking will commercially harm already fragile retail businesses. The major lesson from Main Street in towns, villages and suburbs is to increase not decrease parking for commercial viabilit of shopping strips.
The amount of time and money poured into this Maple Street plan so far highlights the lack of common sense and real life experience within the Sunshine Coast Regional Council.
Independents because the LNP in particular is spending millions of dollars in add campaigns to try and discredit them. You can find out exactly what these people stand for by googling their names. Don’t take my word for it. Find out more for yourself so you know what to trust. There is abundant transparency about their values and achievements.
The Teals are not “posing” as Independents. They do not belong to a political party. They are a people who have been chosen by the community - not by a party committee - in a process that was developed in 2013 by Cathy McGowan who became the first Independent member for her electorate of Indi. Her election involved lots of cups of tea around kitchen tables to listen to what people wanted and needed. In 2021, 4
“Teal” interpretation - Teal is a misleading colour-tag used by lazy journalists and anti-independent candidates to convey simple, distorted arguments and agendas. In the NSW Calare electorate, at least two independents are running and I noticed that one whom you might call Teal is using pink shirts. Do we label Labor supporters as Reds or Liberal supporters as Blues? Greens no doubt will always be green.
My humble donation went directly to Fisher’s dynamic independent Keryn Jones and her campaign team – I’m supporting her because I believe she is a true independent; grounded in Fisher’s constituency and its concerns; and committed to crucial meaningful action against climate pollution as a key priority.
Peter Milton Reesville
‘plan’ as a ‘solution’ to secure energy supply in future - which lacks most of the crucial costings that would prove that this energy option is far from economically viable.
The LNP’s nuclear proposal is so dodgy that even other conservative politicians & LNP members have indicated that they will not support it.
The fact is also that the LNP relies heavily on preferences from other candidates and usually far right parties. Current LNP MPs have done little to improve lives in this region over the decades they’ve held most seats . Now we got the same old strategy again: to keep the LNP ‘hogging’ their seats like here in Fisher, they got three more straw puppets, all supposedly non-aligned but you can bet your bottom dollar that all their preferences will once again solely go to the LNP, what a hopeless competition it is around here. How about Denise Whitehead takes a closer look at this rotten state of affairs and scrutinises those supposed independents before making illogical allegations against those Teals.
They would be far better off spending the $2 million fixing numerous potholes and road drains in the district.
Andrew Stewart Maleny
True independence
Denise, I share some of your views but not others (You Said It, Apr 7).
Like you I want to know that I’m not being hoodwinked about who will best represent me in Parliament. Unfortunately, there is a lot of confusion about the Teals/
CONDITIONS Please
I DON’T know if anyone was excited as me at the discovery of a planet found ‘teeming with life’ that made headlines last week. True story... well within 99 per cent accuracy and with a lot of scientific theorising. Apparently the planet is completely covered in water and gas is being produced by living things. Never mind the living things are
women - Cathy McGowan, Alana Johnson, Jill Briggs and Tina Jackson established the Community Independents Project to share what they had learned so far and encourage more Community Independents. The key to this work is finding people who will represent the people in their electorate, not a political “party”. They do not threaten honesty and competency in Parliament. Those who seek to discredit them do.
Jacinta Foale Maleny
A lazy colour tag
Hi Denise (You Said It, Apr 7), I disagree with your
Here we go again, another election is looming and the usual same old lame arguments pop up from the LNP fan club via letters like the ones from D Whitehead why LNP is ‘best’ (Apr 7). No mention whatsoever of the fact that the LNP is far from neutral/impartial when it comes to political ‘trade-off ’s’ when it suits them. The fact is the LNPat federal level - has been pandering to big mining/ gas corporations and to a certain media empireshamelessly every chance they get.
Then they dare present this half-baked nuclear
G Luft Maleny Indie nonsense
Although Clayton’s Independent candidate Keryn Jones has has never seen the need to own up to the truth about her affiliation to the sneaky Teals, surely voters should be aware of this before casting their votes.
Obviously it is refreshing and important to have other voting options apart from the three old regulars, however a little bit of honesty from candidate Jones and the sneaky Teals would give clarity to the voters. Perhaps that is the whole point in being so sneaky after all? Fancy expecting truth, honesty and clarity in politics!
Jeff Taylor Currimundi
probably bacteria. Great news, I’ve been looking for an excuse to dump earth for something calmer and less daft
I naturally pictured Maldives’ style pods and loads of snorkelling. Unfortunately it turns out the planet is so far away that even if we sent a dozen tradies with materials, it would take them the best
part of 187,000 years to get there. We’re stuck here.
SNOOZE FED
At least stories like distant planets are a distraction from the federal election.
If anyone managed to watch the entire leader’s debate last week then well done because what a snooze fest. I’m not saying I want a Donald Trump-style
shake-up to our politics, but let’s try a little zest.
It was like watching two grim reapers try and tell us we’re all dead.
And where’s the ‘worm’ gone - Now that was worth watching. Alone, so alone
Things didn’t get any better when I switched over and watched Alone Australia.
THIS ANZAC Day, Friday 25 April 2025, RSL
Queensland is urging Queenslanders to unite in remembrance and reflection, keeping the ANZAC spirit alive by honouring the sacrifices of Australia’s service personnel, past and present.
Commemorated each year on 25 April, ANZAC Day marks the anniversary of the 1915 Gallipoli landing, where Australian and New Zealand troops undertook their first major military campaign of World War I. Now, 110 years on, it remains a solemn day of national significance.
RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM is encouraging all Queenslanders to embrace the ANZAC spirit, regardless of where they are this year.
“ANZAC Day reminds us of the sacrifices our service members have made to safeguard the freedoms we
Hello! How exciting was it to hear about all the benefits that will flow into our region thanks to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games?
After decades of hoping, we will finally get a new public transport solution, ‘The Wave’, from Beerwah to the Sunshine Coast Airport. This will consist of a rail connection from the hinterland through to Birtinya, linking with a state-of-the-art metro hub, on to Maroochydore and the airport. The metro fleet are modern vehicles, with wheels, travelling on dedicated routes.
And at long last we have the opportunity to bring an arena, convention centre and cultural precinct to fruition in the Maroochydore City Centre, integrated with an Athletes’ Village.
We will also expand Sunshine Coast Stadium
I’ve been an avid viewer of the US series, which is compelling viewing.
The contestants there are chasing bears and musk ox, trapping rabbits, fishing for salmon.
enjoy,” MAJ GEN Day said. “It’s a time to honour their courage, reflect on their service, and for veterans to reconnect with the mateship forged through shared experience.”
More than 400 commemorative events will be held across the state, including Dawn Services, marches, gunfire breakfasts, and community ceremonies recognising veterans and current serving Defence personnel.
With ANZAC Day falling near the Easter holidays, RSL Queensland acknowledges many families may be travelling. However, locals and holidaymakers alike are encouraged to attend one of the many services available across Queensland“There’s no greater way to honour our servicepeople than by showing up, paying tribute, and passing on the ANZAC legacy,” said MAJ GEN Day. To find your local service, visit anzacspirit.com.au.
with Rosanna Natoli Mayor - Sunshine Coast Council
and continue to develop the Sunshine Coast Mountain Bike Centre, which will provide long-lasting sporting venues for our community. Exactly which events will be hosted here will be confirmed next year. Council, of course, has played a major role in advocating for these announcements and we will continue to push for more support, including funding for indoor courts. We know there is a shortage of courts in our region as more people look to enjoy the many benefits of sport and recreation and we are working to fix that.
We had high hopes that the Games would deliver a golden opportunity for our region to secure muchneeded infrastructure for the people of the Sunshine Coast, and our dreams are now becoming a reality. How amazing!
All in stunning locations.
The Australian version seems to be set on a swamp where they slowly starve or perhaps catch the
eel or worm. Sorry to say but it’s just not that interesting. Viewers want to see success, not starvation.
FOUNDER and director of Talk and Teach, Elizabeth Jones BA (Hons) (CPSP) has worked as a Speech Pathologist in the public education and disability sector for 20 years.
A mother of four, including a child with a disability, she lives with her family in the Glass House Mountains, where her children attend a local school.
Working in the public sector, Ms Jones often hears how families struggle to access speech therapy.
Long waitlists and high turnover mean many children miss out on crucial
early intervention. As a parent of an autistic child, she understands how difficult it can be to find the right service or support.
Her solution: Talk and Teach—speech therapy tool kits that equip parents with the knowledge and resources to begin therapy at home.
Each kit contains evidence-based, easyto-use clinical tools and fun activities that fit into busy routines. They can be used as a starting point for therapy or to supplement existing programs.
Speech therapists have long offered home
programs, but Ms Jones saw a need for more accessible, family-friendly resources. She launched Talk and Teach while travelling Australia with her family. Drawing on her education background, she selected tools to support her own children on the road.
Talk and Teach is now helping families across Australia, including those in remote areas and homeschooling communities.
“Every child deserves a chance to thrive—no matter where they live,” she said. More details at hello@ talkandteach.com.au
FAMILIES in Mooloolah Valley and surrounding areas are benefiting from the Out & About values based approach to early care and education.
Opening just under 2 years ago, Out & About have quickly become a local fixture and member of the community. Out & About fields a quiz night team in support of the local school, and even has its own Oz Tag team in the local competition.
Strong family connections and long-term meaningful
relationships are being built each day at the centre as we care for and nurture our beautiful local children. Out & About engages regularly with several extracurricular providers at no cost to families, including Happy Feet dance and movement with Gemma, The Recycle Man who teaches children how to care for our world, Erika who brings the calming effect of Yoga to the children’s day and Beezotted who help children understand the delicate balance in the
natural world and how we can best support it.
Lovely Victoria from The Kindness Company assists children to be thoughtful, considerate of others and the world around them.
Out & About is busy growing future lovely and positive citizens for our community.
Out & About Care & Education offers a fullservice setting, caring for infants right through to our Approved Free Kindergarten program. We have not just one, but two experienced
teachers who have been in the centre since it opened, bringing their knowledge and skills for the best outcomes for our future Prep children.
This year has started with a bang with most rooms full. There are some spaces left in the Kindergarten Program, and a few spots left in the 3-4 year space.
If you or a friend need spaces, or extra days, call Natalie at the centre soon to ensure you pick up those final spaces. Out & About is open 51 weeks
per year, from 6.30am –6.30pm Monday to Friday, so supports all our busy working parents with the hours they need.
State-of-the-art
LANDSBOROUGH State School is hosting an Under Eights Day celebration on Friday 16 May from 8:45am until 10:40am. They are inviting all young children and their families in the local community to join them for a morning of fun-filled activities.
Local day care centres,
kindergartens and playgroups are also most welcome to come along and join in the fun.
Under Eights Day is all about celebrating and showcasing early childhood and the contributions youngsters make to our local community. The theme for 2025 is ‘Unleashing Scientific
Thinking Through Play’ and the school has planned a variety of activities that encourage playfulness, spontaneity, exploration, imagination and fun!
The event is free to attend, if you would like any further information, please contact Landsborough State School on 5436 2777.
MALENY State High School has approximately 700 students currently enrolled from Years 7 -12.
We believe that this is the perfect number to guarantee a unique balance of individualised student care whilst offering a diverse range of curriculum programs and activities.
Our school prides itself on its rich history of outstanding academic achievements which are created through a commitment to care and compassion.
Our students are local and global citizens who thrive in a friendly, personalised educational community. They are offered a range of academic and vocational pursuits, schoolbased traineeships and apprenticeship pathways.
to Plate event. Our students learn responsibility, initiative, teamwork and the importance of caring for the environment through interaction with animals and the land.
Maleny High offers a smorgasbord of programs and initiatives that pique
It’s such a privilege to have an on-site, fully functional, agricultural farm. This offers our students opportunities for learning beyond the classroom, for example our highly successful Paddock
student interest. We are a School of Excellence in Music. There is also an ‘Altitude’ Program (Science & Mathematics Academy in Years 7 and 8), a flourishing International Student Program incorporating student “buddies” and homestay provision for international study tour groups and long term enrolments from all over the world, as well as leadership opportunities in a wide variety of interest areas.
Our thriving Student Council (alongside various other committees such as our Show Team, Environment Committee and Interact give students a voice and a platform to get involved in the decisions that shape our school. Junior students also participate regularly in interschool sporting events. We look forward to showcasing just some of the many things that make Maleny High a special place to learn. Please join us on Tuesday, 29 April from 9:30 to 11.30am for our Open Morning. You can meet and chat with our school’s Administration team, some of our exceptional teaching staff, School Captains and Junior Secondary Student leaders. There will be an Information Session followed by guided tours of the school and refreshments.
Please email your RSVP to info@malenyshs.eq.edu. au with your family name, number attending, school currently attending and a contact number. We look forward to meeting you!
GUPPY’S Beerwah provides a safe, nurturing and supportive environment for Early Learning and Long Daycare, positioned for convenience and easy entrance at 8-10 Greber road, Beerwah. Their vision is to provide Exceptional Childcare through Personalised Service. Their philosophy is built on a strong ethos of respect – for children, their families and our educators. Their quality childcare programs are designed to support the individual needs of each child, ranging from aged 6 weeks to school age.
Their trained childcare professionals curate and modify the programs based upon the individuals in their class each year, integrating a large focus on sustainability, recycling, indoor/outdoor play and natural playscapes. Additionally, they have a qualified Early Childhood Teacher who provides the necessary support and education a child needs before beginning school. Their Educators and Teachers work with cultural leaders and representatives to incorporate learning activities which educate children in the centre in the
aspects of other cultural groups.
Guppy’s prioritises play-based learning, expanding their Fine and Gross Motor Skills through a vast range of activities such as; sensory play, environment exploration and investigation, and creative mediums. Playbased learning encourages children to participate in a fun, confident and involved learning space. The Beerwah centre is home to wonderful educators, exciting experiences and a variety of activities for your children, who will love coming in and also meeting new friends.
At Talk & Teach, we bel communicate with confid
At Talk & Teach, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to communicate with confidence and engage in the world around them. Start your child’s speech therapy journey at home with our easy-to-use speech therapy resources; an entire home therapy program prepared for your child and delivered right to you.
Our speech therapy tool kits are a comprehensive collection of evidenced-based activities, used in clinical practice and carefully designed to target specific communication and language goals to support every child’s communication.
emselves, ered right to you s gy
Whether your child is experiencing difficulties expressing themselves, comprehending language, or written communication skills (literacy), our tool kits provide the guidance and materials needed to unlock their full potential.
Reviewed
by
Reviewed
by
Karin Markowski
Charlotte McConaghy’s book is absorbing! On a small island, not far from Antarctica, climate change is impacting the world and the Salt family’s job is to guard the seed vault until the last ship picks them up. One day Rowan washes up on shore. She shields the truth about how she ended up there but it slowly becomes evident that she’s not the only one with a secret.
It’s a tense relationship where the strong feelings they develop for each other are shadowed by feelings of the Salt family members, each perspective bringing the reader closer the truth. I loved the beautiful descriptions of the wildlife and nature of this unique part of the world.
Karin Markowski
Cora’s husband Gordon, an abusive and controlling
there more to a name than you might think? Will Cora’s son become like his father and grandfather if he carries their name? Her daughter likes the name Bear and she is thinking Julian but Cora worries about how her husband will react if she goes against his will. From here the
provoking and deeply moving read with beautiful prose. An amazing debut by Florence Knapp. RRP $32.99 (avail 13/5).
APRIL 21 – MAY 20
Currently in your collaboration corner, Venus, the guiding planet of Taurus, puts group activities top of this week’s menu, so enjoy celebrating your annual season in the Sun. And Neptune’s sign change advises that it’s time to let something go so something new and beautiful can grow.
MAY 21 – JUNE 21
With Venus currently in your career corner, it’s worth checking where your professional image might benefit from a new polish, anything from updated branding to rejigging your personal presentation style. And you’ll need to back your usual charm with facts and figures to close this week’s deals.
JUNE 22 - JULY 22
Cardinal sign Cancerians are natural leaders who tend to take on executive roles, sometimes to the detriment of their wellbeing. Whether or not this is true of you, Neptune’s new cycle inspires a recalibration, a calling to realign your work with what you really came here to do.
SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23
Your cosmic custodian, bodyconscious Venus, is currently in the most organised part of your chart – which is also your wellness zone. So give your attention to any physical issues that may require it. And revamp your exercise and eating routines without sacrificing beauty or quality, as only you can do.
AFTER a hugely popular national touring circuit in 2022-2024, Hinterland creative duo Aimee and Mark Gray have created the second iteration of their hilarious live music and film combo titled Eddie Ray – Silence
of the Jams 2: Lack of Judgement Day to be premiered at Horizon Festival in May. Join Eddie as he navigates his way through the Wild West in this futurecowboy film backed by an incredible live band “The Band of Legends’ who will perform an original soundtrack alongside the screening. The world premiere will be at the Horizon festival May 5 at 3.30pm (all ages) and 6.30pm. tickets via Horizon festival website.
DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20
Your practical sign thrives on structure, so the next few weeks, in a fellow earth sign and your personal sector of self-expression, suit Capricorns down to the ground. There’s plenty of practical magic operating, but with others unusually touchy, be discreet in your speech, texts and social posts.
MARCH 21 – APRIL 20
Mercury, in your impetuous, impulsive sign, is inventive, quick on the trigger, impatient with delays and could definitely benefit from being more organised and thoughtful. This week’s move to a steadier paced rhythm suggests you’ll get best results from slowing down and factoring in more indulgent, treat-yourself moments.
Contributed by Andrew Wallace
THEATRE -goers are looking forward to Snapshots from Home. This award-winning play will have six performances at the Maleny Playhouse from April 25. Highlighting life during the Second World War, the play is well-suited to an intimate venue like Maleny Playhouse.
As a range of characters relate their experiences and sing songs of the time, the audience is taken on an in the world of the 1940s from the moment they arrive at the Playhouse, with foyer displays and music
27 April and 3, 4, 10, 11 May. Tickets available from Trybooking or Maleny Tourist Information Centre.
IN the lead-up to Mother’s Day, book lovers are invited to indulge in an enchanting morning of stories and sparkling wine at the ‘Love and Bubbles’ breakfast, hosted at Montville on Monday, May 5.
Part of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writer’s Festival, this not-to-be-missed event brings together three powerhouse voices in Australian literature— Rachael Johns, Melanie Saward and Brooke Blurton—for an intimate literary experience at the
picturesque Poets Café. Flying in from Perth, Rachael Johns—dubbed the
Rachel Johns. Photo:Jess Gately
Queen of Women’s Fiction— arrives fresh from releasing The Bad Bridesmaid. She’ll also celebrate the 10th anniversary of her ABIAwinning novel The Patterson
Girls, re-released with a new epilogue. Joining her are Dr Melanie Saward, a Bigambul and Wakka Wakka author whose YA novel A Good Kind of Trouble captures teen dreams and social change, and co-author Brooke Blurton, beloved for her role on The Bachelorette and her memoir Big Love. Designed for women and girls aged 13+, the event includes a hot breakfast, mimosa or sparkling water, and the chance to meet these acclaimed writers in a relaxed setting.
Mood foods
When: Wednesday April 23, 10am - 11.30am
Where: Beerwah Library, Peachester Road, Beerwah
Info: Feeling moody? Find out how food choices can affect the way you feel. Improving diet may help to improve mood, raise energy levels and promote focus. Join qualified Nutritionist Janice Johansen from Chrysalis Wellness & Nutrition for a journey into how a few simple diet tweaks could make you feel tip top. Free. Registration essential at https://events. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/
Mindful Art (art & dementia)
When: Thursday April 24, 10am - 12pm
Where: Caloundra Regional Gallery, 22 Omrah Ave, Caloundra
Info: Our Mindful Art (art & dementia) program, are intimate gatherings designed especially for those who are living with dementia. These sessions aim to provide a relaxed and normalised experience within a gallery setting. FREE, bookings are essential as places are limited to small groups of six attendees (plus carers). https://events.humanitix. com/mindful-art-art-anddementia-april-2025
Sounds of Peace:
Artists for Australian Democracy
When: Saturday April 26, 3pm Where: The Deck at Crystal Waters, 65 Kilcoy Lane, Conondale
Info: In an effort to counteract the dismantling of democracy coming from America, we’re running a music, spoken word and dance event at Crystal Waters soon called “Sounds of Hope: Artists for Democracy. We are planning for an afternoon and evening of wonderful good-vibe music, food, bar and fires with a festival atmosphere. These fantastic performers are donating their time for our cause.
The event is a not for profit event with all profit going to local charities Welcome to Maleny Refugee Group and Maleny Neighbourhood Centre. $15 or by donation.
Film Fundraiser For Maleny Visitor Information Centre
When: Saturday April 26, 3pm - 7pm
Where: Maleny Community Centre, Maple Street, Maleny
Info: Maleny Film Society will screen the action/ comedy “Thelma” as a fundraiser for the Maleny Visitor Information Centre. “Thelma” is about a 93-year-old grandmother swindled out of $10,000 by a scammer posing as her grandson. She embarks on a quest to reclaim her money. Book online at malenyfilmsociety.au.
Open Day for the Peachester Heritage Centre
When: Sunday 27th April, 10.00 am to 2.00 pm Where: Peachester Road, behind the Peachester Hall Info: The Centre tells the story of our pioneering families with tributes to the timber and dairy industries and the sport of wood chopping. An Anzac Gallery honours local servicemen and women. Weather forecaster Mr Inigo Jones is represented by a display of instruments, documents and other artefacts. The museum is home to the Jim Hall Whittling Collection. Adults $5, children free.
The Glass Ukes
When: Monday April 28, 6.30pm - 8.30pm Where: Glass House Mountains Neighbourhood Hall, Ryan Street Info: Every 2nd and 4th Monday evening. We provide a couple of borrow ukuleles for beginners. The first hour is for easier chord combination songs from a provided song list. Thereafter we have a short “tea break” before attempting more advanced songs followed by requests from the floor. All material is available in a shared Google Drive folder. Send
us an email to glassuke@ gmail.com and we’ll give you the link.
Sketch Cartoon
Characters
When: Wednesday April 30, 10am - 11.30am
Where: Beerwah Library
25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Learn the basics of how to draw cartoon figures and animals. View the sketches and hear the history of local cartoonist Harold Whittle in this hands-on workshop with the Heritage Library team. BYO sketch book and a 2B pencil. Paper and pencils provided if required.
Free. Registration essential at https://events. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/
Heritage Talk: Archaeology in
Australia
When: Friday May 2, 10am - 11am
Where: Bankfoot House, 1998 Old Gympie Rd, Glass House Mountains Info: As part of the Australian Heritage Festival, join Fiona McGill in learning how archaeology has given us a measure of the resilience of First Nations culture on this continent and why it is so very important in world terms. Free. Registration essential at https://heritage. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/. Morning tea provided.
Maleny Arts & Crafts
Group - Autumn Fair
When: Friday May 2Monday May 5
Where: Maleny Community Centre, Maple Street Maleny
Info: The hours are Friday to Sunday; 9am till 4pm and Monday, 9am till 2pm. The fair offers a large range of beautifully made and unique items for sale produced by MACG members in fields including pottery, glass making, woodwork, textiles and fine arts.
Horizon Festival
When: Friday May 2Sunday May 11
Where: Various Locations Info: Welcome to Horizon 2025. It’s our ninth year now, and we’re excited
to show you around. You’ll find live music in unexpected places, dance that moves you, art and technology, exhibitions and installations, events for the whole family, bespoke food experiences, and more — with over 50 events across 10 locations there is plenty to discover. Progam, tickets and info at: www. horizonfestival.com.au/
ARTIFEST
When: Saturday May 3Sunday May 4 from 9am
Where: Main Street Montville at various locations
Info: The Montville Chamber of Commerce is proud to present “Artifest” a series of micro-events showcasing the vibrant artisan scene of Montville. Artifest will feature a diverse range of workshops, demonstrations, and exhibitions hosted at various locations throughout their beautiful village. Follow the “Montville” Facebook page to see individual micro events to plan your visit.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival
When: Saturday May 3Monday May 5
Where: Various locations
Info: Over three exciting days from May 3-5, the hinterland will come alive with a carefully curated lineup of over 60 authors, kicking off with special guest, award-winning Australian portrait artist Vincent Fantauzzo at the Gala Opening Party to celebrate the creative heart of the region. For more details and tickets, visit the festival website at www. schwritersfestival.com.au.
Bankfoot House Paint
Out with Marvene Ash
When: Friday May 9, 10am - 1pm
Where: Bankfoot House, 1998 Old Gympie Rd, Glass House Mountains Info: Join Local Contemporary Art Prize finalist, Marvene Ash, at Bankfoot House for an intimate en plein air experience at the heritage
listed site. Enjoy morning tea with scones on arrival while Marvene speaks to her work and artistic practice. Then if you would like, take a tour of the historic house before settling in to sketch and paint on the scenic grounds.
Bookings required: https:// events.humanitix.com/
Charity Auction for Destiny Rescue
When: Saturday May 10, 6pm - 9pm
Where: Mooloolah Public Hall
42 Bray Road, Mooloolah Valley
Info: Book your ticket here to attend the Charity Auction for Destiny Rescue, an organisation that rescues and restores children’s lives from sex trafficking around the world. This community event has live music and a drinks and dessert bar. https://www. trybooking.com/events/ landing/1379903
Book Launch - Vyvyan Bloomfield poetry collection
When: Saturday May 10, 2pm - 4pm
Where: Beerwah Library Meeting Rooms 3 & 3A, 25 Peachester Road, Beerwah
Info: Local author Vyvyan Bloomfield has published her first poetry collection. Vyvyan is a member of the Beerwah Writers Group and has published ‘Like an Olive’, under the guidance of our Mapleton poet Ron Wiseman, editor of international poetry publication, Prism. Readings from the book. Meet the author and have your book signed. Light refreshments will be served.
Maleny Hospital Auxiliary Charity Golf Day
When: Friday May 16, 9am Where: Maleny Golf Club, 15 Porters Lane, North Maleny Info: Maleny Hospital Auxiliary volunteers and Golf Club team are planning a day of great golf, great prizes, raffles, a delicious lunch, and there is also a grand prize for a ‘Hole in One’ on any Par3 with
proceeds going to the hospital. Sponsorship on the day is $150 per hole. Cost to players is $110 and all levels of golf are welcomed. Play is 18holes, 4 Ball Ambrose with a shotgun start at 9am. To book tickets visit: https:// www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1370889
Glasshouse History Group
When: Tuesday May 20, 1.30pm Where: Glass House Mountains Neighbourhood Centre
Info: The theme will be ‘Parlour Games’
GHMSS Under 8’s Day
When: Thursday May 22, 8:45am - 10:15am
Where: Glasshouse
Mountains State School, 58 Coonowrin Rd, Glass House Mountains
Info: GHMSS invite you to attend their under 8’s celebration with lots of fun themed activities, coffee van, cupcake stall, and a sausage sizzle for children under 8.
Glass House Mountains Neighbours Day
When: Saturday May 31, 10am - 12pm
Where: Glass House Mountains Neighbourhood Centre, 8 Coonowrin Road, Glass House Mountains Info: Glass House Mountains Community Collective invites you to our annual Neighbours Day! Rotary will be selling masterfully barbecued sausage sangers and mouth watering burgers. A scrumptious morning tea will also be available on the day.
Khaita Joyful Dance Festival
When: Saturday May 31, from 10.30am
Where: Beerwah Community Hall Info: Step into the vibrant, family-friendly day, filled with the magic of Khaita music and soulful songs. Move to the rhythm in the Joyful Khaita Dance Workshop. Savour the taste of Tibetan culture in hands-on Tibetan Momo (Dumpling) making workshop.
Many years ago, I heard a story about someone asking an advice columnist—like Dorothy Dix or Dear Abby— what topic generated the most debate among readers. Surprisingly, it wasn’t about love, money, or family, but whether toilet paper should hang down the back of the roll or down the front.
For such a topic to be debated so vehemently makes you think: what are our real priorities in life? Some people might say family, career, or financial security. But for Christians, values like love, compassion, integrity, justice, tolerance, forgiveness, humility, and kindness are what guide and motivate our lives.
When Jesus was asked about which was the most important commandment, he replied by quoting the Old Testament: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and
strength, and the second, Love your neighbour as yourself.
Loving and worshipping God is what provides the foundation of our lives. But we’re only able to love him because he first loved us—sending his Son, Jesus Christ, to become one of us and die and rise again to provide forgiveness of our sins as we have just heard again this Easter. Jesus’ teaching, especially in the Sermon on the Mount, outlines the heart of the Christian life: loving God by loving others. That love extends beyond personal relationships—it involves community, compassion, and social responsibility.
Christians are called to promote justice, speak up for the poor, the oppressed, and the marginalised. This is rooted in the belief that every human being is created in God’s image and carries inherent dignity and worth.
with Tom Jantke
Calvary Lutheran Church Glasshouse Country
Ultimately, we look to the example of Jesus himself. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve—and to give his life on the cross, reconciling a broken world to God. His life shows us how to live with purpose, grace, and humility.
Of course, we often fall short and fail to live up to the example he has given us. Our values slip, our priorities drift. But the good news is that Jesus has taken all our failures on himself. He forgives us, renews us, and strengthens us to try again— to live lives shaped by love and marked by grace.
Contributed
by
Patty Beecham
LOCAL author Vyvyan Bloomfield has published her first poetry collection.
Vyvyan is a member of the Beerwah Writers Group and has published ‘Like an Olive’, under the guidance of Mapleton poet Ron Wiseman, editor of international poetry publication, Prism.
Vyvyan Bloomfield’s poetry hits you like a breath of fresh air-raw, real, and unapologetic. She’s a country girl at heart, but this collection goes far beyond the bush.
It’s a reflection of life as she sees it, unfiltered and wide-ranging. From the quiet in nature to the raw edges of human experience, Vyvyan captures it all with honesty that pulls no punches. Her words flow like they’re meant to be spoken out
loud, each one grounded in truth, each line a step deeper into the world. This isn’t poetry that’s dressed up or polished to shine, it’s straight from the heart, full of grit and grace that makes Vyvyan who she is. Every poem feels like a conversation with an old friend-open, honest and brimming with life. After reading her verses you’ll
feel like you’ve known her forever. Vyvyan Bloomfield will launch her poetry collection at Beerwah Library on Saturday May, 10 with readings, book signings and refreshments from 2pm to 4pm. Copies of the book are available through https://www. lulu.com/shop/vyvyanbloomfield/like-an-olive/ paperback/
Contributed
by
Eva- Marie Seeto
EVERY year, around 300,000 women and over 3 million newborns still die during childbirth—many from preventable causes linked to poor hygiene and lack of medical resources. The Birthing Kit Foundation (Australia) works to change that by providing clean birthing kits and education to women in remote, lowresource regions around the world.
Locally, Zonta Club of Blackall Range plays a crucial role in this global mission by assembling over 600 birthing kits each year for BKFA to distribute. Volunteers come together to pack the kits, which can be
funded for just $5 each.
These simple yet vital kits are distributed through health facilities, traditional birth attendants, and community outreach programs, helping ensure safer births where medical care is limited.
immediately after delivery. You can support this lifesaving work by donating as little as $5 at www.bit. ly/ZontaKits or joining the next Birthing Kit Assembly Day on 10 May at the Maleny RSL.
Each kit contains essential items to reduce infection and improve hygiene
Earth Day Earth Day takes place on April 22nd each year, which is the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970.
It’s a day to reflect on our everyday behaviours and how they affect the environment.
This year’s Earth Day theme is ‘Our Power, Our Planet’, with a focus on renewable energy for a more sustainable future. Switching to renewables
can combat climate change, preserve biodiversity, protect ecosystems and eliminate our dependence on fossil fuels. Here are some ways you can commemorate Earth Day:
• Visit www.earthday.org and take a quiz to about renewable energy. For example, do you know which renewable energy source is most prevalent across the globe? Is it wind, solar, hydropower or geothermal?
• Make a pledge to protect
For more information email: service@ zontablackallrange.org.au.
the environment, such as planting more trees, buying less, buying second hand, repairing or reusing, sorting your waste better, or collecting rubbish on your beach walks (especially plastic).
• Visit WAM’s Earth Day information kiosk in the main street of Maleny Tues 22 April. Make a pledge for Earth Day to add to our Pledge Tree.
WAM’s aims are to educate and empower people to take action on waste and related issues, at a personal and community level. To find out more, visit our website www.wasteactionmaleny.org , Facebook group WAM Waste Action Maleny or email us at wasteactionmaleny@gmail.com.
Contributed by David Kerr
The Easter Bunny paid an early morning visit to the Showgrounds recently and laid eight colourful “eggs” on court 1. Perhaps “Osterhase”, this early German folk figure symbolising new life and fertility, bodes well for Maleny people trying the
relaxing sport of croquet?
Over the weekend it was great to see the return of Nick Cram who is once again back in match fitness. Nick teamed up with Donna Manning to take on the youngster Dianne Horsman. Dianne on this occasion paid no heed to her elders, defeating them 14 hoops to 4. Well done Dianne! With the arrival of autumn, we have a change in times to our regular play.
Lessons and coaching are from 8:00am to 10:00am on Saturdays, Association is on Thursdays and Sundays from 1:30pm to 4pm, Ricochet is on Tuesdays (8am for an 8.30 start) and Golf Croquet is 8am for an 8.30 start (as arranged). To find out more about our club, learning croquet or the Hoops and High Tea event on Saturday 24th May, please contact President Sarah Widin on 0417640704.
My car horn wasn’t working, so I took it to a Boy Scout. He fixed and said... “Beep repaired”
During the recent wet weather, I tried holding back water with bags of self raising flour!
But with the flour , water and the hot sun it just got Damper!!
I’m almost a millionaire. I have all the zeros, now I just need a one.
My friend Jay had twin girls. He wanted to name them after him.
I suggested Kaye and Elle.
What happens when a microscope crashes into a telescope?
They kaleidoscope.
I shipped the bottom half of some mannequins in a used coffin once and they got lost.
I knew I shouldn’t have put all my legs in one casket.
Just seen that and Donner
and Blitzen are for sale on ebay..
Nobody has put a bid in for them yet though....
Wonder if it’s cos they’re two deer.....?
Prosecutors are persuing IKEA for evading over $500 mill in taxes.
But they’re having a hard time putting their case together.
I just passed my introductory apiarist exam.
I got a bee.
I want buns of steel, but unfortunately, I also want buns of cinnamon.
Apple’s new Apple Intelligence will allow devices to make sarcastic responses.
The iRoll launches in September.
My kids put together a PowerPoint presentation explaining why we should go to the water park... It has several slides.
When my friend Joyce learned she could clone herself , she rejoiced
By Kirra Livingstone
TWO Glass House Mountains teenagers went head-to-head in the grand final of the U16s Purple Division at the Basketball Queensland State Championships—proving the hinterland is home to some serious hoops talent.
Held in Logan from April 5–8, the four-day tournament attracted teams from all over Queensland. In a thrilling finale, Kiahn Crouch, claimed gold with the Moreton Bay Suns, while Ziggy Evans earned silver representing the Sunshine Coast Phoenix. For Ziggy, it was a debut at state level— and one he won’t forget.
“It was really great to come second, our team from the first games we played, we’ve improved a lot,” he said.
“We didn’t really know each other and then all of a sudden it just clicked and we became a lot better.”
With the tournament now
wrapped, the young guard has his sights set on the next challenge: U18s trials.
“The next division up will have a lot more stiff competition, I think I have a chance of making the team but I need to improve before trials begin,” Ziggy said.
“I will need to do a lot of training, lose a lot of weight and get a lot better with my agility.
“I’m a lot slower than the rest of the players, and I also need to work on my sprinting and shooting.”
Despite falling short in the final, Ziggy said the experience taught him plenty.
“It’s a lot harder than just a normal club, you have to worry about mistakes, but it’s also a lot more fun at the same time because it’s rewarding when you win,” he said.
“The main thing I learnt was teamwork. You have to work together and it really showed me that with teamwork, any team can win.”
Landsborough’s Jayden Blake also hit the court for the Phoenix in the U16s Black Division, with his squad finishing a respectable eighth overall.
Contributed by Lewis Kwarcianyi
THE Glasshouse Districts Little Athletics Club held their end-of-season presentation and break up party on Sunday April 6. The event was held at Inflatable World in Caboolture where the kids had fun for two hours before receiving their awards and trophies. It
has been a wonderful season for the club, which focussed on PBs (Personal Bests) and the values of fun, friendship and fitness. The club now has a break until the 2025/2026 season kicks off in September. With the 2032 Olympics not far away, it would be a great 5-17 to give athletics a go. The club meets every Friday night from September to March at Skippy Park between Beerwah and Landsborough. Athletes participate in a variety of jumping, running and throwing events in an atmosphere of friendly competition and encouragement. Follow the club’s Facebook page for updates, ‘Glass House District Little Athletics’.
– and won selection in the U14 women 800m and 1500m events aft in the top three at the recent Queensland Athletics State Championship in Brisbane. Competing against some of Australia’s best middledistance runners in Perth, both Sophie and Violet ran personal best times in the 800m, placing 17th and 18th respectively.
A few days later, the girls
with Spencer and Karen Shaw
This moist weather is great for lush greenery and a superb time for planting ferns, palms, gingers and just about anything else really!
In our shade house at Forest Heart at the moment we have a great range of ferns ranging in size from the king of them all the King Fern Angiopteris evecta, with fronds up to 5 metres in length, through to the delicate but vibrant pale green of the Maiden Hair Fern. We have the local Native Ginger with its tasty spicy fruit and the Australian Crepe Ginger, a spectacular flowering ginger relative from North Queensland with red and white flowers. We’ve got some Crow’s Nest ferns and Palm Lily’s that are awesome foliage statements. In Palms we have Piccabeen Palm, Cabbage Tree Palm and Walking Stick Palm, the latter are
the smallest of our local palms, great in the shade or as an indoor specimen. In shrubs we have Bolwarra or Native Guava with perfumed flowers and tasty fruit, Large Leaf Wilkiea with its hardy foliage, food source to the Regent Skipper Butterfly and Glossy Laurel with its bright red fruit and glossy foliage. For groundcovers we have Native Violets (pictured above), Rainforest Lobelia, Creeping Beard Grass and Pollia, which will outcompete most weeds! Get some of these great moisture loving plants in your garden now and watch them thrive in the shade.
THE more native plants I get to grow and see, the more I’m amazed about their diversity and beauty. It’s great to go for a walk in the bush at any time of year, there’s always something flowering, from the Coastal heaths to the Forests of the Hinterland the precious remnants of our native ecosystems put on spectacular shows of colour. It’s one thing to admire
these native plants when going for a walk, but many of us live surrounded by exotic plants, not necessarily because they’re easier to grow or even because they’re better looking, but due to an inherited culture of loving anything exotic and an ignorance of our native plants. The lack of local native plants in our gardens to
date is strange, because to many of us, these plants are as exotic as you can get. So many of these great local native plants can also be grown in your garden to add a splash of colour, with the added benefit of you giving a home to our local natives and providing habitat for a wide range of native animals.
South East Queensland is one of the worlds
We have subtropical and temperate influences.
We have rainforests, woodland and heathlands. We have mountain tops, beaches, rivers and a great diversity of soils and geology that make for a unique place to call this place home.
Let’s get back to our wildflowers and their
potential for our gardens. The diversity of our daisies (Asteraceae) and their mass flowerings is truly impressive; our fabulous Fabaceae (Pea Family) bloom in purples, yellows, pinks and oranges; our gorgeous Goodenia’s are out in splendid shows of yellow; Lobelia’s and Viola’s with splashes of purple and blue; our marvellous Myrtles (Bottle Brushes, Eucalypts,
Ti-trees) are massed in red or white and the list just goes on and on. Make space for local native flowers and be blessed with blooms, bee’s and beauty.
By Ray White Beerwah
This school holidays, Ray White Beerwah and Fierce Cleaning are teaming up to give local kids a meaningful chance to earn some pocket money, build life skills and self-worth. The two businesses are offering work experience opportunities,
holidays to boost our local kids’ excitement about entering the workforce and for us personally to build valuable connections with our community,” said Koen from Fierce Cleaning. Alex Garden also commented saying, “Being able to provide local children with as many
Ray White and Fierce Cleaning encourage other local businesses to follow suit and to think local and provide opportunities to local kids before turning to bigger corporations. Together, we can nurture a stronger, more connected community - one young
Home design trends are always
PROPERTIES LEASED IN APRIL
Lara Kavanagh, our Leasing Agent, has leased 11 properties in April so far.
Tenant Top Tip: If you have enquired about a property but can’t attend the viewing, and you don’t have someone to view on your behalf, you can request a walk-through video of the property if agreed by the current tenant.
Contact Deb Fleming 0488 771 626 if you are interested in having your investment managed by McGrath Estate Agents.
