While most of us lament another weekend washed out by wet
from the comfort of the couch, spare a thought for the tradies left counting the cost long after the clouds clear.
Persistent rain over the past two months — although it feels like much longer — is having a serious impact on some of our local tradies.
As we report this week, the financial hit is in the tens of thousands of dollars for some, not to mention the toll on mental health.
Starting a business with no guaranteed pay cheque is no small feat.
The freedom of being your own boss comes with a harsh reality: no work means no income.
As Krysty Idle tells us (see story p4), it’s been a “depressing” month of low earnings and steady overheads.
With the officially-sanctioned Small Business Month drawing to a close, and with it a spotlight on our enterprising locals, the daily show continues.
It’s a timely reminder to keep on
supporting our tradies — browse our local directory on pages 20-23 — and indeed all local businesses (featured throughout the paper), who employ, spend, invest, support, sponsor and help make this hinterland community thrive.
We also cap off the month with six local owner profiles on our business pages (p10-11).
Thanks once again to all the businesses who support us!
MALENY SHOW TIME
And speaking of the weather, the Maleny Show is back.
The show’s return (Happy 102nd) usually means the rain’s are a comin’.
After some glorious autumn weather, there are going to be a few showers about, but surely not enough to stop a top long weekend!
So no excuses, head along and check out the state’s best agricultural show, kicking off this Friday and running through Saturday.
For all the details, see the ad below and story on p5.
COUNCIL BUDGET
In the drip-feed of budget
information ahead of Sunshine Coast Council’s 2025–26 financial plan, one source of expanded revenue generation stands out for its simplicity: new and increased fees.
As readers may recall, the council’s $1 billion+ budget isn’t enough to make ends meet.
So, what do you do? Tap the community?
It’s not revolutionary — it’s practically a given — but the introduction of new fees and rise in others warrants attention.
When councils reach for more money via fees they tend to frame it as cost recovery.
Council expects to collect around $59 million through costrecovery and commercial charges across several departments next year. Of that, Development Services will bring in $20.4m.
These figures represent significant revenue streams, and yet they tend to pass without much public scrutiny.
For a council apparently short on cash, the upcoming budget will make for interesting reading.
Farmer Dave Graham with his K9 superstar friends, will be attending the Maleny Show on Saturday May 31. Story p5.
Powell urges state to back luxury project
THE push to approve a luxury accommodation development in Maleny has intensified with Member for Glass House and Tourism Minister, Andrew Powell, urging Deputy Premier, Jarrod Bleijie, to throw his support behind the project.
The high end tourism project was rejected by the Sunshine Coast Council earlier this year despite the backing of local councillors Winston Johnston and Jenny Broderick.
Maleny Manor owner, Presidential Capital Pty Ltd appealed council’s decision to reject the 34-unit proposal on Bald Knob Rd, through the Planning and Environment Court.
Mr Powell then wrote to Mr Bleijie in late April seeking his support for the Presidential appeal.
“(Council’s) decision, driven by concerns over scenic impact, urban scale and earthworks, largely overlooks the potential benefits the project would bring to the local tourism industry,” Mr Powell wrote.
“If successful, the development of Maleny Manor would not only help address the current shortage of beds but would also extend the stay of highyield tourists thus boosting the local economy across multiple sectors.” mitch@gcnews.com.au
Bleijie doubles down on Comiskey developments
Planning Minister proposes fresh call in for Coochin Fields festival site
By Sonia Isaacs
QUEENSLAND Planning
Minister Jarrod Bleijie is facing renewed scrutiny on the Sunshine Coast after proposing a ministerial callin for a music festival site development at Coochin Creek—reigniting debate over the balance between economic development and environmental protection. It follows an earlier call-in for a propopsed neighbouring tourist park, also backed by the Comiskey-linked Coochin Creek Property Pty Ltd.
If approved, the Comiskey Group’s planned “Coochin Fields” venue at 1641 Roys Road, could host up to six major events annually, drawing crowds of up to 35,000 people per day.
While Mr Bleijie has described the development as a “major tourism and economic opportunity,” it has attracted stiff opposition from environmental groups and government planning bodies.
In a comprehensive submission in response to the initial development application, the Sunshine Coast Council flagged 144
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amendment items across 40 subject areas, warning the proposal was “of a scale and intensity that has the potential to adversely impact on ecologically important areas and the amenity of adjacent sensitive environments, through noise, light, waste, and water quality impact”.
The proposed festival site sits within the Moreton Bay–Sunshine Coast inter urban break — a key regional biodiversity corridor.
The council’s concerns were echoed in a scathing assessment by the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA), which identified additional risks related to environmental degradation, traffic congestion and noncompliance with regional planning frameworks
Despite this, Minister Bleijie insists the project deserves further scrutiny at the state level. “I have decided to propose to call in the development application,” Mr Bleijie said. “The proposal represents a major tourism and economic opportunity… However, there are significant social and environmental matters that
ministerial call-in in five months by Mr Bleijie, who serves as Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning.
The rarely exercised power allows the state to override local and departmental planning processes where projects are deemed to be of state significance.
A council spokesperson acknowledged the Minister’s authority but urged community members to lodge formal submissions by the June 16 deadline.
“Any other enquiries regarding this Proposed Call-In Notice should be
said.
Local environmental groups including the Sunshine Coast Environment Council have condemned the Minister’s intervention, warning it could undermine years of detailed regional planning.
Ken Mewburn OAM, President of Take Action for Pumicestone Passage (TAPP), said the decision “sets a dangerous precedent”.
“The call-in proposals, particularly one that overrides a refusal by the State agency SARA, is of great concern,” Mr Mewburn said.
“With limited ability for the community to
environmental impacts may be irreversible along with identified social and safety issues.
“The Minister’s decision appears premature at best, and weighted in favour of the proponent, with little evidence that the long-term state benefits will outweigh the environmental and social costs.”
Minister Bleijie has been approached for further comment.
To view the proposal and make submissions visit the Department of State Development and Infrastructure’s website at www.planning.qld.gov.au. sonia@gcnews.com.au
Groups call for park plan to be postponed
Community clubs call for Maleny District Park plan to be pushed back
By Sonia Isaacs
COMMUNITY groups
in Maleny are calling on Sunshine Coast Council to delay public consultation on the proposed Maleny District Park Concept Plan until the new draft planning scheme is released for public review.
The Maleny Golf Club, Friends of Pattemore House and the Maleny District Sport and Recreation Club (MDSRC) are among those raising concerns that the current Concept Plan may not align with the existing 2014 Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme. They argue that meaningful consultation cannot take
place without access to the upcoming draft scheme, which remains under wraps.
Maleny Golf Club
President Doug Evans said the club welcomed the chance to provide input but needed more time and planning clarity to participate fully.
“The time allowed for informed comment is unreasonably short for a community organisation such as the MGC,” Mr Evans said.
“We believe the District Park Plan conflicts with the 2014 City Plan. It may be that the unreleased draft scheme addresses this, but if so, we may wish to challenge those changes.
We respectfully request that no deadline for feedback be set until the draft planning scheme is released.”
Mr Evans also noted the impact of community input on previous planning outcomes, citing the club’s successful recommendations regarding zoning in the 2014 scheme.
Echoing these concerns, MDSRC Secretary Carolyn Williams described the current June 1 consultation deadline as “simply too short” for the more than 60 sport, recreation, and service organisations her group represents.
“Many elements of the proposed plan impinge on the interests of our member
clubs,” Ms Williams said. “We agree with the other community clubs that aspects appear inconsistent with the current City Plan, and believe community consultation on the draft planning scheme should precede any decision on the District Park.”
Both organisations reiterated the importance of community ‘ownership’ of the final plan, especially considering the potential cost of the development and the ongoing role local clubs play in delivering facilities on limited budgets.
According to MDSRC, one of the key concerns is whether the provision for housing on the precinct
planning framework — an issue that can’t be resolved without sighting the draft scheme.
Division 5 Councillor
Winston Johnston has defended the consultation process, pushing back against calls for a delay.
“We’ve gone out with this to say, ‘Have we got it right?’ If they think we haven’t got it right, then put their submission in,” Cr Johnston said.
He expressed disappointment that some local organisations had not reached out directly.
“I’m very disappointed that they haven’t come to me to express the point of
time,” he said. “If they want to achieve things, they need to work with their local councillor and with the senior management of council to make things happen.”
Cr Johnston also stressed that the consultation is focused specifically on the district park, not wider planning changes.
“The new master plan for the district park has got very little to do with the town plan,” he said.
Community feedback is open until June 1 2025 at haveyoursay.sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au/maleny-districtpark sonia@gcnews.com.au
New fees to bankroll $59m in council revenue forecast
By Mitch Gaynor
SUNSHINE Coast Council
is banking on more than $59 million in revenue from fees and charges in the next financial year, with a raft of new and revised payments aimed at cost recovery across key service areas. Development Services alone is expected to bring
in $20.4 million in 2025–26, according to council documents. This includes income from development and plumbing application fees, operational works, inspections and certifications — although council notes that only about 70 per cent of activity in this department
generates revenue. Several new fees have been proposed as part of the 2025–26 budget process. These include a $225 administrative fee applied to refund requests for Development Information and Advice Services. If a request is withdrawn within five business days, the balance will be
refunded; no refund is available after that window.
Applicants will also now be charged for written advice confirming whether a development application is required — something the council says private building certifiers are demanding before proceeding. This will cost $365 for domestic dwellings and
dual occupancies, and $640 for other developments.
Other new fees include a $530 charge to cancel existing approvals for houses and dual occupancies ($1,140 for all other types), and a major fee linked to the upcoming planning scheme.
If an applicant wants to extend a development approval to apply under a
different scheme, they’ll be charged 25 per cent of the application cost — or $4,935, whichever is higher.
Council says the new and updated fees reflect a focus on cost recovery and are shaped by industry feedback. It is one of several revenue strategies expected to help shape the upcoming budget, due mid-year.
Artist impression of new Maleny District Park.
The 102nd Maleny Show
to none this year, with our Country Star Search Competition offering over $30,000 in cash and prizes and will be run over both days of the show,” Ms White said.
farm animals. “All the show favourites are back, including fireworks, sideshow alley, woodchop and whipcracking.” A new feature of the
Also joining the program is ‘The MeatMagics Show’, offering patrons the chance to learn about sausage making, meat cutting and other butchery and cooking skills.
heart of the Maleny Show. Matt and Meg, the winning couple, will exchange vows at 10.30am on Saturday, May 31, on the entertainment oval — and everyone is invited.
then spend the day at the show, taking in the sights and sounds of all things unique and wonderful to the
Division 5 councillor, Winston Johnston, said he was a huge supporter of the
“This show brings together local community groups and not-for-profit organisations,” he said.
“They collaborate and deliver an event that supports these groups in building their capacity, attracting new members, and generating income, and educates the wider
importance of agriculture.” Ms White said while organisers were eager to open the gates, staging the event had not been without
“Operational costs have been challenging, but the society is committed to hosting an event where rural smanship can be exhibited and celebrated,” she said.
“Matt and Meg will take their vows in front of family and friends, and of course all of you who attend the show – everyone is welcome.
“The happy couple will
“Livestock owners have faced many challenges in recent years, but many still attend our show to exhibit their stock.” Tickets are on sale now at www. malenyshowsociety.org.au.
Photos from previous Maleny Shows.
Constant wet weather dampens coast tradies
Several trades affected by large amount of rain in last
By Kirra Livingstone
TRADIES across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
have been severely affected by extended wet weather, with only 50 out of 145 days (up to May 25) without rain so far this year.
Peachester business
Charmak Landscape
Construction co-owner
Krysty Idle said she and her husband Ryan had lost tens of thousands of dollars this year.
In the past five months, the couple has had seven weeks off due to rain, with the longest consecutive stretch of downtime lasting two to three weeks.
“It’s been very depressing, in the last month we are probably working one or two days a week,” she said.
“Obviously with no work, there’s no income but all our insurances, our car repayments, machinery, everything like that still keeps coming out, so it just affects cash flow more than anything else.
“We are fortunate because it’s just me and my husband, so we can push a little bit longer at a job on a clear day, but we still have kids to
come home to.”
Ms Idle said they were doing whatever they could to manage financially.
“We have been scrimping and saving, and just doing the bare minimum in life,” she said.
“There’s not much we can do, we haven’t had to dip into savings, but we are just having to be very careful.
Ms Idle said herself and Ryan are racing to catch up on a backlog that has pushed jobs months behind schedule, with bookings filled until September.
holiday leave, we are then going to have to pass that onto the client, then prices go up and that’s just a vicious cycle.”
She added while she was unsure how support for tradies could be improved, she believed action was needed from state and federal governments.
“I think if different types of leave were introduced for trades, it would affect the bottom dollar too much,” she said.
“If we’re forced to have to pay ourselves sick and
Roof and gutter maintenance owner, Brad Burns, said he estimates he hasn’t been able to work for half of the year.
“It’s affected me a lot, if I don’t work no money comes in, you have mortgages, and then people are waiting, and you get 20 phone calls a day,” he said.
“You see your bank account and all of a sudden you wonder what’s going on, and then I realise I need to pull back on my spending
to accommodate.
“I’ll have about four jobs going at once, and I don’t get paid until I finish it, so it’s either no money or a lot.”
Mr Burns added that he’s lost $60,000 of profit due to the consistent rain, and said his plans to retire next year have been squashed.
“I was on track to retire early, but now I will have to push it back another year at least,” he said.
“You get worried when
you don’t have steady income, at first it’s a good thing because you get jobs done around the house.
“I’ve got two staff members and I’m still able to pay them, but it means I have to be tight with money.”
A Suncoast Tippers employee who lives in the Glass House Mountains, Tony Usher, said he is unable to work at all if it rains, meaning he receives no income.
“When you depend on regular work to keep things moving, that kind of disruption has a big impact,” Mr Usher said.
“It’s made it difficult to manage our usual expenses, and the hit to our cash flow has been stressful.
“We know things will turn around once the weather improves, but it’s definitely been a challenging few months.”
The Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business was contacted for comment.
kirra@gcnews.com.au
Former scout leader charged
SUNSHINE Coast Child Protection Investigation
Unit detectives are appealing for information after charging a 21-yearold Caboolture South man with 28 sexual and property offences.
Police allege the man used his volunteer role as a group leader to access children at a Landsborough campground, where multiple incidents occurred between 2022 and 2024.
Investigations began in December 2024, following reports the man had been observed looking into bathrooms occupied by children.
It is further alleged he entered tents to steal children’s underwear and engaged in stalking and inappropriate treatment of children now aged between 13 to 16.
A search warrant executed on May 5 at a Caboolture home allegedly uncovered multiple pairs of children’s underwear and electronic devices now undergoing forensic examination.
The man was arrested the same day and is due to appear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on June 16. Scouts Queensland is actively assisting QPS with its investigation.
Anyone with information to contact Policelink 131 444 or Crime Stoppers.
resident Richard Thompson has expressed frustration at the lack of maintenance at Smerdon Way Park, claiming the Sunshine Coast Council has failed to act on concerns raised over a year ago.
Mr Thompson, whose property backs onto the park, said the standard of upkeep had deteriorated over several years.
“They must have reported the trees that have fallen down, but no one has taken them away.” Mr Thompson said the state of the park was affecting his and his wife Kaz’s quality of life.
“The council told us they came to spray the mozzies, which we didn’t see them come.
“I just think it’s an area that was always maintained, and I can’t understand why they’ve done what they did.” He said he would welcome the opportunity to meet with Division 1 Councillor Jenny Broderick to discuss a solution.
Fynn brings write stuff
GC&M News had the pleasure of hosting Year 10 Maleny High student, Fynn Cattley, for a week of work experience. Fynn described his time working on our newspaper.
Over the past week, I had the opportunity to work with the amazing team at Glasshouse Country and Maleny News.
During my time, I gained valuable hands-on
experience and developed a deeper understanding of community journalism.
As part of my role, I interviewed the volunteer coordinator at Range Care, gaining insight into the vital work that volunteers do within the community.
I also contributed several articles covering a variety of topics, allowing me to hone my writing skills and adapt to writing
about different topics. Additionally, I helped conduct street interviews in Montville, which allowed me to connect directly with locals and better understand how they feel about the town they live in.
This experience has been very educational, and I’m grateful to have been part of such a passionate and dedicated newsroom.
He said council workers had previously attempted to mow the grass using a ride-on mower, only to become bogged, causing further damage to the site.
There were also a number of trees which had rotted and fallen down over a period of time. Twelve months after first raising the issue, Mr Thompson told GC&M News that conditions had not improved.
“The ground is holding water now and it’s all brown and muddy, there’s mozzies and trees that have come down,” he said.
“They do still come and whippersnip and go around the trees, but they don’t come very often.
“We can’t sit outside and have an afternoon drink or something without getting bitten by mozzies or even sand flies, it really is terrible.”
He added that he was growing more and more frustrated by the situation.
A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said they endeavour to maintain the park every four weeks but due to recent wet and warm weather, it has been difficult to keep up with mowing.
“There are no current enquiries or outstanding tree maintenance issues at this site,” they said.
Resident Richard Thompson at Smerdon Way Park.
Funding axed from EDO
By Sonia Isaacs
QUEENSLANDERS are set to lose access to free legal support on environmental and planning issues following the Crisafulli Government’s decision to axe all future funding for the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO), a move that has shocked environmental advocates and legal experts across the state.
Revealed ahead of the upcoming State Budget, the funding cut will impact the EDO’s ability to provide free legal services from its Brisbane and Cairns offices — services that have supported more than 1,500 Queenslanders over the past five years.
The not-for-profit legal centre has helped communities challenge controversial developments, protect endangered species and habitats, and hold corporations and governments to account under environmental and planning law. It is understood that without the Queensland Government funding, this service will be substantially reduced.
The recent announcement has been met with widespread condemnation from leading conservation and legal organisations
including Wildlife Queensland, the Australian Marine Conservation Society, the National Parks Association of Queensland, the Australian Conservation Foundation, and the Wilderness Society.
Narelle McCarthy of the Sunshine Coast
turtles, the EDO proved invaluable,” Ms McCarthy said.
“Their professionalism, dedication and expertise were crucial in presenting our case during a threeweek trial.
“Having EDO in our corner
without the EDO, everyday Queenslanders — especially farmers, First Nations communities, and regional residents — will struggle to access the legal support they need to challenge powerful interests, including fossil fuel and development
Environment Council (SCEC) described the decision as “devastating” and highlighted the EDO’s critical role in past environmental legal battles.
“When we took our community legal fight against multinational developer Sekisui House to protect the coastal habitat for endangered loggerhead
they gave our community a voice and helped uphold environmental justice.”
Queensland Conservation Council Director Dave Copeman echoed the alarm, calling the move “a devastating blow to public accountability and environmental protection.”
“Queensland is Australia’s most biodiverse state. Yet
Innovation, and Member for Glass House Andrew Powell defended the move, stating the government had honoured the previous Labor funding agreement in full, which expires at the end of June 2025, however no additional money had been budgeted beyond that period of time.
“As part of any future funding considerations, the EDO would need to demonstrate that proper processes are in place,”
Minister Powell said, referencing a recent $9 million court cost order against the EDO following judicial criticism.
Mr Copeman rejected the justification, warning that the decision mimics the controversial public service and environmental cuts of the Campbell Newman era.
Fire ants continue to spread
THE Invasive Species Council has raised fresh alarm over fire ants, warning that the latest nest found in Baringa may signal a wider, entrenched infestation across the Sunshine Coast.
“This is alarming. The frequency of new Sunshine Coast detections raises the spectre that fire ants have escaped the northern containment boundary, risking largescale infestation,” Invasive Species Council Advocacy Director, Reece Pianta said.
said.
Dozens of environmental and community groups have signed an open letter to Premier David Crisafulli, urging the government to reverse the decision and reinstate core funding for the EDO.
The Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Minister for Science and
“In many cases, the EDO is the only means by which the government even hears about environmental breaches. Cutting this service directly undermines Queensland’s ability to protect the Reef, forests and critically endangered species,” Mr Copeman said.
Currently, the EDO is the only legal service in Queensland that provides free, specialised legal assistance on environmental and planning issues.
sonia@gcnews.com.au
Unlike previous isolated finds, the new nest lies near earlier sites, suggesting fire ants may already be establishing a stronghold in the region. “We are calling for an urgent, rapid surveillance blitz… to evaluate the scale and severity of the infestation,” Mr Pianta said. He added that federal action and funding are critical: “This is a national biosecurity emergency… If fire ants escape the current containment zone, they will spread across the country.”
Mr Pianta urged the community to stay alert and report sightings via www. fi
Glamour and community spirit shine with showgirls
A NIGHT of glamour, excitement, and community pride set the stage for the crowning of the 2025 Maleny Show Girls on May 17.
Each contestant delivered two impromptu speeches, showcasing their passion, poise, and dedication to the local community.
The evening concluded with the announcement of this year’s winners: Georgia
Princess Ellie Jennings
Junior Rural Ambassador. These remarkable young women will represent the Maleny Show Society and warmly welcome visitors during the event on Friday 30 Saturday 31 May. In addition to their hosting duties, they will actively participate in many of the show’s highlights, embodying the spirit of community involvement and celebration.
Volunteer thank you Time Out
By Fynn Cattley
RANGECARE held a special morning tea last week (May 21) to celebrate the more than 100 volunteers who “are the life” of the hinterland community. Held during National Volunteer Week, RangeCare hosted the
event at its Flaxton Gardens centre, where nearly 40 people mingled. RangeCare volunteer co-ordinator, Bec Harper, said the week was a perfect opportunity to recognise the incredible effort made by their dozens of volunteers. “We just valued,” Bec said. “We get to spoil them and help them recognise that they are the life of our community.” RangeCare has over 100 volunteers who clocked in 13,000 hours. “Families have breathed easier knowing their loved ones are looked after,” Bec added.
Raffle winners Linda and Lin. Pictures credit: Fynn Cattley.
Ulrike, Jim, Kylie and Lyn.
Jess and Bec. Maree, Gillian and Sue.
Jill, Yvonne and Jane. Gary H and David C.
Nicholson Maleny Show Girl, Trinity Knezevic, Junior Maleny Show Girl
Cheeky Hopper Show
Marlene Hankinson with grand daughter Trinity.
Cheeky Hopper and family.
Trinity, Cheeky, Ellie and Georgia. Photos: Marsha Fotografie.
RBA ‘likely to keep cutting’
Home loans under 5 per cent as Reserve expected to continue easing cash rate
By Kirra Livingstone
THE Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has lowered the official cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.85 per cent, marking the first time it has fallen below 4 per cent in two years. The decision, made at the RBA’s May board meeting, comes as inflation eases to 2.4 per cent. Bank of Queensland chief economist Peter Munckton said further rate reductions were likely, forecasting a low of 3.1 per cent during the current monetary policy cycle.
“It is unlikely that this will be the last cash rate reduction in this cycle,” Mr Munckton said.
“The RBA expects that ‘underlying’ inflation will be around the mid-point of the target band over the next couple of years.
“Monetary policy is deemed to be ‘less restrictive’.
“The jobs market is strong although consumer
spending has been weaker than the RBA had anticipated.”
Mr Munckton said inflation indicators showed alignment with the central bank’s targets.
“The past two quarterly Trimmed Mean CPI numbers showed that ‘underlying’ inflation was essentially at the RBA’s target of 2.5 per cent,” he said.
“That is consistent with consumer’s current inflation views and financial markets implied inflation projections.
“Business inflation views currently suggests that inflation might be a little higher (2.5-3 per cent).”
He noted recent wages data had come in stronger than expected, with private-sector wages growth reaching 3.25 per cent— consistent with the RBA’s inflation target.
Mr Munckton warned that broader economic conditions remained subdued.
“The moderate pace of spending in the economy and above average cost growth is eating into firms’ operating profits leading to a cut in the size of capex budgets,” he said.
“Population growth is slowing (although growth in the labour force remains strong).
“Fiscal policy will still be supportive of the economy.
“But the additional fiscal stimulus over the next couple of years is unlikely to be as strong as what has occurred over the past couple of years.”
Mr Munckton also cautioned international risks were on the rise, citing trade tensions in the United States. “The increase in US tariffs is likely to result in slower global economic growth,” he said.
BOQ Beerwah Manager Martin Kavanagh advised BOQ’s current lowest 2-Year fixed rate owner-occupied home loan was 4.99%. Terms and conditions apply.
Business at the bar
MALENY Commerce held a networking event
Barrel - Clouds. Business owners and community groups enjoyed the networking opportunity to connect with each other
you’re interested in joining Maleny Commerce, check out their new website for more information: www.
Show your support for local small businesses
Put Your Business in the Spotlight!
As part of Queensland Small Business Month, we’re shining a light on local success stories – and few are more striking than ATL Graphix in Beerwah.
Owned and operated by signage
innovative, eye-catching signage solutions that help your business get noticed.
With over 25 years of industry experience and a background in architectural signage, Barry brings a to every project.
Barry and his small but mighty team –with a combined 80+ years in the trade – have taken the business from strength to strength.
From vehicle and boat wraps to 3D
custom, in-house fabricated signage that’s both visually striking and built to last.
Whether you need a bold pylon, a vibrant billboard, or a simple A-frame to
Conveniently located on Steve Irwin Way, you can’t miss their own signage – a perfect testament to what they do best. Pop in to Shed 6, 5 Beerwah Parade, for a hands-on, friendly
Need advice on how to stand out in a crowded market? ATL can help. With design, production and installation all under one roof, ATL Graphix makes your brand shine – day or night.
For signage that speaks volumes, trust the team who know how to make an impression.
Sunshine Coast Hose & Fittings provides reliable 24/7 mobile breakdown service across the Sunshine Coast and beyond.
Their fully mobile workshop specialises in the manufacture and installation of all hydraulic and industrial hoses across a wide range of industries including but not limited to, agriculture, marine, earthmoving, civil, construction, and quarry.
Owner Joel Davis brings over 15 years of industry experience and can assist you with any of your hydraulic hose and
“Our fully equipped mobile workshop carries over 2,500 premium products, meaning most issues are resolved on-site, fast,” Joel explains.
Preventative hose audits and shutdown servicing are also available to keep your equipment running smoothly and to avoid costly delays.
don’t stock in our truck; we can certainly organise it for you.
With a great network of suppliers, we will be able to provide you cost competitive quotes on almost all products.”
“We are a family owned and locally proud small business. 100% independent and not tied to any franchise, we are committed to providing you with the best possible customer service at a fair price.”
Sunshine Coast Hose & Fittings are committed to safety, exceptional service, and supporting local industries. Call Joel on 0408 220 503 or visit com.au for more information.
Sunshine Coast Hose & Fittings
from Maleny Jewellers.
Glasshouse Country and Maleny News is helping celebrate the incredible contribution our local business owners make across the hinterland community every day.
During Small Business Month we are shining a light on some of those enterprises who, in their own words, write about the passion and dedication behind their ventures. These enterprises employ locally, buy locally and invest locally, making them a vital part of the region. #shoplocal
2025
The Rare Orchid Distilling Co
Winter’s Coming… and Rare Orchid’s Ready for It
As the chill sets in across the Sunshine Coast, The Rare Orchid Distilling Co. is cranking up the heat — and not just in the stills. We’re embracing the welcomes, and spirits to keep you toasty right through winter.
perfectly with a signature cocktail. Think a smoky roasted capsicum Bloody Mary or a zesty lime mule — ideal for adding a
Of course, our award-winning Orchid. This winter, we’re introducing something new to your glass — mulled with rich, aromatic spices to warm your hands and your soul. Prefer a
guaranteed to put a spring in your step.
Witta Markets, where we’re pouring samples, chatting all things small-batch, and helping locals take a bottle of Rare Orchid home. Come say g’day and pick up your winter tipple.
Back at our Landsborough HQ, we’re
seasonal menu. And yes — pizzas are now in with a bottle from our range.
Orchid is here to warm your hands on something special.
MALENY ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE
Why Choose Maleny Accident Repair Centre Instead of Driving Down the Mountain?
When your vehicle needs repairs, why should you have to drive 45 minutes or more down the mountain just to get it
At Maleny Accident Repair Centre, reliable service right here in your own community — no long trips, no unnecessary stress.
Owned and operated by Juan Perez, a
high-quality repairs with a personal specialists who care about the people we serve.
community that supports us. That’s why two apprentices, and proudly sponsor the Maleny Rangers Juniors. When you choose us, you’re not only getting outstanding service — you’re supporting
none, with attention to detail and a suggests otherwise. We’re happy to your insurer directly.
Don’t waste your time driving down be done better — and closer to home. Maleny Accident Repair Centre is here to
Carpets & Vinyl
Aussie Carpets & Vinyl has been a
If you’ve driven along Peachester Road in Beerwah, you’ve probably passed Kingston Horse Supplies—your local saddlery with everything from show prep to paddock essentials.
Family-owned and proudly local, Kingston Horse Supplies has been part of the Sunshine Coast horse community for over 25 years. What started from a lifelong passion for horses has grown into a trusted name for quality saddlery, friendly service, and a product range that’s tried, tested, and trusted.
There’s a great selection of products— from rugs and saddlery to grooming gear and accessories—plus our very own ‘ShowStar’ brand, developed with years of hands-on experience behind it. We’re always working on new ideas, and there are plenty of exciting additions in the pipeline over the coming year.
Our online store is open 24/7 at www. kingstons.net.au, with the option to pick up orders in store—or drop in for a browse, a chat, and some friendly advice. We also post Australia-wide, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook to keep up with new arrivals, special promos, and fun competitions.
Whether you’re a competitive show rider, weekend trail explorer, or simply someone who loves their pony, you’re always welcome.
So if you haven’t visited yet, come say hi, check out what’s new, or explore the range online anytime. Kingston Horse Supplies is proud to be part of your horse journey—wherever it takes you.
Wide Selection including saddlery, nutritional products, grooming supplies, and more. Brands like Ariat, Zilco, Professionals Choice, and Veredus.
Kingston Horse Supplies
Peachester SS set to cook up a storm History Group gathering
PEACHESTER State School was very thankful to receive a donation of $5000 from the construction site team at the new Youth Detention Centre at Woodford.
Operations manager Bill Johnson reached out to the school as part of the Site Team’s commitment to giving back to the local community through donations to Schools in the area. As a driving force behind the initiative, Mr Johnson met with school representatives and student leaders to hand over a very generous $5000 cheque!
FREE KIDS ACTIVITES
all about giving back to the kids - something that these funds will absolutely do for our students.
The wonderful donation was raised by weekly raffles of meat trays from Ledgers Country Butchery (Woodford), with tickets sold to the construction teams. Peachester State School is looking forward to putting the donated funds towards replacing the old ovens in the school’s purpose-built kitchen.
The students cook each week as part of the school’s Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program
(SAKG). The program fosters
and teaching cooking and gardening skills. It also gives all students from Years 3 to 6 an opportunity to try new foods and improve social skills outside a formal classroom setting.
The School P&C works hard each year to raise money to support the SAKG Program.
This $5000 is an amazing contribution, and one that is very appreciated ensuring the successful continuation of the program for many years to come. For a small school such as Peachester, this donation means a lot and is greatly appreciated.
Contributed by Ron Gillinder
THE theme for May 2025 was ‘Parlour Games’, with attendees bringing a colourful array of classic indoor games for Show & Tell. From vintage playing cards to intricate construction kits, the display sparked nostalgia and lively discussion. Ron marked key May milestones, including 255 years since James Cook named the Glass Houses and Brisbane’s 200th anniversary.
Highlights included a Capsela set, Carrom board, and a Las Vegas medallion. Despite some forgotten games, enthusiasm ran high as participants celebrated the joy of traditional family entertainment—echoing a time when parlour games ruled rainy days and long evenings.
Community grants open
UNITYWATER has launched its 2025 Healthy and Thriving Community Grants Program, offering $2,000 to $20,000 for local projects that enhance environmental outcomes across the Sunshine Coast. The program supports initiatives that foster collaboration, strengthen community ties, and align with Unitywater’s vision for sustainable, connected communities.
Charity Golf Day ready for tee off
Contributed by Carole Lewis
WE are feeling lucky for a fine day on course after having to reschedule the May 16 event due to the course being too wet for carts and unpredictable showers.
The Annual Charity Golf Day hosted by the Maleny Golf Club will now go ahead on Friday June 13. Try Booking is opened as there is opportunity for more teams to join in.
Alternatively contact Carole on mobile: 0414373734 or Sue on mobile 0434 573390. All proceeds go the Maleny Soldiers Memorial Hospital. The Hospital Auxiliary are grateful for the support of Sponsorship and donations that help to make this day a huge success.
Let’s hope that we have a
Monthly
Bankfoot Kids
Kids aged 3 to 5 learn about local history with craft, stories and games.
Last Wednesday of the month.
May 28
Teddy bear picnic
Play lawn games with your teddies.
Wednesday May 28, 9.30-11am
June 25
Scavenger hunt Hunt for farm animals across this historic farm.
Wednesday June 25, 9.3010.30am
Focus areas include the natural environment and liveability, First Nations connection to Country, and water innovation.
Executive Manager Strategic Engagement Joshua Zugajev said the program promotes “healthy and resilient communities where people and the environment thrive together.”Applications close Friday 13 June. For full criteria and to apply, visit unitywater.com/grants.
Bill Johnson and construction site team presenting a donation to Peachester SS Student leaders.
Roger, Bill and Jo Domino Effect.
As today’s words often fail me!
By Angus Richard
AT dinner the other evening, immersed in grandchildren, I found myself a spectator in a career path discussion where I was totally sunk without trace!
We are told that 85% of the jobs students will be doing in 2030 do not exist today. This may excuse the fact that I had simply no idea of what they were talking about and felt significantly past my use by date.
Maree McCarthy
By Fynn Cattley
How long have you lived in Mapleton for?
and take it all in.
How many readers will comprehend the ambition of becoming a “Scrum Master”, the excitement of a “Full Stack Developer” or the fulfillment of a “Social Media Sentiment Analyst?” What happened to the yearning to be a train driver, policeman or fireman I asked myself?
Indeed I suspect the gathering thought I had the intellectual vibrancy of daytime television!
I was certain that my attempts to add value to this conversation would lead to a gentle encouragement for me to go back to my village as they were missing their idiot!
So I remained silent knowing that it was better to be thought a fool rather than opening my mouth and thus remove all doubt.
Later, as a crumbling ruin of irrelevance, it occurred to me that so many words I grew up with were no longer in common use and thus were clearly being consigned to the dustbin of history.
There is a growing vocabulary which is now a fading part of my life and so much of its content is now alien to our future “Cloud Engineers” and “Machine Learning Designers”.
Ask them to describe: an Eddison Screw, Skittles, Liquid Paper, a Bayonet Fitting, Creels, Tommy Steele, Bath Racks, Big Hand, Little Hand, Trunk Calls and Skiffle Groups.
Get them to explain: Trafficators, Slide Rules, Quills, Crank Handles, Blotting Paper, Noon, Fountain Pens, Half a Crown. Brothel Creepers and Brace and Bits.
What is the meaning of: Frowned Upon, A Piece of Work, Pulling The Chain, Comeuppance, To Dial, May I Please Get Down, Dessert Boots, Fly Strips and Pillar Boxes?
Ask them to describe: Cruet Sets, Plimpsoles, Collar Studs, Twin Sets, Ship’s Decanters, Carving Trees, Step-Ins, Serviette Rings, Pinafores, Liberty Bodices and Cold Duck.
What are : Wellingtons, Furphies, Macs, Hoi Poloi, Woodbines, Trugs, Dooverlackies, Pumice Stones, Hurdy-gurdies, Florins, Ben Ean Moselle and Long Drops?
I’ve lived in Mapleton for a bit less than five years. Why did you decide to move to Mapleton?
I moved here for the climate, the surrounding area is beautiful, and its not too busy. What do you love about living in Mapleton?
Definitely the community.
It’s a very ‘nobody gets left behind’ kind of place. Its just a very good collective of people who just seem to get along. A big melting pot of different people. Is there anything you would change about Mapleton?
No, I don’t think so. It has everything that people need.
What’s your favourite spot or hidden gem?
Anywhere along the range where you can pull over and take in the view and just take the time to stop
What’s something people should know about Mapleton, that they might not know?
It’s a great destination, we’ve got everything you need here. Great little coffee shops, the bakery, the hotel, and the pizza shop. There’s lots for people to see and do, we’re surrounded by national park with lots of walks that people can do.
Also Mapleton Falls is a great destination for families and kids.
If you are ancient like me you can prove it for yourself when next time you fall into a conversation with teenagers or grandchildren challenge them to answer the following:
What is: a Stoker, Night Cart, Tram Conductor, Telegram Boy, Darning, Hop Scotch, Cat’s Cradle, Water Closet, Dance Card or Crystel Set?
And finally please explain: Shorthand, Fly Buttons, Golliwogs, Cap Guns, Shag Pile, Page 3 Girls, Slide Shows, Bookends, Bex Powders, Floppy Discs and Manners?
Sadly their ignorance of these words will probably do them no harm as they embark on a journey to become “Concierges on the Happiness Desk of a Creative Hub” or something equally obscure and inexplicable to the likes of “Yours Truly, Yours Sincerely” and “Yours Faithfully!”
Community potluck dinner
EACH month, the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre’s verandah becomes a place of warmth, welcome, and connection through the Long Table Potluck Dinner Chat. This grassroots event invites community members and visitors to share a meal, a story, and a sense of belonging.
With no formalities or barriers to entry, everyone is encouraged to bring a dish and an open heart.
The result is a long table brimming with homemade meals and meaningful conversations. The event is entirely volunteer-run and community-led, with rotating hosts and everevolving ideas. The dinner fosters inclusion not only through shared food but through shared purpose and curiosity.
The next Long Table Potluck Dinner runs from 5pm–7pm on Wednesday June 4 at the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre. Bring a plate to share and your thoughts! For more information, contact Alison on 0429 694 0154.
innovating property.
‘Spotlight’ is a special page every month in Glasshouse Country & Maleny News to showcase your town and YOUR BUSINESS.
So the long awaited concept plan for Maleny’s district-level park is out for consultation.
Don’t hold your breath waiting to take the kids to the mountain bike trail or play pickleball. Details on Council’s website state funding allocated in the 2025/26 financial year is $900,000 for design and construction and $150,000 for a dog exercise area.
So for just over $1m basically we get a dog exercise area.
Further funding appears to be competitive, based on other budget priorities and/ or securing grants.
Meanwhile the toilets in Tesch Park on Maleny’s main street remain a relic of the 1970s.
Elaine Ricketts Maleny Council roadblock
We all know the housing crisis is getting worse. Sonia Isaacs’s excellent article last week pointing out that just 0.5% of rentals in SEQ are affordable - make that 0% if you happen to be on Jobseeker.
But Sunshine Coast Council (SCC) seems to be making it harder. I seem to be hearing about more and more fines from council. More and more red tape.
More and more fees and changes for residents trying to help the housing shortage.
One of my colleagues, in an attempt to help, built a secondary dwelling on their property. They said that dealing with council planning process was “the single worst experience in their life”.
But cashed up developers get away with murder. Could all these fees and charges be related to rumours that council is struggling financially from an over-ambitious building program?
to afford his first house because of a loan from council! If we had creative and proactive councillors, council could actually help, not hinder. What about charging more fees for developers and less for residents? What about putting workers on to help guide residents though the awful planning process? What about relaxing cabin and caravan laws? What about governance with heart?
Meanwhile, families live in tents on the trainline.
Name and address supplied
Road carnage
How much longer do we have to tolerate the carnage on Lindeman Road by uncaring drivers who think this road is their own private speedway?
Despite the Council trying to help by painting a large “60” on the road, it is constantly ignored.
In recent months we’ve lost two wild ducks and their six ducklings - all run over at varying times - a dog, a wallaby, a scrub turkey, a possum with a baby on its back and too many birds to count.
of weather in Australia on a planet that is 4.5 billion years old.
The last reported increase in global temperatures cited that the planet had warmed by 1% (not 1.5%) since 1880 and that it was predicted to increase 1.5% warmer (since 1880) by the year 2050. The claim that the recent floods in Queensland are somehow linked with rising global temperature is drawing a very long bow.
The sensational nonsense of the causes and effect of rising temperatures, principally promoted by the United Nations, (an organisation that is becoming increasingly irrelevant) is that serious debate is stifled and the political class are driving us to an energy crisis.
Past predictions by the IPCC have all proven hopelessly wrong.
The following have made me curious regarding UN’s claim about an impending disaster and the tipping point.
• During the medieval warming between 9001300 AD global temperatures were 3 degrees higher than today
SCC has been forced to adopt the old state governments reform to allow property owners to convert houses into a 5-room micro-apartment with a certifier’s stamp. But good ‘ole SCC threw their own snout in the trough charging $15,000 fee per room to ensure that no one will take this excellent idea up. My father was able
I walk every day - on the edge of the road; there are no footpaths on Lindeman - and recently had a frightening near-miss from a speeding driver. How long before the next fatality is a person? We desperately need speed bumps or a speed camera to slow these idiots down. And that “p” on your car doesn’t mean “privileged”!!
Judy Jurek. Lindeman Road
Big sky reality
Ms Foale, you are being a tad dramatic with your claim (You Said It, April 8). We have recorded 200 years
and CO2 levels were higher.
• CO2 levels were higher during the last ice age.
• We are currently in an interglacial period; fortunately, where 8 billion people can be fed. The consequences of the world cooling could be catastrophic.
• CO2 is a plant food and satellite images from 1980 shows a remarkable increase of the greening of the planet over the last 40 odd years – thanks principally to CO2.
• We should be thankful
that fossil fuels replaced timber in the 19th Century. Without that transition world forests would be completely denuded.
• The science that the burning of fossil fuel is the prime cause of rising world temperatures has not been proven.
Sadly, we live in an ignorant world who castigates those who question the mainstream belief branding them “deniers” and “heretics”. There are numerous books, written by eminent scientists that question the science.
David Hallam Maleny Cooler argument
Your readers may be interested in an interesting conundrum.
Well known charts on the respected climatereanalyzer. org website show that ocean sea surface temperatures are on average, about 6 degrees celsius warmer than surface air temperatures.
The direction of heat transfer must therefore be from ocean to atmosphere.
As oceans cover 71% of the Earth’s surface this is a very large amount of warming.
Scientists, having this information, still maintain that greenhouse gases which can only warm the top one millimetre of the ocean surface are responsible for rising ocean temperatures. Recent scientific studies using CERES satellites show that low level clouds which reflect solar radiation back to space are decreasing, so more of the Sun’s shortwave radiation is reaching the oceans and warming them up to 100 metres in depth.
This decline in cloud cover could have caused most of our global warming since 1982.
Some good news on our climate has been published on the Bureau of Meteorology website under Tropical Cyclone Climatology. A graph of Australian Region Tropical Cyclones since 1970 when satellite surveillance began, shows that cyclones are decreasing in number and also in intensity.
This totally disagrees with what the doomsayers have been telling us.
Sel Hopley Maleny
with Andrew Wallace Federal Member for Fisher
It’s been an enormous few weeks, with an historic election and internal party machinations of both major and minor parties making front-page news. Meanwhile, most Australians are simply glad that the election is over, as we return to a day-to-day which is more expensive and less predictable than ever. In the face of this uncertainty and difficulty, I want you to know that I’m listening and I’m in your corner.
While the LNP will certainly spend a great deal of time listening and learning over the coming months, in humility and with an open mind, there is no time for celebration, politicking, or recrimination. We have work to do. As my boss used to say on building sites: “less chat chat, more tap tap”.
I’m honoured to have been re-elected as your Federal Member, and you can rest assured that I’m resolutely focused on the task ahead: fighting for you.
That means working to lower costs for Sunshine Coast families and their businesses. It means fighting for our fair share of funding
CAN’T STOP PROGRESS
Do we really need a local government?
‘Nup’ is the short answer. Especially on the Sunshine Coast anyway, where Deputy Premier and Planning Minister, Jarrod Bleijie, is taking all the heavy lifting off the shoulders of weary council officers. Want a tourist park? No prob.
Want a festival site? Stand by.
The Comiskey Group for one must be relieved that someone finally gets their vision of turning Coochin Creek from mosquitobreeding swamp and strawberry-producing wasteland (and part of the inter-urban break) into something actually usable. Before the LNP swept
to power last year it was all about jumping through pesky hoops, ticking countless boxes and dealing with the prickly bureaucracy of the Sunshine Coast Council.
Not so anymore. Two call-ins in a matter of weeks shows the type of big picture thinking that the state is bringing to Queensland.
Now that’s sorted, the next question has to be who headlines the first Coochin Fields festival?
Please don’t let Mr Bleijie call that one in.
Elvis is dead, sorry.
CHAMPAGNE COMEDY?
I see the Twinnies have hit the global comedy circuit with Saturday Night Live last week taking the proverbial out of our two
for better roads and stronger communities. And it means standing up to vested interests and global threats to keep kids safe, protect Australians, and secure our future. For those who have supported me in that task, please accept my heartfelt appreciation. Last week we celebrated National Volunteer Week, P&C Day and WOW Day in honour of our State Emergency Services. To those who volunteer for local P&C associations and schools; sport and rec clubs; SES and Rural Fire Brigades; service clubs; cadets, RSLs and ex-service branches; environmental groups; business networks; and faith groups – on behalf of a grateful community, let me say: thank you. In the last census, some 22,000 Fisher locals said that they undertook voluntary work. I want to encourage you to join them in becoming a community volunteer: to combat loneliness, strengthen communities, and restore a sense of civic duty and pride.
with Rosanna Natoli Mayor - Sunshine Coast Council
At this time of the year, Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month looks to increase awareness and empower our women and girls.
It sends a powerful message that domestic and family violence has no place in our community.
When we work together to prevent such violence, we are building a community that is a safer place for everyone.
Now is the time for a strong focus on preventing and stopping violence before it happens.
We must ensure that voices of women and children – particularly those impacted by violence in our communities – are heard and lessons are learnt.
You may ask: “How can I do that?”
Well, we can all promote change by nurturing respectful and equal relationships.
We have a responsibility
to look out for each other, our friends, neighbours and colleagues, to call out unhealthy behaviour and ensure we are all safe. It is going to take a coordinated and united effort for our community to stand up and commit to change. And it’s up to all of us to make it clear that we will not tolerate the behaviour of anyone who hurts another person within a relationship of trust. I encourage you to show your support this month to all who are impacted by violence.
Wear your purple ribbon. Stand in solidarity. Be part of something bigger to help take collective action to prevent violence against women. Together, we can make a real difference for our community.
As this year’s theme pleads: Don’t Stand By, Stand Up.
lovable environmental warriors.
It was a cringey attempt at capturing our accent (We don’t sound like even in Surround Sound do we?).
The SNL writers have done better - but at least we can say we knew the Twinnies before they got crazy-famous. Powers be to ‘em.
What were the massive explosions last week? Apparently a science experiment gone right at Beerwah State High.
Glasshouse Musos’
“Open Mic night
When: Tuesday May 27, from 6.30pm
Where: Beerwah Hotel, Beerwah Parade, Beerwah
Info: On the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month, we have our on-going regular event in Beerwah. It is our so-called “Open Mic night” which is very popular and has been running for 14 years. If you’d like to play, email us (whitickerm@ bigpond.com) to book yourself a spot as there is only occasionally room on the board. https://www. facebook.com/groups/ musosclub/
Avoiding Scams
When: Wednesday May 28, 10am - 11.30am
Where: Maleny Library 5 Coral St, Maleny
Info: Online scams are often hard to identify and avoid. Join library staff to learn about common types of scams and how to keep yourself safe online. Take home tips for safe online behaviours to protect your personal information. Discover useful resources to keep you informed of emerging threats.
Session details: Bring your own updated and fully charged device. Free. Registration essential. https://events. sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/
Pawsitive Insights
When: Thursday May 29, 10am - 11.30am Where: Beerwah Library, 25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Curious about your dog’s behaviour and training? Join Dog Behaviour Specialist Sarah Rutten from The Canine Perspective to learn force-free techniques, boost motivation, and build a stronger bond with your furry friend. Free session – registration essential (ages 16+): events. sunshinecoast.qld.gov. au/event/32354914-a/ pawsitive-insights
Landsborough Tavern Open Mic Night
When: Friday May 30, 8pm
Where: Landsborough Tavern, 32 Cribb Street, Landsborough Info: Dust of those vocal cords and instruments and rock on down for a fun night.
Maleny Show
When: Friday May 30 & Saturday May 31, 8am - 8pm
Where: Maleny Showgrounds, 13 MalenyStanley River Road. Maleny Info: The Maleny Show returns in 2025 as the Hinterland’s premier event! Enjoy two days packed with family fun, free entertainment, livestock competitions, woodchop, pavilion and trade exhibits, showbags, fireworks, and more. Meet celebrity guest Farmer Dave Graham and don’t miss the special Saturday wedding— everyone’s invited! Experience everything you love about an agricultural show and beyond.
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.
Maleny Markets on the Green
When: Saturday May 31, 8am - 1pm
Where: Maleny Uniting Church, Landsborough Maleny Rd, Maleny Info: Something for everyone with lots of interesting market stalls, jewellery, clothing, bric a brac, plants, health and beauty products, handcrafts, retro and vintage and much more. Stalls are $25 or $40 for a double. To book, email malenymog@hotmail.com for more information and don’t forget to like their Facebook page for updates.
Khaita Tibet Festival
When: Saturday May 31, 10.30am
Where: Beerwah
Community Hall, 17 Peachester Rd, Beerwah
Info: FREE ENTRY
One drop, endless depth — experience Tibetan culture like never before at Khaita Tibet Festival. Familyfriendly celebration of Tibetan culture. Free Kids’ Art Table. All Day Fun
Optional : Khaita Joyful Dance Workshop (optional) Optional Dumpling Workshop $15 (cash only, book ahead!) Delicious Tibetan Food by Tibetan Caterers from Brisbane Don’t miss this vibrant cultural experience!
Taize Contemplative Singing on Reconciliation
When: Sunday June 1, 5pm
Where: St George’s Anglican Church, 2 Walkers Dr, Maleny
Info: We are supporting Reconciliation week and the broader theme of reconcilliation of unfinished business with others and in our own lives. All Welcome.
Longtable Potluck Dinner Chat
When: Wednesday June 4, 5pm - 7pm
Where: Maleny Neighbourhood Centre Info: Join us for a delightful community potluck dinner. Bring a savoury or sweet dish to share and your thoughts. Call June on 0429 694 014 for more details.
Identifying Rainforest Plants of the Blackall Range
When: Saturday June 7, 9am - 11am
Where: Barung Landcare Garden for Wildlife, North Maleny
Info: Join Hilary Pearl and Rowena Thomas at Barung Nursery for a two-hour workshop exploring local fig species and other Moraceae plants. Learn how to identify them, explore their unique features, and enjoy a forest walk. Bookings essential—limited to 15 spots. Bring a pen, torch,
and eye lens if available. https://events.humanitix. com/host/barung-landcare
Beautiful Bells Ceramic Class
When: Saturday June 7, 10am - 11.30am
Where: QCWA Hall, Simpson Street, Beerwah
Info: This is a workshop for those who are so curious about the sound of high fired clay. You will make 2 exquisite bells with accompanying dangles and beads to take your bells to a higher pitch. Cost $65. Any extra Bells @ $15 each. (Duration - 3 hrs.)
Dreams Unveiled
When: Saturday June 7, 10am - 11.30am
Where: Beerwah Library
25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah Info: Are you curious about your dreams?
Join registered Clinical Counsellor, Eila Mikkonen exploring dream symbolism, the history of dreams and understanding the benefits of dreamwork. Discover how to be guided and inspired as you delve into your inner self. Gain valuable tools and techniques to harness the power of your nightly visions. Learn how to create your own dream journal and practical strategies to unlock your self-awareness. Session details: Free. Registration essential. Ages 16 and over.
Movie Night - Nim’s Island
When: Saturday June 7, 6pm - 8.30pm
Where: Beerwah Library
25 Peachester Rd, Beerwah
Info: Sunshine Coast Libraries and Qld Blue Light invite you to a series of free movie screenings at Beerwah Community Hall. Bring your favourite comfy camp chair, bean bag or blanket or just come as you are – we’re got plenty of chairs available to use! Snacks will be available to purchase from the Hall kitchen. Rated PG. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Free Event - Registration required due to capacity at https://events.humanitix.
com/movie-night-nim-sisland/tickets
Maleny’s Epic Car Boot
Sale
When: Sunday June 8, 7.30am - 12pm
Where: 926 Maleny Montville Rd, Balmoral Ridge
Info: You loved it so it’s happening again! Bring your friends and family down for a trash or treasure search through the car boots of many. I’m sure you will find many treasures here. We will have face painting, balloons, 2nd hand wares galore, collectables, leather goods, aquatic plants/plants, local artwork, some local produce, vego food and more. We’d love it if you could join us.
Maleny Hospital
Auxilary Charity Golf
Day
When: Friday June 13, shotgun start 9am Where: Maleny Golf Course Info: Maleny Golf Club Annual Hospital Auxiliary Charity Golf Day 18 Holes 4-Ball Ambrose -2 Carts per team 7.30am Tea Coffee Snacks 8.30am Golf Briefing 1pm Lunch & Cash Bar Lots of Prizes & Raffles. Tickets available at https://www. trybooking.com/events/ landing/1370917
Craft with Chappies
When: Saturday June 14
Where: Maleny State High School Hall
Info: There are 4 crafting workshops to select from. Each Workshop is $25 per person. You may select individual workshops at the cost of $25 each or a bundle of all 4 Crafts for the cost of $80 per person. There will be a 30-minute break between each Workshop.
Info: The Maleny Motorcycle Swap is back on Saturday 14 June at the Maleny Showgrounds after its March postponement. Featuring bike-related stalls, a charity bike show, great food, and a friendly vibe, it’s a key fundraiser supporting local causes. Entry and stallholder fees are $10. For details, call Keith on 0429 000 178.
The Plant Social –Wildfoods: Edible Natives Edition!
Info: Discover the wild flavours of Australia at The Plant Social this June! Hosted by Forest Heart eco-Nursery, with native plant expert Karen Shaw, learn what to grow, how to care for bushfoods, and ways to use them at home. Perfect for beginners and green thumbs alike—come get inspired by our native edible plants! Tickets available at https://events. humanitix.com/the-plantsocial-wildfoods-ediblenatives-edition
Mountain Quilters Quilt Show
When: Friday June 20Saturday June 21, 9am
Where: Peachester Community Hall, Peacherester Road, Peachester
Info: Peachester Hall will buzz with excitement for Mountain Quilters’ 40th birthday!
Enjoy stunning quilts, intricate textile art, and member-made challenge quilts.
Don’t miss the raffle—win a quilt, Bernina sewing machine, or bag! Proceeds support Beerwah Schools Chaplaincy. Spot prizes and a silent auction add extra fun to this vibrant celebration of creativity and community.
National Reconcilliation week events
Sunshine Coast celebrates NRW 2025
THE Sunshine Coast is honouring National Reconciliation Week 2025 (May 27–June 3) with a vibrant program of cultural events and activities on Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country, celebrating this year’s theme: Bridging Now to Next. The newly transformed Hope Dreaming Centre, located
at the Old Caloundra Visitor Information Centre, opens its doors for the first time during NRW. On May 30, meet Kabi Kabi Traditional Owner Kerry Neill and the Triballink team, explore powerful stories, and learn about immersive First Nations-led workshops, tours, and educational experiences across the region.
Horoscopes
GEMINI
MAY 21 – JUNE 21
The Sun and generous Jupiter are joined this week by voluble Mercury turning up the volume in your expressive sign. This powerful planetary trinity offers a shining spotlight to speak out and say what you’ve been wanting to do with confidence and charisma. Just try to steer clear of overpromising.
CANCER
JUNE 22 - JULY 22
Increased media communication and a tsunami of local activity could make this week one of the year’s busiest for community interactions and gatherings. But no need to rush or let anyone pressure you into taking on too much. Or believe everything you hear, including what you tell yourself.
LEO
JULY 23 – AUGUST 23
Neptune, Saturn and Chiron, planets of imagination, application and healing in Leo’s zone of public life, make these three words your best operating mantra for a successful week of mixing and mingling with other creative minds. The weekend moon in Leo looks auspicious for some delightful socialising.
VIRGO
On June 3, the Caloundra Regional Gallery launches From the Sea, the Land and the Mountains—a free threepart exhibition spotlighting First Nations artists from the Sunshine Coast. Featured are Kabi Kabi artist Zartisha Davis, Gunggari/Kabi Kabi artist Kane Brunjes (in collaboration with Birrunga Gallery Hub), and a collective of Jinibara printmakers sharing stories through striking visual art. These events offer a powerful invitation to walk together in truth-telling, cultural appreciation, and connection. Join First Nations leaders, allies, and local organisations in shaping a reconciled future on the Sunshine Coast. More details and the full program at: sunshinecoast. qld.gov.au/nrw2025regional-guide
Bulcock St Music Festival
THE inaugural Bulcock Street Music Festival will bring a full day of punk, hardcore and indiealternative music to the heart of Caloundra on Saturday, June 21. Held at Felicity Park, the all-ages event will showcase 10 acts from
WEEK BEGINNING MAY 27
AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22
Your planet ruler, Mercury, linking up with big-picture Jupiter in its most outgoing and contemporary mode, strongly suggests skipping small talk and sharing the broader dimensions of your thoughts. Because this week’s astral conditions are ripe to ignite a fortuitous meeting of minds that could expand your networks.
LIBRA
SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23
Flirty Mercury zooms into its talkative home sign to give this week a double shot of new ideas, dynamite socialising and colourful chat. With cooperative, communicative vibes in the air, that somehow make one plus one feel like three, is it time to think about pairing up for a win?
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21
the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane, with a lineup featuring Drunk Mums, Pandamic, Pricey, Pity Vincent, Thank U Please, Speira, Chamberlane, Pvcker Up, Rosemine, Arugula and Mr Sparkle (DJ), plus a secret act still to be announced.
The festival is run by local businesses and community members, with a focus on accessibility, inclusion and live music culture. 12pm start tickets priced from $69 plus booking fees. Tickets available via eventbrite.
Mercury, jetting into its snappiest placement, means you certainly won’t be short of brilliant comebacks this week which could, however, turn conversations cathartic. So be discreet, discriminating, discerning, and remember the two ears/one mouth rule: you learn a lot by listening twice as much as you talk.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20
Capricorns are long-term planners, and Saturn, your mentor planet, moving into the zodiac’s boldest sign for the first time since 1998, brings a powerful blend of discipline and drive. Along, of course, with some challenges wrestling rambunctious and impatient urges into beneficial channels.
While this week’s incessant talkfest might drive you mental as anything, its silver lining invites you to lighten up. To showcase your wit, which will be appreciated. To explore a less all-ornothing mindset and consider alternative possibilities. To practise the Scorpionic art of leaving people wanting more…
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18
In the zodiac season of the Twins, things tend to come in pairs, which can mean twice as much fun or double your troubles – with two the magic number, probably both. Gearing down from trying to complete everything at warp speed could give others more opportunity to get on board with support this week.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20
ARIES
MARCH 21 – APRIL 20
With motivating Mars and your zodiac ruler, Neptune, both in drive mode, it’s easy for pesky details to slip under this week’s radar, and definitely worth bringing your attention to the fine print. Before you finalise anything important, do an in-depth review, especially where financials are concerned.
Huge personal news for Aries this week is Saturn moving into your sign for the first time in thirty years. And what better than structured, strategic, systematic Saturn to usher Neptune-in-Aries dreams into reality over the next two -and-a-half years? So, get ready, set, manifest!
TAURUS
APRIL 21 – MAY 20
Feeling an urge to push back against something that’s annoyed you? Understandable, but rather than waste energy arguing with narcissists, this week’s invitation to you sensible sensualists is to remember life’s earthy pleasures and balance this overthinking transit by getting physical as often as you can.
with Lilith Rocha
Drunk Mums will perform at the inagural Bulcock Street Festival.
First Nations immersive experience launches at Hope Dreaming Centre
Suntara brings sound to Beerwah
A POWERFUL evening of sound and soul awaits on Thursday, June 12 as one of Australia’s premier sound healers, Suntara, brings his transformative ‘Sound Healing Journey’ to Beerwah. From 7-9pm participants will be guided through an immersive twohour experience of healing vibrations featuring ethereal vocals, crystal bowls, shamanic drums, handpan, didgeridoo, and more.
This full moon event promises deep relaxation, energy release, and inner clarity. Held at Beerwah Community hall, 25 Peachester Road, early booking is recommended to secure your spot in this soulstirring musical journey.
CURIOUS crowds flocked to the 2025 Open Studios Hinterland art trail over the weekend of May 17-18. Visitors had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrancy of the local art scene and connect with artists in their own creative spaces. www. openstudiossunshinecoast. com.au
Woodford’s roots run deep and festival spirit flourishes
THE festive season has begun — and with it, the first signs of life are already blooming across Woodfordia.
More than 2,000 native rainforest trees, planted at The Planting festival earlier this month, are now taking root. Representing 157 species from SouthEast Queensland, the initiative marked both a celebration of biodiversity and a testament to community spirit — a shared rhythm that calls people back year after year.
Lake Gkula’s signature long-table dining experience, Eater, was a sell-out, buzzing with first-time visitors and seasoned festivalgoers alike.
campsites are now located on-site, ending the need for shuttle buses and bringing festivalgoers closer to the heart of the action.
Adding to the excitement, tickets for the 2025/26 WFF are on sale
Glamping tents for this year’s Woodford Folk Festival (WFF) have already booked out, and powered
Google Pay at checkout.
But Woodford is more than just a festival. It’s a living village, rebuilt each year with music, ideas and a desire to connect. That ethos is also driving the Forest of Goodwill — a fundraising campaign to secure Woodfordia’s future.
So far, 286 donors have raised over $940,000, with another $94,000 pledged.
Two new groves — The Healing Forest and The Learning Forest — were planted during The Planting in honour of this momentum.
As summer approaches, the anticipation builds. The trees will grow, and so will the community — ready to gather again, to celebrate, to begin again.
May 30, 2025.
The festival has also introduced simpler ticketing options, including flexible payment plans and the ability to use Apple or
Caloundra chorale
Contributed by Susan Hawes THE Caloundra Chorale and Theatre Company is delighted to present a pinnacle of British farce, Run for Your Wife. This play had audiences in London and New York rolling in the aisles! Taxi driver, John Smith, gets away with having two wives in different areas of London because of his
Time Out
Culture on the Horizon
Cultural showcase set to continue: three year plan
SUNSHINE Coast Council has thrown its full support behind the region’s flagship arts and cultural celebration, endorsing a three-year plan for Horizon Festival following the success of the 2025 edition.
At its Ordinary Meeting on May 21, Council approved the Horizon Festival 2026–2028 report, outlining a strategic, multi-year approach to strengthening the event and the broader creative sector.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the decision provides long-term certainty and paves the way for enhanced collaboration and growth.
“By committing to Horizon Festival over a three-year period, Council is enabling longterm planning, stronger partnerships, and greater opportunities for local artists and audiences,”
Mayor Natoli said.
“Horizon Festival is more than an event. It’s a platform for cultural expression, community connection and creative innovation.”
Since launching in 2016, the festival has drawn more than 319,000 attendees,
Nations creatives — and delivered more than $16 million in economic value to the region.
The report notes the festival’s alignment with
Policy and Queensland’s Towards Tourism 2032 roadmap. An annual budget allocation of $753,077 will be referred to the 2025–26 budget process to support festival delivery and staffing continuity.
Mayor Natoli said Horizon’s ongoing success reflects the vibrancy of the local arts community and Council’s commitment to cultural development ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
irregular working schedule. However, after an accident the deception starts to unravel and complication is piled upon complication as he and his witless friend Stanley brazenly try to keep his double life from being exposed to wives, police, and flamboyant neighbours! Performance details are: Venue: The CCTC Theatre 3 Piringa St, Wurtulla
June 4th 7.30 pm -$28
Evening performances continue 7.30pm June6,11,13,19,20,21 Matinees at 2pm – June 7,8,14,15,21,22 Prices- Adults $37,Con $35 FOC, Members and Groups $33 All tickets include supper and souvenir programme. Telephone Bookings 0490 329 912 or online with TRY BOOKING- search ‘Run For Your Wife’
Tickets for the 2025/2026 Woodford Folk Festival on sale now! The festival runs from December 27-January 1, 2026 www. woodfordfolkfestival.com
Special Price Preview Wed
Photo credit Sonia Isaacs.
Cast members of Caloundra Chorale and Theatre Company.
Photos:
Asaya at her Studio in Maleny.
Artist Sue Stoneman.
Sound healer Suntara.
Health & Wellbeing
Pilates has made impact on lives
Contributed by The Station Pilates client, Judit
THIRTEEN years ago, I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis. My doctor told me I’d likely need a wheelchair within five years if I didn’t have surgery.
At the time, I was doing gym classes and personal training, but instead of helping, the pain got worse.
When I also developed a frozen shoulder, I stopped all exercise, hoping rest would help. It didn’t.
A few years later, my daughter encouraged me
to try HIIT and Tabata workouts. I loved the energy, and for a while, I felt stronger—but my mobility kept declining.
Even with a fantastic, specialised PT, it wasn’t enough.
Then my other daughter suggested Pilates. I tried clinical Pilates, but it felt too slow for what I needed. Around that time, Station Pilates opened in Beerwah, and a friend recommended reformer Pilates. I decided to give it one last try. From the first few sessions, I felt small improvements, but the real
change came after 6 to 12 months. I could go upstairs, put on socks, get in and out of the car—all things that used to be a daily struggle. I finally felt like I was getting my life back.
The teachers at Station Pilates have been incredibly kind, supportive, and attentive. They’ve guided me every step of the way, always helping me feel safe and confident.
As an artist, my mobility issues had a huge impact on my ability to work. Now I have the energy to create all day—and even run a weekly Hungarian Lángos stall at
the markets, where I also display my art. I’m on my feet, active, and enjoying life again.
Station Pilates gave me back my freedom, strength, and confidence. If you’re struggling like I was, I hope my story inspires you to give it a try. It really can change your life.
Recipe of the week
Cauliflower and Curried Lentil Soup
Ingredients: 1 cauliflower, trimmed of leaves, chopped roughly
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons fennel seeds
1 cup red lentils
3 tablespoons curry paste
1 L vegetable stock, salt reduced ½ lemon, juiced and zested
Method: PREHEAT oven to 180oC. Line baking tray with baking paper.
HEAT large pot with remaining oil, add lentils and stir through curry paste, adding vegetable stock and bring to slow boil. Simmer for 25 minutes until lentils are cooked through.
a bowl with ½ the oil and fennel seeds until evenly coated.
ARRANGE cauliflower over baking tray in single layer and roast in oven for 15 minutes.
COOL cauliflower slightly, add to deep jug to blitz with stick blender until smooth.
ADD cauliflower to cooked curried lentils and stir through with lemon juice and zest.
Green is the new black
TIKTOK and Instagram have sparked a rebranded green-thumbed movement among young Australians, with recent research from The Australian Institute finding 45 per cent of Aussies — around 9 million people — now grow their own food, with almost four in five young Aussies aged 18–39 saying they’re keen to get started. Both budding and seasoned plant lovers scroll for #GardenGlowUp inspiration daily, contributing to millions of views on content from notable Aussie plant-
fluencers. Much-loved Australian gardening icon and ABC Gardening Australia host, Costa
Facebook followers and 120,000 Instagram followers.
“My grandparents really planted the seed for my love of nature and gardening, and my passion just grew from there,” Mr Georgiadis said. “Their garden was like my mecca, and now it’s #PlantTok that’s inspiring a new generation of gardeners!”. Events like the upcoming Queensland Garden Show brings this digital buzz to life. “It leaves everyone eager to grow something amazing or to try something new,” Mr Georgiadis said.
beerwah@amcal.net.au We’re here to help
YOGA CLASSES
Church & Community
Local Churches Unite to Celebrate Faith, Hope, and Love
ACROSS the Sunshine Coast, churches are crossing denominational lines and coming together, not around traditions, but around the One who unites them: Jesus Christ.
Range Churches Together is a collective of representatives from churches throughout the Blackall Range who meet monthly to explore how they can better serve the local community. From Christmas Carols to Easter Dawn Services, ANZAC Day commemorations to Palm Sunday gatherings, these churches regularly join forces to create opportunities for people to experience God’s love, hope, and blessing.
But this movement of unity goes beyond the Range. Across the wider Sunshine Coast, churches are linking arms in a broader expression of togetherness, and this Pentecost Sunday, you’re invited to be part of it.
All denominations
will gather for a public celebration of faith, hope, love, and unity, and while it might seem like just another church service, those involved say it’s something far more profound. “It’s a glimpse into what the Church was always meant to be: one body, many parts, united in love.”
“At the RCT table, we like to say, who unites us is far greater than what has the potential to divide us,” says Ps Pete Maher, Senior Pastor of The Range Church and Chair of RCT. “It’s about living out the prayer of Jesus, when He asked that His followers would be one, just as He and the Father are one. That kind of unity speaks louder than any sermon or any of the different ways we worship.”
The early Church was born in a moment like this.
On the day of Pentecost, believers gathered. The Holy Spirit moved powerfully, and people encountered God. Hope spread, and that movement continues to this
day.
This Pentecost, churches from the Hinterland to the Coastline are uniting with the same heart: to exalt Jesus, the name above every name.
Unity isn’t always easy. It calls for humility and the willingness to lay down pride and our differences. But when believers unite, not to compete, but to worship, serve, and love, it creates something the world longs to see: a people marked by grace who truly love and look like Jesus.
“We’re not gathering to promote a brand, we’re gathering because Jesus is worthy, and because the world needs to see what real hope looks like.”
Join us for Pentecost Sunday on Sunday the 8th of June 2025 at 5 pm.
NEW LIFE CHURCH, 4 McKenzie Rd, Woombye Qld.
Men’s Breakfast gathering at Church on the Rise
Contributed by Pastor Aaron Jackson
ON Saturday May 17, approximately 35 men enjoyed a breakfast event at Church on the Rise in Beerwah.
The morning started with a brilliant breakfast of eggs Benedict, hash browns, sausages and bacon. Our guest speaker, Artie Shepherd, gave an inspiring presentation about SelfControl that encouraged men to be more intentional about what they think, say and do. Artie is a chaplain for the Queensland Police Service and has lots of
amazing stories to share. The message taught men practical skills to “control the controllables” in their daily life to develop healthy habits that positively
influence others around them. It was a great morning of learning and fellowship. We look forward to our next men’s breakfast July 19.
Maleny Uniting Church Mother’s Day
Contributed by Nancy Baker
THE Annual Mother’s Day morning tea at the Maleny
Uniting Church was a fun filled event by Patricia, Alison, Linda and Lorraine. Attendees enjoyed delicious food and lively
conversations knowing their donations will assist Cancer Research. Thank you to Marsha for attending and photographing our group.
Glasshouse Senior Citz club AGM
AT our recent Annual General Meeting, the following members were elected to the Executive Committee: President –Judy Jurek, Vice President –Jenny Eggleston, Secretary – Shirley Sagar, and Treasurer – Frank Moroney. We extend a warm welcome to all our new members who joined on the day.
WASTE MATTERS
Your Old Phone Could Save a Life May is Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month, a good time to declutter your old mobile phones and turn them into a lifeline for people experiencing domestic violence (DV). DV Safe Phone does just that. Started by Sunshine Coast resident Ashton Wood in 2020, DV Safe Phone collects, repairs and distributes old mobile phones nationwide to victims of domestic
enables those experiencing DV to set up safety and exit plans, and access emergency services.
Phones are wiped of data, reset and supplied with a new sim card, cable and new battery if needed.
Phones that can’t be repaired are used for parts and recycled through
1. Visit DV Safe Phone’s website dvsafephone. org. Click ‘Donate Phones’ for instructions on how to prepare your phone for donation.
2. Find a drop off point on the map.
3. Or mail your old phone/s to DV Safe Phone, PO Box 1440, Mooloolaba 4557.
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.
Caloundra St, Landsborough
2nd & 4th Sundays 9am: 45 Cedar Street, Maleny www.caloundracatholicparish.net
BEERWAH CHURCH 27 Beerwah Parade Sundays 9.30am & Kids Church
E: wecare@cotr.org.au W: churchontherise.org.au
MALENY CHURCH Maleny Sports Park, via Porter’s Lane Sundays 9.30am & Kids Church
E: info@cotrmaleny.org W: cotrmaleny.org
GLASSHOUSE COUNTRY
BEERWAH: Sunday 9.00am Mary MacKillop Centre, 160 Peachester Rd
MOOLOOLAH: Wednesday 9am and 1st Sunday of month 4pm ST THOMAS, 31 Bray Rd
Local contact: Rev Tony Halstead 0455 554 930 Glasshouse Country Uniting Church 29 Twin Peaks Drive, Beerwah Come and worship with us Beerwah – Sunday 9am Peachester Community Church –last Sunday of the month 5.30pm
Minister: Rev Dr Elizabeth Nolan Ph. 0448 358 774 Email: churchgcuc@gmail.com
Contributed by Shirley Sagar
Artie Shepherd (centre) with some of the men from Church on the Rise.
Judy Jurek has stepped up (again!) to be President of GCSCC.
Peter and Michelle Maher The Range Church, Montville
Photo: Marsha Fotografie.
Jokes for Friends
Why are Undertakers such good tippers? They pay an arm and a leg.
What kind of tea is hard to swallow? Reali-tea
What is a cloud’s least favorite exercise? Yoga. It struggles to feel grounded.
I’m on a seafood diet. I see food, and I eat it.
What questions should you never ask while winter skating? Icebreakers.
I wondered why the baseball was getting bigger. Then it hit me.
What snack never gets mad? Pickles. They’re cool as a cucumber.
Why did the robber jump in the shower? He wanted to make a clean getaway.
What classic bar game do swimmers always win? Pool.
Besides a rake and shovel, what tool do all gardeners need? A yardstick. Knock-Knock Jokes Knock, knock Who’s there? Boo.
Don’t cry, it’s just a joke! Knock Knock. Who’s there?
Sherwood! Sherwood who?
Sherwood like to come in!
Knock, knock. Who’s there?
To. To who?
No, it’s actually “to whom.”
Knock knock. Who’s there?
Radio. Radio who?
Radi-o not, here I come. Knock, knock. Who’s there?
Lettuce. Lettuce who?
Lettuce in, it’s cold out here. Knock, knock. Who’s there?
Cow says. Cow says who? No, a cow says mooooo! Knock knock. Who’s there?
Robin. Robin who? Robin you. Give me your money!
Elk
Firefl
Fish
Flamingo
Frog
Gar
Gazelle
Gerbil
Gull
Honeybee
Macaw
Mackerel
Mussels
Mustelids
Octopus
Okapi
Parrot
Peacock
Rhinoceros
Roadrunner
Sandpiper
Seacow
Squirrel
CLASSIFIEDS
Sport results
Range Croquet Club
Contributed
David Kerr
by
OUR Hoops and High Tea event last Saturday was a sweet success thanks to people from groups including the showground dog walkers, Zonta, a local church, and family and friends.
Few if any had tried croquet before and many later commented on how it is a joyful challenge. Some will be coming back to take advantage of the
six free lessons that our club offers. That offer is always open to others should you like to give it a go. The day also featured a morning tea worthy of a royal visit. This was supplied by club members who also participated in setting up for the day on and off the courts. Thanks to those ladies! Our club players are doing well in the Sunshine Coast regional Ricochet competition, where Maleny leads after five matches.
Ricochet players are Dianne Horsman, Sarah Widin
and Sam Oaten. In the Association Croquet, club champion Donna Manning recently competed in a Croquet Queensland event at Toombul, the “eights and the sixes”, coming a close third – well done Donna. Our winter playing hours are as follows: coaching from 8:00am to 10:00am on Saturdays, Association on Thursdays and Sundays from 1:30pm to 4pm, Ricochet on Tuesdays (8am for an 8.30 start) and Golf Croquet 8am (as arranged). To find out more about learning croquet or how our club could provide a fun activity for your group or work team please contact President Sarah Widin on 0417640704.
Contributed by Brett Gillis
MONDAY 26th May was our Monthly Triples Competition proudly sponsored by Maleny Hotel. It was terrific
wonderful volunteers who ensured the day was a resounding success. Friday Scroungers (handicap singles game) will be played this week
rink winner prizes followed by Sponsors Lucky Voucher draws for all in attendance.
Our Club Championship Men’s Pairs competition saw the final played between Ray Ellemor & Basil Kapoulitsa versing Jim King & Les Bennett. On the 21st and final end Ray & Basil scored 4 shots to take out the title 21 shots to Jim & Les with 20 shots. Ray & Basil will now represent Maleny Bowls Club at the Sunshine Coast District Champion of Champions competition being held at The Waves Bowls Club Caloundra on 31st May 2025. We wish them well.
Glasshouse Bowls Club
Contributed by David Hayes
WEDNESDAY 21.05.25
9.30am Bowls
Ladies Championship “A” Singles Final Congrats to Barb Whitfi who had a solid win over Jill Kirchheiner 25 - 9. Well done to both players
Social
Marg Smith and Viv James def Carol Lewis and Shane Kirstenfeldt 21 - 17.
Geoff Edmonds and Steph Sleeman def Joy Reason and Sally Squires 18 - 15.
Kim Boland, Mick Clark and John Annakin def Gaylene Coppa, Mark Whittam and Rob Scullion 18 - 17.
Jos Evans, Annette Capern and Noelene Annakin def Frank Scadding, Mel Hobbins and Marilyn Podmore 27 - 16.
Winners of the day with 32 points were Geoff Edmonds and Steph Sleeman.
R/Up on 28 points were the triples team of Jos Evans, Annette Capern and Noelene Annakin
Thursday 22.05.25 Social 12.30pm Start.
Wnners of the day with
Witta Tennis
Contributed by Pauline Fraley
THE Whistlers played at Witta against the Nambour Jets. We were happy to see the sun and being on the court. Good tennis and good company. We also had a catch up after the long break due to the weather and the bye. And had a good win. Score was 46-20 games, 7-1 sets. Team was Paula Cudmore, Cindy Harris, Donna Kuskopf and Aki Lepper.
On Sunday May 25, Witta Wikings Vet’s tennis team
Hansen, Tony Clarke, Trish Jackson and Grant Podmore.
Kevin Cook and Gavin Linnan def Scott Bedwell and David Booth 20 - 11.
Grant Podmore and Brett Collinson def Kerry Munster and Russ Turner 25 - 10.
David Hayes and Rodney Sharpe def Mick Clark and Paul Chirgwin 19 - 16 with the scores tied at 16 all on the last end.
Last years champions
ventured to Nambour.
With many of our regular players either on vacation, unavailable or injured, we were fortunate to call in some wonderful players from our neighbouring clubs along the Blackall Range. We all enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of tennis; spectacular weather, lovely folk, and a great standard of tennis. Many sets were close, and two in fact were decided on tie-breakers. We were fortunate to win on the day. Many thanks to Hamish from Mapleton and to Ross, Peter, and Charlotte from Maleny. Thanks also to Charlotte’s
Semi Finals 1.30pm
The juniors took it to their opposition but went down in the end. Great work on making the semi’s, some brilliant bowls. Kevin Cook and Gavin Linnan def Jarrett Coulson and Eamon Wibberley 25 - 12. In the other semi Grant Podmore and Brett Collinson were up 12 - 0 after 4 ends. David Hayes and Rodney Sharpe came back to lead 18 to 14 but with a few ends to go Grant and Brett took the lead to win 25 - 20.
Sunday 25 05 25 Men’s Pairs Championship Final 10. 30am. Kevin Cook and Gavin Linnan def Grant Podmore and Brett Collinson 22 - 16. Top game to watch.
son Sam who supported us all on the day, and enjoyed a hit with his very fit mum in between her sets! Katya’s Coaching for Kids Friday afternoons. Sessions available at 3.30 & 4.30pm depending on ability. Drills and Thrills commences at 5.30pm - for adults and children. For more information or to make a booking please contact Maree on 0437295501 or Katya 0417625294
Socials - All Tennis Players
Welcome: Saturday 1pm till 5pm - (mixed tennis); Monday 8am till 11am(Ladies tennis)
nalist Les Bennett, Jim King, Basil Kapoulitsa and Ray
Morning tea par excellence.
Funds will be used to repaint and repair club’s existing changerooms
Maleny Rangers score $20,000 council grant
Council has awarded the Maleny Rangers Football Club a $20,000 grant to repaint the clubhouse and repair the existing changerooms.
However, the club has its sights set on building brand new changerooms and has of the project cost from the state government.
Club president Sam Manger said the club received $350,000 in state funding but must raise the remaining 20 per cent to proceed. “MRFC has contributed $35,000 of its project and we continue to seek further external funding for the remaining contributions, which are $50,000,” he said.
The BDC’s first eisteddfod of the 2025 dance season
BEERWAH State High School’s dance group has made a stunning start to the 2025 eisteddfod season, claiming a string of top honours at the Sunshine Coast Dance Eisteddfod.
Beerwah Dance Company (BDC) students placed in every routine they performed, taking home firsts in Jazz B, Musical Theatre B and Lyrical A, and multiple second and fourth placings across jazz,
contemporary, hip hop and lyrical categories.
Senior students also shone with selfchoreographed solos.
Taylah G took first in contemporary, while Jasmine H placed second in up-tempo. Lylah C, Lily S, Mahalia D and Jasmine H also placed in the top five.
Capping off the three-day event, BDC’s Senior Lyrical routine received a perfect score of 100/100—one of
Mr Manger said the new facilities would significantly improve the club’s accessibility and community reputation.
away teams, hence they will not have to share, and a changeroom for referees which is standard but we have never had,” he said.
“The existing clubhouse lacks separate and adequate change rooms and toilets for women and girls, which hinders their participation and comfort during training sessions and matches.
“By addressing infrastructure issues, we aim to create a more welcoming and empowering environment for female players in our community.”
While changeroom upgrades remain the priority, the club is also planning to enhance the game-day experience for spectators.
“We also have plans to create an outdoor bar at the clubhouse with music and lights, to create a social and fun atmosphere at the clubhouse,” Mr Manger said.
“The games on a
the BDC, Indee McManus praised the locally run eisteddfod. “It’s our favourite competition of the year, and it’s always a
Jessica Rossberg, said she was thrilled on how the BDC performed.
“I’m proud of how far these kids have come and
The BDC’s next eisteddfod of the season is the Ipswich Junior eisteddfod which will be held in June.
BeeGees celebrate Female Football
THE Beerwah Glasshouse Football Club (BeeGees)
The club hosted a range of activities throughout the week to celebrate
girls’ teams, including the U10/11, U12/13 and U14/15 squads. This was followed by a “Stretch and Food for Fuel” workshop, educating players on how nutrition can enhance on-field performance.
The following day, Wednesday, May 7, the U8/9 girls also participated in a ‘bring a friend to training’ session, followed by an open training event.
Players from the U6s through to the FQPL Premier Women’s squad took part in small, mixed-age games, giving senior players the opportunity to mentor the
next generation.
To conclude the week, all three of the BeeGees’ senior women’s teams played on home turf in a showcase of the club’s female football talent.
Club president, Amanda Barry, said she was proud of the initiative’s success.
“It was an amazing celebration of the women and girls who make our club strong, more inclusive, and more united,” she said.
“This is just the beginning, and I look forward to seeing our female football program continue to grow.”
BeeGees FQPL3 Women’s
THE BeeGees’ Under-23 Women secured a convincing 3–1 win over Kawana last weekend, while the Premier Women were held to a 1–1 draw. Both senior men’s teams had the weekend off with scheduled byes. The fixtures, played at home on Friday, May 23, saw the U23 Women take to the field first, overcoming an early deficit to post a strong win. Kawana opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 27th minute — their only goal of the match — before the BeeGees responded swiftly, with Jade Saunders netting the equaliser in the 33rd minute. Shannon Harris then stepped up for the hosts, sealing the victory with goals in the 54th and 75th minutes.
The Premier Women faced a more evenly contested match, ultimately sharing the points with Kawana in a 1–1 draw.
Kawana struck first in the 38th minute, but the BeeGees hit back just before Barnett levelling the score in
THE Sunshine Coast Junior Rugby League Association has reported a disturbing rise in abuse directed at referees, just weeks into the current season.
Incidents include referees being subjected to offensive slurs, aggressively approached off-field by players, and even requiring escorts to their cars due to “threatening behaviour”. The association condemned the conduct, describing it as “completely unacceptable”.
head coach, Amy Higgins, said the week provided an important opportunity to bring the club’s female players together.
“As a female football coach, I have immense pride and passion to facilitate the strengthening of our grassroots to senior pathways,” she said.
“Our junior girls are the future of our club, so it’s important that there is clear pathways into the senior squads.
“I look forward to seeing our Seniors continue to mentor our future superstars.”
“Sunshine Coast Junior Rugby League firmly stands behind our referees in all instances regardless of excuses given by those who are of the belief that their actions are justified,” the association said.
“We are an organisation which fosters a safe environment where referees, just like players, are allowed to make mistakes without fear of retribution.”
They warned that failure to comply can result in Code of Conduct or judiciary actions taken against you.
Breaches could result in reprimands, fines, suspensions, player deregistrations or the loss of premiership points for the teams involved in abuse.
2024 premiership winning Maleny Rangers Football team.
marked Female Football
Photo creditBeerwah State High School.
BeeGees Female Football Week celebrations.
In The Garden WITH BROWNIE
Jobs for the yard in June Vegetables
to tidy up around the garden. Stack pots away, clean up fallen branches, reset garden edging, and generally get the garden looking shipshape.
• Early bindi-eye may start to appear and if so, hand removal is easy or spray with an appropriate herbicide.
• Rose planting can be done this month. Plant them in a sunny position in soil enriched by compost and animal manure, and a little bit of rose planting fertiliser will help.
Roman goddess Juno, who was the god of marriage and childbirth.
In Australia, we celebrate World Environment Day, Men’s Health Week, Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Refugee Week and EOFY. June 21 is the Winter Solstice, marking the shortest daylight hours of the year and the tradition beginning of the run towards Spring.
Here’s a few ideas for your June gardening journey.
• It’s your last chance to prune hydrangeas
a yellow colour. This is because the cool soil
• Pinch out the tips of your sweet pea plants to
Go Wild in Your Garden
with Spencer and Karen Shaw
If you like sharing your backyard with wildlife like us, then diversity of plants and resources is key to the diversity of wildlife you’ll see and share your backyard with.
Nectar producing flowers such as Leptospermum and Melaleuca spp. provide food for birds, possums, bees, butterflies and a host of other insects. Fruits (even your fruit trees!) feed a whole range of native fauna and small native fruits such as Lillypilly, Native Mulberry and Midyim can attract a great range of small adaptable birds such as Lewins Honey Eater. Insects eating your plants is often looked upon as detrimental, but the insects in turn provide a protein boost to many birds, who in turn help with pest controlSpangled Drongo’s love Citrus Bugs! The more diversity and structure you
establish in your garden with different plant types, such as grasses, herbs and small shrubs, through to vines and trees provides habitat niches for an even richer range of fauna. Nest boxes, piles of rocks and logs, frog ponds and bird baths add even more to the mix. SE QLD is one of the world’s great biodiversity hotspots and you can help contribute to that diversity with your gardening. Planning and planting habitat for your garden not only enriches our local ecosystems, it enriches your life too.
in sawdust to prevent them from rotting. Split up old clumps of daylilies. Replant them around the garden or give some to a friend or neighbour.
• Mound soil around potatoes already growing, to prevent pest attack and to stop the surface growing potatoes from going green.
• Cut the old stems of asparagus down, topdress them with wellrotted manure or compost and mulch.
• Use winter as the time
• Deciduous fruit trees should be pruned. If you’re not sure what to do, check a good book or the local nursery to determine the pruning requirements for your type of tree.
• This month you can plant rhubarb crowns into soil enriched with animal manure, blood and bone and compost.
• If your snowflake bush failed to flower or flowered only on one side, you may have to at the position of any lights nearby. They need a shorter amount of light to flower well. More light means less flowers.
• Master with robe and en-suite with his and hers sinks
• Modern kitchen with gas cooking, waterfall stone bench tops, dishwasher, double pantry, and breakfast bar
• Open plan dining room with balcony/viewing deck
• Multiple living areas plus fireplace
• In-ground swimming pool
• Viewing deck boasting ocean and mountain views!
• Double garage
• 85,930m2 of land plus solar
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Australians who invest in property are typically risk-averse people who perceive bricks and mortar as a safer and simpler investment than shares, bonds, and other assets, according to a new study. The Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI) has just published a research paper on the characteristics and behaviour of landlords based on two decades of data from 2001 to 2021. AHURI found the main motivations for investing are wealth generation through capital gains, rental income, and the tax advantages of negative gearing and the 50% capital gains tax discount. Most landlords see their investments as cornerstone assets to be held over the long term for retirement. In terms of timing, Australians are more motivated to buy an investment property when the economy is strong, or interest rates are low. Landlords are typically sheltered from poor economic conditions because interest rates tend to fall, thereby reducing the biggest cost of holding a property.
JOHN MCGRATH – WHO ARE AUSTRALIA’S LANDLORDS?
There was a mild upward trend in the number of Australians buying investment properties over the two decades. By 2021, there were 2.2 million landlords, which is about 8.7% of the population. About 72% of them owned just one investment property. AHURI sought to identify the typical Australian landlord through demographics data. It found that Australian investors are more likely aged in their late 40s or early 50s and are tertiary educated, employed fulltime and earning higher than average incomes. They are typically married and own their own homes with a lower-than-average home mortgage. Geographically, they are spread across the country but there are more in Sydney and Melbourne. AHURI also found there are two cohorts among
to buy and hold their investment properties for the long term, while the second cohort sells within one or two years.
The two decades of data revealed
year or ownership, while 28% are held for more than 20 years. The median investment period is just two years, which is very concerning. This is because the key to building wealth through property is capital growth, which takes time. This means you have to hold on to your property for several years to truly reap the rewards of your investment. Additionally, property involves considerable transaction costs, such as stamp duty on the purchase which can be tens of thousands of dollars. Selling within one or two years means you are highly likely to make a net loss on your investment. Time in the market is crucial. This is why it’s extremely important to do everything you can to ensure you can hold on to your investment
interest rates are higher. The AHURI research found those who sold their investments quickly were typically younger investors aged under 35 years on lower incomes, who had lost their jobs or were not working enough hours. Some investors sold their assets due to divorce, whilst others couldn’t maintain the loan repayments on both their homes and investments – perhaps because of rising interest rates. Other typical sellers of property investments are older Australians aged 45 to 54 who are nearing retirement. The report suggests some of these investors sell to access their equity so they can help their adult children buy a home. Some transfer their investment properties directly to their children. Other
increased costs of maintaining the investment, which we’ve seen in and tax changes that disincentivise investment, such as the massive land tax increases in Victoria. Importantly, AHURI found that negative gearing helps landlords manage the costs of holding their investments over
landlords but also tenants by ensuring a large and diverse pool of rental properties remains available for the growing number of Australians who rent their homes.
of McGrath Estate Agents.
Winter Prep for Investment Properties: What Local Landlords Should
Know
McGrath Coast & Hinterland Property Management Team
As cooler weather sets in across the Coast and Hinterland, it’s
few simple steps now can save time, money, and stress later—while tenants. they happen.
Key areas to address include: standards
Need assistance preparing your property this winter?
