Anticipating “difficult conversations” about future development across the
hinterland, new SCC chief executive, John Baker, said it was more important than ever to consult more deeply with residents and “not just cursory engagement”.
With a wealth of experience spanning both public and private sectors in Australia and the UK, Mr Baker said he had stepped into the role with
a clear focus: fostering more genuine community engagement, managing growth responsibly, and ensuring the region retains its unique appeal and liveability.
“We have to learn to listen in a different way,” he said.
“If we do that, we can be more sensitive in our approach, but we also
need to have more honest and trusting conversations with our community about what we can and can’t accommodate.”
Citizen Panels
Mr Baker said he wanted to reshape the way Council engaged with residents, moving beyond traditional consultation methods to a more deliberative approach.
“I think there’s a need for a lot more community consultation—not just cursory engagement,” he said.
“Genuine community involvement is critical, and I’m particularly interested in deliberative models that reach beyond the loudest voices to include diverse perspectives.” Story p4-5
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NEWS TEAM
MITCH GAYNOR Managing Editor mitch@gcnews.com.au
SONIA ISAACS Deputy Editor sonia@gcnews.com.au
KIRRA LIVINGSTONE kirra@gcnews.com.au
TINA GRIEVE tina@gcnews.com.au
LEWIS KWARCIANYI lewis@gcnews.com.au ADVERTISING
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SHARON KING & KATIE BUCKLEY design@gcnews.com.au
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ANGELA USHER angela@gcnews.com.au
ON THE COVER
Laykin, Harper, Theo and Arthur enjoying the start of their school holidays at the Glass House Mountains District Park. School Holiday Boredom Busters on p9-11. Picture: Kirra Livingstone.
I was privileged enough to be on the judging panel for the Youth Lions of the Year recently and was roundly impressed with the talented youngsters who think nothing of giving to their community in many varied ways.
The winner, Melody Cherrie from Bribie Island State High School, was well deserving, but the overall cohort was top notch.
As part of the process, we fired off a series of questions to probe their general knowledge, and naturally the conversation took a detour into the realms of artificial intelligence and social media.
One of the finalists dropped a fascinating point about AI that I was only vaguely aware of – the environmental ethics of AI.
That’s a concept I wouldn’t have thought I’d be chewing over as little as a month ago.
As it happens, one of the other big problems with AI is that every question you ask requires an extraordinary amount of processing power – far more than your average Google search.
Take a simple random query (and nothing I would ever
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personally ask, I mean come on): “How much super do I need to retire?” That little nugget of curiosity uses up to half a litre of water to keep computers and data centres cool enough to operate efficiently.
Sure, ChatGPT tells me to keep it in context by comparing it to everyday activities like boiling a kettle or watching Netflix, but come on – it’s still a quirky reminder that even our casual inquiries come with hidden costs.
So while AI might be quietly pillaging our water supply, jobs, critical thinking skills, creativity, human interaction, and even our basic decision-making abilities, chilling with Netflix and a cup of tea is all on us.
There’s a lot going on here, but ultimately, it doesn’t hurt to be critical and curious of the hidden costs of these seemingly magical tools at our fingertips. 50 cents not worth the time
There is something deeply askew when, on one hand, we are on track for a multibilliondollar investment in heavy rail to the Sunshine Coast, yet just up
Country & Maleny News
the mountain in Maleny, some residents spend hours on public transport just to reach essential services.
This is the stark reality for those without access to private transport.
This week, we reveal that it can take up to a 5.5-hour round trip from Maleny to access the Sunshine Coast Hospital.
For those already in the most vulnerable conditions, no amount of 50-cent fares can return the precious hours lost while waiting endlessly. In a region with an ageing population, and where loneliness is a scourge these issues demand urgent attention (p3).
And our interview with new-ish Sunshine Coast Council CEO, John Baker, suggests that there will be some interesting developments in the region this year.
New town plans will deliver greater clarity about the future of the hinterland and promising to listen longer, harder and better to what the community thinks about all this will be key to delivering these changes (p4-5).
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Nuisance charges
Two men have been charged following a disturbance outside the Beerwah Hotel in the early hours of April 6.
Police attended the scene about 1.45am and arrested a 32-year-old man and a 47-year-old man.
Both were charged with committing public nuisance near licensed premises and obstructing police in a public place while adversely affected.
The men are due to appear in Caloundra Magistrates Court on April 24.
A 47-year-old woman was also issued an infringement notice in relation to the incident.
Adult time, adult crime
THE state government has introduced new legislation to expand its Adult Crime, Adult Time laws to 33 youth crime offences, strengthening its commitment to community safety. The Making Queensland Safer (Adult Crime, Adult Time) Amendment Bill 2025 adds 20 serious offences, including attempted murder, rape and trafficking in dangerous drugs.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said the reforms reflect community expectations.
CEO turns up the volume
Listening, honesty and authentic community consultation: Sunshine Coast CEO John
Baker shares his vision
By Sonia Isaacs
THE Sunshine Coast Council is set to introduce ‘citizen panels’ in a bid to better engage with a growing and diverse population.
Anticipating “difficult conversations” about future development across the hinterland, new SCC chief executive, John Baker, said it was more important than ever to consult more deeply with residents.
accommodate.”
Citizen Panels
Mr Baker said he wanted to move beyond traditional consultation methods to more deliberative models.
“I think there’s a need for a lot more community consultation—not just cursory engagement,”
“Genuine involvement is critical, and
diverse perspectives.”
With experience in both public and private sectors in Australia and the UK, Mr Baker said his focus was on fostering genuine community engagement, managing growth responsibly, and protecting the region’s unique appeal.
“We have to learn to listen in a different way,” he said.
“If we do that, we can be more sensitive in our approach, but we also need honest and trusting conversations with our community about what we can and can’t
Citizens’ panels, one of the initiatives under consideration, would off statistically representative cross-section of the community, including varied age, gender, and location profiles.
special.”
State Relations
Mr Baker said Council needed to strengthen ties with the state government.
“The Mayor has already been very effective at building these connections. We need to keep developing
“We have an incredibly well-informed community here,” Mr Baker said.
“The challenge isn’t just listening; it’s harnessing the innovative solutions our residents already have.
“If we get better at extracting those solutions, we can accommodate growth while preserving what makes the region
Hinterland Challenges
Hinterland communities have often felt overlooked, Mr Baker acknowledged.
“There’s a tendency to focus on high-density areas because they need infrastructure and services. That means the hinterland can sometimes miss out,” he said.
But where do we place development without compromising what makes it so special?
That’s a difficult conversation we need to have.”
He also wants to foster respectful dialogue between differing views.
“The key is to plan ahead and be clever about how we handle it – then we’re able to grow while protecting what we love about our region.”
Beerwah East Beerwah East has long been earmarked for development, and recent
Speedy response to Beerwah crossing safety concern
By Sonia Isaacs
FOLLOWING concerns raised by the community, the Sunshine Coast Council has swiftly addressed pedestrian safety issues at a busy Beerwah shopping precinct.
The installation of a speed hump at the Simpson Street entry to Beerwah Shopping Village has now been completed.
The move follows concerns originally raised by residents and business owners in GC&M News
on February 25, highlighting frequent near misses and confusion over right-ofway at the unmarked thoroughfare in front of Neddy’s Nosebag.
The shared access road, heavily used by both vehicles and pedestrians, was flagged as a safety hazard—especially during peak hours when school students and shoppers frequent the area.
Division 1 Councillor
Jenny Broderick thanked the community for speaking up and said she was pleased fast-tracked. “It’s great to see such a quick response to improve safety for everyone in the area,” she said.
Artist impression of Beerwah station upgrade. Inset: The Wave.
CEO John Baker.
on our voice
growth area due to its proximity to road and rail transport infrastructure along the CAMCOS corridor,” he said.
“While I do have concerns about managing the risks of rapid development, I’m not disappointed with the state’s decision. It was a
pragmatic one.”
He stressed the need for responsible planning.
“Like it or not, growth is coming. If we don’t plan for it properly, it will happen to us,” he said.
“If Beerwah East doesn’t accommodate this growth, it will be forced into areas that may be more sensitive.”
Mr Baker said developments already underway in Maroochydore, including the former golf course acquisition, were strategic steps to enable structured expansion.
“By 2040, we’re expecting a population of 500,000 on the Sunshine Coast. Some projections suggest that’s an underestimate,” he said.
“The challenge is ensuring that growth is well directed to protect what we all love about the Sunshine Coast.”
Game-changing Transport
One major development is the state government’s commitment to ‘The Wave’—a transport initiative including long-awaited rail links.
“We’ve been hearing promises about rail to Maroochydore for years, but this time it’s different,” Mr Baker said.
“The key is that there’s now money behind it.”
“Both federal and state governments have pledged funding, and there’s a firm deadline—2032. That’s a
game-changer.”
He said the project’s reach—linking Maroochydore, the airport, and the university—marked a fundamental shift in transport planning.
Like it or not, growth is coming. If we don’t plan for it properly, it will happen to us instead of being managed effectively
John Baker SCC Chief Executive Officer
“The open acknowledgment that this is happening, combined with funding, makes it real. It’s a huge opportunity for the Coast.”
However, the changes have prompted a need to review Council’s planning scheme.
“One of the challenges is the impact of ‘The Wave’ on our planned development areas,” he said.
“With heavy rail no longer reaching certain locations, we need to reassess: are these still the right places to develop?”
CEO brings global experience and local values to region
By Sonia Isaacs
NEWLY appointed Sunshine Coast Council
CEO John Baker has stepped into the role with a unique blend of global experience and personal alignment to the region’s lifestyle.
Mr Baker, who began his five-year term in December 2024, brings decades of leadership across the public, private and not-forprofit sectors—including senior roles at Ernst & Young, KPMG, and most recently as Chief Executive Officer of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula Shire Council.
Speaking to GC&M News, Mr Baker said the move to the Sunshine Coast was driven by both professional opportunity and personal appeal.
“I’ve spent a lot of time in Queensland during my 11 years in Australia and always loved it,” he said.
“I’m a sailor by background—so this lifestyle really aligns with me.”
With his three adult children now independent, he said the timing felt right for a relocation.“Two of them are threatening to move up here with me— they love it too. I expect I’ll see a lot more of them in winter than summer,” he
said.
Professionally, the role offers the kind of challenge he thrives on.
“This is regarded as a highperforming organisation, but it’s facing financial and development pressures,”
Mr Baker said. “That’s very much in my wheelhouse.”
A former partner at EY and KPMG, he has also led major transformation projects with a focus on meaningful community engagement— something he sees as vital for the region’s future.
my life, so I’d better look after it,” he joked.
“There’s an opportunity to lift how we engage with the community, particularly around change,” he said.
He pointed to the need to balance growth with protecting the Coast’s natural character, drawing on lessons from his past.
“I lived on the outskirts of London in Sittingbourne, Kent—a beautiful greenbelt area that was gradually denuded by development. It became unrecognisable.”
“With the growth forecast here, there’s pressure to expand urban boundariesbut we do that at our peril.
As he embarks on this new role, Mr Baker is clear about his personal commitment to the region. “I love this place. This is where I’m going to live for the rest of
ole enge on, l es,” very se.” EY o ion on ty w rly id. eed h wing st irts urne, nbelt ly ment. able.” recast to riesis new about ent is m t of after it, he joked.
Seven candidates step up for top job in Fisher
As federal election approaches, more candidates put their hand up
By Kirra Livingstone
A FORMER professional rugby league player is among seven candidates vying for the seat of Fisher at the upcoming federal election on May 3 — one more than at the 2022 poll.
Trumpet of Patriots Fisher candidate, Denis Fricot, played for two NRL clubs in the 1980s, and has taught HPE and modern history in secondary schools for more than 20 years.
With a background in sport and education, Mr Fricot’s key policies include strengthening Australia’s education system, promoting individual achievement, and restore accountability in government.
“We need real people in politics, not career politicians.”
Previously announced candidates include incumbent LNP MP Andrew Wallace, Morrison Lakey for Labor, independent Keryn Jones and Renay Wells for the Greens.
New One Nation candidate, Benjamin Kelly,
said the major parties were failing the community.
“All Australians deserve a government that works for the people, not for corporate sponsors or foreign interests,” Mr Kelly said.
“For too long, politicians have put their own careers and donors ahead of the hardworking men and women who built this country.” Mr Kelly said he was also focused on the cost of living crisis, reducing red tape for small businesses, and ensuring Australian jobs go to Australians.
Family First’s candidate, Bron Bolitho’s main issues centred around family, faith, life, and freedom.
“Bron believes strong families, freedom for faith, and protecting the most vulnerable are critical for the future of our community and our nation,” the party said. Greens candidate, Renay Wells, is deeply concerned about the housing crisis, price gouging by big companies, the environment and healthcare.
AEC’s largest poll in history
“These problems aren’t accidental; they are the direct result of government policies that prioritise
corporate profits over people’s well-being,” she said. Labor’s Mr Lakey announced on Monday, March 31, that the Albanese Government would commit $509,000 to upgrade
improve motorist safety if re-elected. Mr Wallace, who has held the seat since 2016 and was re-elected in 2019 and 2022, has been actively campaigning across the electorate, recently making a string of funding commitments.
On April 3, he pledged $150,000 to upgrade the kitchen at the Beerwah Golf
Meet-the-candidate forums will be held across hinterland towns in the lead-up to election day.
The Mapleton and District Community Association will hold a Meet the Candidates event on April 22 at 7pm at the Mapleton Bowls Club.
THE Australian federal election has been called for May 3, with key dates coming up fast for both potential candidates and voters. With 710,000 more people on the electoral roll compared to the 2022 federal election, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) said this will be their largest poll ever. Enrolment to vote closes on Monday, April 7 at 8pm, while nominations close on Thursday, April 10 at midday and declaration of nominations closes Friday, April 11 at midday. Across the country, there will be 7000 polling places and 570 early voting centres. Early voting kicks off on Tuesday, April 22 and postal vote applications close Wednesday, April 30. The AEC said they will need 100,000 staff to accommodate the impending record breaking election. “We’re ready to go. You also need to be ready as well – check your enrolment now and please consider putting up your hand for paid election work,” AEC commissioner, Jeff Pope said.
Bellvista Boulevard in Caloundra West and to
Beerwah Hotel cancer fundraiser
KAYDEN Farrar, his mum Caitlin and his grandmother Samantha recently held a fundraiser on Sunday, March 30, for the retinoblastoma clinic at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. This was to help raise funds and awareness for the aggressive rare childhood cancer, which
with just a few months ago. As a result, he lost his left eye as 80 per cent of it had already been infected by the cancer. They raised $2200 through patrons buying raffle tickets and donations. Samantha said the event went really well.
Curated plate preview
By Sonia Isaacs
LAST Thursday, March 27, The Curated Plate Media Famil Breakfast at Yanalla Farms offered a tantalising preview of what’s to come at this year’s Curated Plate Festival (25 July – 3 August). Around 50 guests, including 17 local producers, gathered to celebrate Glasshouse Country’s exceptional produce alongside Culinary Director, Peter Kuruvita.
Media representatives from interstate, New Zealand, and across Australia attended, shining a spotlight on the region’s world-class food scene. The menu featured a mouth-watering selection of fresh, local ingredients, highlighting the rich flavours of the Sunshine Coast. This showcase event set the stage for an unforgettable festival celebrating the region’s vibrant culinary culture. More details at thecuratedplate.com.au
The Curated Plate Glasshouse Country media famil breakfast.
Alex and Davina, Rumbalara Nursery. Anthony and Phoebe.
Robert and Narelle Barry.
Sean and Stephen.
Kayden with the raffle tickets.
Fabulous school holiday fun!
BEERWAH Marketplace and Beerwah Village will host some fantastic school holiday events and competitions this Easter holiday season.
Why not try your luck at ‘Guess the Eggs,’ located at both The Coff Club and The Local Beerwah! Contestants simply visit the stores and take a guess at how many Easter eggs are in the jar. The winner will be announced on Thursday, April 17. The competition runs from April 5 to April 16. The shopping centre will also feature colouring competitions, ‘Kids Eat Free’ promotions, and a fantastic Easter event on April 16, which will include face painting and a balloon artist, along with plenty of Easter eggs for the kids. For further information see our ad on page 11 or check the Beerwah Marketplace and Beerwah Village Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ BeerwahMarketplace andBeerwahVillage/
Easter holidays fun
THE Sunshine Coast is brimming with exciting events for families and young people this school holiday season, including some fantastic Youth Week celebrations.
With activities to suit all ages and interests, there’s no shortage of fun and educational options for kids and teens alike. Places are limited for some events, so book early to avoid disappointment. For all the details, visit Council’s website.
Celebrate Youth Week Youth Fest Youth Week is back, celebrating the achievements and talents of young people in our community.
A highlight of the week is the Youth Fest at Baringa Town Centre, featuring an actionpacked lineup including skate competitions, a battle of the bands, and an array of food trucks. Perfect for those aged 12-25, the event is free and promises a day full of energy and creativity.
When: Friday, April 11, 2-10pm
Gather your friends and family for free movie nights at the Beerwah Community Hall.
Pack your comfy camp chair or blanket and enjoy some great films under the
Techniquez workshops at Beerwah Heart.
These hands-on sessions cover everything from anime drawing to stencil art, spray painting, and even barbecue mastery. It’s an
science, creativity, and conservation.
Explore marine life and ecosystems through photography, painting, and multimedia, with a special interactive model of Mudjimba Island for children to discover.
Prejudice on May 16. Don’t forget to register in advance!
When: Ready Player One on Thursday, April 10, 6-8.30pm
Where: Beerwah
Where: Baringa Town Centre, 20 Edwards Tce, Baringa
Details: Check out the council’s website for more information.
Free Movie Nights at Beerwah Heart Cinema
Community Hall, 25 Peachester Road, Beerwah Details: Visit the Sunshine Coast Libraries website for more.
Get Creative at Techniquez Workshops Young aspiring artists and creatives aged 13-18 are invited to the
When: Thursday, April 10, 1-9pm
Where: Beerwah Community Hall, 25 Peachester Road, Beerwah Details: Register via the Sunshine Coast Libraries website.
Explore Science and Art This school holiday, the Arts and Ecology Centre at the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden is offering a fascinating exhibition celebrating
When: Until Saturday, April 19
Where: Arts and Ecology Centre, Palm Creek Road, Tanawha Details: For more details, visit the council’s website.
Family-Friendly
Guided Nature Walks
Get outside and connect with nature this holiday season. The ClimateWatch Trails offer guided walks where participants can help researchers observe the seasonal behaviours of local plants and animals. These walks are familyfriendly and a great way to become a citizen scientist.
Where: Kawana Forest Details: Register online via the council’s website.
Cheer on the Falcons at Sunshine Coast Stadium Catch the action at the Sunshine Coast Stadium with the Sunshine Coast Falcons taking on the Norths Devils on Saturday April 12. With affordable tickets and
plenty of activities for young fans, it’s an ideal family outing.
The U19 Mal Meninga Cup match kicks off at 3.30pm, followed by the Hostplus Cup game at 5pm.
Where: Sunshine Coast Stadium, Bokarina Details: For tickets, visit the Sunshine Coast Stadium website.
Pickleball, Art, and More
If you’re after something a bit different, why not try your hand at pickleball or badminton at the Caloundra Indoor Stadium? Or get creative at the Caloundra Regional Gallery’s Kids Art Attack, where kids can explore different mediums and create their own art.
The gallery also features the Local Student Art Prize 2025, perfect for inspiring young artists.
With so many activities on offer, the Sunshine Coast is the place to be this school holiday.
Whether you’re into art, sports, science, or just looking for some fun with friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out—get out there and make the most of this exciting holiday season!
MONDAY 14TH TO SATURDAY 19TH APRIL 11AM TO 2PM DAILY IN
Join us for a sweet and egg-citing Easter experience where the Easter Bunny’s very own chefs will teach you how to decorate hot cross buns, donuts, biscuits, pancakes, and more! Perfect for little bakers and the whole family!
Hop to the Ginger factory this Easter Win a Family Pass to Sea Life
HOP into Easter fun at The Ginger Factory and celebrate with exciting adventures for the whole family, all with free entry year-round! The fun kicks off with the Snake Boss Reptile Show from Tuesday, April 8 to Saturday, April 12, where visitors can get up close with fascinating reptiles, from slithering snakes to exotic lizards—an experience sure to thrill everyone. For the young knights in your
family, the Knight School runs from Tuesday, April 15 to Saturday, April 21, offering kids the chance to train and earn their knight titles through action-packed challenges they won’t want to miss.
Another highlight of the Easter celebrations is the Zog Trail, open throughout the holidays, where little explorers can follow clues to help Zog complete his quest through the lush Ginger Factory appearances also take place from Tuesday to Saturday, making this adventure filled with fun and excitement!
GC&M News has teamed up with Sea Life Sunshine Coast to giveaway two family passes to the popular attraction worth $162 each.
To enter, simply join the GC&M News mailing list, which means you’ll be the first to get the news every week straight to your inbox on a Monday night (before the papers get distributed Tuesday).
Two new venues for the Sunshine Coast
Never miss breaking news across the Hinterland by reading every edition online anywhere, anytime, from the convenience of your own device (phone, tablet, laptop, PC).
There are two family passes up for grabs by entering here: www.gcnews. com.au/subscription.
by email.
Be sure to visit Sea Life Sunshine Coast these holidays for a turtle-tastic activity trail, giving kids the chance to become a certified Turtle Rescuer, while learning about the incredible conservation work at the on-site Turtle Hospital. Visit www.visitsealife. com/sunshine-coast/turtlerescue for more details.
THE Sunshine Coast is set to enjoy two new attractions opening these school
The Hologram Zoo at Nambour and The Wreck Room in the Aussie World precinct are preparing to welcome visitors during the Easter period.
imaginations to walk with dinosaurs, glide with crocodiles and soar with birds.
For a change of pace, individuals, couples or groups can unleash some rage at The Wreck Room, where “smashing things feels right” as their website states.
Armed with a bat (or weapon of your choice) and decked out in safety gear, you’ll get to obliterate glass, electronics, furniture and more.
Both venues add to the eclectic mix of activities on the Sunshine Coast to ensure this region remains a popular destination for tourists and locals.
The Hologram Zoo is opening on Thursday April 10, where 3D animals come to life as you wander through tunnels, walk through enclosures and under a spectacular sky roof.
The animals are hologram projections made out of laser light to create a unique family experience where kids can use their
WHAT'S ON
Snake Boss
April 8-12 | Slithering fun with real snakes
Knight School
April 15-19 | Train like a true knight. BOOK NOW! Meet Zog
Between 10am - 1pm Tuesday to Saturday
Say hello to your favourite dragon and princess
Crafty Tuesdays
Get creative in the Creative Hub
Zog Trail
Every day during the school holidays
Explore the magical world of Zog
Explore the world of
WIN the Mother of all Bunnies!
Hop on over, guess the weight of our Chocolate Easter Installation, ad you could WIN it! Visit www.gingerfactory.com.au/
Easter Holidays BEERWAH VILLAGE & MARKETPLACE
Colouring In Competition
Kids Eat Free* @ The Coffee Club and Sushi Motoko
5 x $50
Kmart Vouchers to be won
In 5 x to wo
5th - 19th of April
Dine In Only
Dine In
See stands outs Centre fo to collect sheets 5th - 19th of n ide r
Guess the Eggs
Guess the Eggs
Guess how many Easter eggs are in the Jar #1 at
Guess how many Easter eggs are in the jar.
Jar #1 located at The Coffee Club
Win a $100 Coffee Club Voucher
locat Loc Win a The Lo 5th - 16th of n 1pm 17t Draw
Jar #2 located at The Local
Win a $100 The Local Voucher
Win a ed at al cal Voucher h
5th - 16th of April
Drawn 1pm 17th April
5th - 15th of Drawn 1pm 16th
5th - 15th of April
Drawn 1pm 16th April
See display stands outside Centre Management for where to collect the colouring sheets
School Holiday Fun
Easter Eggs Face PaintingOutside Woolworths
Balloon ArtistOutside Khub
School Easter Face16th of Ap 10am - 12p
16th of April 10am - 12pm
Wednesday 16th April - 10am to 2pm
*Kids eat free T&Cs; The Coffee Club - one kids meal & drink from the kid's menu, with adult order.
Sushi Motoko - two plates, per child, from the sushi train, with adult order. Children must be 12 years or under. Dine in only. Not redeemable for cash or to be used with any other offer.
Outside Khub & Woolworths - Free!!!
Apex Maleny artist call out
Maleny art competition open for entries
THE Apex Club of Maleny is inviting young artists to showcase their creativity, with an exciting opportunity to have their work featured on the cover of this year’s Maleny Business Directory.
The competition is open to all primary school-aged children, with cash prizes of $300, $200, and $100 awarded to first, second, and third place winners respectively.
Apex club treasurer, Sam Price, said the competition is very exciting.
“For the previous two editions, we’ve featured locally produced artworks, which have added something uniquely special to the directory,” they said.
“This year, we’ve specifically invited entries from local primary schools to support and encourage budding artists, while also rewarding them for their efforts.”
This years’ cover theme is Maleny hinterland scenery and wildlife. The Apex Business Directory remains
a vital community resource, particularly for those with limited or no internet access who still rely on printed directories for local services.
It also plays a crucial role in fostering community spirit, bypassing online algorithms to provide direct access to truly local businesses. As a volunteer-run organisation, Apex ensures all proceeds from the directory goes towards supporting local
schools, community groups, institutions, clubs, and families. Entries for new business advertisements are open until April 30, which is also the closing date for the art competition. Budding artists are encouraged to submit their entries before the deadline. For more information on submitting an artwork for this year’s cover, please email: apexmalenyclub@hotmail. com.
Containers fund
preservation, thanks to the dedication of waste volunteers who collect 10-cent beverage containers to fund conservation efforts at the festival site.
Since 2022, the festival has returned more than 220,000 beverage containers through the Containers for Change scheme.
a record-breaking collection further reinforcing Woodfordia’s commitment to sustainability. Woodfordia Site Manager, Chris Shervey, said the $22,000 raised over the past three years through the 10-cent refunds has been reinvested into maintaining and enhancing the natural environment.
New club leadership
THE Maleny Probus Club held its AGM on March 26, welcoming a newly inducted committee. Desley Malone (pictured) takes on the role of President, supported by Vice President John Ginty, Secretary Margie Thomas, Treasurer Hughes, and other key members. focus on friendship, fun, and fellowship, the club is looking forward to an exciting year ahead, continuing to foster community connections and engaging activities for its members.
Jane Caro AM literary lunch
ROSETTA Books in Maleny is holding a special literary lunch event on April 17 at Tranquil Park Maleny, with Jane Caro AM as she celebrates the launch of her new book ‘Lyrebird’.
Like her previous work ‘The Mother’, ‘Lyrebird’ also explores important issues and the injustices perpetrated against women, particularly those who are marginalised, within a gripping, suspenseful thriller.
This event is being held to raise funds for the Speak Up Now - Stop Domestic Violence group.
Cost $75.00pp, includes 2 course lunch + coffee/ tea. Cash bar available.
$10 from every ticket will go to Speak Up Now - Stop Domestic Violence (Maleny & Blackall Range) to help them in their aim to raise awareness of, and educate people about, the effects of domestic violence. www:// rosettabooks.com.au/
First Nations family fun
THE 2025 First Nations family fun day at Bankfoot House on Saturday April 12, 10am-2pm promises an exciting mix of storytelling, traditional dance, hands-on workshops and delicious native foods to enjoy and more. A free celebration of our First Nations heritage.
Scott Willis and Cameron Pollock from Maleny Apex.
Volunteers from the Woodfordia ‘garbology’ department..
Celebrating 25 years at Maleny Jewellers
By Lewis Kwarcianyi
AT the turn of the twentyfirst century, in the year 2000, Jim and Sandra Goulton took over Maleny Jewellers on April 1. It wasn’t an April Fools joke, but a significant turning point in the couple’s lives as they embarked on a journey to run the well-known and much-loved local business.
A quarter century later, Maleny Jewellers celebrated their 25-year anniversary by having breakfast with their team at Monica’s Café and enjoying helium balloons at the store throughout the day. The couple posted on social media “from custom designs to unforgettable moments, it’s been an incredible journey – one made possible by our amazing team, loyal customers, and the beautiful hinterland we call home”.
Friendly, locally based technology help arrives in the Hinterland
THE digital world is evolving faster than ever, with smartphones, smart TVs, and even smart fridges becoming a part of daily life. But for many, keeping up with new technology can feel overwhelming. That’s where Next Door Digital comes in – a brand-new local service helping residents of the Sunshine Coast hinterland get the most out of their devices, without the stress.
Founded by Mooloolah resident Josh O’Connor, Next Door Digital provides friendly and affordable tech support to seniors, busy families, and small businesses from Nambour to Beerburrum, including Mooloolah Valley, Landsborough, Beerwah and surrounds. Whether it’s setting up a new smartphone, fixing Wi-Fi issues, using social media apps or learning new tools like ChatGPT, Josh aims to make technology simple and accessible for all.
nd technology stressful or confusing. Whether it’s a simple fix or a personalised lesson, I’m here to help in a way that’s friendly and easy to understand”.
Next Door Digital offers a comprehensive range of services, including:
• Device setup & troubleshooting –Smartphones, tablets, computers, printers, Wi-Fi and smart home gadgets.
• Smart home assistance
– Help with smart TVs, streaming services and home automation.
“Not everyone has older kids or grandkids around to help with tech issues, and
• Digital security & cloud solutions – Password management, virus
removal and cloud storage setup.
• Personal Lessons – Get guided help using tools like ChatGPT, social media and other apps to make everyday tasks easier and stay connected with loved
• Small business support
– Google Business SEO, social media optimisation, digital ad management and bespoke project assistance.
Unlike large IT companies with high fees, Next Door Digital focuses on accessible, communitybased service with clear, upfront pricing. To celebrate their launch, all new customers will receive 50 per cent off their first session, making expert help more affordable than ever.
Whether you need help setting up a new device, fixing an issue, or learning something new, now is the perfect time to get expert assistance at half the price. For more information, visit www.nextdoordigital.com. au or contact Josh on 0455 600 173.
Customers help to “Pip the Pollie”
STEPPING Out
Podiatry are getting creative with this year’s “Pip the Pollies” Footy Tipping Competition by getting their patients to choose their tips every week.
It’s a great way to build community connections with their clients and
have a bit of fun around the clinic.
“The wins and losses aren’t taken seriously. A happy business is such an inviting place to be, and this is creating much laughter and banter in reception.”
Growing more Aussie coffee
growers and scientists to plan a five-year program of research for the Australian Coffee Industry.
Australians love their coffee! In fact, we drink six billion cups each year, but you may be surprised to learn that more than 99 per cent is imported even though high-quality coffee can be sustainably grown in many regions across the
Government is keen to do something about this and has allocated $2.5 million for coffee industry research, development and extension over the next five years.
As Secretary of the Australian Grown Coffee Association, Glasshouse Plantation owner Lisa Palu was excited about with the ideas that were put forward to grow the domestic
research program, with their coffee farm, located in the Glass House Mountains, earmarked to become a research site.
Lisa and Paul open their coffee farm to visitors every Friday, Saturday and Sunday 8 am until 4 pm for tours, meals and coffee tastings. See www. glasshouseplantation.com. au for bookings.
Australian growers at the recent coffee research planning workshop included (from L-R) Dr Phillip Banks, Savages Coffee, Brisbane; Keith Murray, Glasshouse Mountains Coffee Project; Lisa Palu, Glasshouse Plantation; Rebecca Zentveld, Zentveld’s Coffee, Byron Bay NSW; and Benjamin Rankine, Mareeba, Atherton Tablelands.
Promotion of hatred
As we progress into the 21st century it would be good to consider the practise of using the written word to promote hatred.
If we are to evolve as a species then one would think that hateful behaviour and its effects should be examined more closely
There is at the moment considerable anti-Jewish hatred around the world… not a good thing for anybody.
A few weeks back this good newspaper published a letter by Richard Giles which only serves to promote hatred.
The history of the Palestinian/Israeli conflict is upsetting to many folk. Distorting that history towards the promotion of hatred is not uncommon. Some people believe they know something of history…but serve only to promote hatred.
Richard Giles’ letter is a good example of this… entitled ‘Historical record’... it is doubtful whether this individual knows what a historical record is.
The Palestinians began massacring Jewish folk well before the founding of Israel in 1948. The massacre of the ancient Jewish community of Hebron in 1929 has many elements shared by the October 7th massacre. No Palestinian villages were attacked before the War of 1948.
Then…Palestinian villages that were attacked were targeted because they struck first often in the most savage manner (again witness Oct 7) encouraged by quite a few Arab countries invading the nascent Jewish state.
The LNP has stated that it will cut 41,000 public service jobs. Most of the jobs the Albanese Labor government created were in service delivery agencies like Centrelink and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Australians rely on these agencies to process their claims within an acceptable time. Massive job cuts will undoubtedly delay that process. As a country, we don’t need to sacrifice the quality of service delivery to help fund $600 billion for nuclear reactors.
Anne Philtrip Maleny
A betrayal of truth
I am dismayed and disappointed at the post of Richard Giles (You Said It, March 4). The list of Jewish led atrocities betrays the truth of the 1947-1948 civil war between Jews and Arabs. After the holocaust Jews sought refuge in their ancestral homeland. There
for Fisher, are utilising the Teal colour.
However, there is no mention of “Teal’ in any of their advertisements.
I believe, and I’m sure others will that it is a fair and reasonable expectation that voters in these two electorates know the party these so-called “Independents” are aligned to.
This enables all of us to vote for the party we feel is most likely to achieve favourable outcomes for these two electorates.
Do your readers share a similar, or perhaps different view about this?
Denise Whitehead Maleny
Gassy policy
Australians are entitled to know by how much the LNP’s gas policy will reduce energy prices. On the first day of the campaign the Liberal leader said his party had commissioned modelling on his plan to
challenges in the longer term’
The Labor government has already brought on more supply than Dutton’s plan would deliver.
Peter Driscoll Eudlo Service fail
On March 31, I was left stranded at Landsborough Train Station after midnight, despite having pre-booked a taxi through SunCoast Cabs (Black and White Cabs), who are advertised on Sunshine Coast Council’s website as providing 24/7 service.
My train arrived at 11:30pm. No taxi. I called the company three times over the next 45 minutes.
Each time I was told the booking had gone out but hadn’t been picked up. Eventually, I was told it was unlikely I’d get a cab because Landsborough is “usually just a daytime service.”
Richard Giles’ letter is in no way a ‘historical record’ but rather a gross distortion of the history of the Palestinian/Israeli conflict.
The letter is the equivalent of accusing the allies in WW2 of war crimes without mentioning the behaviour of the Nazis. Again the promotion of hatred serves nothing but the promoting hatred. Promoting distorted history is not history at all and promoting such history to create hatred is poor behaviour.
Michael Kenneth Cowan Conondale
Please
The
HOW many tyres have to die before the Department of Transport fills in the potholes on Steve Irwin Way?
That’s the question I know that most drivers navigating a tight stretch between Beerwah and Glasshouse were asking last week. Witches cones and bunting made the already tight little corner almost
was an existing Jewish population but after the tidal wave of refugees, the Arabs started murderous activities. Thus started the civil war. Listing Jewish atrocities alone does nothing to further the truth.
David Hallam Maleny
Frank and upfront
Australians have always been frank and upfront about their views. In Australia it is: “What you see, is what you get”. Or is it?
I’m surprised, and even disappointed, that the two Teal Candidates, posing as Independents, Maxine Wiig for Fairfax, and Keryn Jones
increase gas supply in Australia, but repeatedly refused to say by how much energy costs to consumers would fall.
Energy experts have expressed doubts about how the Coalition’s plans to force Australian producers to sell more gas domestically could bring down prices or ease supply pressures.
On March 27, a media release from Australian Energy Producers, the body representing the gas industry, said that Dutton’s plan to ‘artificially reduce prices’ was a ‘damaging market intervention that will drive away investment and exacerbate the supply
data, the word “average” appears regularly. Hence periods of above average must also occur. As we have experienced! The incidence of which has increased and would further increase with expansion
Furthermore, “monitoring locations” - where?
Not around the homes that experience the vibrations and therefore not an accurate reflection of the Community’s experience.
I live 3klm from the quarry and hear it. People living closer not only feel it but experience the dust shower.
But the air quality analysis monitors aren’t positioned there, either.
In addition, Mr Fullerton’s comments in “Support our quarry” are inaccurate. SOGHM is very aware of all 10 quarries on the Sunshine Coast and regularly state, “Not this Quarry Not this Location”.
infrastructure and council works can be well serviced by other quarries in this council area.
The recent outback flooding of more than 500,000 sq km is devastating, particularly for our hard-working farmers (“Farmers left in a sea of despair”, Courier Mail, April 2). Over 100,000 livestock, 3200km of fencing and 4000 private roads have been lost.
It’s shocking. Our 1.5 degree hotter climate means that more moisture is held in the sky. This has almost certainly made these floods worse than they otherwise would have been.
Usually known as the “Sunshine State”, are we Queenslanders heading for “Disaster State” status?
impossible to steer through and at night after a bit of rain - let me tell you from experience - that flatlooking road was most certainly not. I might lodge a damages claim with TMR but most likely I’ll just whinge until it’s fixed but hurry up for goodness sake. Going for broke “World War Fee”.
That was the funniest headline last week after watching all my shares tank thanks to stable genius Donald Trump’s latest 4D chess move. Who knows when or where this fiscal nightmare will end, but I reckon for most the idea that interest rates might come down three or four times might seem the only game in
Why take bookings you know you can’t fill?
Why let people believe they’ll be picked up when you know they won’t?
Had I been elderly, disabled, or travelling with children, this could have been dangerous. I was lucky, just tired, frustrated, and angry.
The taxi industry constantly complains about rideshare competition. But if this is the level of service, it’s no wonder they’re being behind.
Council also needs to urgently review the accuracy of its transport information. Advertising a 24/7 taxi service that doesn’t exist, at night, in regional areas, is misleading and unsafe.
It’s not just about bad service. It’s about public safety, transparency, and trust.
Patrick Wiggins Little Mountain Quarry query
I refer to the Heidelberg responses and in particular the quote: “Vibration data from monitoring locations have been analysed,” the spokesperson said. “The results show vibration levels remain below the critical threshold.”
When reading any of the
town.
Problem is that only happens if the broader economy is tanking, so take your pick.
OLYMPIC LETDOWN
How would you feel dedicating your entire life to a niche sport such as rowing or archery, to one day be given the opportunity to compete at a hometown Olympics,
I believe housing development, road
POLICE BEAT
with Senior Constable Tim Jessup Beerwah Police Station
The ongoing wet weather serves as a timely reminder of the dangers of floodwaters.
Most people will by now be aware of the If it’s flooded, forget it campaign, however police still find themselves responding to people and vehicles who have found themselves in trouble in floodwaters.
It can be very difficult to assess the danger of a flooded road or area by sight alone. The campaign focuses on facts such as vehicles being susceptible to being swept away in floodwaters as shallow as 15cm, and that floodwater can cause your vehicle’s steering, engine, and electrics to fail.
I would like to add another factor to consider which isn’t often spoken about. Asphalt roads can fail and be undermined by floodwaters. Even if you are able to see the asphalt and road markings through the
water, it’s impossible to tell if the road base beneath it has been compromised. All it could take to collapse is to have a car drive over it. If the water is deep enough to render the asphalt invisible, this may have already occurred, and even the most capable vehicle will be rendered inoperable, and its occupants in danger. Responding to such an emergency is extremely hazardous in itself. If you enter floodwaters, not only are you putting your own life at risk, but also those of the first responders who may have to attend. Police also continue to respond to people swimming and playing in floodwaters despite the fact that floodwaters will often enter sewerage lines and septic systems, causing dangerous bacteria and other pathogens to mix with it. It’s just not worth it. Please stay out of the water!
Contact numbers for the Beerwah
only for organisers to ship your event up to Rockhampton.
Nothing against Rocky, one of my favourite people went to Berserker school, but talk about a bummer having to drive up the potholed Bruce only to plunge into the murky Fitzroy River.
My
make
Jacinta Foale
Maleny
Range care social centre transformed
RANGE Care’s Nambour Social Centre hosted a special event on Thursday, March 13, to celebrate some extensive renovations and express gratitude to the Nambour Community Foundation and Sunshine Coast Council for their support.
The Social Centre has been transformed thanks to the generosity of the Foundation and local Council. Additions were made to the centre to improve accessibility for clients, which included a re-carpet of the interior and resurfacing of outdoor areas as well as improvements to
Clients, Management and Team Members enjoyed a delicious morning tea plus a range of games and activities as part of the celebration.
RangeCare’s Business Development Manager, Jess Garey said, “The purpose of the Social Centre is to get people out and about, connecting with other people.”
“They share a lovely meal prepared by our in-house kitchen team and they can enjoy plenty of fun activities while they are here.”
To find out more about how to get involved with supporting RangeCare, visit www.rangecare.com.au/
Starting the Home Care Conversation
A guide for adult children looking to support ageing parents
By Mark & Sylvie’s Home Care
DECIDING to welcome a caregiver into your parent’s home is a signifi often emotional choice.
Many older adults value their independence and see their home as a sanctuary, making the idea of accepting outside help challenging. However, home care can enhance their well-being by providing the necessary support to help them maintain their independence and stay in their familiar environment longer.
Starting a conversation about home care with an ageing parent can be daunting, as it involves navigating emotions, concerns, and practicalities. Here are some key tips to help you approach this sensitive discussion.
times and consider a neutral location, like a café, for a relaxed atmosphere.
thoughts and concerns.
Listen attentively without interrupting, showing
Choose the Right Time and Place: Select a quiet, private setting for an open discussion, free from distractions. Avoid bringing up the topic during stressful
understanding and care. Use “I” statements to express your concerns without sounding accusatory. Frame the discussion around your parent’s well-being and quality of life.
Listen Actively: Encourage your parent to share their
and Well-being: Reassure your parent that home care is designed to support their independence, not take it away. Highlight how it can enhance their safety, happiness, and daily life.
Discuss Practical Aspects: Research home
care options together, comparing providers, costs, and services. Involving your parent in the decisionmaking process helps them feel more in control.
Seek Professional Advice: Consult healthcare professionals, such as a GP or home care manager, who can provide expert guidance tailored to your parent’s needs. Build a Support System: Connect with family members, friends, or caregiver support groups for advice and emotional support. Sharing experiences with others facing similar challenges can be invaluable.
Starting the conversation about home care is an act of love. With empathy and open communication, families can work together to find the best solution.
Mark & Sylvie’s Home Care understands the challenges families face and offers personalised home care services to meet the unique needs of your loved one, providing support every step of the way.
Senior Living
Gourmet safari
Part of my life as an African safari guide
By Matilda Cutmore
I AM Australian. But I am also South African. I have lived in Australia for half my life. But that is the problem with us emigrants. We have one foot in our home country and one in our adopted country. So like most emigrants I was very homesick. I already had my African Cottages in Maleny and producing a range of products called Gourmet Afrika. Also importing Justine Skincare, for other homesick expats. But I was still homesick!
Then I decided to take groups of Australians to South Africa to show them my beautiful homeland. But it had to be different. So Gourmet Afrika Safari was born. My Safari focused on the cuisine of South Africa. There was plenty of scope! They are called the Rainbow Nation for a reason. There are 13 different clans, each with their own unique
cuisine.
The focus was on the food. Quaint villages where we had delicious lunches. Townships where we had
What a stunning place!
Nestled amongst majestic mountains is a valley of sheer beauty and stunning winelands.
Then there is Stellenbosch. What a magic place! Nothing like Stellenbosch anywhere on earth! A historic town with whitewashed historic buildings, lots of restaurants and cafes, and about 300 wineries, most of them over 400 years old South African cooking has a strong Malay influence. When the Dutch came to the Cape in 1652 they imported Malay slaves, who
0 years South has a nfluence. When the came pe in 1652 mported slaves, who
THE WRITE STUFF - Do you have a life story that deserves to be told? Perhaps it’s a tale of triumph or blunder, the happiest moment or a time of profound sorrow. Whatever it is, we’d love to hear it. We’re inviting readers to share their personal stories for publication. We’re not looking for a perfect story, just honest writing so give it a go and send us 400-450 words with a title, your name, age and town: editorial@gcnews.com.au
are distributed as you wish. In addition to financial assets, a will can also specify guardianship for minor children and address other important matters like funeral preferences. However, it’s important to regularly update your will to reflect any significant life changes—such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of
making informed decisions about your estate, you can protect your loved ones and provide clarity during a difficult time. Contact the lawyers at Spire Law to take these steps now, which can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress in the future. Spire Law- Ph (07) 5440 4800 or visit our website spirelaw.com.au
Senior Living Support at Home offers
SUPPORT at Home is the new in-home aged care program developed by the Australian Government, bringing together existing programs from July 1 2025.
Many of these changes are in response to recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The vision is to deliver the highest quality personcentred care for older people, where and when they need it.
Under the new Support at Home program, there will be improved access to services, products, equipment and home modifications to help older people to remain healthy, active and socially connected to their community.
This includes: A Restorative Care Pathway,
which can help you maintain and improve your independence through multidisciplinary allied health services; the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme, which will support you to access products, equipment and/or home modifications to meet your assessed needs; an End-of-Life Pathway, which can provide dedicated funding to access services and remain at home in your last 3 months of life.
The Support at Home program will replace the Home Care Packages (HCP) Program and Short Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme from July 1
2025.
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) will become part of the Support at Home program no earlier than July 1 2027.
CHSP will continue operating as usual until it moves to Support at Home.
More information about these changes can be found through the Department of Health and Aged Care website at https://www. health.gov.au/our-work/ support-at-home
WE have had a busy month at Sounds Good with many people taking advantage of our Free hearing check in lieu of World Hearing Day which was March 3. With such a good response we have decided to extend the Free hearing check for the month of April as well. If you or someone you know has a problem with their hearing call the clinic to find out more. Hearing aid trials have also proved to be popular. As always, the trial of hearing aids from Sounds Good is cost and obligation Free. There has never been a better time to explore what better hearing could mean for you or someone you know. Hearing aid trials are available to both those on the Hearing Service
Program and those who are private clients.
All aspects of wax removal are available
previously.
from Sounds Good, with most appointments being completed on the day without the need for repeated doses of ear wax softening agent. A flat rate of $80.00 for wax removal services applies for April. Those booking for wax removal are also taking advantage of the FREE hearing check if they haven’t been tested
Custom ear protection is another part of the services at Sounds Good. Whether it be for musicians or those who work in noisy environments we have a range of custom solutions. To discuss any of the custom noise solutions feel free to contact the clinic via the email soundsgoodsc@ outlook.com or call/ text on 0410467090.
A lot of people have asked if a referral is needed for hearing assessment and the short answer is NO. If attending for a hearing test a report can be completed and sent to your medical practitioner if needed. Monday to Friday 830-430. Saturday by appointment. 8/43 Maple Street. (opposite the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre in Bicentenary Lane).
Rosetta’s Great Reads
Lyrebird
Reviewed by Lea
Dodd
Lyrebird by Jane Caro is a gripping cold-case thriller set in the Australian bush. The story begins with Jessica, a young ornithology PhD student, who records a lyrebird mimicking a woman’s desperate screams. While her claim that a crime has been committed is dismissed at the time due to lack of evidence, twenty years later, a body is discovered, and the case is reopened. Megan, the retired detective who once believed Jessica, is called back to investigate. Together, they uncover dark secrets from the past. I also enjoyed learning about lyrebirds. The book combines strong female characters, a unique premise, and like her previous novel, The Mother, shines the light on injustices perpetrated against women. RRP $34.99.
$10
Connection, conservation and celebration
The Planting Festival returns for 2025
FAMILY friendly community event, The Planting, is set to return from Friday, May 2 to Sunday, May 4 2025, inviting attendees to reconnect with nature, each other, and the land through handson conservation efforts, insightful discussions, and live entertainment under the stars. More than just a festival, The Planting is a collaborative initiative aimed at fostering
environmental stewardship while celebrating the spirit of community.
Mornings will begin with yoga sessions before volunteers roll up their sleeves for guided working bees focused on revegetation and conservation projects. Evenings will be filled with intimate performances of music and comedy, accompanied by delicious food and drinks.
This year’s event will also feature a series of expertled discussions on citizen science, regeneration, and practical sustainability techniques applicable to everyday life. With attendance capped at 1,500, The Planting 2025 ensures a hands-on, immersive experience. Weekend passes, which include camping and car passes, are available now, along with limited Glamping Cabins and powered sites.
GIFTS COFFEE
Horoscopes
ARIES
MARCH 21 – APRIL 20
Recent Mercury/Venus retrogrades have asked you for an eyes-wideopen look at certain cycles approaching their use-by date. With Mercury in gear again, your path to the future brightens, decision-making gets easier, and sweet Venus, sashaying forward in her most affectionate mode, clarifies interpersonal misunderstandings.
TAURUS
APRIL 21 – MAY 20
Hopefully you’ve made it through unscathed by the poor wardrobe choices, unsatisfying haircuts and questionable choices that can occur when your prima planet Venus retrogrades. If not, then look forward to Venus correcting course next weekend and powering forward again in one of the zodiac’s most artistic signs.
GEMINI
MAY 21 – JUNE 21
CANCER
JUNE 22 - JULY 22
WEEK BEGINNING APRIL 8
Mercury, back on track in healing mode, supports interpersonal reconciliations, so while protecting what’s important to you, tap into the subtle undercurrents of this week’s situations and resist acting on impulse. Feel your way through the pros and cons, then make your move when the timing’s right.
LEO
JULY 23 – AUGUST 23
With your mentor planet Mercury on the move again, this week in its most sensitive mode, nice and easy does it, Twins. Don’t let a desire to experiment with new methodologies and the latest, greatest technology overrun your ability to read the room. Be patient, be kind.
April breaks into beautiful bloom now communication and travel influencer Mercury’s back in its groove, doing its thing: tick. And end of the week sees the welcome return of Venus to super-charm mode: another tick. Want more? Try this week’s Sun in its most generous and outgoing mood.
VIRGO
AUGUST 24 – SEPTEMBER 22
Virgo’s ruling planet, Mercury, in your opposite and complementary sign on the astrowheel, is this week’s cue to let friends, loved ones and close colleagues know how much they mean to you, in whatever your love languages are, whether affectionate words, service, gifts, quality time or physical touch.
LIBRA
SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 23
“This is an invitation to roll up your sleeves, dig in, and dance together under the stars,” Managing Director and Co-founder of Woodfordia, Amanda Jackes said. “It’s a chance to connect with nature, with knowledge, and with each other in a place that feels like home.” Tickets are available now at www. theplanting.com.au.
As Venus flows forward in her most imaginative, enchanting and poetic placement, the upcoming weekend’s annual full moon in your sign is this year’s hottest date to celebrate all the things that make Libran hearts sing: your romantic nature, fabulous fashion sense and elegant aesthetic for starters.
SCORPIO
OCTOBER 24 – NOVEMBER 22
Had enough weighing up pros and cons, feeling it’s time to take charge? While the zodiac’s fieriest energies are exciting, they can also be a stimulant to act impulsively, making it necessary to be mindful of the repercussions and long-term consequences of whatever changes we set in motion.
SAGITTARIUS
NOVEMBER 23 – DECEMBER 21
With the Sun lighting up your sector of creativity and fun until April 19, you’re ready to blaze new trails. But before you gallop headlong into the latest excitement, give things a little more time to develop before totally committing – at least until Venus emerges from her retreat next weekend.
CAPRICORN
DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 20
AQUARIUS
JANUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 18
If recent retrogrades sparked misunderstandings, which prompted serious self-reflection, and with Mercury now heading direct, the fog lifts, clarity returns and illusions are busted. Practical Capricorns make use of reality checks, and this week supports courageously redesigning relationships to honour and support differences.
Media planet Mercury’s plugged in again, but other astral patterns suggest it still might be wise to pause before broadcasting anything important until Venus moves forward this coming weekend, and you can present your news, your innovative concepts or your provocative opinions to a more receptive audience.
PISCES
FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20
Pisces’ planet ruler Neptune, shifting into your money zone for the foreseeable future, can generate new and interesting fundraising ideas, though, as always, conditions apply: which are increased needs for economic vigilance and financial caution. Most exciting news? Charming Venus sashays forward in Pisces this coming weekend.
The Planting 2024 festival.
with Lilith Rocha
How much do you love your local library?
FROM movies and magazines to events, kids’ activities, and lifelong learning, libraries today are more than just books.
Across the Sunshine Coast, they have become vibrant community hubs where people of all ages can relax, learn new skills, attend workshops, create podcasts, or study.
Recognising the evolving role of libraries, Sunshine Coast Council is seeking community input to help shape the future of library services. As part of its new 10-year strategic plan, the Sunshine Coast Library Services Plan 2025-2035, Council wants to hear from residents about how they use library services and
what they value most.
Strong Community Portfolio Councillor, Taylor Bunnag, emphasised the vital role libraries play in fostering connection, creativity, and learning.
“Our libraries are places for everyone—providing access to resources, programs, and spaces that inspire learning, creativity, and connection,” Cr Bunnag
operates eight library branches across the region, as well as a heritage library, two mobile libraries, and an eLibrary. The muchanticipated transformation of the Caloundra Library, set to reopen as Library+ Caloundra, will further enhance the region’s library offerings. Council’s team of specialists continues to develop a diverse range of programs, from heritage initiatives to literacy and technology workshops, ensuring libraries remain a valuable resource for all.
Residents are encouraged to share their ideas and feedback on the future of library services by visiting Council’s Have Your Say website before May 5.
Local author releases novella
BEERWAH based young adult author, Catriona McKeown, is set to release Ways To Die Right this May.
The novella is part of Rhiza Shorts, a new collection from Rhiza Edge, with one short book released each month throughout 2025. Designed
for reluctant teen readers, the series features accessible language, engaging plots, and short chapters to build confidence and enjoyment
in reading. In Ways To Die Right, Year 9 student Joel feels responsible for caring for his sister’s grave. When he learns about Green Burials, he becomes determined to prove traditional graves harm the environment—while his rival, Trent, argues the opposite. Learn more at wombatrhiza.com.au/rhizashorts or catrionamckeown. com.
Unleash Your Writing Potential at SCHWF
Hinterland Writers Festival
is a must-attend event for aspiring writers, offering a full day of inspiration and creativity on Monday, May 5 in Mapleton. With two writing streams to choose from, you can develop your writing skills or your writing business. With 25 fiction novels and more than 900,000 book sales to her name, bestselling rural crime author Fleur McDonald has built a strong audience with an insatiable appetite for her craft and characters. With her expert guidance, learn how to write intriguing characters, immersive settings and satisfying chapter endings—ideal for
both seasoned crime writers and those just starting out in the genre.
Australian literary agent and publishing consultant, Alex Adsett, has been working in the publishing and bookselling industry for almost thirty years, representing the likes of Melissa Lucashenko and Dinuka McKenzie. In her seminar Ask Alex Anything, she will share her industry experience, offering invaluable advice on securing representation, navigating the pitching process, and understanding the agent-author relationship.
Participants can further explore the creative process with authors like Melissa
SNAPSHOTS from Home is a lively recreation of life in Queensland during the Second World War.
Margery Forde’s awardwinning play utilises the memories—and actual words—of real people who were young at the time. The impact of the war, from early nervous uncertainty to the weary relief of victory, unfolds through multiple smaller stories.
This was a time when every girl wanted to look like Rita Hayworth. In every home the radio relayed war news as well as the dance tunes of the period.
Music augments the collage of anecdotes and reflections.
This includes live music as the actors belt out popular
songs round a piano on stage.
Running at the Maleny Playhouse on select dates from 25 April to May 11, the play recreates a time when air raid drills at school, anxious radio bulletins, and the sudden absence of loved ones in uniform were everyday realities.
Yet, despite the fears and uncertainties, life continued—American soldiers arrived, dances were held, and music played on.
With actors performing rousing period songs live on stage, Snapshots from Home offers a rich, immersive theatrical experience
Originally commissioned in 1995 to dramatise oral
history interviews, Margery Forde sifted through countless transcripts to assemble a poignant collage of reminiscences.
From the jittery early days of war to the exhausted relief of victory, these stories range from the humorous to the heartwrenching Director Patricia Lovell has embraced the challenges of staging this piece of ‘verbatim theatre’, where actors take on multiple roles to bring history to life.
Performances will be held at the Maleny Playhouse on April 25, 26, 27 and May 3, 4, 10, 11.
Tickets are available through TryBooking and the Maleny Visitor Information Centre.
Ashley, Anna Campbell, and Roxanne McCarty-O’Kane, who will lead sessions on finding ideas, writing romantic tension, and overcoming writer’s block in non-fiction.
The festival also features a variety of other workshops across the weekend, including memoir writing, songwriting, screenwriting and seminars on selfpublishing, marketing, and podcasting.
Whether you’re an experienced author or just beginning your writing journey, this is the perfect opportunity to unlock your creative potential. Places are limited, so book now at www.schwritersfestival. com.au.
Fleur McDonald. Alex Adsett.
Church & Community
Sea change? No! Burnout to a God change.
THE believer’s life in Jesus Christ is a life like most others –pain, discouragement,
But its also not like a lot of other folks in that believing is receiving an incredible gift. The gift of relationship with a good and compassionate and caring God who walks with you and adds his resources of guidance and comfort and strength in the journey.
It was 2022 and I had lost 8kg and changed my eating habits and felt better but now 2 years into that journey I was feeling drained again. Maybe this is what your mid 60’s feels like, maybe this is normal for someone who has worked hard for 50years looks like.
Well, no … I realised by August 2022 this wasn’t normal and my beautiful wife was starting to suggest burnout!
Her words spoke to me and yet I had held onto the dream for many, many years and didn’t want to let it go.
Little did I know that God had other dreams, better dreams and was wanting to get me to take his detour but I couldn’t see it yet. Throw into this my best mate of 40 years was battling cancer and would lose that battle, yet win and gain heaven on the 16th Dec 2022.
Psalm 69:1-2 NLT
Save me, O God, for the flood waters are up to my neck. Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire; I can’t find a foothold. I’m in deep water, and the floods overwhelm me.
Whatever was causing the pain was winning; but little did I know that this was God’s plan. God didn’t create us for comfort, but for character development and in that journey great blessings abound.
Suffering will change us, but not necessarily for the better. We have to choose that. And it was choosing that, that made all the difference for me. I resigned from the church I had pastored for 41years and
Bunches of blessings brings joy to community
Contributed by Charles Russell
MEMBERS of the Landsborough Seventh-Day Adventist Church recently put together bunches of flowers that were personally delivered to lonely, shut-in and unwell people in the community.
This initiative called Bunches of Blessings was organised to help the church connect with the community and let people know that they are loved.
The church is looking to
then through all the pain, God came and spoke to me through a scripture my wife shared with me.
From burnout to a God change was about to begin, yes, slowly but I needed that for I had gone too fast and too hard for too long.
Debbie said “I want you to read Psa 23”
I did and God’s clarity hit my heart and led me on a journey of 15months rest.
Psa 23:1-2 ESV
The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pasture. He leads me beside the still waters.
God is fully invested in our best and he is always speaking and listening and wanting to enter into our world.
Sometimes he has to make us “Lie down”.
make this a regular monthly event this year.
If you would like to support this initiative by donating flowers or being involved, contact 0407 101 485.
Contributed
by
Merrilyn Rundle
HARMONY Day is a time to celebrate all the different cultures in Australia.
Friendship Force members promoted this multicultural theme by wearing Harmony orange or their blue club shirts to enjoy a pot-luck lunch of international foods and an afternoon of games from different countries. Breaking into groups, members played bocce of Italian origin which required rolling balls close to a target ball, finska which is an
Maleny Charity Golf Day fundraiser Friendship Force Sunshine Coast
Contributed
by
Carole Lewis
FOUR years ago, the Maleny Golf Club nominated the Maleny Soldiers Memorial Hospital as the beneficiary of their Annual Charity Golf Day.
This year the event will be held on Friday May 16. Behind the scenes the Maleny Hospital Auxiliary volunteers and Golf Club team are planning a day of great golf, great prizes,
ancient Finnish game where the aim is to knock down numbered wooden pegs, and Wooden Ladder Golf which was patented in Pennsylvania and required tossing bolas, or two balls connected by a string, onto a ladder.
It was a day of colour, tasty foods, fun and friendship. The aim of Friendship Force is to members in
raffles, a delicious lunch, and there is also a grand prize for a ‘Hole in One’ on any Par3 with proceeds going to the hospital.
Sponsorship on the day is $150 per hole. Cost to players is $110 and all levels of golf are welcomed. Play is 18holes, 4 Ball Ambrose with a shotgun start at 9am. All proceeds on the day go directly to our hospital to purchase necessary equipment and needs for both patients and staff
WASTE MATTERS
Sport Shoes Recycling
What do you do with your worn out sports shoes?
Australians buy 25 million pairs annually, but less than 1% are recycled; most end up in landfill.
Modern sports shoes are made from a mix of petrochemical-based plastics, glues, dyes and other materials, making them difficult to recycle without specialist equipment and methods. In landfill these materials can take up to 1000 years
to decompose, releasing carbon emissions, microplastics, toxic chemicals and heavy metal pollutants that can contaminate the environment and cause human health problems.
The good news is there is a national government/ industry initiative to recycle sports shoes called TreadLightly. Hundreds of stores participate as drop-off points for this program in Queensland, including Rebel Sport,
Charity Golf Day is one of the Auxiliary’s vital
Platypus Shoes, Shoes and Sox and The Athlete’s Foot on the Sunshine Coast. Once collected, the shoes are sent to a recycling plant where they get turned into gym mats, flooring, or kids’ playgrounds.
Shoes in wearable condition can be donated to an op shop, or to Shoes for Planet Earth, an organisation that provides sports shoes to those in need around the world.
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.
The community support for the Hospital Auxiliary and the Soldiers Memorial Hospital is appreciated and the
With Waste Action Maleny
with Pastor Ivan Westbrook Church on the Rise Maleny
Gillian Brown, John Brown, Merrilyn Rundle.
Maleny Contract Bridge Club
Contributed by Alan Robinson Mapleton Contract
Bridge Club members visited Maleny on Monday 17th March. This is a long standing tradition going back over 20 years. Serious Bridge and the afternoon tea and catch all have their important place. Lorelle Gills and Jill Aleo stared from Mapleton with a clear E/W win (56.70%). Stuart Craig and Paul Kemp defended well to carry out the N/S section for Maleny (63.36%).
March Session
Winners:
Laila Andersson, Herschel Baker, Carmel Beddow, Barry Blaney, Lyn Bourke, Jim Brock, Clare Christiansen, Stuart Craig, Robert Findlay, David
Beerwah
Contributed by Martine Goedhart
Bill McRuvie, Anne O’Hagan, Jenny Rosenfeld, Andrew Smart, Elizabeth Smith, Ken Smith, Kerri Sugars, Peter Trounce, Natasha Waters, Denise Whittaker, Angela Williams. Anne O’Hagan’s bridge classes have now concluded and all the new players have joined the Wednesday practice session. Call 0400016502 if you are interested in returning to or learning bridge.
Sunday 06.04.25 Mens Club Championship Fours Final.
Peter Bousen, Scott Bedwell, Grant Podmore and Brett Collinson def Darcy Wilson, Alan Owen, Kevin Cook and Gavin Linnan 22 - 13.
Congrats to all players especially the winners..
Cook and Gavin Linnan def Frank Buckley, Bruce Malcomson, Brendan Freshwater and David Booth 19 - 15. It was 15 all on the 20th end with Gavin taking the jack back.for four on his 1st bowl.
Thursday 03.04.25 Social Bowls 12.30pm start.
Winners of the day on count back with 2 + 46 were Peter Bousen and Brian Squires.
Friday 04.04.25 Rd 1 Club Championship Mem’s Fours.
Jarrett Coulson, Gary Renshaw, John Annakin and Brian Squires Def David Hayes, Simon Richter, Barry Kirk and Rodney Sharpe 22 - 12.
Saturday 05.04.24 9.30am Club Championship Men’s Fours Rd 2 9.30am
Darcy Wilson, Allan Owen, Kevin Cook and Gavin Linnan def Jarrett Coulson, Gary Renshaw, John Annakin and Brian Squires 17 - 15.
Eamon Wibberley, Troy
German, Mac Townson and Rob Scullion def Dennis Hume, Bill James, John Palte and Tony Clarke 21 - 17. 1.30pm Semi Finals.
Peter Bousen, Scott Bedwell, Grant Podmore and Brett Collinson def Eamon Wibberley, Troy
German, Mac Townson and Rob Scullion 28 - 10.
R/Up on count back with the highest winning score in either game of 26 were Noelene Annakin and John Annakin.
Lucky draw was won by John Palte and Tony Clarke. Raffle winners. $30 cash to Dave Walters, $20 cash to Scott Bedwell, $15 cash to Barb Whitfield and $10 cash to Trish Jackson
Wednesday 03.04.25 9.30am Bowls.
Ladies Club
Championship Pairs Rd 1 Barb Whitfield and Chris Freshwater def Rae Farrell and Margaret Gibson 27 - 7.
Carolyn Malcomson and Marilyn Podmore def Annette Capern and Margaret Smith 22 - 14.
Social
Winners of the day with the most end Frank Scadding, Carol Lewis and Viv James.
R/Up were Jos Evans, Gaylene Coppa and Sally Squir.
Range Croquet Club
Contributed by David Kerr
One would have to be binging or streaming too much in the past week to have missed the weather. However, it certainly didn’t prevent our Ricochet players from getting out on the courts. Their “come what may” attitude is to be applauded. We know there was rain, but was it also fog or was it mist? According to the experts fog, mist and haze all affect visibility, which is an important part of forecasts affecting many aspects of life, from driving conditions to shipping and aviation (and playing sport). Fog and mist differ by how far you can see through them. Fog is when you can see less than 1,000 metres away, and if you can see further than 1,000 metres, it
is called mist. Meanwhile in local competitions last week the Range Club won against Bribie in the Ricochet form of the game. Club member Dianne Horsman teamed up with Sam Oaten to win all three games. Golf croquet features in the coming week, with Maleny playing Caloundra. In the Association form, Sarah Widin with Ted Habner will compete in the Lochwood at Bribie. Sam and Ted are not based in Maleny but have been co-opted to the Range as their clubs are unable to field a team at this time. And finally we would like to invite you to attend Maleny Club’s “Hoops and High Tea” on Saturday 24th May. All welcome, especially Mothers to have a go and have some fun. To find out more about the High Tea, our club and croquet, contact president Sarah Widin on 0417640704.
Hallam, Barry Harper, Kaye Harper, Michel Hewitt, Carol Hoger, Pawel (Pav) Jarecki, Barbara Jones, Paul Kemp, Julia Kerr, Margaret Lewis, John Marsden,
Stuart Craig and Paul Kemp very happy with their N/S win.
Darcy Wilson, Alan Owen, Kevin
Sport results
Witta Tennis
Contributed by Pauline Fraley
An extremely hot, humid day was forecast and was delivered for an entertaining match between last year’s finalists in the Sunshine Coast Div 2 Seniors competition between Nambour and Witta on Sunday 30 March. It was good to get back onto the court again, but I think all players would agree the climatic conditions were challenging. With a couple of injuries, the Witta Wompoos team were fortunate to be able to secure the assistance of Neil Noble and Cathy Flynn, who has played for us on several occasions. We thank them both for their efforts on the day in gruelling conditions. After 12 matches including 4 tie break sets which obviously could have gone either way, Nambour came away winners 8 sets to 4 sets, with only a margin of 8 games,59 games to 51 games. Our team of Sean Lepper, Glenn Smith, Neil Noble, Cathy Flynn and Jim and Paula Cudmore displayed some exciting tennis, but mostly enjoyed the competitive sportsmanship shown between the two teams. It however was unfortunate that Cathy and Neil, although in the lead, had to forfeit their final mixed set when Cathy injured her hamstring retrieving a cunning opponent’s dropshot. Our next game is against Murgon at Gympie on April 27th.
The Wikings were due to play at Gympie but due to the weather conditions the courts were inaccessible The Wikings have the bye in April so their first match of the season will be in May.
The Whistlers played at Caloundra against the Coast Busters. It was a bit windy but not raining! We had lots of long rallies, with 2 tie-breakers. It was a long day with a very close score. We came up a bit short at the end. Score was 34-36 games, 4 sets all. Team was Aki Lepper, Cindy Harris, Brenda Warner and Maree Hooley.
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).
CLASSIFIEDS
PUBLIC NOTICES
2025 AGM Notification
10th of April at 5.30 for 6.00 pm.
MDSRC Clubhouse
We invite all members to come to participate in the meeting. Our quest speaker for the evening will be CEO of Sunshine Coast Council John Baker.
Positions vacant are President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. In addition, members are also invited to nominate and serve on the Management Committee (3 positions).
We are looking for someone with social media experience. Nomination forms have been provided to each associated member on the 7th of February.
Disclaimer
CARS, BIKES, CARAVANS & BOATS
Beerwah boxer has second consecutive loss in his professional career
Coolwell strikes out on his luck in Vegas
BEERWAH’S Dana Coolwell has gone down swinging to American Albert Gonzalez by unanimous decision in Las Vegas on April 6.
The bout marked Coolwell’s return to the US following his careerchanging fight on the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson undercard. The lopsided scorecards all went to Gonzalez with final scores of 77-75, 78-74 and 80-72 in the eight-round bout.
This showed while some judges deemed it a close fight, one saw Gonzalez to be far superior. The Beerwah boxer reflected on the match shortly after the fight and said he felt he had performed well.
“I’m not sure how I feel, I thought I did pretty good and put a lot of hard work into it but it is what it is,” he said
“I don’t know what I could have done better, maybe stay at range longer.
“It’s hard to say right now if I should have won.
“At the end of the day
GCC Cross Country Carnival
Contributed by Matthew Beattie, GCC Head of HPE and Sport
GLASSHOUSE Christian College’s Secondary Cross Country Carnival was held on Tuesday 25 March, transforming the Beerwah Sports Fields into a sea of energy, colour and determination. A lively 80s dress-up theme brought added excitement, with senior students embracing the fun despite a brief shower of rain.
Runners tackled the familiar bushland track with enthusiasm, and competition was fierce across all age groups. The event not only celebrated fitness and fun but also served as a selection ground for district representatives— congratulations to the students who will go on to compete at the Maroochydore multisport complex in Term 2. House spirit was strong, with every runner contributing to their house’s
score. Sinai claimed the top spot with 229 points, narrowly edging out Zion
it doesn’t matter what I think, it comes down to the judges.” Although it marked his second consecutive loss in his professional boxing career, Coolwell said he was remaining positive.
“It was great tonight against another tough and world-class opponent!” he said.
“Travelling the world and fighting the best is what I want to do.
“I just want to give a massive thanks to my team, my coach, Stephen Pitt, manager, Jared Joffee, and also my amazing sponsors who back me!”
Coolwell said he was now looking forward to some rest and family time back in Australia, while planning his next move.
“It’s definitely an option to have another fight in the USA soon, but we’ll see what is best next for my career moving forward,” he said.
In the lead-up to the bout, Coolwell spent several weeks training and sparring in Los Angeles.
kirra@gcnews.com.au
Beerwah’s slow start to season
THE Beerwah Bulldogs senior men’s teams have had a challenging start to the season, with both the A Grade and Reserve Grade sides going down to the Stanley River Wolves.
Sunday, April 6 marked the first official round of the season, after extreme wet weather forced the cancellation of all junior and senior matches across the region the previous week.
The A Grade Bulldogs fell 32-16 to a strong Wolves outfit, bolstered by several high-profile signings, including former NRL player Cameron Cullen.
While Bulldogs centre Josh Jansen crossed for two tries, the Wolves’ attacking game proved too strong for the Beerwah side.
In Reserve Grade, Beerwah also suffered a convincing defeat, with the Wolves running out 34-12 winners.
The C Grade Bulldogs did not take the field last weekend, having had a scheduled bye. Looking ahead, the Reserve Grade and A Grade teams will face the Maroochydore Swans at 1:30pm and 3pm respectively on Sunday, April 13 at Beerwah.
Chop Chop Albert Gonzalez and Dana Coolwell in the ring on Sunday. Photo credit- Top Rank Boxing.
Get your garden ready for winter chills
I KNOW it doesn’t feel like it yet but trust me winter is on the way. It’s not only us fragile humans who feel the effects of the cooler weather … our gardens do as well.
Queensland winters generally mean lower temperatures and lower rainfall. It is better than what the southern parts of the country receive, which is cold wet winters. They play havoc on gardens.
So for us, our garden plants don’t stop growing through winter – they may slow down, but they don’t stop. This means that they still
need the basics for survival in sufficient supplies – that is water, sunlight, nutrients, soil, air and warmth (or protection from cold).
Some plants are designed to flourish in these conditions, such as Camellia, Poinsettia and flowering succulents.
But most will slow down their metabolic processes in response to the lower light, water and warmth. So to help your garden through the winter, there are a few basic things you can do.
Mulch the soil. This keeps the ground warmer around the roots, and conserves moisture from the drying
Ask Brownie
Interested to read about growing lychees, but how can I get more fruits off my mango tree next year?
Garth, Peachester
Thanks Garth. If you haven’t had very good fruiting for a number of years, you may have a dud tree planted, and so the best option is to cut it out and plant another.
If it was just last season, you need to look at your watering and feeding
winter winds.
Water once a week. If you’ve mulched, once a week will be fine – veggie gardens will need three times a week. Water and mulch will also keep the soil microorganisms happy, meaning that you’ll have healthier soil too.
Fertilise less. Slower growing plants need less nutrients, so don’t overfertilise. Also use a fertiliser with less nitrogen and slightly more potassium. Move potted plants. Smaller pots can easily be moved to a spot which receives more light. It’s a good idea to have larger pots
garden – native flowering plants will do the trick.
either on wheels or use an upright trolley to give them a holiday in a sunnier place. Fork the ground. Use your garden fork to aerate the soil, allowing oxygen to reach the plant roots and making for better water penetration. Protect sensitive plants. If you experience frosts or have specific cold sensitive plants, it may be a good idea to protect them with a shadecloth cover. Build a frame so that you can easily throw the cloth over when very cold nights are predicted, and then you can take it off in the morning. Also watch out for those
in July and August. Prune in June. It’s time to prune things like Roses, Crepe myrtle, Plumbago, Frangipani, and Copperleaf (or Acalypha). Definitely don’t prune your spring flowering shrubs – such as Azalea, Brunsfelsia, Jasmine, you don’t have one or two of these, you should – they’re colourful, hardy and have old-world charm). Just doing these basics will have your garden purring through the winter months are ready to kick off again next spring.
regime. Mangoes are tropical plants and so like higher water and nutrient levels than some other fruit trees. Also to get good fruits, you need to get good flower pollination.
According to researchers, the best pollinators for mangoes are native flies and native bees rather than European honey bees, so look at attracting these by giving them more of what they need in the rest of your
This may include planting native plants close to your mango trees that produce lots of nectar and pollen at times when the mango tree isn’t in flower.
Mango flowering is initiated by cold weather –which hopefully we’ll have some of this winter. Then they need milder
temperatures when they start flowering. To improve your mango crop, you should be watering and feeding with a fruit tree fertiliser towards the end of winter as they begin to wake for flowering.
One of the main problems with mangoes is anthracnose, which is a black fungal infection. To help strengthen
DRIVE, BUDDINA
the tree’s defences, it is important to feed the tree with potash as well.
Once you see flowers forming, spray them and the whole tree every three weeks with a fungicide spray from flowering, until just before you harvest.
Alternate between a copper based fungicide (like Yates Liquid Copper – it’s copper formulation is less likely to accumulate in the soil) and Mancozeb, that way you’ll vary the type of fungicide being used. Meaning you’ll be better
placed to control a wider range of problems, and you’ll prevent any copper build-up in the soil. If we get periods of extended rains, you might need to make the sprays each fortnight during that period.
And don’t forget to treat around the base of your trees if you have them mulched – as the fungal spores will be living there just waiting to rise up and infect your mangoes.
Brownie
2507/42 Lowanna Drive
At least our winter gardening isn’t this hard.
We are seeing good competition at auctions this Autumn, with the national combined capital city clearance rate holding above 60%, which is considered the benchmark for a balanced market. Looking ahead, we’ll see a pause in market activity over the Easter school holidays in mid-April. In addition, with the Federal Election to be held in May, we’ll see fewer auctions scheduled for Election Day (even though there is no reason to avoid election day). While the market is currently cooling across the board, it was interesting to see Sydney reverse the trend with an 0.3% three consecutive months of falls. The combined capital cities median consecutive months of declines, while the regional median continued its gradual but consistent upward trajectory. The data tells us that prices are holding up well even though market conditions have changed. There is greater evidence of the
JOHN MCGRATH – AUTUMN SEASON STRONG AS MARKET PAUSE APPROACHES
market slowing down in the days-onmarket (DOM) statistics. Nationwide, it now takes a median 42 days to sell, which is up from 33 days a year ago, the East Coast, the time it takes to sell has lengthened in every capital city bar Canberra and every regional area bar regional South Australia over the past 12 months. The current median DOM by city are Sydney 48 days, Melbourne 51, Brisbane 27, Adelaide 36, Perth 19, Canberra 55, Hobart 56, Darwin 66. The median DOM by region are NSW 62 days, Victoria 63, Queensland 35, South Australia 46, Western Australia 29, Tasmania 59, Northern Territory 98. Several factors contribute to the length of time it takes to sell your home. Market conditions are one of them, and of course this is out of your control. But many factors are within your control. They include taking the time to choose your agent carefully and
investing in high quality marketing. So, don’t worry if your local market is weakening. There is plenty you can do to help your home sell within a satisfactory timeframe. Here are my three best tips.
1. Meet the market on price - Nothing will be more attractive to a buyer than an attractive price. Your agent will show you some comparable sales to help you understand local market values today. This will help you set an appealing asking price for private treaty, or a realistic price guide for auction (if allowed in your state or territory). Setting the price is more of an art than a science. No two homes are identical, so you and your agent must compare your home to recent
2. Quality marketing - Your marketing campaign must have broad reach to potential buyers and must also inspire them to act and attend an open. Call in the professionals for
great photography and persuasive copywriting.
3. Excellent presentation – The key to extracting a premium price for a property – in any location, at any time, in any market – is emotionally connecting several buyers to your home and creating competition between them.
The way to improve your chances of buyers falling in love with your home is superior presentation.
suggests professional styling. The purpose is to present your home in its most marketable form to buyers. Universally appealing styling that helps buyers imagine themselves living there will enable more people to emotionally connect with your property. Your home will receive the highest attention from buyers campaign, so it’s crucial to get these three things right from the very start. One of the great mistakes sellers make is setting the price too high, thinking they can simply lower it later if they need to. This damages campaigns from the start. You’ll
back. So, listen to your agent, look at the comparable sales, and meet the market on price to generate as much competition as possible. It’s competition that provides your best chance of a premium result.
