Forge Gym Maleny opens its doors
WITH a vision to build community through fitness, a young family brings Maleny its first 24/7 gym in a bold transformation of an iconic town space.
When Jake and Savana, the husband-and-wife team behind Forge Gym Maleny, moved back to the hinterland
Savana, a true local who grew up on the range and attended school in Maleny, always knew this was where she wanted to raise a family. After meeting Jake in Brisbane six years ago, the pair returned to Maleny in 2024, expecting their fi child and ready to plant
Maleny’s fi facility—Forge Gym—right in the heart of town.
A former strength and conditioning coach and sport scientist, Jake brings over 15 years of experience in the fi
sleek, modern facility.
With 24/7 access and state-of-the-art gear, the gym caters to everyone— from serious lifters to those
track. Members can access the gym via an app on their phone, making it easier than ever to fit training into a busy schedule.
Foundation memberships are now available but limited, so secure one now. To learn more or join, visit www.forgegymmaleny.com. au and follow Forge Gym on social media for updates and announcements.
Forge Gym Maleny 2/56 Maple St, Maleny (Old Watsons Garage, opposite Cooke Park) hello@forgegymmaleny. com.au Facebook | Instagram
Machines
Barbells (15kg + 20kg), trap bar, bumper plates (yes you can drop them), DBs 2–50kg, kettlebells, wall balls + targets, slam balls, suspended gymnastic rings.
All the essentials: row, lat pulldown, leg ext/curl, chest & shoulder press, leg press, smith machine, assisted chin/dip, hip thrust bench, cable machine, hyperextension, hip adductor / abductor.
Savana and Jake with baby Boaz.
Universal bulk billing is coming
Contributed by Maleny Doctors
HERE at Maleny Doctors, we are pleased to announce that we are introducing Universal Bulk Billing early! Patients (current, new, or returning) who register their MyMedicare with Maleny Doctors, may be offered Universal Bulk Billing from 1st September.
This means that all registered patients who hold a valid Medicare or DVA Card will be Bulk Billed for all eligible consultations and item numbers.
We are scrapping our gap fees and eliminating the cost of receiving quality General Practice care at Maleny Doctors.
All you have to do is to voluntarily register for the free MyMedicare program.
When you register in MyMedicare, it will notify your general practice that you have chosen them as your regular care team.
AUSTRALIAN dentists are warning of an emerging trend in which more people are failing to develop certain teeth — particularly wisdom teeth — due to evolutionary changes driven by modern diets. Softer, ultra-processed foods require less chewing force than traditional diets, potentially leading to smaller jaws and altered tooth development.
Almost half of Australian children’s energy intake now comes from ultra-processed foods. CSIRO research predicts this figure will rise by 20 per cent over the next five years.
Bupa Dental Principal
Dentist Dr Mark Dohlad said nutrient-poor, processed diets may delay baby tooth loss, affect adult tooth eruption, and contribute
Additional funding will be available from the government to help them provide the care you need. MyMedicare patients will have access to:
• greater continuity of care with your registered practice, improving health outcomes
• longer Medicare Benefit Scheme (MBS) funded telehealth consultations with your GP
• triple bulk billing incentive for longer MBS telehealth consultations for children under 16, pensioners, and
concession card holders
• more regular visits from your GP and better care planning for people living in a residential aged care home
Start the registration process in your Medicare Online Account or Express Plus Medicare Mobile app. Practice staff will then accept the registration in the MyMedicare system.
If you don’t have either of the above, the friendly staff at Maleny Doctors can assist you. Call 5494 3944 or email support@malenydoctors. com.au
Soft diets linked to missing teethDon’t fall for beef tallow ‘craze’
flossing and regular checkups, people should eat more protein and vegetables that require real chewing.”
to missing or undeveloped teeth.
“Our dentists are seeing more cases of absent teeth and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss,” he said. “Along with brushing,
CSIRO data suggests that by 2030, Australians will eat almost 10 per cent less fruit and 18 per cent more junk food. Separate Bupa research found Australians rate nutrition as less than half as important as fitness for health.
“Oral health is closely linked to overall wellbeing,” Dr Dohlad said. “Gum disease, infections and cavities are associated with heart disease, dementia and even depression in people embarrassed to smile.”
QUEENSLAND’S mild winter may be kind to locals, but the dry Ekka winds can still leave skin parched — sending some searching for heavier moisturisers.
On TikTok, the latest “miracle” solution is beef tallow — rendered cow fat, traditionally used for cooking, now promoted as an all-in-one skincare cure.
The #beeftallow tag has clocked hundreds of thousands of posts, but Associate Professor David Francis, Clinical Lead in Dermatology at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, says the hype is
misplaced. “There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all product,” he said. “Just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin.”
Assoc Prof Francis warns
bacteria — especially if made at home or bought from unverified sellers.
“You could be putting infection straight onto your face.” While tallow is highly occlusive, potentially helping very dry skin, it can also trap bacteria, clog pores and worsen acne. He’s sceptical of claims it can “fix” acne, noting the risk of blocked pores and inflammation.
He urges consumers to avoid viral shortcuts and instead choose dermatologistrecommended products tested for safety and tailored to individual needs.
Recipes of the week
Steak Casserole with
Sweet Potato crust
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 shallots, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery sticks, diced
1kg steak, fat trimmed, diced
1 capsicum, diced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced 410g can baby corn, drained and sliced
420g can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup beef stock, salt reduced
½ cup vegetable stock, salt reduced Black pepper, to taste
400g sweet potato, roughly chopped
¼ cup milk, reduced fat
Method:
Preheat oven to 150oC.
HEAT oil in frypan over medium heat. Add onion, shallots, carrots and celery, cooking gently until onion begins to caramelize. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
ADD steak to pan, cooking until sides begin to brown. Remove from heat.
LAYER the steak, onion mixture, capsicum, mushrooms, corn and beans in a large casserole dish.
COMBINE the beef and vegetable stock in a bowl, seasoning with black
Apple and Raspberry overnight oats
Ingredients:
2 apples, grated
2 cups frozen raspberries
2 cups rolled oats
½ cup slivered almonds
2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)
2 ½ cups reduced fat milk
pepper. Pour over the steak and vegetables.
PLACE lid on dish and bake for around 2 hours.
MEANWHILE, bring a large saucepan of water to the boil. Add sweet potato and cook until tender. Drain and return to pot, and mash with milk and pepper to taste.
ADD to top of casserole in last 30 minutes of cooking time. Continue to bake until golden.
SERVE with steamed green beans.
Feel lighter, brighter, and healthier now
By Medicine Room
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
Cinnamon to taste
Method:
COMBINE all ingredients in a bowl or container, cover and refrigerate overnight. SERVE chilled for breakfast.
At Esprit Psychology, our passion is to support you on your journey to mental wellness. Located in Beerwah, we proudly serve our community with trusted, compassionate, and evidence-based psychological care for individuals aged 15 and above.
With over 10 years of experience, our team brings expertise, dedication, and a caring approach to each client. We believe in tailoring our services to meet each person’s unique needs, providing a safe and supportive environment.
AS the seasons shift, it’s the perfect time to support your body with a gentle cleanse. Regular detoxing helps reduce the risk of illness by clearing out lingering residues from parasites, viruses, bacteria, yeast, mould, and other pathogens. Even after recovering from something like the flu, small traces can remain in the bloodstream, digestion, or organs— affecting energy and overall wellbeing.
Our upcoming Spring Detox Program offers a natural way to refresh your system and feel vibrant again. Running online from September 9th to 23rd the detox includes herbal remedies and therapeutic
teas personally designed to support your body’s cleansing processes.
You’ll also receive four one hour online classes where we explore how detoxing can improve energy, immunity, and long-term health. Whether you’re looking to prevent chronic illness or simply feel lighter and more energised, this program offers practical tools and gentle support.
Enrolments are now open. Join us from the comfort of your home and step into spring feeling clear, strong, and renewed.
To learn more or register, visit our web site event section. www. medicneroom.com.au.
Exercise Physiology: the right treatment for your condition
Contributed by The Wellness Practice Beerwah
IF you have struggled with injuries, pain, or a chronic health condition, you’ve probably been told to ‘just exercise’. But what that means – and how to do it safely when your body doesn’t move the way it used to – can have you questioning your advice.
That’s when you should consider turning to exercise physiology. It’s an evidence-based approach to movement, delivered by Accredited Exercise
There’s no one-size-fitsall program. Instead, AEPs tailor programs around each client’s goals, and their functional capacity for exercise and activity, to achieve the best results safely. During these sessions, they provide education on your condition and assist you in forming strategies to work towards your goals, all the while ensuring your safety as you exercise.
AEPs don’t just focus on getting fit (though it’s a nice bonus). Rather, they’re about improving
your quality of life. Many clients report having less pain, more energy and better sleep, and even returning to some of their favourite hobbies. So, next time you’re struggling with a health condition, or a new or old injury, consider seeing an exercise physiologist.
You can speak to your local GP about a referral, but you don’t need one. You can also contact your local clinic directly about a booking. It’s never too late to start moving in the right direction.
Exercise Physiology
QAS rolls out 1,400 advanced defi brillators to boost care
QUEENSLAND Ambulance Service (QAS) is upgrading frontline equipment with 1,400 new ZOLL X Series defibrillators, delivering world-class emergency care statewide. The $10 million Defibrillator Replacement Program will see 100 units deployed on the Sunshine Coast.
The advanced devices measure heart rhythms, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and respiration rates. They integrate real-time data, enabling paramedics— especially in rural and
remote areas—to transmit ECG results instantly to Brisbane specialists via the QAS Consult Line for faster are already in service, with
all frontline paramedics to receive in-person training. Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton said the rollout will ensure local crews have the latest lifesaving technology.
QAS Medical Director Daniel Bodnar called the devices a “game-changer” for regional crews. The program is part of a wider effort to strengthen emergency health services and guarantee Queenslanders timely, highquality care, wherever they live.
Fruit linked to mental health
AUSTRALIANS who eat more vegetables and fruit may enjoy better mental health, according to a major study by QUT researchers at Brisbane’s Translational Research Institute (TRI).
Analysing health survey data from more than 45,000 people, the team found those consuming less than one serve of vegetables per day had 1.6 times the odds of experiencing psychological distress — which includes depression, anxiety and stress — compared with those eating five or more serves daily.
Lead author Dr Kerri
Gillespie, from QUT’s School of Clinical Sciences, said the benefits were especially strong for women.
“Women appear to keep benefiting from vegetables up to five or more serves a day, while for men the benefit seems to peak at around three or four serves,” Dr Gillespie said.
The study also found fruit consumption was linked to reduced distress, particularly in women, but only up to two serves a day.
Senior author Professor Selena Bartlett said the large sample made the results “extremely
significant”.
“Correlation is never causation, but rarely do we think deeply about how diet affects our psychological health,” she said.
A smaller study by Dr Gillespie linked high sugary soft drink intake — seven or more cups a week — with almost five times the odds of depression. A high-fibre diet appeared modestly protective against anxiety.
While the researchers caution that diet is not a cure for mental illness, they say the findings reinforce advice to eat plenty of vegetables and limit sugar.
Exercise Physiologist in the gym space.
Struggling with heel pain?
By Stepping Out Podiatry
HEEL pain - whether
it’s from plantar fasciitis, Achilles issues, or general overuse—can often be traced back to weak or tight calf muscles. Your calves play a critical role in absorbing impact and controlling movement during walking, running, and even standing. When they’re not doing their job properly, the extra strain often lands right on your heel.
But here’s something many people overlook: you might be stronger on one side than the other.
Old injuries, surgeries, or simply favouring one leg when standing can lead to muscle imbalances. Over time, these imbalances can overload one foot, setting the stage for chronic heel pain.
The good news? You can start working on calf strength and balance at home—no fancy equipment needed.
Here are 3 simple exercises to get you started:
1. Calf raises (double leg)
Stand on both feet and slowly raise your heels off the ground, then lower back down. Raise as high as you can go, as many times as you can in 30 seconds. Repeat 2 x daily.
2. Balancing on one foot
Try standing on one leg at a time while counting to 10. Make sure you are next to a wall or chair to steady yourself until you build up foot and leg strength. Repeat 3 x daily. These simple exercises, done consistently, can make a huge difference in reducing heel pain and building strength that lasts.
Fresh faces at Beerwah Surgery
Welcoming two new local GPs
By Tina Grieve
BEERWAH Surgery in Simpson Street, Beerwah has welcomed two experienced and compassionate new doctors to its team, offering even more healthcare options for locals in the Glasshouse Country and Hinterland communities.
Dr Prasanth Anton Sagayanathan and Dr
broad range of skills and a shared commitment to personalised, long-term care — ensuring that patients of all ages continue to receive the quality support they deserve.
Dr Prasanth Anton is a knowledgeable and approachable GP with a special interest in sports medicine, minor surgery, urology, skin conditions, chronic disease management, preventive health, and men’s health. With previous experience at Cairns Hospital, Mackay Hospital and Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Dr Prasanth offers a well-rounded approach to health and wellbeing and is passionate about providing holistic, patientcentered care that supports
long-term health and wellbeing for individuals and families.
Dr Sachi Basnayake also brings a wealth of expertise, particularly in chronic disease management, women’s health, and paediatrics. She offers skin checks and minor procedures, including skin excisions, and is committed to providing care that adapts to every stage of life. She has particular expertise in the management of chronic diseases, with a focus on preventative health and long-term care planning and takes pride in helping patients achieve longterm health goals through evidence-based, holistic care.
keeping that warm, local feel patients have come to appreciate.
Dr Sachi is passionate about women’s health, providing support in areas such as reproductive care,
Appointments with Dr Prasanth and Dr Sachi are now available. For bookings or more information, visit www.beerwahsurgery.com. au or call the clinic directly on 5494 0400.
INTRODUCIN
INTRODUCING ...
Dr. Sachi
Dr. Prasanth Anton Sagayanathan
Dr. Pras
Dr. Prasanth is a caring and knowledgeable GP with special interests in sports medicine, surgery, urology, chronic disease management, preventive health, skin conditions, and men’s health. He has a strong clinical background, having worked in Cairns Hospital, Mackay Hospital, and Sunshine Coast University Hospital. Dr. Prasanth is passionate about providing holistic, patient-centred care that supports long-term health and wellbeing for individuals and families.
Dr. Prasant sports m clinical bac an a d Su abou hea
Dr Sachi is committed to providing personalised, comprehensive care to patients of all ages. She has particular expertise in the management of chronic diseases, with a focus on preventative health and long-term care planning and takes pride in helping patients achieve long-term health goals through evidence-based, holistic care. She also performs skin checks and minor surgical procedures including skin excisions. She is passionate about women’s health, providing support across all life stages including reproductive health, cervical screening, and antenatal care. Additionally, she enjoys all aspects of Paediatrics and values the opportunity to support the health and development of children and their families.
Dr Prasanth Anton Sagayanathan
Dr Sachi Basnayake